Show your new tool arrivals

[ssjones]

Back in 2022, I discovered the seat cooling fan on my Avalon wasn't working. The dealer wanted $500 to install a new fan/motor. I bought the motor for $79, but the seat was secured with T50 torx fasteners (WTF Toyota?). I had to use an electric impact wrench to remove two, and in doing so, ruined my Lisle T50 socket. I drilled out the other two and put in proper five-point fasteners. But I never replaced the T50 socket in my set. For $6, I grabbed one off Amazon. I use that seat fan daily down here in the swamp. I don't know if I'll ever need the T50 socket again, but the missing space in the set always bothered me.

 

[jlrut]

Seemed to always be out of stock locally. Showed zero in stock for metric, looked in the SAE pile and found these hiding!

 

[Qualitytools]

My best friend said he had a Christmas present for me, and then showed up to give me this today. Chucked to bits because I've been oggling it for a while

Nice friend to have!

 

[nicks78camaro]

Back in 2022, I discovered the seat cooling fan on my Avalon wasn't working. The dealer wanted $500 to install a new fan/motor. I bought the motor for $79, but the seat was secured with T50 torx fasteners (WTF Toyota?). I had to use an electric impact wrench to remove two, and in doing so, ruined my Lisle T50 socket. I drilled out the other two and put in proper five-point fasteners. But I never replaced the T50 socket in my set. For $6, I grabbed one off Amazon. I use that seat fan daily down here in the swamp. I don't know if I'll ever need the T50 socket again, but the missing space in the set always bothered me.

What's proper about a five sided fastener vs a very common torx fastener?

 

[IRQVET]

1. Rigid ShopVac
2. Japanese Pull Saw
3. Wen Grinder Stand

Not a huge fan of the stand, with my grinder on top its VERY top heavy. If was affixed to the ground, it'd be fine. But I put mine of casters so it can be moved around the garage.

 

[captain14]

Visited HF for some 30% off items and Advance Auto Parts to pick up an order yesterday.

 

[Ohio Andy]

Visited HF for some 30% off items and Advance Auto Parts to pick up an order yesterday.

Your middle Quinn scraper comes with a "dull" blade that I have found very useful. My last use was removing varnish from a hammer handle so I could use oil instead.

 

[SouthernIllinois]

I don't know if this really qualifies as a tool but I started roughing out my compressed air cooling/moisture separator.

Each of the three outlets will also have a Motor Guard filter / regulator.

 

[SC Fly Guy]

So, I am fully committed to the M12 platform for its light weight … BUT … I needed a new blower. I saw the M18 2X 5.0Ah battery/charger deal that comes with a free tool w/ the blower as one of the options. Unfortunately, they seemed to sell out very quickly. Undeterred, I swung by my local HD and a guy that I’ve gotten to know from my many trips there () had one in a secret stash … bingo! Well, now that I am down the M18 rabbit hole, I also picked up the heat gun! Here we go … I fully expect that I’ll get several suggestions for ‘must have’ M18 tools from the GJ pushers/enablers/ influencers!!

A follow-up on my journey into the M18 platform …

I fired up the M18 Fuel Blower (3017-20) this weekend to get after the large build-up of leaves in the yard. The thing is awesome EXCEPT that it eats batteries. The 5.0Ah batteries last about 10 minutes before overheating and quitting (even on the lower speeds). The solution … MORE POWER!! Picked up the 12.0Ah battery at HD that comes with a free 8.0Ah battery. It’s essentially the same deal as this package. Hopefully, that gives me some more runtime.

 

[Nortonscustom]

Santa was a cool guy this year.

New old stock 14" four jaw chuck.


I'm no woodworker but this setup will be great for the small wood projects I have.



Lang thread repair set and hose pinch pliers. Hydraulic cable crimper.

 

[Mr. Roboto]

I picked up this utility blade folding knife a few months back. I typically EDC a box cutter vs a traditional knife due to how easy it is to swap the blades to keep it sharp. I like everything about it except for the fact you need a T8 bit to swap the blades. My T handle set only went down to T9 and I got tired of digging a bit out every time I wanted to swap the blade, so I ordered a dedicated T8 T handle to have.

