Makoto
Well-known member
I just picked this up recently. its plug n play and works awesomely.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002PYBZJO/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Home mechanic must haves
- Thread starter webbs2jzgte
- Start date
I just picked this up recently. its plug n play and works awesomely.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002PYBZJO/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Jvvmusme
Well-known member
A 2 post lift
OP
webbs2jzgte
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 31, 2010
- Messages
- 116
sorry guys the "legend" was auto corrected on my smarty tablet from college??? Not sure why haha.
Keep the ideas coming i'll be adding to the list and going through.
Like I said once I finish school and get my business start up started one thing I want to do is gather some companies together and donate small tool sets to younger generation kids. High schools and other places where kids may not be getting mechanical knowledge that could help them in the future.
Keep the ideas coming i'll be adding to the list and going through.
Like I said once I finish school and get my business start up started one thing I want to do is gather some companies together and donate small tool sets to younger generation kids. High schools and other places where kids may not be getting mechanical knowledge that could help them in the future.
metalhead140
Well-known member
I don't own half the things people in this thread name as essential, and I think I have a pretty well equipped workshop (and I DO have a hoist!). I have done ground up rebuilds and engine conversions without impact tools, crows feet etc. How are those things basic essentials? They're luxuries that make some jobs easier, not essential tools for a home mechanic on a budget?!
Kevin54
MEMBER EMERITUS
I wish there were places that sold large sheets of cardboard. If there is, I don't know of any. When I bought my MasterForce boxes from Menards, I cut out the large sides of the boxes and still use one or two. If there was a place around that sold 3'x4' or 4'x6' plain cardboard, they would probably make a fortune.
Thread pitch gauge
feeler gauge
spark plug gap gauge (wire type)
pin punches, center punch, cold chisel
files especially three corner, larger straight file and medium rasp round, maybe even set of jeweler's files
nut drivers
bottle opener
good razor knife
wire brush
various abrasive sand papers wet and dry
solvent such as varsol or kerosene
spray can of cheap brake cleaner
soldering iron
tin snips
vernier caliper
good steel ruler
feeler gauge
spark plug gap gauge (wire type)
pin punches, center punch, cold chisel
files especially three corner, larger straight file and medium rasp round, maybe even set of jeweler's files
nut drivers
bottle opener
good razor knife
wire brush
various abrasive sand papers wet and dry
solvent such as varsol or kerosene
spray can of cheap brake cleaner
soldering iron
tin snips
vernier caliper
good steel ruler
ich_liebe_meine_arbeit
Well-known member
If there is a wal mart near you go there in the early overnight when they are unloading all of the pallets on the floor as most of them have cardboard sheets on the top and bottom of the load. They always just bail and recycle them. I have never had a problem walking out with a couple of sheets when I have an upcoming oil change or any other need for such a sheet of corrugated card board. Also handy for using in target frames if you shoot guns.
I think someone said flashlight, but get a couple Mag-Lites. They are aluminum, and really durable. I got the Maglite 2d led pro and it has great throw and 274 lumens. But get the aa led's for when you are underneath or in a small bay. Be sure to get red or blue or a shiny color to help you spot it if you drop it.
FireTurtle
Well-known member
Here's what I would consider the basics. This is pretty much all I had in college.
1. Large set of tools in a plastic clam shell case. Should have nearly everything they need socket wise. Something on the cheap side is fine for a kid starting out.
2. Set of SAE & set of Metric wrenches since the clam shell case wont have many in it.
3. Set of screwdrivers
4. A Drill, bits & drivers
5. Cheap jack/stand/wheel chock combo. Last one I got at Wally World it was $30
6. Hammer collection: Rubber mallet/Ball peen/small sledge.
7. Magnet & or other pickup tool. (Because Murphy's law dictates that you will drop a bolt or nut down in the frame at some point)
8. Funnels & Drain Pan.
9. Wire combo tool & a collection of ends & connectors.
10. 1 of each Small & Large: Pliers; Channel locks; needle nose & vise grips.
11. 4 way lug wrench
12. Service ramps, The plastic ones I have hold up our Yukon just fine. Autozone $20 a pair they are on sale fairly often there.
