DIY Tools

I have a 1/2" craftsman 20v impact......and I use the crap out of it.

Very very handy.......

 

I am leaning towards the Milwaukee just because of their other tools an the bundle deals they have.....the 1/2 compact Dewalt is definitely more powerful an probably the better compact for sure but Dewalt never bundles with batteries and a charger which is frustrating. I have a old heavy I Rand air impact that is pretty hefty an very stout but I am definitely tired of the air hose but I have so many air tools from the impact to an angle grinder an a Ram Pro ratchet that its gonna take alot of time an money to go full battery with everything. Thats where I am having a hard time deciding which battery platform to use to start an build on. Just seems Milwaukee has a better lineup of other tools but I am still undecided.

 

Yeah I was wanting the gaco 390 cordless airless.....but paying the $150 for each Dewalt 4amp battery was a bit much,
since I'd have to buy 3 or 4 of them......

Those milwaukee m12 angle rachets are super handy too.....wish I had one....

 

Its really a tough decision because both brands have their advantages might just have to flip a coin an go with it because otherwise ill read reviews until my eyes are bleeding. Maybe for now ill just rely in my air tools an get the floor jack....stands and a couple of other manual sets that I am gonna need.

 

Pick up one of these, it saved my #1 cylinder the other day. https://www.autozone.com/test-scan-...-1-25-limited-access-thread-chaser/607068_0_0

 

I think most brands bundle. Home Depot has sales a often enough with bogo. I have so many batteries because they came with a tool or kit it’s annoying.

 

I'm a new owner and had very little in metric sizes, I've purchased more 10mm sockets. A pen style extendable magnet has come in handy several times.

 

Definitely choose the battery platform that has the most useful tools for what you are going to do.

If you go Milwaukee the M12 stubby impacts are great for working on cars as they are so small. I bought the 3/8" version and a corresponding Husky impact socket set for minimum tool length and use the heck out of them. I imagine the 1/2" version is just as good plus bigger impacts and brealer bars usually use this socket size.

The M12 Rover Service and Repair light is also super handy. I find myself grabbing that before many of my other flashlights. They also work great as camp lights. My only gripe is that I wish it had a third lower setting rather than just the two it has. When you're working with it up close it is sometimes too bright.

As far as hand tools: I think ratcheting wrenches were a game changer when I got a set. Over the years I have bought regular, stubby, long handle, and flex-head versions. If I had to go back to one set I'd probaly keep the flex-head. I would also invest in better ratchets over better sockets. Having a rachet with a high tooth count makes it easier to use it in tight spots.

When you are buying jack stands and jack go by the height of the stands/lift rather than the ton rating. 2 ton jack stands are usually not tall enough for a Tacoma.

 

A good idea is to go to a YouTube channel of anyone who goes on drag week or any of the multi track events. They are limited by size and weight and only carry the essentials. An inexpensive socket kit (think harbor freight) that has 3/8 and 1/2 inch drive. A floor jack and jack stands. A complete set of deep well sockets in standard and metric. Vice grips, channel locks, and needle nose pliers. A torque wrench is a good idea but I would wait to buy one until the need arises for instance wheel bearing hub assemblies.
There are also some “game changer”, tools. These are the ones that you say “how did I get along without this”? These include a grinder with cut off discs, a welder, various impact guns and drills (battery operated), an acyetylene torch set, and finally the home garage 2 post lift.
Think in terms of necessity. If you buy tools as you need them, before long you have an Arsenal ready to take on any job.
And box wrenches, forgot those.

 

https://www.gearwrench.com/products...319-10-pc-14-38-drive-6-point-10mm-socket-set

10mm socket set. Can never have enough 10mm sockets.

I also have a Gearwrench set in 8mm, 12mm and 14mm.

 

Thank you

 

Anyone mention headlamp? MAPP torch? Wire brushes? The latter two are essential for dealing with rust.

 

I have a good supply of wire brushes an a chicago pneumatic angle grinder an the OLD Black an Decker grinder which is actually a good grinder but again has to be plugged in. I just ordered a milwaulkee wrench set today https://m.northerntool.com/shop/too...GkxbjV0tMCDskslnGdBoCEXsQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

Start reviewing FB marketplace, C-list, local garage sales and pawn shops.

When you know what you are looking for, and the price of new, you may be pleased with finds from these sources.

 

The ratcheting wrenches will be coming soon I dont wanna skimp on hand tools and the local shop here has lifetime guarantee on them but I have seen some decent stuff at pawn shops they just make me leary

 

Basic hand tools are easy to check out.

Also remember you're not making a living with these tools. Some may only be used occasionally.

So be thoughtful about brand specific choices. Some bits are worth having a higher end piece; many aren't.

 

When I saw DIY I thought you were asking about Tools we made ourselves.

Like the crank pulley holder the one to do rear wheel bearings tools like that.

 

Most of the basics have been covered, but think it's worth mentioning PPE. We only get one set of eyes and ears, and working underneath a car puts your eyes at risk for falling rust and crud. My PPE kit includes a bunch of Bolle Rush series glasses:

https://www.amazon.com/Bolle-40208-Safety-Rush-Glasses/dp/B08WBSHM4T

3M Peltor Ear Muffs

$24 3M H10A Peltor Optime 105 High Performance Ear Muffs, Black/Red, One Pair

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Peltor-Optime-Performance-Muffs/dp/B075SLTC67/

And a 3M respirator when running grinders or painting

$30 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6502QL, NIOSH, Cool Flow Exhalation Valve, Bayonet Connection, Silicone Face Seal, for Gases, Vapors, Dust, Maintenance, Construction,M

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IF7RBS4/

 

Probably two of my most important tools...everything starts with these......

 

Good call on the PPE!! Rust in the eyes is a very unpleasant feeling for sure! And for the diagnostic tools are essential and something I will have to get to down the road for sure