 

[lund]

Back in 2022, I discovered the seat cooling fan on my Avalon wasn't working. The dealer wanted $500 to install a new fan/motor. I bought the motor for $79, but the seat was secured with T50 torx fasteners (WTF Toyota?). I had to use an electric impact wrench to remove two, and in doing so, ruined my Lisle T50 socket. I drilled out the other two and put in proper five-point fasteners. But I never replaced the T50 socket in my set. For $6, I grabbed one off Amazon. I use that seat fan daily down here in the swamp. I don't know if I'll ever need the T50 socket again, but the missing space in the set always bothered me.

It is really hard to understand why manufacturers use such sizes on relatively standard components. Are they easier to deal with in mass production in terms of cost, speed, or tool wear? Torx is also a real pain when exposed to salt in the rust belt since the inset surfaces can become very corroded quickly and then be a nightmare to remove. I wish the manufacturers/engineers cared more about the troubles they cause for those doing maintenance when they make nonstandard choices of fasteners. It is annoying when they do not improve anything for the end consumer. Or is the idea to make it harder for the back yard mechanic to deal with?

 

[jlrut]

1. Rigid ShopVac
2. Japanese Pull Saw
3. Wen Grinder Stand

Not a huge fan of the stand, with my grinder on top its VERY top heavy. If was affixed to the ground, it'd be fine. But I put mine of casters so it can be moved around the garage.

I love those old USA Craftsman bench grinders. I think mine (2) are from the 60s and have a matching stand.

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

I've had mine for 3 years. It's a workhorse.

 

[lund]

1. Rigid ShopVac
2. Japanese Pull Saw
3. Wen Grinder Stand

Not a huge fan of the stand, with my grinder on top its VERY top heavy. If was affixed to the ground, it'd be fine. But I put mine of casters so it can be moved around the garage.

On the stand: I bought a similar one from Harbor Freight, though it had a little larger diameter, and more hefty components (though with very poor fit ... come on Harbor Freight ... how can you size metal tube clamps wrong?). I also put casters on (with a smaller grinder than you). It was a little too rickety for my liking. So I carefully improved connections/clamps on interfaces to fit better and I filled the metal tubes (larger diameter than yours) with concrete. That moved the center of mass down significantly and stabilized it. You might want to try similar. The ability to move it around on casters is nice to make room in the shop and it is now stable enough with the mods described0 for what I am doing (my grinder is also well balanced, smaller and low speed).

 

[NUTTSGT]

I picked up this utility blade folding knife a few months back. I typically EDC a box cutter vs a traditional knife due to how easy it is to swap the blades to keep it sharp. I like everything about it except for the fact you need a T8 bit to swap the blades. My T handle set only went down to T9 and I got tired of digging a bit out every time I wanted to swap the blade, so I ordered a dedicated T8 T handle to have.

Might want to consider one of these Gearwrench sets for the future. I believe I bought mine at TSC around last Christmas.

 

[Ohio Andy]

I picked up this utility blade folding knife a few months back. I typically EDC a box cutter vs a traditional knife due to how easy it is to swap the blades to keep it sharp. I like everything about it except for the fact you need a T8 bit to swap the blades. My T handle set only went down to T9 and I got tired of digging a bit out every time I wanted to swap the blade, so I ordered a dedicated T8 T handle to have.

Love mine, but the t8 is kind of annoying. I mean I know why they use the T8, they wanted a small screw that wouldn't get in the way, but still...

 

[ssjones]

It is really hard to understand why manufacturers use such sizes on relatively standard components. Are they easier to deal with in mass production in terms of cost, speed, or tool wear? Torx is also a real pain when exposed to salt in the rust belt since the inset surfaces can become very corroded quickly and then be a nightmare to remove. I wish the manufacturers/engineers cared more about the troubles they cause for those doing maintenance when they make nonstandard choices of fasteners. It is annoying when they do not improve anything for the end consumer. Or is the idea to make it harder for the back yard mechanic to deal with?

it was a real head scratcher. A local dealers mechanic told me later than they usually just drill them out, he had no idea why a large Torx was used. (and apparently they knew the hassle when they quoted me the repair cost). I bought some black plastic head covers for $2, I doubt anyone will ever notice them. (but I'm likely never selling this sedan)

 

[IRQVET]

On the stand: I bought a similar one from Harbor Freight, though it had a little larger diameter, and more hefty components (though with very poor fit ... come on Harbor Freight ... how can you size metal tube clamps wrong?). I also put casters on (with a smaller grinder than you). It was a little too rickety for my liking. So I carefully improved connections/clamps on interfaces to fit better and I filled the metal tubes (larger diameter than yours) with concrete. That moved the center of mass down significantly and stabilized it. You might want to try similar. The ability to move it around on casters is nice to make room in the shop and it is now stable enough with the mods described0 for what I am doing (my grinder is also well balanced, smaller and low speed).