13. piece of pipe for a cheater bar.
14. Small/Medium sized Plastic tool box to store most of it. I actually used 2 boxes & the big stuff(jacks/stands/cheater pipe I kept in a short cardboard box so it wouldn't roll around in the trunk).
All of this stuff will fit in a car trunk with room to spare for groceries & whatnot on those ramen noodle runs to the store.
1. Large set of tools in a plastic clam shell case. Should have nearly everything they need socket wise. Something on the cheap side is fine for a kid starting out.
2. Set of SAE & set of Metric wrenches since the clam shell case wont have many in it.
3. Set of screwdrivers
4. A Drill, bits & drivers
5. Cheap jack/stand/wheel chock combo. Last one I got at Wally World it was $30
6. Hammer collection: Rubber mallet/Ball peen/small sledge.
7. Magnet & or other pickup tool. (Because Murphy's law dictates that you will drop a bolt or nut down in the frame at some point)
8. Funnels & Drain Pan.
9. Wire combo tool & a collection of ends & connectors.
10. 1 of each Small & Large: Pliers; Channel locks; needle nose & vise grips.
11. 4 way lug wrench
12. Service ramps, The plastic ones I have hold up our Yukon just fine. Autozone $20 a pair they are on sale fairly often there.
13. piece of pipe for a cheater bar.
14. Small/Medium sized Plastic tool box to store most of it. I actually used 2 boxes & the big stuff(jacks/stands/cheater pipe I kept in a short cardboard box so it wouldn't roll around in the trunk).
All of this stuff will fit in a car trunk with room to spare for groceries & whatnot on those ramen noodle runs to the store.
This is a really hard question. A lot of mechanics tools will crossover to household use. Depends what 'basic' automotive work is. Oil changes? Brake jobs? Suspension? Tools are a neverending rabbit hole unfortunately.
A good flashlight - I'm not sure of inexpensive ones, I finally ended up with a rechargeable stinger. Was a bit pricey (around $140) with two batteries, car/wall charger, lcd bulb (looks like a microchip). Extremely small, bright, lightweight, I use it every day and it's lasted a good 5-6yrs so far.
I agree with those using a large sheet of cardboard vs a creeper. More clearance, you don't use them much, if it gets oil soaked just toss it and get another. Also saves the back on gravel/rocks.
It's a bit of a luxury, but a cordless set with drill/impact is handy for lots of things (especially when you may not have power close by). Cheaper alternative than air if you can't afford it. For around $200 I picked up a lithium ion makita set with 3/8 impact. Batteries recharge in 15min.
If you're clumsy like I tend to be, a pickup magnet (even cheap ones will work) - one with a flex head if possible, nuts and bolts always fall into the most obscure places. It's buddy is the inspection mirror with telescoping handle. Same thing, cheap ones will work.
For ratchet/sockets, I'd go with a good solid set of 3/8 first. Something with short and deep well. Then 1/4 drive, then 1/2. They sell flip sockets in 1/2 drive (combination reversible socket with a stubby extension) - 2 of these (with 2 sizes each) cover most all lugnuts. Opt for a breaker 1/2" drive breaker bar. Much easier to use and more useful than a clunky 4 way.
3lb sledge (bfh) can be picked up cheap from places like walmart. I think I got mine for under $5 and it's still like new.
When it comes to screwdriver bits, torx etc.. a cheap set of 1/4 drive (can be used with a 3/8-1/4 adapter to use with 3/8 ratchets) can be found at most hardware stores on the end cap aisles for like $5. The cheap ones are just as good as the name brand for a LOT less. (the name brands aren't warranted anyway).
Battery wrenches (5/16) come in handy. If doing radiator hoses, I recommend flexible hose clamp pliers. Brands like astro pnuematic and ATD have decent ones at good prices. Allows to be attached to hose clamps even in tight places where a solid pair of pliers won't reach and locks the clamp open until you release it. A set of cheap picks (couple bucks from harbor freight or someplace) for o-rings and the like.
