DIY'ers: show me your VEHICLE SPECIFC specialty tools

[diesel research]

A recent thread about uber-priced lugnut socket has brought something to my attention.

I am wondering what kind of specialty tools do people own only for their OWN vehicles. Not for profit.

It could be something as simple as a special oil filter wrench designed just for that vehicle, or something much more complex like a power train or suspension tool. The pricier/less versatile, the better! I am not talking about something that is easily used on a wide variety of vehicles like a piston ring compressor or a slide hammer. I mean something that would usually be difficult to justify on a price/use basis. Please not homemade pieces, that goes in the homemade tools thread.

Back in the '90s a wheel bearing socket for an H1 hummer cost the exact same amount, $135. For those who haven't had the pleasure, it has real tapered roller bearings and requires precise bearing preload torque, not a gutentite like people sometimes do an a cv axle'ed fwd car with axle nut.

Special tools are a mo-fo! Often only 1 manufacturer makes them and corners the market. They usually are of practically no use for anything other than a select make/model/year/sub-model (like AMG tuning) It's a hard pill to swallow, especially if it will have limited use. Sometimes rental/borrowing is available. Usually not. They often soon become obsolete and go out of production. It's just the name of the game. You wanna play, then you gotta follow the rules or make your own (tool)

Please show us some of the things you have had to purchase, and tell us more about them.

 

[diesel research]

This is a bluepoint (usa) mechanical timing set. I've only used it once or twice and don't honestly see me using it much again. Used to set the static timing of an engine I have. The dial indicator is unique, not only because it is metric, but the special adapter and extended reach.

Off to the right is a plate with 2 bolts. That is the gear puller used to adjust timing. Above that is a special socket used to install dial indicator.

While all of it seems common enough, there is actually only 2 companies making said tool, and the other option was hundreds more expensive than snap on for the same thing. Speaking of price, several years ago I paid $150 from the snappy guy. Strictly used for me, not for profit.

Here is another look at the special socket. I don't know why I bought that rough machined one from somewhere else, but it is basically the same thing, so I guess I have 2. I think the rough one was $25 and definitely not from snappy. It might be offshore, might be USA, no clue. Never cared to count, but I think it is approximately a 34 point socket or so?

Yet another socket for that engine. This one acts like a starter pinion. The socket slips into the bellhousing and engages the flexplate to turn the engine over. The engine doesn't have a typical crank snout and single balancer bolt, it requires 4 bolts to hold balancer, so it cannot be turned over easy from the front. The other option is to turn engine backwards using alternator pulley nut, but I don't like that. It was $40 from OTC and also only used once. Snap on was only other option, but their's was not as good, as it was 3/8 drive. Engine is 18:1 compression, so I would rather have the beefier version.

This is a 40something mm crowsfoot. Used for a fan clutch, but for what? I don't know. I didn't want it or need it, but it came as a set with the one I needed. As such, I can't find mine right now, and this one has never been used, nor will it. I think it is for fords or cadillacs or something. About $20 for the set. Imported taiwan.

 

[MattPersman]

Yet another socket for that engine. This one acts like a starter pinion. The socket slips into the bellhousing and engages the flexplate to turn the engine over. The engine doesn't have a typical crank snout and single balancer bolt, it requires 4 bolts to hold balancer, so it cannot be turned over easy from the front. The other option is to turn engine backwards using alternator pulley nut, but I don't like that. It was $40 from OTC and also only used once. Snap on was only other option, but their's was not as good, as it was 3/8 drive. Engine is 18:1 compression, so I would rather have the beefier version.

I have the snap on in 3/8, I can use a stubby even to turn it

on another note, I have a Snap On T70 for my WRX, I have a blue point spark plug boot tool for 2.0 VWs, my wife used to have one as here daily driver

 

[diesel research]

on another note, I have a Snap On T70 for my WRX, I have a blue point spark plug boot tool for 2.0 VWs, my wife used to have one as here daily driver

True, it's not too difficult, although I hadn't known that until I bought one. Used to use one at work on the 8.3L it definitely wasn't usable with a stubby.