I may just be on the lookout for a vintage weighted stand I can possibly put on wheels, dunno . . .

 

[mikeinri]

It is really hard to understand why manufacturers use such sizes on relatively standard components. Are they easier to deal with in mass production in terms of cost, speed, or tool wear? Torx is also a real pain when exposed to salt in the rust belt since the inset surfaces can become very corroded quickly and then be a nightmare to remove. I wish the manufacturers/engineers cared more about the troubles they cause for those doing maintenance when they make nonstandard choices of fasteners. It is annoying when they do not improve anything for the end consumer. Or is the idea to make it harder for the back yard mechanic to deal with?

The only thing I can figure is they think it'll be harder for a thief to steal a seat??? I've always questioned why Torx is used at all, anywhere, honestly.

Mike

 

[LXCam]

Added to the orange again.


For you red boys that’s a 1/2” drill to give you an idea of capacity or lack there of

 

[lotus_esprit]

The only thing I can figure is they think it'll be harder for a thief to steal a seat??? I've always questioned why Torx is used at all, anywhere, honestly.

Mike

Torx is quicker to install on automated production lines

 

[Ohio Andy]

The only thing I can figure is they think it'll be harder for a thief to steal a seat??? I've always questioned why Torx is used at all, anywhere, honestly.

Mike

Google AI says....

Torx screw head is designed to provide a more secure and reliable fastening by distributing force evenly across multiple contact points, allowing for higher torque application without slipping or stripping the screw head, making it ideal for applications where strong tightening is needed and preventing damage to the screw or the tool used to tighten

 

[mikeinri]

Torx is quicker to install on automated production lines

I'd love to know how / why. But, if that were true, why don't they use only Torx all over a vehicle?

Google AI says....

Torx screw head is designed to provide a more secure and reliable fastening by distributing force evenly across multiple contact points, allowing for higher torque application without slipping or stripping the screw head, making it ideal for applications where strong tightening is needed and preventing damage to the screw or the tool used to tighten

That could explain why they're used for seats and seat belts, but why not on other critical components?

Maybe rust is the answer to both of my questions?

Mike

 

[ssjones]

Google AI says....

Torx screw head is designed to provide a more secure and reliable fastening by distributing force evenly across multiple contact points, allowing for higher torque application without slipping or stripping the screw head, making it ideal for applications where strong tightening is needed and preventing damage to the screw or the tool used to tighten

I guess for securing a seat, that makes some sense. Those fasteners were put in with over 100 ft-lbs of torque, I've broken lugnuts loose easier. But removal sure wasn't a consideration.

 

[lund]

I'd love to know how / why. But, if that were true, why don't they use only Torx all over a vehicle?




That could explain why they're used for seats and seat belts, but why not on other critical components?

Maybe rust is the answer to both of my questions?

Mike

Rust is definitely not why one would use Torx. It is more sensitive to corrosion degradation than simple hex bolt heads ... at least for internal torx and likely to a limited degree for external Torx (sharper angles of engagement to degrade in oxidation).

I also do not think Torx or hex head bolts distribute holding stress any non-negligible difference relative to a standard hex bolt. Holding strength is dictated by the diameter of the bolt and the flange shape on the bolt head, not how the driver installing engages the fastener. In terms of stress on the bit, it would be worse for the same torque install than a standard hex head (inset smaller than bolt flange) *unless* you go to huge sizes like they used for the seats.

I can see that that Torx *might* be a little quicker in an automated production line with less tool degradation if it lessens misfires on automatic loadings. But what is the point when they are mixing in a few with 90%+ of the balance of fasteners hex head. I can't imagine 4 fastners for seats are the sticking point in the production lines where they need extra automated speed.

Obviously the manufacturers discount people working on their cars when the use huge Torx sizes. Or I guess they think everyone should go to their dealers for more profit. Mix in some Torx with triple squares in both external and internal forms and you give a backyard mechanic a mess to deal with in any significant work.

 

[ssjones]

Rust is definitely not why one would use Torx. It is more sensitive to corrosion degradation than simple hex bolt heads ... at least for internal torx and likely to a limited degree for external Torx (sharper angles of engagement to degrade in oxidation).

