Switched from a torque wrench to a preset tool for stem bolts and I'm not going back

I always used my Park Tool TW-5 for stem bolts, thinking the precision was key. But after a busy Saturday at the shop where I must have done 15 quick adjustments, I grabbed a Topeak Ratchet Rocket with the 5Nm preset bit just to save time. It was way faster and I haven't had a single comeback. What's your go-to for high-volume, low-torque jobs like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

sarah_hart2mo ago

My torque wrench mostly just judges my life choices now.

jenkins.wade2mo ago

Used to think they were just for cars, but mine definitely judges my weekend projects too.

davis.mia27d ago

Wait, you mean my torque wrench isn't supposed to give me side-eye every time I reach for it? I swear mine has a personality and it's not a nice one. I still mostly use my beam-style one for stems and bars since it's the only tool in my box that hasn't called me out for being lazy. But yeah, for volume work, those preset bits are a lifesaver. Nothing worse than fumbling with a setting dial while a customer is tapping their foot in the shop.