Care to show us or tell us more about those tools? I mean I know what a torx socket is, although I don't own one that size or know what it's for.

 

[0.511MeV]

I had a few specialty tools for a BMW, but I let them go with the car when I sold it. One was a computer reset tool, it plugged in and reset the oil change and service lights (for the 1980s M30 engines) and the other was a fan clutch wrench (32 or 36mm, can't quite remember).

I think that was all.

 

[MattT]

This is a 40something mm crowsfoot. Used for a fan clutch, but for what? I don't know. I didn't want it or need it, but it came as a set with the one I needed. As such, I can't find mine right now, and this one has never been used, nor will it. I think it is for fords or cadillacs or something.

Ran across similar while searching for other 41mm tools. IIRC it was for the waterpump on a small gm motor.

Not directly related to this thread but that search was to find a 41mm socket to use as the base for a special tool for a 4 wheeler. Those things are vehicle specific tool central. If you get inside the motor you're almost certainly gonna need special pullers. I've even made special tools just for taking the plastics off Hondas.

 

[porcupine73]

Camshaft sprocket holder for Subaru engines: Subaru tools are normally done through SPX/Kent Moore. In retrospect, this tool was not absolutely necessary, because you can just tighten and loosen those bolts before removing/after installing the timing belt.

I also have a valve clearance adjustment tool for Honda motorcycle engines. It's kind of a deep recessed little wrench to hold the square part of the adjuster.

 

[quattrojon]

I expect Moose will weigh in soon...

 

[Quint]

Honda Crank Pulley removal tool

 

[Quint]

Insert every tool needed to disassemble/reassemble a VW

 

[Stick]

I used to have one of the $$$ wheelbearing sockets and also the brake caliper wrench for the rear brakes for the HMMWV's. Also the brake caliper socket for the SUSV's. Not sure what happened to them though.

GM torsion bar tool.

Chainsaw tachometer.

Ford 3V sparkplug extractor kit.
GM 6.2L/6.5L glowplug puller/extractor.
GM 6.5L injection pump timing stop.

GM 3.1/3.4/3.8L engine tilting tool.
Ford modular engine lifting brackets.

Assorted seal drivers.
I'm sure I've got more around here somewhere.

Seal installers/seal extractors for FWD transmissions.

Pulley holders/fan clutch wrench.

We could go nuts with diesel specialty tools...

Cat engine turning tool/holder.

Cummins engine turning tool.
Duo-cone seal installer for Cat motorgraders.
Front crank seal installer for C7 Cat engines.
6in/lb torque wrench for Cummins valve setup/jake brakes.

Cylinder liner height gauge for use during inframe rebuilds.

Most of the other diesel tools I use are shop supplied.

 

[Stick]

I've also got Ford cam holding tools around here somewhere, though they might be at home.

I've also got a Northstar waterpump socket somewhere, but I haven't seen it in a while. That one was purchased for one job and never used again...

 

[Moose-LandTran]

I expect Moose will weigh in soon...

Not a DIYer, but when i'm back at the shop next week i might get some pics of the various special tools i have.

 

[Monte]

A-arm bushing removal tool for removing bushings on the upper A-Arm of G and B-Body GM cars (probably works on other makes too... ?)

 

[Super Sport]

I spent $30 on this little Kent Moore hydraulic clutch line disconnect tool (used) for my Camaro. Without one it's a real PITA.

The SO box I have for sale in the classifieds was owned by a worker at Kent Moore. There are a ton of specialty wrenches, sockets, and other tools that are job-specific in there. Most are for vehicles I will most likely never own so on eBay they go!

 

[Craftsman_88]

Honda Crank Pulley removal tool

Got one of those myself. Kind of sucked when I realized I needed one. Cost me $35 from Checker.... Used it once, lol

 

[1984Datsun]

Got me a VW water pump/PS pump pulley holding tool

Made the job a snap, and to me, was worth the 20 some bucks I spent on the tool.

Which is just as well, since I forgot to do the standard "loosen the bolts with the accessory belt and water pump still on engine" technique...

