Your favorite tools for wrenching / tech tools for special applications
- Thread starter Jhelms
- Start date
poleclimber63
Member
When I did my engine replacement, the tools I found myself using most was my swivel ratcheting wrenches, impact wobble sockets (perfect for those bell housing bolts) and my electric impact driver.
Since then, from my Wife for my last birthday, I received a set of Dewalt impact cordless 20V impact drivers--- were absolutely fantastic for replacing the front suspension on my sons' Corolla! This afternoon, I'll be having a look at my Wifes car as well...
Handy stuff: Craftsman bench mounted wire wheel/grinder, drill press both handed down from Dad...
20T press I used last year to replace the bushings in the rear suspension in my sons' Eclipse---- It sure has come in handy for lots of other things!
Metric tap and die set, a good LED head lamp, PB Blaster liquid wrench....and of course a good set of extra high jack stands and higher lift floor jack!
Since then, from my Wife for my last birthday, I received a set of Dewalt impact cordless 20V impact drivers--- were absolutely fantastic for replacing the front suspension on my sons' Corolla! This afternoon, I'll be having a look at my Wifes car as well...
Handy stuff: Craftsman bench mounted wire wheel/grinder, drill press both handed down from Dad...
20T press I used last year to replace the bushings in the rear suspension in my sons' Eclipse---- It sure has come in handy for lots of other things!
Metric tap and die set, a good LED head lamp, PB Blaster liquid wrench....and of course a good set of extra high jack stands and higher lift floor jack!
fourfive
Senior Member
I may be helping a friend do this at some point... just had a few questions.
Did you use mostly 1/2 or 3/8 impact wobble sockets or both?
When you say swivel ratcheting wrenches I'm assuming you mean the flex head type?
Regarding the metric tap and die set, was it to actually create new threads or just to clean up existing threads? Just wondering because I've had a thread repair kit I use pretty regularly but never really used a tap/die set before. I think I've heard a tap/die set can be used to clean up/repair threads but you just have to be more careful?
Did you use mostly 1/2 or 3/8 impact wobble sockets or both?
When you say swivel ratcheting wrenches I'm assuming you mean the flex head type?
Regarding the metric tap and die set, was it to actually create new threads or just to clean up existing threads? Just wondering because I've had a thread repair kit I use pretty regularly but never really used a tap/die set before. I think I've heard a tap/die set can be used to clean up/repair threads but you just have to be more careful?
I think by swivel he means the flex head, yes.
I can't answer for him, but that's my assumption.
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Since I am an avid wrencher, I wanted to start a list of tools that I cannot live without. I am not talking normal sockets, box ends, hammers or standard tools. But tech tools that really help a wrencher out. These are all tools I own personally and have experience with. My always wrenching thread will likely have any tools I add - shown being used. Will be adding tools periodically as I have a very extensive collection - just wanted to get this thread started and this is what I had time to add. Please add in your critical tools to the list!
- Please post a part number and link to whatever you plan to contribute. Pics are great too!
Schley Products 97300 Timing Belt Tensioner Compressor:
This little guy is a LIFESAVER. 5vzfe hydraulic tensioner is not fun to take out. This little guy makes the job take a few minutes vs 20 - 30 minutes and several 4 letter words. You do NOT need to buy the snap-on version which costs a ton. This works the same way and runs about $40 shipped if you shop around.
Notes on using this product:
- This goes between the WP pulley and tensioner pulley. When turning the nut to compress the tensioner, it takes quite a bit of force and GO SLOW
- You want to use this with the old WP and tensioner installed as it can scratch or scar the pulley surfaces. So use this as step 1, then replace the WP and tensioner pulley that you should have already purchased!
