Squorx Nipple Driver Hack

 I've been building wheels for over a quarter of a century now and can usually get one ready to roll from start to finish in about 45 minutes (fresh 29er BMX trad builds above). This is using the standard j-bend spokes, nipples and flanged hubs with single wall or double wall rims. I'm no expert by any means, but the trust I've built with my work to stand up to the rigors of a Clydesdale riding the varied terrain I enjoy lends to the legitimacy of my builds.

 Enter the Squorx. I understand the concepts behind them and respect those who have embraced this technological advantage, especially in regards to professionals who depend on the time factor. With proven tools and methods, wheelbuilders trained properly can turn out quality in a fraction of the time traditional wheelbuilding normally does. Since I have plenty of time and no desire to delve into modern wheelbuilding beyond the two mountain bikes I own, investing in the tools and methods does not interest me.

 The hack was borne from a trip to the hardware store, where my intent was to purchase a Torx T25 bolt to modify as a driver. This particular hardware store has all of their T25 driven hardware in sealed containers, so checking fitment was impossible without being a turd and breaking a package open. However, right next to the Torx bolts/screws were drywall screws/sinks and it hit me. Those sinks are plastic and a heated Squorx would melt right into it and create a driver. Knowing I have a few at home, I bailed from the store empty-handed. Upon arriving home and opening the utility odds/ends drawer, the first thing I spied that was plastic was an old ballpoint pen. After clipping the clicking end off and stripping the internals, I spun a Squorx onto an old spoke, heated the Squorx and slowly pressed the pointy end of the pen shell onto it. As the plastic cooled, it was pressed gently to mold the T25 shape internally. After cooling, the Squorx was removed and the plastic filed relatively smooth. Easy Peasy

 While this device is no means a professional driver, it will allow me to get the Squorx and accociated washers threaded onto the spokes and then finish the build traditionally from there. The Case is Solved

Riders Come and Go, Kooks Accumulate