A small mechanic's pocket screwdriver - the flathead type that clip onto a shirt pocket, one of the MOST used tools. Like a swiss army knife. Other 'pocket' tools to consider, a good tire pressure gauge. Nothing digital and fancy, not one of the pretty colored aluminum ones at the counter of autozone. I always used a milton with up to 120 psi (good for car/suv and most pickup's) with a square sliding gauge vs the flat style (less tendency to break). They're accurate and durable, check someplace like napa or carquest.
Another great tool is a pocket torch. Small refillable butane, they run around $15-20. Good for loosening seized bolts (provided it's not exhaust or something, then you'll need a full torch). Smaller flame is better controlled without lighting everything on fire. Used carefully, can be used to activate heat shrink tubing. Thaws frozen locks (preferably not car locks as it'll ruin the paint). Also good for lighting a grill on a windy day.
As far as toolboxes, why not a tool cart? To start off with anyway. Keep the majority of tools (if they don't all fit in the cart) elsewhere and pick out the ones you need for the job or keep the most used ones in the cart. There's a few out there around $200 with a bottom tray, 3 drawers and a lift top. Harbor frieght has one right now that's just under $200 for a 5 drawer. (no I'm not an HF fan, but sometimes they have decent stuff). I quickly learned not everything has to be name brand to work well. A full size tool box is pricey. I've never been thrilled with the 'home' models sold at sears or h.d./lowes. The old ones were built a lot better, but the new ones are glorified tupperware. Not to say they aren't 'pretty', but they often don't have ball bearing slides (needed for heavier tool loads) and just aren't up to the task. A number of years ago, I was looking at them and so disappointed. Sears even preloaded one of their box drawers with a 20lb weight to simulate how well it worked 'full'. Apparently they've never seen a 'working' tool chest with well over 100lbs per drawer. Luckily my tool guy from Mac hooked me up with a mechanic selling off his old box in exchange for a bigger box. Top and bottom boxes together ran me around $800 used. Still a good deal. (brand new snapon low boy cabs, entry level were running $1500). I worked in a shop for over a year out my tool cart til I could afford a box. Toolboxes are like storage sheds/garages.. never big enough
I worked in a professional shop for a little over 6yrs, ase certified and all that. My weekly budget for tools was around $30-40, I picked up second hand stuff off other mechanics when possible, watched for deals on basic stuff (like a hammer) at walmart/h.f. and the like. That's a relatively low budget, for a fulltime tech anyway. I still never had enough tools, but I tried to buy smart. Only going with 'specialty' tools when it was something I did on a regular basis. (doesn't make sense to dump a couple hundred on a cooling system pressure test kit if you're only doing a radiator once every 6mo). About the only other thing? Make some mechanic friends. Most are great guys, a lot will be willing to lend tools or lend a hand or their experience. One thing if borrowing tools, may seem like common sense - but always keep track of their stuff, return it clean and if anything breaks either inform them or replace it (or both). Tools are going to break, it's part of life. I'd rather know so I can plan accordingly than need a tool just to be surprised that it's broke or missing. They'll appreciate the honesty. Hope this helps some.
A good flashlight - I'm not sure of inexpensive ones, I finally ended up with a rechargeable stinger. Was a bit pricey (around $140) with two batteries, car/wall charger, lcd bulb (looks like a microchip). Extremely small, bright, lightweight, I use it every day and it's lasted a good 5-6yrs so far.
I agree with those using a large sheet of cardboard vs a creeper. More clearance, you don't use them much, if it gets oil soaked just toss it and get another. Also saves the back on gravel/rocks.
It's a bit of a luxury, but a cordless set with drill/impact is handy for lots of things (especially when you may not have power close by). Cheaper alternative than air if you can't afford it. For around $200 I picked up a lithium ion makita set with 3/8 impact. Batteries recharge in 15min.
If you're clumsy like I tend to be, a pickup magnet (even cheap ones will work) - one with a flex head if possible, nuts and bolts always fall into the most obscure places. It's buddy is the inspection mirror with telescoping handle. Same thing, cheap ones will work.
For ratchet/sockets, I'd go with a good solid set of 3/8 first. Something with short and deep well. Then 1/4 drive, then 1/2. They sell flip sockets in 1/2 drive (combination reversible socket with a stubby extension) - 2 of these (with 2 sizes each) cover most all lugnuts. Opt for a breaker 1/2" drive breaker bar. Much easier to use and more useful than a clunky 4 way.