Schley Products 97300 Toyota 3 4L Timing Belt Tensioner Tool | eBay
Power Probe:
For electrical testing and troubleshooting and such, one of the best tools for the job (quicker and easier than a multimeter which you should also have) is a power probe. This tool lets you quickly and SAFELY test for positive / negative / gives voltage readouts AND can send positive or negative with the touch of a button. The kit is expandable and has lots of options. I have a version 3 model but the V4 looks pretty nice.
http://www.powerprobe.com/
Hickok - Waekon 76462 Fuel Injector Quick probe:
This little guy helps to quickly identify if a fuel injector is actual firing. Touch the tip to the body of the injector and the mechanical pulses will causes the probe to flash as the injector pulses. If the injector has failed or is stuck, it is quick and easy to identify. They run about $80-90. This company produces the probe for Snap-on at about 1/2 to 1/3rd the price. They also make a voltage tester similar to the powerprobe, but I like the power probe better.
76462 Universal Electronic Fuel Injector Quick Probe from Hickok | Waekon
Goplus Macpherson Spring Compressor:
You will not find a person on this planet that hates a cheap spring compressor more than myself. I actually had a harbor freight unit come apart a few years ago that injured my wrist. I still live with the pain today. This compressor has been one of the best purchases I have ever made. Cost is about $80-100, it is built like a tank and makes compressing a spring quick, easy and safe. Literally a no stress tool.
http://www.amazon.com/Goplus®-MacPh..._UL160_SR160,160_&refRID=0447BPYNS64C63MVW3W3
Endoscope for android or other:
They are CHEAP and can be purchased on ebay. Lets you stick the camera into places normal cameras will not go (please keep it automotive) They do not come with software, but if you download a free app called CameraFi / works perfectly
1 5 2 3 5M 7mm Android Endoscope Waterproof Borescope USB Inspection Camera USA | eBay
Sealey VS404 200mL Syringe. I use this model specifically for all sorts of things. A MUST HAVE. Just to give you some ideas on how to make use of it:
- Quickly remove and re-fill your power steering reservoir for periodic drain and fills
- Quick change oil on your air compressor / no mess! Just insert the tube down into the compressor, suck it out and put new in
- Inspect fluids for contamination or other reasons
Sealey VS404 | eBay
Harbor Freight MISC wonders:
I have a love / hate relationship with the place. They have some absolute CRAP and they also have some wonderful GEMS. Just have to weed through the terrible smelling stores. Make sure you snag a 25% off coupon before stepping foot in the place! Some of the gems I have found:
Slide hammer PN 60327. Has worked excellent and come in handy a few times.
Heavy Duty Slide Hammer and Puller Set 16 Pc
Their 20T H frame press has done everything I have ever asked of it. Make sure to buy two sets of arbor plates. PN 32879. I have an older orange model - same thing.
20 Ton Shop Press - Hydraulic Shop Presses on Sale
This set serves a totally different purpose than intended. Buy their bearing race and seal driver set to use in conjunction with a 20T press. They are the perfect diameters for driving in wheel bearings or other goodies. They are THICK, strong and do not deform under crazy pressure. PN 95853
10 Piece Bearing Race and Seal Driver Set
Combined with the above... press blocks as I use them... this front OR rear bearing puller & adapter set has been GOLD. PN 66829
FWD Front Wheel Bearing Adapters
Torque sticks for your impact. These are surprisingly accurate! BUT, always use one value lower than the desired torque and then use a torque wrench to properly set. PN 69870
10 Piece 1/2 In. Torque Limiting Extension Bar Set
Disk brake service tool set has come in handy and worked perfectly many times PN 69053
Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit 18 Pc
They discontinued my favorite set of these BUT this set does the same job. These are a LIFESAVER and one of my most commonly used tools as I am not going for deep or shallow sockets. This set does it all. A go-thru socket set. PN 62305
21 Pc SAE & Metric Go-Thru Socket Set
Impact set specific for lug nuts. Have a rubberized coating so you do not accidentally scratch rims. You can do the same thing by wrapping electrical tape around a socket but these are a nice to have.
