Best Brake Tool Set

[Umclemrbig]

Need a brake tool set for a drum system. Thoughts? I was thinking the Astro Pneumatic Set below.

http://www.handandpowertoolshop.com...gclid=CPm1zvLj0LoCFcGd4AodS0UAxg&gclsrc=aw.ds


Or I may spend the extra 20 bucks and get this for use on disc systems, also.

http://www.toolfetch.com/astro-pneu...4f3738363139&gclid=CMXEo6zj0LoCFQ-a4Aodc0cAsw

 

[JoeSnapOn]

Hoping all experienced techs weigh in on this. I'm also going to be in the market for a quality set of brake tools for both disc and drum. So let's hear it guys. What brands and sets do you recommend? Or even any seperate tools? Thanks Joe S.

 

[CWP1616L]

I have the S6118A and the BT11. Excellent tools for drum brakes.

 

[timgr]

I have done quite a few Bendix drum brakes, and the tools I use are the Lisle 11260 brake pliers (it may be a KD 298) and the KD 3377 calipers. The 3377 avoids the use of the brake spoons altogether, for self-adjusting brakes. A pro would use the 3377.

I'd skip the Astro set. Just get the pieces that work for your application, as you need them.

 

[ken w.]

The SO BT11 is the best tool I have used for drum brakes.Everything is at the correct angle to remove and install the springs.You'll know what I mean after yo use the cheap brake tools.

 

[Evan(CA)]

I just picked up a like new Snap On BTK5 and BT11 on ebay for 91.50 shipped.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-Bra...CJOtt%2FMPprM%2B1Whlk%3D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc

Keep checking craigslist and ebay and you should be able to buy a quality set for a reasonable price if you're patient.

 

[joel63]

The SO BT11 is the best tool I have used for drum brakes.Everything is at the correct angle to remove and install the springs.You'll know what I mean after yo use the cheap brake tools.

x1
From my experience this one will cover your needs for most drum brakes.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

 

[DRhodes]

Charles (Astro Tools),

I see you recommending the Astro brand a lot in the active topics on Garage Journal. While I think its great that your a member, and trying to help/market your product, I also think its unfair to other brands who pay to sponsor this great forum (Strictly Toolboxes comes to mind). If they pay to be a sponsor, I think other brands should too if they want to promote and sale their products).

It would be my recommendation that you answer questions in regards to Astro Pneumatic, and less marketing and sales unless you contribute financially to this forum. I'm sure hosting this site isn't cheap and the moderators and administrators do a great job here. I would think having sponsors would make their job much easier. If you are currently contributing then I stand corrected and apologize. I by no means am a moderator or administrator on this forum though, so you can take my opinion with a grain of salt.

 

[signcrafter]

Charles (Astro Tools),

I see you recommending the Astro brand a lot in the active topics on Garage Journal. While I think its great that your a member, and trying to help/market your product, I also think its unfair to other brands who pay to sponsor this great forum (Strictly Toolboxes comes to mind). If they pay to be a sponsor, I think other brands should too if they want to promote and sale their products).

It would be my recommendation that you answer questions in regards to Astro Pneumatic, and less marketing and sales unless you contribute financially to this forum. I'm sure hosting this site isn't cheap and the moderators and administrators do a great job here. I would think having sponsors would make their job much easier. If you are currently contributing then I stand corrected and apologize. I by no means am a moderator or administrator on this forum though, so you can take my opinion with a grain of salt.

I wish more companies would be active on this board. I don't think he was pushing astro's tools. After all the OP was about comparing two astro tools. So he was just answering a question about astro tools. There used to be other companies that were active on this board until members ran them off by their comments.

 

[DRhodes]

I wish more companies would be active on this board. I don't think he was pushing astro's tools. After all the OP was about comparing two astro tools. So he was just answering a question about astro tools. There used to be other companies that were active on this board until members ran them off by their comments.