3lb sledge (bfh) can be picked up cheap from places like walmart. I think I got mine for under $5 and it's still like new.
When it comes to screwdriver bits, torx etc.. a cheap set of 1/4 drive (can be used with a 3/8-1/4 adapter to use with 3/8 ratchets) can be found at most hardware stores on the end cap aisles for like $5. The cheap ones are just as good as the name brand for a LOT less. (the name brands aren't warranted anyway).
Battery wrenches (5/16) come in handy. If doing radiator hoses, I recommend flexible hose clamp pliers. Brands like astro pnuematic and ATD have decent ones at good prices. Allows to be attached to hose clamps even in tight places where a solid pair of pliers won't reach and locks the clamp open until you release it. A set of cheap picks (couple bucks from harbor freight or someplace) for o-rings and the like.
A small mechanic's pocket screwdriver - the flathead type that clip onto a shirt pocket, one of the MOST used tools. Like a swiss army knife. Other 'pocket' tools to consider, a good tire pressure gauge. Nothing digital and fancy, not one of the pretty colored aluminum ones at the counter of autozone. I always used a milton with up to 120 psi (good for car/suv and most pickup's) with a square sliding gauge vs the flat style (less tendency to break). They're accurate and durable, check someplace like napa or carquest.
Another great tool is a pocket torch. Small refillable butane, they run around $15-20. Good for loosening seized bolts (provided it's not exhaust or something, then you'll need a full torch). Smaller flame is better controlled without lighting everything on fire. Used carefully, can be used to activate heat shrink tubing. Thaws frozen locks (preferably not car locks as it'll ruin the paint). Also good for lighting a grill on a windy day.
As far as toolboxes, why not a tool cart? To start off with anyway. Keep the majority of tools (if they don't all fit in the cart) elsewhere and pick out the ones you need for the job or keep the most used ones in the cart. There's a few out there around $200 with a bottom tray, 3 drawers and a lift top. Harbor frieght has one right now that's just under $200 for a 5 drawer. (no I'm not an HF fan, but sometimes they have decent stuff). I quickly learned not everything has to be name brand to work well. A full size tool box is pricey. I've never been thrilled with the 'home' models sold at sears or h.d./lowes. The old ones were built a lot better, but the new ones are glorified tupperware. Not to say they aren't 'pretty', but they often don't have ball bearing slides (needed for heavier tool loads) and just aren't up to the task. A number of years ago, I was looking at them and so disappointed. Sears even preloaded one of their box drawers with a 20lb weight to simulate how well it worked 'full'. Apparently they've never seen a 'working' tool chest with well over 100lbs per drawer. Luckily my tool guy from Mac hooked me up with a mechanic selling off his old box in exchange for a bigger box. Top and bottom boxes together ran me around $800 used. Still a good deal. (brand new snapon low boy cabs, entry level were running $1500). I worked in a shop for over a year out my tool cart til I could afford a box. Toolboxes are like storage sheds/garages.. never big enough
I worked in a professional shop for a little over 6yrs, ase certified and all that. My weekly budget for tools was around $30-40, I picked up second hand stuff off other mechanics when possible, watched for deals on basic stuff (like a hammer) at walmart/h.f. and the like. That's a relatively low budget, for a fulltime tech anyway. I still never had enough tools, but I tried to buy smart. Only going with 'specialty' tools when it was something I did on a regular basis. (doesn't make sense to dump a couple hundred on a cooling system pressure test kit if you're only doing a radiator once every 6mo). About the only other thing? Make some mechanic friends. Most are great guys, a lot will be willing to lend tools or lend a hand or their experience. One thing if borrowing tools, may seem like common sense - but always keep track of their stuff, return it clean and if anything breaks either inform them or replace it (or both). Tools are going to break, it's part of life. I'd rather know so I can plan accordingly than need a tool just to be surprised that it's broke or missing. They'll appreciate the honesty. Hope this helps some.
Jvvmusme
Well-known member
Brass89 did the homework!
Congrats
Congrats
I think some of the best money I have ever spent and one of my most used tools in the garage is my LED headlamp. It keeps both hands free and the extra light is always helpful. I wear it for every car project.