It looks like this one... it works on Mk1 VW water pumps and PS pumps... and apparently Vanagons as well.

Worth the money, IMO.

 

[HICKS]

Here are my Porsche 944 special tools. The timing belt tools are ArnnWorx, the rest are Hazet, KD, and no-names.

 

[Deafautotech]

True, it's not too difficult, although I hadn't known that until I bought one. Used to use one at work on the 8.3L it definitely wasn't usable with a stubby.

Care to show us or tell us more about those tools? I mean I know what a torx socket is, although I don't own one that size or know what it's for.

that socket are use to turn the flywheel to do adjustment the valves clearance on Cummins. i has one for my cummins 5.9L.. it is snap on.. i will use it to do valve clearance check on my cummins before i start to do more serious mileages...

 

[metalhead212121]

I spent $30 on this little Kent Moore hydraulic clutch line disconnect tool (used) for my Camaro. Without one it's a real PITA.

Stupid question... is that for t56 Transmissions? If it is... how does it work?

 

[Welderguy24]

I used to have one of the $$$ wheelbearing sockets and also the brake caliper wrench for the rear brakes for the HMMWV's. Also the brake caliper socket for the SUSV's. Not sure what happened to them though.


GM torsion bar tool.


Chainsaw tachometer.


Ford 3V sparkplug extractor kit.
GM 6.2L/6.5L glowplug puller/extractor.
GM 6.5L injection pump timing stop.

GM 3.1/3.4/3.8L engine tilting tool.
Ford modular engine lifting brackets.

Assorted seal drivers.
I'm sure I've got more around here somewhere.


Seal installers/seal extractors for FWD transmissions.


Pulley holders/fan clutch wrench.

We could go nuts with diesel specialty tools...

Cat engine turning tool/holder.

Cummins engine turning tool.
Duo-cone seal installer for Cat motorgraders.
Front crank seal installer for C7 Cat engines.
6in/lb torque wrench for Cummins valve setup/jake brakes.


Cylinder liner height gauge for use during inframe rebuilds.

Most of the other diesel tools I use are shop supplied.

Will that Cummins turning tool work with ISX and ISM engines and if so what is the part number?

 

[KermitFrog]

Don't have my pics handy.

MK I & MK II VW Diesel tools. I have a drawer in my tool box dedicated to them.

 

[Macneil]

Insert every tool needed to disassemble/reassemble a VW

I'm a MkIV TDI owner. I hear that!!!

Starting to have to do more work to it here and there as it gets up in mileage and its starting to fill up my box with tools for it!

 

[Tunger]

That cummins barring tool is for B and C series engines. I don't believe (although I could be mistaken) it will work on the big boys.

 

[greasemonkey44]

i have a 3/8 allen for my trucks brakes; funny story, day i replaced my front pads i was the only one at work, left my box keys at home and needed a 3/8 allen
checked in an old toolbox in the back of my truck, sure enough someone left one in there
i had to buy some specific oil filter wrenches on a Saturday doing family oil changes
ive needed a few others but usually just built of improvised something

 

[diesel research]

Not a DIYer, but when i'm back at the shop next week i might get some pics of the various special tools i have.

You do not do any repairs/maintenance to your personal vehicle?: Just repair others and take yours to another specialist?

I'm not a DIYer when I am on top of a detroit diesel or some such dirty thing, but when it comes to my own cars/own time, well I am just as much DIY as any other guy.

Get paid at night, do it to save money during the day.

 

[wreckerman5357]

This is a bluepoint (usa) mechanical timing set. I've only used it once or twice and don't honestly see me using it much again. Used to set the static timing of an engine I have. The dial indicator is unique, not only because it is metric, but the special adapter and extended reach.

Off to the right is a plate with 2 bolts. That is the gear puller used to adjust timing. Above that is a special socket used to install dial indicator.

While all of it seems common enough, there is actually only 2 companies making said tool, and the other option was hundreds more expensive than snap on for the same thing. Speaking of price, several years ago I paid $150 from the snappy guy. Strictly used for me, not for profit.