I guess it was just because I was viewing this topic (page 3)

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=224908&page=3

and then this one

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3555584#post3555584

and then this one

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3555590#post3555590

then when I clicked on this topic and saw the brake tool set, I thought I would comment. I agree, I really like having tool companies on this board, but I would much prefer them answering questions, and getting involved in the discussions rather than only posting the tools for sale. Again, I'm not trying to run anyone off, I think Charles being here is a GREAT thing. I hope he does not take offense from my comments.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Charles (Astro Tools),

I see you recommending the Astro brand a lot in the active topics on Garage Journal. While I think its great that your a member, and trying to help/market your product, I also think its unfair to other brands who pay to sponsor this great forum (Strictly Toolboxes comes to mind). If they pay to be a sponsor, I think other brands should too if they want to promote and sale their products).

It would be my recommendation that you answer questions in regards to Astro Pneumatic, and less marketing and sales unless you contribute financially to this forum. I'm sure hosting this site isn't cheap and the moderators and administrators do a great job here. I would think having sponsors would make their job much easier. If you are currently contributing then I stand corrected and apologize. I by no means am a moderator or administrator on this forum though, so you can take my opinion with a grain of salt.

I wish more companies would be active on this board. I don't think he was pushing astro's tools. After all the OP was about comparing two astro tools. So he was just answering a question about astro tools. There used to be other companies that were active on this board until members ran them off by their comments.

I guess it was just because I was viewing this topic (page 3)

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=224908&page=3

and then this one

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3555584#post3555584

and then this one

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3555590#post3555590

then when I clicked on this topic and saw the brake tool set, I thought I would comment. I agree, I really like having tool companies on this board, but I would much prefer them answering questions, and getting involved in the discussions rather than only posting the tools for sale. Again, I'm not trying to run anyone off, I think Charles being here is a GREAT thing. I hope he does not take offense from my comments.

My apologies Gents, just trying to raise end user awareness of our brand.
I will make sure to tone it down and stick to answering direct questions in regards to Astro tools.

I started an Astro Pneumatic Tool Company thread (link below) so feel free to stop by if you have any questions in regards to our product.

I appreciate the fair warning, and the fact that we are welcomed in being a part of this great forum.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=222015&showall=1

 

[DRhodes]

Charles,

Again, I am by no means a moderator so you don't have to listen to me. I was just offering a suggestion, that's all. If it came off differently I truly apologize. Thanks for representing Astro tools on this board.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Charles,

Again, I am by no means a moderator so you don't have to listen to me. I was just offering a suggestion, that's all. If it came off differently I truly apologize. Thanks for representing Astro tools on this board.

Not at all my friend, no need to apologize.
The last thing I want to do is step on anyone's toes, and to be honest, we are just happy to have such an opportunity to expand our presence.

It is my pleasure!

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Charles,

Again, I am by no means a moderator so you don't have to listen to me. I was just offering a suggestion, that's all. If it came off differently I truly apologize. Thanks for representing Astro tools on this board.

P.S
If you have a Facebook and an Astro Tool in your possession, post a picture of you and your tool on our wall for a chance to win in our sweepstakes which ends next week.

It gives a shot at winning 1 of 8 tools.

 

[bobcatdan]

If there is a snowball chance in hell you can find a USA set a sets, their drum brake kit is nice. I still like my craftsman spring pliers better then my Mac and SO verision. Pretty sure the tools were made Wilde so you maybe able to find them that way.

 

[94yj]

it would help if we know what you plan on working on if American and basic cars/lt trucks i would say this one

http://www.handandpowertoolshop.com...gclid=CPm1zvLj0LoCFcGd4AodS0UAxg&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

[theoldwizard1]

Need a brake tool set for a drum system. Thoughts? I was thinking the Astro Pneumatic Set below.

http://www.handandpowertoolshop.com...gclid=CPm1zvLj0LoCFcGd4AodS0UAxg&gclsrc=aw.ds


Or I may spend the extra 20 bucks and get this for use on disc systems, also.

http://www.toolfetch.com/astro-pneu...4f3738363139&gclid=CMXEo6zj0LoCFQ-a4Aodc0cAsw

Well that sure is a pretty set in a nice pretty case ...