I also do not think Torx or hex head bolts distribute holding stress any non-negligible difference relative to a standard hex bolt. Holding strength is dictated by the diameter of the bolt and the flange shape on the bolt head, not how the driver installing engages the fastener. In terms of stress on the bit, it would be worse for the same torque install than a standard hex head (inset smaller than bolt flange) *unless* you go to huge sizes like they used for the seats.

I can see that that Torx *might* be a little quicker in an automated production line with less tool degradation if it lessens misfires on automatic loadings. But what is the point when they are mixing in a few with 90%+ of the balance of fasteners hex head. I can't imagine 4 fastners for seats are the sticking point in the production lines where they need extra automated speed.

Obviously the manufacturers discount people working on their cars when the use huge Torx sizes. Or I guess they think everyone should go to their dealers for more profit. Mix in some Torx with triple squares in both external and internal forms and you give a backyard mechanic a mess to deal with in any significant work.

I remember that my '96 Formula and Impala SS needed an E4 external torx bit to remove the distributor cap on the hated Opti-Spark. I don't think I ever found another use for that bit.

 

[Wiz02]

I remember that my '96 Formula and Impala SS needed an E4 external torx bit to remove the distributor cap on the hated Opti-Spark. I don't think I ever found another use for that bit.

Thanks for resurrecting a bad memory! OptiNoSpark. And I too have that E4 external Torx bit sitting unused with all my other "vintage" distributor tools.

 

[mikeinri]

I've had to use External Torx as well. Definitely on small OPE engines / carbs (Briggs or Kohler). Not sure about vehicles.

Mike

 

[PelicanPines]

I've had to use External Torx as well. Definitely on small OPE engines / carbs (Briggs or Kohler). Not sure about vehicles.

Mike

I look for those strange bolts and nuts that will force me to use all those strange sockets GJ forced me to buy.

 

[ssjones]

Thanks for resurrecting a bad memory! OptiNoSpark. And I too have that E4 external Torx bit sitting unused with all my other "vintage" distributor tools.

I just tossed some stuff from my top box drawer - locking lugnuts to vehicles we sold and a set of drilled pin punch tools to set the valves on a modern Triumph twin. (been gone for 10 years)

 

[Squankum]

So I carefully improved connections/clamps on interfaces to fit better and I filled the metal tubes (larger diameter than yours) with concrete. That moved the center of mass down significantly and stabilized it.

Depending on the diameter of the vertical pipe, a 25 lb. Olympic weight plate might slide down it.

 

[IRQVET]

Added to the orange again.


For you red boys that’s a 1/2” drill to give you an idea of capacity or lack there of

Putting red in an orange box bro?

Don't have a dog in that fight, just an observation . . .

 

[Squankum]

Thanks for resurrecting a bad memory! OptiNoSpark. And I too have that E4 external Torx bit sitting unused with all my other "vintage" distributor tools.

Heh heh. I'm catching up on this thread while watching/listening to the new Jay Leno's Garage. This week it's Gabriel Iglesias and his new used 90's Impala SS. He popped the hood and I thought, "Say, is that that danged Opti Spark I used to hear so much about?"

 

[PelicanPines]

Putting red in an orange box bro?

Don't have a dog in that fight, just an observation . . .

I didn't want to say it... But yea... Its just wrong.

 

[bugnut]

Studs for hanging wheels! As an old man my back will appreciate these!

 

[jlrut]

1. Rigid ShopVac
2. Japanese Pull Saw
3. Wen Grinder Stand

Not a huge fan of the stand, with my grinder on top its VERY top heavy. If was affixed to the ground, it'd be fine. But I put mine of casters so it can be moved around the garage.

Local pawn shop had an original craftsman bench grinder stand. They’re built to be bolted down of course, they’re cast iron.

 

[GarageHobbyist]

I got some new to me hand push engravers. Really just wanted a couple to get a feel for it and have some examples so I can make my own.

 

[racer1735]

Studs for hanging wheels! As an old man my back will appreciate these!

Must be for a German car? I have a set of studs from my Porsche-ownership years.

 

[LXCam]

Putting red in an orange box bro?

Don't have a dog in that fight, just an observation . . .

I didn't want to say it... But yea... Its just wrong.

Well yellow would have clashed. 🫣