Portable Toolbox contents?

[kythri]

So, over the past few months, I've been replacing some of the no-name **** that I've acquired with Craftsman stuff, and building up my collection, which has lead to some duplicate stuff here and there.

I figured it would be a good time to start assembling a portable toolbox for taking on the road/taking to wrecking yards, so I'm not having to constantly raid my chests, and then put stuff away when I get home.

What all do you folks put in yours?

I've got a 3/8" socket set in there (9 SAE, 9 Metric), a regular and flex-head ratchet, a couple of extensions (3" and 6"), a couple spark-plug sockets, some combo wrenches, screwdrivers, 6" adjustable wrench...

I need to put some pliers in there, as well as a pair of sidecutters, but what else would you folks put in yours?

I'm not looking to build an all-inclusive mobile-mechanic setup, just something that will get me by in most instances of a minor breakdown, or suffice for ripping **** out of a wrecking yard.

 

[wrenchr]

http://image.snapon.com/international/pdf/blpgssct71.pdf

Not cheap but darned conveinent.

 

[SpiderGearsMan]

do they actually sell that stuff in america ?

 

[chad s]

http://image.snapon.com/international/pdf/blpgssct71.pdf

Not cheap but darned conveinent.

And made in Taiwan most likely.

 

[wrenchr]

And made in Taiwan most likely.

Yah they are made in Taiwan, But the quality is good. I have a small williams set, It is the same as the bluepoint, Good Stuff with a lifetime warranty.

 

[wrenchr]

do they actually sell that stuff in america ?

Yes, I have seen it on S o trucks.

 

[SpiderGearsMan]

I stay away from the truck , I let him do all the running

 

[Deafautotech]

I stay away from the truck , I let him do all the running

why you stay away from tool truck? i am curious....

 

[wilbilt]

Maybe add a prybar, a hammer and a utility knife? A roll of duct tape has many uses, too.

 

[Uncle Buck]

I have found cold chisels, punches, and a nut buster quite handy in junk yards, not to mention a pair of vise grips. Ya also need a hammer.

I am not good at assembling abbreviated boxes, or road boxes. My box ends up sagging full of tons of stuff!

 

[Rickster]

I would add needle nose pliers, a file, some zip ties and a pair of work gloves. I have to add a chisel to mine! I also have thrown in a few larger wrenches in mine.

 

[dxdexter]

This is the small 16" box I always keep in my truck. Its small enough to go behind the seat in a regular cab.
Contains:
3/8" Metric Deep,3/8" Metric shallow,3/8" SAE shallow
3/8" ratchet, universal and extentions
Multimeter,12v test light
Visegrips ,linemans pliers
ball peen hammer
tape measure
2 phillips #1 and #2,2 slot screwdrivers large and small (only good for a small prybar)
Metric and SAE combo wrenches 10mm to 19mm and 3/8" to 3/4"
Electrical tape
Scissors and a pocket knife

 

[Uncle Buck]

This is the small 16" box I always keep in my truck. Its small enough to go behind the seat in a regular cab.
Contains:
3/8" Metric Deep,3/8" Metric shallow,3/8" SAE shallow
3/8" ratchet, universal and extentions
Multimeter,12v test light
Visegrips ,linemans pliers
ball peen hammer
tape measure
2 phillips #1 and #2,2 slot screwdrivers large and small (only good for a small prybar)
Metric and SAE combo wrenches 10mm to 19mm and 3/8" to 3/4"
Electrical tape
Scissors and a pocket knife

That sure looks like a Par-x ratchet to me, am I right?

 

[dxdexter]

That sure looks like a Par-x ratchet to me, am I right?

No its made in Canada by Gray Tools. I've never heard of Par-x. Maybe Gray makes tools for them ??????
I couldn't find them when searched. Do you have a link to their tools.

 

[Uncle Buck]

That is incredible, I wish I had the ability to post a picture of my Par-X ratchet; it bears a striking resemblance to the ratchet I think is 1/2" drive and not quite so shiny, the one in the background and not the forefront in your picture. Par-X was a budget line of tools Snap-On sold in the 1970's. We discussed Par-X in a thread within the last year for those that remember. FYI, Par-X tools are no longer made but I think Snap-On would still provide warranty support for the line. At least if you are a regular customer or in the trades. (no I do not care to argue my thoughts on S/O warranty. Save that for someone else.)

 

[wilbilt]

Par-X was a budget line of tools Snap-On sold in the 1970's.

I have noted the nearly identical characteristics of older Snap_On raised-panel wrenches and Dayton wrenches. Is it possible there is a connection there as well?

 

[wrenchr]

Par-x is no longer made, It was a company owned by snap on.

 

[ColdDuckTime]

http://image.snapon.com/international/pdf/blpgssct71.pdf

Not cheap but darned conveinent.