I have done quite a few Bendix drum brakes, and the tools I use are the Lisle 11260 brake pliers (it may be a KD 298) ...

This is all I have ever used !

Lisle 11260 Double Ended Brake Spring Pliers - Amazon $19.13

KD Tools KDT285 Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool 11/16 to 7/8in. - Amazon $8.75

Irwin Tools 1402L3 6LN Original Long Nose Locking Pliers, 6-Inch - Amazon $11.39

 

[devoncoolman]

Mostly use snap-on brake tools my self best quality. But if you want a general set that will do almost any brakes you encounter. The set charles posted will do you good.

 

[Nanashi]

Op either one of those sets should work great both have exactly what you need for a wide range of vehicles and really it doesn't look like they threw in any junk parts you would almost never use. I can't speak for astro took quality though I don't have any thing made buy them. However they have been in business for a long time so they must be doing something right.

To the astro Rep. Keep it up I like the information for comparison purposes, it's always nice to see what else is being offered.

 

[Shadowdog500]

Well that sure is a pretty set in a nice pretty case ...




This is all I have ever used !

Lisle 11260 Double Ended Brake Spring Pliers - Amazon $19.13

KD Tools KDT285 Brake Shoe Retaining Spring Tool 11/16 to 7/8in. - Amazon $8.75

Irwin Tools 1402L3 6LN Original Long Nose Locking Pliers, 6-Inch - Amazon $11.39

+1!

The brake spring pliers are the tool I usually reach for first.

+1 on that shoe retaining spring tool. I have several but like this one best because I can see what is going on under the head. Don't know who made mine, but it is my favorite.

I also reach for this one a lot.

A few sets of brake spoons don't hurt. One size does not fit all.

I have used this HF spring tool several times and it came in handy. It is by the body work stuff in HF.

Here are the brakes lines and master cylinder from my Willys. I may be using these tools this weekend .

 

[Flivver250]

Mostly use snap-on brake tools my self best quality. But if you want a general set that will do almost any brakes you encounter. The set charles posted will do you good.

Ditto. I bought individual Snap On brake tools 35 years ago and they not only work perfectly, they don't show any wear at all. Truly a lifetime investment. That doesn't mean there aren't other good deals out there, but mine have worked flawlessly. I don't have another 35 years left in me, but my tools sure do.

 

[nicksnothereman]

Need a brake tool set for a drum system. Thoughts? I was thinking the Astro Pneumatic Set below.

http://www.handandpowertoolshop.com...gclid=CPm1zvLj0LoCFcGd4AodS0UAxg&gclsrc=aw.ds


Or I may spend the extra 20 bucks and get this for use on disc systems, also.

http://www.toolfetch.com/astro-pneu...4f3738363139&gclid=CMXEo6zj0LoCFQ-a4Aodc0cAsw

Most of these specialty kits are typically good. Gonna depend on how much you end up using them though. Don't see a condition where you're going to work on drum brakes every single day; not that common nowadays, maybe a brake shop in a remote area? If it's just for home/your own car any of these kits is going to work for you.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Op either one of those sets should work great both have exactly what you need for a wide range of vehicles and really it doesn't look like they threw in any junk parts you would almost never use. I can't speak for astro took quality though I don't have any thing made buy them. However they have been in business for a long time so they must be doing something right.

To the astro Rep. Keep it up I like the information for comparison purposes, it's always nice to see what else is being offered.

 

[theoldwizard1]

A few sets of brake spoons don't hurt. One size does not fit all.

It has been SO LONG since I have done drum brakes, I forgot about the brake adjuster tool(s). Few people even know how to use them to LOOSEN a set of brake shoes !

I have used this HF spring tool several times and it came in handy. It is by the body work stuff in HF.

If I ever do drum brakes again, I might have to pick one of those up !

 

[pendragon1998]

http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=201127

I did a similar thread earlier this year. See my tools selection here.