Wishful Thinking?

Also if you're needing tools and have none, and aren't sure what you're aiming to do or if you'll stick with doing work yourself - just go to a Harbor Freight and get those hand tools you need. A breaker bar, ratchet, set of extensions and metric sockets you'll need are probably under $40 or $50. Can buy one tool a day and use a 20% off coupon every time and save some money.

If you want something more brand recognizable, I'd check out Husky or Craftsman. Also don't buy a big kit with 80 tools or more, most of the stuff in them you'll not ever use and it's just a lot of cheap filler tools.

You should look for a 3/8 ratchet set with metric sockets. It'll come with a case of some kind and be only what you need and nothing you don't. Also easily portable because it's a small size set, so you can toss it in the truck to have on hand for emergencies or something. Metric combination wrenches (HF has some with ratcheting heads).

Really don't need a ton of stuff.

Also check online (eBay) for OEM filters. I buy mine in a case of 10 and they're under $4 a piece in that quantity.

 

Really appreciate this.

 

From my point of view, it better to accumulate tools slowly. Don't buy one of those big sets cause they'll probably have pieces you don't need or will ever use.

 

My $0.02 on this but as others have already posted here start off with basic maintenance, here are the top 12 basic's on things such as:

1.) changing the oil & how to check the oil level
2.) changing the oil filter
3.) changing the engine filter
4.) changing the cabin filter
5.) learn how to replace spark plugs & gaping spark plugs
6.) learn how to check tire pressure & change a tire as well & become familiar on how to use your jack & lower your spare tire, etc.
7.) learn how to replace wipers & add window washer fluid as well
8.) learn how to replace all the light bulbs
9.) learn how to check and refill your brake fluid
10.) learn how to check and add engine coolant
11.) learn about your tacoma's engine size (4.0 V6 or 2.7 4 cyl.) and battery group type/voltage & cc amperage, engine belt inspection, etc.
12.) read & become familiar with your tacoma's owners manual!

After becoming familiar with these basic steps and tools required, you'll be able to handle other jobs such as replacing brakes, etc. so be confident.

Just keep in mind, take your time, don't rush and give yourself plenty of time to work around and always ask questions if needed.

You can do it!

Good Luck!

 

youtube is the best... it'll show how to milk a elephant if you want... but seriously, you tube is great for seeing how to do something.. even if the person is doing things right. haha. ie, don't use a mallet to knock out a broken lug stud.. press it out with a clamp if at all possible

 

One day you'll want an impact driver also to help speed up bolt removal/install.

Same deal.. I wouldn't get any electric tool from HF but I would recommend a basic set like Ryobi from Home Depot or Amazon or whatever you prefer. They won't be top tier quality, but they'll work great for your use and won't be cheap junk.

 

If it has nipples it can be milked...

 

I have nipples

 

If you wanna be cool your going to need some PBR pounders, cutoff t-shirt and Molly Hatchet 8 track.

 

If it's broken just use the hammer.

 

Or in the case of my mechanic friend, a saw... he sawed off like 6 parts on day off my Honda and was like, there, your rattling noise is gone.

 

I keep this one in my truck:

$75 CTK84CMP Crescent 1/4" and 3/8" Drive 6 and 12 Point SAE/Metric Mechanics Tool Set, 84-Piece

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EFL1FT0/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I30B8GCINSZH3L&colid=3IX1GC30EM3R1

 

I actually have the HF Chicago Electric cordless impact gun. I've used it for two years for multiple vehicles with no issues. (primarily lug nut removal)

 

I might have a manual you can have, actually.

I don't have my truck anymore, and no locals wanted it. It's either in my garage or in the trash last month.

@MuddyJackson

 

A 1/2 inch? I'm talking a standard type setup. Not one with a dedicated impact chuck. One with a QCD chuck that uses a 1/4" or 3/8" adapter.

By the time you buy a HF Hercules impact, and a spare battery you're spending the same money as a DeWalt model that comes with the second battery included. The build quality and battery quality are not at all comparable despite the price being so.

 

This is the one I have. I think I paid like $89 or something?

 

Yeah, that's more than I'd have her use (and a dedicated impact with that chuck).

I'm thinking this with a set of $5 adapters to use sockets with, otherwise it's a bit driver. Much more versatile.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Ryobi-18-Volt-ONE-Lithium-Ion-Impact-Driver-Kit-P881/203466912


Only negative is it won't take off lug nuts. But, thats what the $8 breaker bar is for. I'd rather someone learn with hand tools, since power tools tend to fuck a lot more things up in a lot less time!

 

Even better to get the combo kit with the matching drill.

But a bit down the road, IMO.

 

Aint that the truth!

OP, as others have stated Harbor freight is the way to go. I've tackled a couple big jobs on my truck, and 90% of my tools are from harbor freight, even the floor jack and jack stands.

 

If they're local, anyway.

If it's a 20 minute drive and Home Depot or Lowe's is 5, then buy their house brand.

All have lifetime warranties. You probably won't need them, but if you do, it's not worth driving an hour for a $7 socket.