Here is another look at the special socket. I don't know why I bought that rough machined one from somewhere else, but it is basically the same thing, so I guess I have 2. I think the rough one was $25 and definitely not from snappy. It might be offshore, might be USA, no clue. Never cared to count, but I think it is approximately a 34 point socket or so?

Yet another socket for that engine. This one acts like a starter pinion. The socket slips into the bellhousing and engages the flexplate to turn the engine over. The engine doesn't have a typical crank snout and single balancer bolt, it requires 4 bolts to hold balancer, so it cannot be turned over easy from the front. The other option is to turn engine backwards using alternator pulley nut, but I don't like that. It was $40 from OTC and also only used once. Snap on was only other option, but their's was not as good, as it was 3/8 drive. Engine is 18:1 compression, so I would rather have the beefier version.

This is a 40something mm crowsfoot. Used for a fan clutch, but for what? I don't know. I didn't want it or need it, but it came as a set with the one I needed. As such, I can't find mine right now, and this one has never been used, nor will it. I think it is for fords or cadillacs or something. About $20 for the set. Imported taiwan.

That last tool the "40 something millimeter" crowsfoot is part of a Ford Fan-Clutch toolkit. It goes around the 4 bolts on the waterpump pulley and holds it in place while the other wrench in the kit is used to loosen the fan-clutch nut. I own three Fords and this tool kit.

 

[diesel research]

That last tool the "40 something millimeter" crowsfoot is part of a Ford Fan-Clutch toolkit. It goes around the 4 bolts on the waterpump pulley and holds it in place while the other wrench in the kit is used to loosen the fan-clutch nut. I own three Fords and this tool kit.

I don't own or service ford trucks, so that explains that. My vehicles either have electric fans or use the smaller 36mm and a more conventional Y-shape pulley holder.

 

[xwarp]

a couple of things i have specifically for my 85 all carbureted no computer anything other than the clock/memory in the radio s10 are as follows:

an all-test digital timing/tach. it displays engine rpm and where the actual firing is taking place at the same time. this uses the magnetic probe holder near the harmonic balancer.

an otc choke level guage used to make sure the choke plate and secondary throttle plates are where they need to be in relation to linkages.

 

[Lotek]

It isn't fair for us pro's to show the specialty tools we use at work, but I do have a set of tools for overhauling a Porsche type 901 transmission that I have used once, a Dana case spreader tool set, and a flathead valvespring compressor tool that was my grandfather's.

 

[diesel research]

It isn't fair for us pro's to show the specialty tools we use at work, but I do have a set of tools for overhauling a Porsche type 901 transmission that I have used once, a Dana case spreader tool set, and a flathead valvespring compressor tool that was my grandfather's.

Exactly. Work tools can get crazy. I say the case spreader and porsche stuff definitely counts though, unless the case spreader is for work. That is the CLASSIC example of the types of tools I am talking about. Many DIYers at some point would like to change gear ratios in a differential. If you have something with a dana in it, it is nearly impossible to swap ratios w/o the tool. You can't just hammer and pound shims in like you can with some ford/GM corporate axles, nor are there adjusters like other axles.

Unfortunately, the cost is so steep, and the uses so limited (both in application and frequency), that any one who owns one for personal purposes, gets extra credit in my book.

Let's see some pictures and info about those tools!

 

[Moose-LandTran]

You do not do any repairs/maintenance to your personal vehicle?: Just repair others and take yours to another specialist?

I do work on my own, i just don't own any tools specifically for it. The only ones i've used on it were locking pins for the cam pullies, which i borrowed from my friend.

But there is some interesting special tools in our shop, like injector pullers and stuff.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

It isn't fair for us pro's to show the specialty tools we use at work.

I don't know about fair, but it is interesting. I'd like to see what special stuff other mechs use for work.

Often i find that someone will have something for a specific application and it's something that would be very useful for me for a totally different application, but without seeing it posted i would've never known about it.

 

[Boost Creep]

gm torsion bar tool. although the other one earlier in this thread looks alot easier to use than this. about the only specialty tool i have

 

[diesel research]

But there is some interesting special tools in our shop, like injector pullers and stuff.