Somewhat accidentailly, but I started using a 5-6' piece of Reflectix in place of cardboard when I have to lay on the ground. It keeps you noticeably warmer than laying cardboard when you are working on cold concrete.
dbabicky
Well-known member
Impact sockets yes, but you will need a set of regular 12 pt. sockets if you ever intend on doing unit bearings,(frt. wheel hubs), on any Chrysler/Jeep products among others.
Sask dude
Well-known member
I use my 6 points daily and haven't used my 12 point in a few years
bingo!
sands35
Well-known member
The finger grabby thing on a flexible stick and a magnet on a stick.
Both of those have saved me from more than one "oh ****" moments.
Both of those have saved me from more than one "oh ****" moments.
Labradorian
Well-known member
The money these things save you is awesome!
Great Idea....
Love these Mag lites....
Don't forget the left handed coffee mug too
trainer
Well-known member
Axe or hatchet
Level
Square
3" putty knife
keyhole saw or jigsaw
Level
Square
3" putty knife
keyhole saw or jigsaw
Labradorian
Well-known member
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Knuckle Buster
Well-known member
Lots of factories around here pay to have scrap cardboard hauled away. Hit up a couple industrial parks and you might be able to get some pretty big scraps.
955point9cummins
Well-known member
I am on the same page as the guys that say you don't need all those "luxury items" so to speak. Yeah they are nice but you don't really NEED them to be able to do most of what people do in their garage.
My tools can be summed up in a relatively short list:
Home depot special socket set w/ box end wrenches and allen keys
A few screw drivers (+and-)
HF dead blow
Cheap Home Depot special plier set
a 2 foot chunk of pipe
A drill with a HF drill index
A HF allen T set
Oil filter wrench
Drain Pans (I get these for free ...I tell coworkers I will do their oil changes for them for free if they bring the auto store special oil change kit (drain pan, roll of shop towels)
Empty milk jugs for disposing of fluids properly
And lastly but probably most importantly PB BLASTER
Everything else I have I picked up on a need to have it basis..In fact everything I have I picked up on a need to have it basis. Being a hobby mechanic doesn't have to be expensive. I love my cheap tools. At the end of the day I just want to be out in my garage playing.
My tools can be summed up in a relatively short list:
Home depot special socket set w/ box end wrenches and allen keys
A few screw drivers (+and-)
HF dead blow
Cheap Home Depot special plier set
a 2 foot chunk of pipe
A drill with a HF drill index
A HF allen T set
Oil filter wrench
Drain Pans (I get these for free ...I tell coworkers I will do their oil changes for them for free if they bring the auto store special oil change kit (drain pan, roll of shop towels)
Empty milk jugs for disposing of fluids properly
And lastly but probably most importantly PB BLASTER
Everything else I have I picked up on a need to have it basis..In fact everything I have I picked up on a need to have it basis. Being a hobby mechanic doesn't have to be expensive. I love my cheap tools. At the end of the day I just want to be out in my garage playing.
IlliniJeeper
Well-known member
If they'd only roll in gravel..
How many guys here have graveled garages?
Number 2 on a punch set, to include a center punch. Also a large tapered punch, to use as a line up bar. A 3 piece set of line up bars, doesn't need to be expensive. A set of pry bars if that hasn't been mentioned, also can be cheap, but a good large pry bar is nice.
KEH
KEH
SweetD
Well-known member
How about a good old USA Made mechanic's vise for the bench?
Dave
Dave
Joe Cim
Well-known member
Hello,
(I'm very new to forums... LOL...)
But I would like to give a few basic ideas... I'm not sure if they were said already but here it goes... A bucket to keep some "oil dry" (kitty litter) in and an "oil dry scopper" (old milk jug cut)... Lots of shop rags... First aid kit and mirror (and medical training)... Fire extinguisher... Extension cords, scrap blocks(2x4) for chocks, gloves, ZZ top poster, more shop rags, SHOP FAN, radio, lights, PB blaster, WD40, White lithium grease, work bench, tool box, shelving, clock, stools, tool cart, drain pans and large fluid catch funnels, more shop rags, good security, call favorite parts places(lucas, moroso, edlebrock, ect) for free banners, trash can, more shop rags, been for storing dirty shop rags(caution flammable), file cabinet for records(this will help), o ring set, e clips set, springs, bolts, nuts, ect... I hope this helps.
