On Sun, May 22, 2011 at 12:14 PM, Eric Norris <campyonly...@me.com> wrote: > According to Sheldon Brown, "... Torque wrenches are never needed for > bicycle work." > Here's the full entry from http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_ta-o.html > > Torque Wrench > > A "torque wrench" is a type of wrench with a built-in spring-loaded > indicator that gives a numerical readout of the amount of torque being > applied through it. > > This is primarily an automotive tool, especially useful for applications > involving crushable gaskets which must be tightened evenly. > > Torque wrenches are never needed for bicycle work, although they can be a > useful training aid for inexperienced mechanics who haven't learned the feel > of a properly-tightened fastener. > > [I find this generally to be true, but many bicycle components now are > accompanied with spec sheets with lists of torque settings. There are two > reasons for this: > > Consultants to attorneys measure torque values, leading to an excess of > caution by the manufacturers > Some components made of unusual materials (carbon fiber seatposts, aluminum > bolts) require lower torque settings than for other parts of the same > general type. > > This paragraph added by John Allen] >
Two comments here: 1. torque wrenches are nice if you're worried about over-tightening - esp when it comes to bottom brackets. The plastic thread-on cup in most of the new shimano cartridge bottom brackets can crack if you over tighten. 2. Anyone who has never built their own bike before is an 'inexperienced mechanic'. While you might not have lots of someone else's bikes to screw up and learn on you may still want to get things right and safe on your own. I'm a bit surprised that the above comment is from sheldon. He always seemed a helpful and humble individual. That comment sounds both elitist and exclusive. I received a torque wrench for by birthday the year before last and it has really helped me get cranks and bottom brackets properly torqued. -sv -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "RBW Owners Bunch" group. To post to this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to rbw-owners-bunch+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
