There is something even more satisfying about cobbling together the bits to do a job that do away with the need for special tools, but it does increase the risk somewhat.
Ive fitted more bearings in gearboxes, motors, conveyors, roller, you name it, than i can remember....but fitting the cartridge bearings in my Fulcrums...i managed to sprain the inner race by not supporting the bearing straight using threaded rod and washers, resulting in a knock as i spun the wheel.
Hey ho, just as well i had a spare, fitted perfectly the next time.
I love the 'can do, will do' mentality and finding a way round things almost as much as doing the job itself.