Joe Cim
(I'm very new to forums... LOL...)
But I would like to give a few basic ideas... I'm not sure if they were said already but here it goes... A bucket to keep some "oil dry" (kitty litter) in and an "oil dry scopper" (old milk jug cut)... Lots of shop rags... First aid kit and mirror (and medical training)... Fire extinguisher... Extension cords, scrap blocks(2x4) for chocks, gloves, ZZ top poster, more shop rags, SHOP FAN, radio, lights, PB blaster, WD40, White lithium grease, work bench, tool box, shelving, clock, stools, tool cart, drain pans and large fluid catch funnels, more shop rags, good security, call favorite parts places(lucas, moroso, edlebrock, ect) for free banners, trash can, more shop rags, been for storing dirty shop rags(caution flammable), file cabinet for records(this will help), o ring set, e clips set, springs, bolts, nuts, ect... I hope this helps.
Joe Cim
and now, for the OP who is young and probably working with not much money------go to estate sales and buy good old American made tools for cheap! I recently got 75 Made in USA wrenches for $15 and 243 sockets for $15. They were not shiny new Snapon but they are Very Good tools.
Jeff
Well-known member
I started on my shop 5 years ago. I am still very budget minded and have the patience of a saint when waiting for deals.
The first thing I did was claim ownership of the garage and threatened everyone in the house with bodily harm if they ever entered my domain again.
Second, I built benches and worktables. Then I added chests, boxes, and cabinets when I could afford them.
Here's where I'm at today:
The first thing I did was claim ownership of the garage and threatened everyone in the house with bodily harm if they ever entered my domain again.
Second, I built benches and worktables. Then I added chests, boxes, and cabinets when I could afford them.
Here's where I'm at today:
santagary
Well-known member
First aid kit and various gloves in case you want to touch your sweetie after your garage fun. Greasy and bleeding doesn't cut it guys. 
-Hey_Now-
Well-known member
Cheapy compressor for filling tires.
saceone
Well-known member
how come nobody said ''NEIGHBOR WITH A GARAGE FULL OF TOOLS''
Jeff >> Please send a lil bit of that patience in my direction. Great strategy and execution. Nice setup. >> Paul
This couldn't be more true. Especially for people starting out, get used to using certain tools. The ones they use the most, look into personal ideals - maybe it's a special shaped handle or a unique swivel joint. People should plan on always needing more tools. My tool collection looks a little disjointed, but I bought as I needed and they were tools for jobs I did on a regular basis. Sometimes there's a right tool for the right job (aka the rubber insert in a spark plug socket keeps from shattering the ceramic). Most things the fasteners don't care what brand is used on them. Every once in awhile if working on things often (40, 50, 60hrs a week) a brand name may prove worthy because it's a thin wall socket or because they offer a size somewhere in between a short and deep well version. I had to learn most everything on the job and the biggest blessing were other seasoned techs who shared their tips and tricks through experience.
Patience pays off for sure. That shop looks great Jeff.
themiller
Well-known member
Remind me to never let you near my cars...
Home mechanics don't always have garages. As for the gravel, it is no fun but I tend to grab a harbor freight moving blanket to lay on if that's the case. They're cheap and work well for me.
I started assembling a "real" shop, and stopped living out of a suitcase in 1981.
Two of my essentials were a Lincoln AC225 and an O/A set up and of course LH bits, already mentioned. The O/A may seem extravagant at around $800, but it has certainly has earned its keep over the years. ($25/ yr and counting)
Today the O/A showed its worth, blowing the tops off Dodge van shocks. No other way to do it....no room!!
Two of my essentials were a Lincoln AC225 and an O/A set up and of course LH bits, already mentioned. The O/A may seem extravagant at around $800, but it has certainly has earned its keep over the years. ($25/ yr and counting)
Today the O/A showed its worth, blowing the tops off Dodge van shocks. No other way to do it....no room!!
Knuckle Buster
Well-known member
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