Wow, that's a pretty cool setup. For some reason I have a fetish for the everything in it's place notion (especially to keep you from forgetting stuff by the side of the road) and 300 bucks doesn't shock me...depending on the tool quality I guess. I wonder if you can just buy the plastic case for cheap on eBay.

I suppose that the problem is that everyone's idea of what should go in something like that differs. I can't see the point in both SAE and metric tools in the same box...this is assuming that the whole point is field repairs on the car you are driving and it isn't like a ZL1 Camaro and a baja bug use the same fasteners. They definitely could stand to leave a big container in the case for other stuff, room for a BFH and wire might be a start.

 

[Fast Orange]

hholmberg-
You're not alone.My kit in my pick up seems to be taking over the entire bed.All of the basics mentioned above,spare fluids,belts and other spare parts,a small floor jack ,12v compressor,tire plug kit,etc,etc,etc.What's strange about it is that I have very few problems with my own truck-it's always friends and family who get stuck out on the road.(Knock On Wood!) Add in a duffle bag with foul weather gear,boots,coveralls and a change of work clothes and the bed is over half full.
Whenever someone gives me a gift,it always seems to be some type of tool that I already have a better one of in my garage,so the gift usually winds up in my truck-just in case.Might be time to do a clean out and have a yard sale-


George

 

[dxdexter]

I can't see the point in both SAE and metric tools in the same box...this is assuming that the whole point is field repairs on the car you are driving

I seldom think about carrying tools to repair the truck I drive (maybe because its a reliable Ford ). It certainly would be a bonus if I could repair it on the side of the road but, there must be a Murphy's Law that states: No matter how many tools I carry with me I will probably never have the right ones to fix whats wrong.

I just have them in case someone asks me to fix something and they say:
"I have all the tools you need here in this plastic bucket" or something like that. I just don't like clawing through a pile of dime store tools to do a job.

 

[markb1]

Tie wire and a felt pen to make a sign.

 

[-lecroix-]

never been anywhere that a $100 bill and a cell phone couldn't get me home ...

 

[kythri]

I can't see the point in both SAE and metric tools in the same box...this is assuming that the whole point is field repairs 0on the car you are driving

I don't know how many cars do it, but I've noticed that my Explorer has metric fasteners in some spots, and SAE in another...

I have yet to wrench on my Crown Vic, but I'm not going to be surprised to make the same discovery.

 

[kythri]

never been anywhere that a $100 bill and a cell phone couldn't get me home ...

I've yet to be anywhere the Allstate Motor Club couldn't get me home, or to a quality repair shop...

Truthfully, I'm not expecting to be able to make a roadside diagnosis and repair with this kit - more I'm assembling it for sojourns to the wrecking yard to get parts for my Explorer. Right now, I'm looking for the front differential and rear diff/axle assembly, so I can "easily/cheaply" convert it from a 3.73LS to a 4.10LS prior to lifting it.

I just want to put something together that's relatively comprehensive, and will get me through most stuff.

Once the Explorer is lifted, there's going to be a few other things added to the box that I've learned about from http://www.explorerforum.com, with the anticipation of saving time when I bust a CV shaft off-road.

 

[Uncle Buck]

The only time I carry a box, or any tools in the vehicle anymore is when I am going on an extended trip. Anytime I am local, within 50 miles I would have it towed back to my house for repairs.

 

[wilbilt]

Anytime I am local, within 50 miles I would have it towed back to my house for repairs.

Huh. I just found out (after joining), that CA AAA will only tow 5 miles on a standard membership. I guess they just changed the distance earlier this year.

If I'm within 5 miles of home, I don't need a tow. I'll get it home myself.

 

[chevy302dz]

http://image.snapon.com/international/pdf/blpgssct71.pdf

Not cheap but darned conveinent.

I already see on problem with that set, no 8mm.

That sure looks like a Par-x ratchet to me, am I right?

I thought exactly the same thing, it does look just like it.

I usually carry a basic but complete tool set, plus things like electrical tape, fuses, electrical connectors, mechanics wire, etc.

 

[Uncle Buck]

Huh. I just found out (after joining), that CA AAA will only tow 5 miles on a standard membership. I guess they just changed the distance earlier this year.

If I'm within 5 miles of home, I don't need a tow. I'll get it home myself.

Actually I have never had AAA, and most folks can get by without their high price as well! I have had the luxury of tow in through State Farm as long as I have been driving!

It is very cheap & simple. I add the "Tow in" option to every vehicle I insure, it adds something like $3-5 dollars to every six month premium. If I break down, I call any tow company to come and hook me up, then I am supposed to have the vehicle towed to the nearest repair facility. I have never turned in a tow bill that State Farm took issue with, and never tried to cheat them. Once years ago I had an old truck towed I think about 40 miles back to my home and State Farm never squawked. The only thing not as good as AAA is that I must pay for the tow out of pocket, then seek reimbursement. Really no big deal as long as you have a card to fall back on for that time when you have no green brothers on you. It works great, I have used it countless times through the years, and I have no complaints.

