Originally Posted by
tgot
Why didn't I think of that! I've got a small bar clamp...
I'm +1 for a basic set of bicycle tools, and then a (non-bike specific aka marked-up) set of regular mechanics sockets and fixed wrenches.
My Nashbar (RIP) "big tool set" has served me well. Yes, I bought a better spoke wrench, and a Park pedal wrench. But I've only pulled 4-5 cranks, the puller is fine from the set. The chain while works fine. I don't service a ton of bike hubs, the stamped cone wrenches are still fine. Etc, etc. That $50 set meant that when a new job presented itself I was likely to have the tool.
The little clamp is great, mostly plastic so no marring, clamps tight, stays in place and easy to remove, all with one hand.
I've been a mech/tech/hack all my life so pretty much a tool junkie especially as a FoMoCo and ASE Senior Master Tech for 20 years, drag racing MC's for 25 years and much more, now back to bikes for the last 15+ years and still plenty of cars as well.
This is the main box, they're are a few more and a couple of well stocked work spaces, yes its a bit of a mess but lots of tools to get things done.
I can almost always find a tool that works for whatever has gone wrong.