1/2 in. Drive Super High Torque Lug Nut Impact Socket Set 11 Pc
Great list! I like the ideas. A long magnet is a handy item to have, too. For me, it's the simple things. I've got a custom breaker bar, too.
fourfive
Senior Member
Nice find. My flex head gearwrench ratcheting wrenches are my go to wrenches anytime I'm doing any maintenance work.
poleclimber63
Member
I used a 1/2 " drive set I ordered online on the advice of a fellow forum member, I think, from Harbour Freight -- the brand is Ampro. After I started my swap, I spotted a 3/8" set from Canadian Tire (large Hardware chain up here) on sale (they have awesome tool sales monthly-- with a lifetime guarantee) for $20CDN--- so I grabbed it and used them as well, as they're a bit smaller. As for the wrenches--- yes flex head--- great for those tight spaces and awkward angles!! In the picture are the tools, I felt were indispensable.
Hint: This setup made the upper bell housing bolts easy.... I scored a couple extra extensions from a garage sale...
Keeping things organized....
As for the taps, I don't own a thread kit. If you can get the rusty bolt out, then you very carefully can thread the tap in. As it is a cutting tool, it is very easy to cross thread, then you have to drill it out and re-thread with a larger size (I did this on my under-engine crash panel).
When you do this, maybe you can avoid the mistakes I made!
Check out my engine replacement:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/167172-my-engine-swap-progress.html
I accidentally posted the SAE set. They also have metric at same price which us better for us.
Only thing that sucks is they arent reversible. That drives price way up.
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fourfive
Senior Member
I have a full set of reversible metric flex head wrenches by mountain tools and they are great but still find myself using the gearwrench ratcheting flex wrenches more.
Does it suck not having the reversible option on the GearWrench set? I just bought one. Need to pick it up from Sears.
It doesn't sound too limiting not to have the Reverse option. As I said, it changes the price of the set by 5 to 6 times more to have that in there.
fourfive
Senior Member
Not at all. The regular ratcheting flex head wrenches work great. Don't get me wrong, having the reversible switch is a nice option to have working in tight spaces but the flex head option has been much more useful.
ZionXIX
New member
Endoscope for android or other:
They are CHEAP and can be purchased on ebay. Lets you stick the camera into places normal cameras will not go (please keep it automotive
1 5 2 3 5M 7mm Android Endoscope Waterproof Borescope USB Inspection Camera USA | eBay
How is this camera so cheap?!
Jhelms
New member
Just is - works great!
Here is my newest addition. I LOVE my 200CC version but found a 1500CC version the other day! I have yet to use it, but man should it make adding diff fluid or similar quick and easy. It also has a twist lock nozzle that seals the unit so it does not pour out.
1500cc AUTOMOTIVE FLUID FILLER & EXTRACTOR SYRINGE FUEL OIL BRAKE FLUID 7077 | eBay
kball
New member
These are pretty handy for those pesky front diff plugs etc... Nice and short so it keeps the leverage right inline with the fastener. No pull/twist, rounding fastener issues. Well, hopefully not.
Sunex is good stuff and these are very reasonable for both SAE and Metric.
https://www.amazon.com/Sunex-3646-8-Inch-Stubby-16-Piece/dp/B006JVU1ZI
Sunex is good stuff and these are very reasonable for both SAE and Metric.
https://www.amazon.com/Sunex-3646-8-Inch-Stubby-16-Piece/dp/B006JVU1ZI
A note about that camera, i dont think it's for all Android phones, but rather specific models [MENTION=123173]Jhelms[/MENTION]
The ebay link lists the models out...
Either that or this pos Android i have is a bigger pos than i thought. Installed camerafi and the app does nothing when i plug in the endoscope.
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ZionXIX
New member
I have the galaxy s7 and they removed the MHL feature from this model. Not sure if that matters.
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kball
New member
Used my AST funnel kit today. I've used it a few times now and it's great. Some nooks and crannies to clean when you're done but it's all clean oil.
Oh, and this 30 year old Taiwanese (one of my grandpa's old sets) impact socket was no match for the powww aahh of the Milwaukee!! :gun6:
They are some of the thinnest walled impact sockets I've ever seen. Very cheap.
Oh, and this 30 year old Taiwanese (one of my grandpa's old sets) impact socket was no match for the powww aahh of the Milwaukee!! :gun6:
They are some of the thinnest walled impact sockets I've ever seen. Very cheap.
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