Going to buy one of my own because it is easier than threading a chevrolet lugnut on the injector inlet and wedging a prybar. Other makeshift methods involve hard to find metric threaded rod, previously mentioned lug nut and a deep well socket to act as a slide hammer. Or said lug nut and a piece of pipe as a puller.

Factory says to use the slide hammer method, but they forget to mention it doesn't fit the confines of under hood, so I will just buy a puller since they are only $25 or so.

-

 

[Moose-LandTran]

This is a bluepoint (usa) mechanical timing set. I've only used it once or twice and don't honestly see me using it much again. Used to set the static timing of an engine I have. The dial indicator is unique, not only because it is metric, but the special adapter and extended reach.

While all of it seems common enough, there is actually only 2 companies making said tool, and the other option was hundreds more expensive than snap on for the same thing. Speaking of price, several years ago I paid $150 from the snappy guy. Strictly used for me, not for profit.

We can get those from a few companies here, as we got loads of diesel road cars and light commercial vehicles with rotary injector pumps. I have/had one at work somewhere. Back from when i used to remove install injector pumps for a friend who rebuilt them.

Here is another look at the special socket. I don't know why I bought that rough machined one from somewhere else, but it is basically the same thing, so I guess I have 2. I think the rough one was $25 and definitely not from snappy. It might be offshore, might be USA, no clue. Never cared to count, but I think it is approximately a 34 point socket or so?

P-pump delivery valve holder socket! Got one of those too, from Koken. 33 Teeth, according to Koken.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

Going to buy one of my own because it is easier than threading a chevrolet lugnut on the injector inlet and wedging a prybar. Other makeshift methods involve hard to find metric threaded rod, previously mentioned lug nut and a deep well socket to act as a slide hammer. Or said lug nut and a piece of pipe as a puller.

Factory says to use the slide hammer method, but they forget to mention it doesn't fit the confines of under hood, so I will just buy a puller since they are only $25 or so.

I have a few, two VW ones, one is a set with a slide hammer and adapters for 1.9 TDI PD (unit injector) engines, as well as diesel injector pump and K-Jet engines, and an adapter for other PD engines. A Volvo "Claw" type one with a big slide hammer, one for Mercedes-Benz CDI injectors. (ARGH!)

The pullers we get here vary hugely in price. I wanted a Klann one for CDI engines, but it was above a thousand for the set.

We don't get them for $25. My Volvo one alone cost me over $280.

 

[diesel research]

We can get those from a few companies here, as we got loads of diesel road cars and light commercial vehicles with rotary injector pumps. I have/had one at work somewhere. Back from when i used to remove install injector pumps for a friend who rebuilt them.



P-pump delivery valve holder socket! Got one of those too, from Koken. 33 Teeth, according to Koken.

Yes, it is a P-pump d-valve socket. (Hint: if the socket is for a bosch P-pump, the dial indicator would also be for a P-pump ) Not a terribly lot of cars in europe or anywhere with a P-pump....although the MB pump seems quite closely related? Rotary VE stuff is indeed easier to find thanks to VW.

 

[4x4gearhead]

I have a similar socket for barring over a cummins B motor or 6CTA maybe even some of the qs series? It looks about the same but mine has a nylon bushing after the splines so that it turns a little easier in the hole in the bellhousing. I think I paid $90 for it and used it on my fathers truck :[ real moneymaker....

 

[plinker]

For my use I've bought a bunch of Ford specfic tools for my Ranger based fleet....

Rotunda tool kit for Dana 28 axle (some may work for a D35 too).

Hub lock nut sockets for D28 & D35.

OTC brake pin installer remover for Fords.

5.5mm ingition modoule socket

OTC knock off imported auto transmission clutch spring compressor.
(not really specfic in general, but it is for my use).

A couple of homade pullers for a Polaris 250 ATV primary and secondary clutch's.

I've got a bunch of other speciality tools but they are more or less "universal" in application. I probably have some other specfic tools But, I'd need to go look and see.