 

[ColdDuckTime]

I seldom think about carrying tools to repair the truck I drive (maybe because its a reliable Ford )....

It just shows how everyone's situation is different. My complete list of owned Ford cars (I've mostly done the Chevrolet thing) is as follows:

Boss 302 (x 2)
428CJ Mach 1
428PI Galaxie

I expect that a modern Ford might as well be a Citroen to me.


To be fair, my total road breakdowns have nearly always been things that a tool kit wouldn't help. I've had the points close on one of those Mustangs in the middle of nowhere (fixed with a screwdriver and a matchbook cover) and had a voltage regulator **** out on an L89 ragtop Camaro (temporarily fixed by using jumpers between the battery and coil) in the middle of nowhere...but the few other problems have needed a tow.

I guess that a proper emergency toolkit consists of:
(1) screwdriver
(1) matchbook cover
(1) set of jumper cables
(1) battery post cleaning gizmo (just on general principles)
(1) credit card + cell phone

 

[dxdexter]

I guess that a proper emergency toolkit consists of:
(1) screwdriver
(1) matchbook cover
(1) set of jumper cables
(1) battery post cleaning gizmo (just on general principles)
(1) credit card + cell phone

I would agree with the credit card and cell phone. I don't smoke, so i guess I don't need matches.

PS:the Ford crack was a joke

 

[kidney]

I always keep one, small piece of muffler pipe and two large band clamps in my tool box. It's a real saver when you're in the middle of nowhere and your radiator hose decides to blow up.

 

[wilbilt]

Actually I have never had AAA, and most folks can get by without their high price as well! I have had the luxury of tow in through State Farm as long as I have been driving!
It is very cheap & simple. I add the "Tow in" option to every vehicle I insure, it adds something like $3-5 dollars to every six month premium.

Most companies won't allow towing coverage on vehicles aged as much as mine. I got the AAA road service because I just added my daughter's 2002 "Flaming Lemon" to my policy.

To be honest, 5 miles is useless here. The nearest town/store/gas station/phone booth is 10 miles away.

 

[andor]

For me a portable box is usually for any of my 2 wheeled hobbies and not for super in-depth stuff.

Various crappy screwdrivers
8,10mm nut drivers
1/4 driver and sockets
3/8 driver and sockets
lots of allen keyy
T-Handle allens for bodywork
plastic mallet
lg. and med. adjustable wrenches
neeldenose and reg pliers
zip ties
safety wire
elec and duct tape
chainlube
wd-40
rags, lots of rags

I know there is more stuff, usually just not until I leave the house lol

 

[Uncle Buck]

Most companies won't allow towing coverage on vehicles aged as much as mine. I got the AAA road service because I just added my daughter's 2002 "Flaming Lemon" to my policy.

To be honest, 5 miles is useless here. The nearest town/store/gas station/phone booth is 10 miles away.

Well, I guess I have been lucky then cause I have never been denied tow in on any of em. I have a 72 Chevy 1/2Ton a 68 Chevelle, a 92 Town Car and a 1986 GMC. I can only get full coverage on the Lincoln because every other one has some degree of body rot. That ain't the half of it, I can carry nothing more than Liability, Uninsured Motorist, and Tow in. No problemo, perhaps you should check out State Farm. I cannot believe they have given me special privileges all these years!

 

[MAD]

never been anywhere that a $100 bill and a cell phone couldn't get me home ...

Wow, you must have cheap towing and great cell coverage down there.

 

[boiler7904]

A block of wood to set a jack on in soft conditions.
Small [folding] shovel and sand or kitty litter in winter weather.
Ratcheting tie downs and rope for securing cargo.
A plastic tarp.

And this may seem obvious, but a flashlight

 

[MAD]

I would add:

Hand cleaner.
Tire plug/repair kit + 12 volt inflator.
Piece of pipe (for extending crappy stock lug wrench, ratchet handles, etc...).
Magnetic pick-up tool. (Very handy for finding that essential piece of hardware you lost in the grass or dirt by the side of the road.)
Hack saw blades -wrap one end in tape to make a handle.
Small bag of assorted hardware.

 

[Rickster]

I look at my Go-Box as not just for the car but also being used for anytime I need to go and repair or just have on hand for a possible repair. I like to take it with us when we visit my son in collage up at MSU. Have had to repair all kinds of things from wobbly loft bedframe to bikes and even had to fish out keys from a sewer with a rope and a magnetic pick-up tool. Also my Dad has a small weekend type farm that I always bring the tools along to maintain the mowers, lawn tractor and such. Anyways, I thought if you used it like I do then you may want to add a small tape measure in case you need to measure up an oddball belt length or make/buy a bracket or repair part.

 

[kythri]

Thank you all for the various ideas - several things on here I didn't think of will be added to my box/trunk...

 

[wrenchr]

Duck tape!! is a must.