Tool Kit!

[onstottc]

I've got a pretty decent sized collection of tools, but It seems like I need to make three runs to Sears for sockets and wrenches, every time I work on my truck. Does anyone have a list of the fastener types and sizes that are used on our trucks? It seems like a bizzare mix of standard, metric, and torx.



I'd like to pick up what I need and get it over with once and for all!

 

[DLBurns]

Come on fellas... . I'm interested in this topic also!!!

 

[slowneasy]

In a couple years you'll have what you need and then get a new truck and have to start all over again because the manufacturer will have changed everything.

Really though, you can't go wrong with a "large" tool set from like Craftsman or S-K, Mac, Snap-on etc. And it never hurts to have two of some tools.

 

[WBusa]

When I started working on my 'new' '95 this year I quickly noticed that I was spending a lot of time fiddling with socket heads and wrenches to find the right size for each nut and bolt, then wasting even more time thumbing through the manual to look up the right torque. So I've started taking notes... every time I touch a nut or bolt I write down what it is, its size and type, and torque. I have it in mind to create an Excel spreadsheet from this info, cross-indexed by type of job, so that someday I can have all the right wrenches in hand before I crawl under the truck.



Unfortunately, at the rate I'm advancing, it will take quite a while to build up a really usefully complete list. If anyone else has been collecting similar info (for 2nd Gens only, please) and would like to forward it to me, I'd be happy to collate all this info and make the collected work available to TDR members.

 

[ProMac1K]

When I started working on my 'new' '95 this year I quickly noticed that I was spending a lot of time fiddling with socket heads and wrenches to find the right size for each nut and bolt, then wasting even more time thumbing through the manual to look up the right torque. So I've started taking notes... every time I touch a nut or bolt I write down what it is, its size and type, and torque. I have it in mind to create an Excel spreadsheet from this info, cross-indexed by type of job, so that someday I can have all the right wrenches in hand before I crawl under the truck.



Unfortunately, at the rate I'm advancing, it will take quite a while to build up a really usefully complete list. If anyone else has been collecting similar info (for 2nd Gens only, please) and would like to forward it to me, I'd be happy to collate all this info and make the collected work available to TDR members.

I like your idea, and way of thinking at that. I find myself making a lot of Word documents for my truck, from documents such as my newly recorded transmission pressure/mph/rpm readings, to gauge readings, to height measurements and dimensions for my truck and garage, and to part numbers and instructions.



I might try and help you out. Wish I would have thought about this when I overhauled and R&R'd my transmission this fall. I like being prepared, and this would be a great addition to my several other documents that I have made.

 

[Wiredawg]

Here's what Iuse most:



All Metric

- deep-well 1/2" sockets 10mm to 22 MM(PM at Wally World $30). 1/2 drive reg and swivel head ratchet, breaker bar, short & long extensions



- 3/8" socket set 8mm to 19 mm deep and reg sockets, 3/8" drive regualar and swivle head ratchet, breaker bar, short & long extensions



- 8mm to 28mm combination wrenches



- Assorted flat head and philips head scredrivers.



- Sears high quality torx and allen head sockets



- Dremel tool set.



- Hammers



BTW, I still make runs to Sears and Wally World



Wiredawg

 

[RACE427]

Tools

I have been buying tools since 1968 when I was learning auto mechanics in high school. Secret; you will never, ever get it all together unless you want to spend upwards of minimum $ 40K ! :--) LOL Just build as you go and hope for the best! Write down in a notebook all those tools you think you need and start saving your money to buy them. But, as was mentioned earlier, you will buy another truck and have to start all over again!! It never, ever ends only gets more expensive as the years go by!!! Enjoy !! I love my tools!!! Tony G

 

[ndurbin]

I have a decent sized Snap-on tool set, plus a 300 piece Craftsman set, and an el cheapo Wal-mart tool set and I still go looking for sockets (usually meteric and torx ones). Most everything on the motor well be metric. I have almost 2 full sets of everything standard and about half the metric stuff I have double of. I will never ever have enough tools. But thats okay, spending money on tools is better than somethings.



Maybe when some of us do a project we could post what tools we use. That would help compile a list a whole lot faster.



Nathan

 

[jjohn]

In addition to the basics. I used the heck out of my Gear Wrench "Stubby" Metric and SAE. They always seem to come in handy. Also a good selection of 3/8 and 1/2 universal joints, extensions and drive converters.

If you don't have an air impact wrench, look for deals on corded or cordless electric 1/2 inch impact wrench. I have seen remans as low as $49. Can't imagine life without an impact wrench!

 

[JOdell]

Can't imagine life without an impact wrench!

I just bought a 18v 1/2 impact wrench and I can't believe I lived this long without it. Jason