Advice on First Small Set of Automotive Tools

[Jikst]

Building my first tool set, mostly to work on my own car (Toyota, 80s MB Diesel), and bike. Id like a small set of high quality tools. So far all I have:

- 11 piece metric bonney v double open end wrenches (saves me buying 22 combo piece)
- 1/2 18" Plomb breaker bar
- plan on buying 1/2 beam torque wrench, sockets/ratchet

My questions are: do double open end wrenches suffice or will i strip stuff by not using a closed end? Should i get a 3/8th ratchet and 3/8th and 1/2th sockets or can I get by just fine with a 1/2th ratchet and just 1/2th sockets (saving money and time by only needing 1/2 sockets or will 1/2 ratchet be too big in many situations)? Also 6 point sockets and 12 point closed wrenches are best correct?

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

Maybe [head stripping]... personally I only reach for an open end when nothing else will fit/work. For me: socket>box end>flare>open end wrench.

I would start with 3/8" socket set. Only 1/2" socket I'd get for now is for lugs.

 

[betcd]

I would get a basic set of 3/8 and 1/4 sockets and regular set of wrenches. Along basic set of screw drivers and pliers. I would either go with harbor freight or home depot depending where you are. The rest of everything else you are going to need to work on your car or bike you can just buy it as needed bases

 

[General Geoff]

I find I don't use the open end of a wrench very often at all in automotive. About the only time I use them is for tie rods, clutch fan nuts, and brake/transmission line fittings (for which flare nut wrenches are designed).

Most people prefer 3/8" drive sockets to 1/2" drive because they more easily fit into tight spaces on modern cars. 1/2" drive is essential for suspension components and lug nuts, but for most other stuff on the vehicle, 3/8" is plenty. Frankly, I use 1/4" drive more than 3/8" or 1/2".

 

[Jikst]

ok so probably sell open ends and look for a nice combo set. My cars are older so and will probably need to do suspension work soon. Want to get the basics now and as sets rather than buy later. Mainly wanted to know if open ends would strip heads and if 1/2 drive wrenches were too big for most car work.

 

[General Geoff]

No need to sell your open end wrenches, just get a double box end (dbe) set to complement them.

 

[Jikst]

nice thinking. wanted to skimp by only using 1/2 drives but a 3/8th ratchet seems like the way to go

 

[md21722]

For suspension you will generally be using 1/2" with an impact.

For the engine you are generally be using 1/4" and 3/8". You can buy the 3/8" first because its more general purpose.

Combination wrenches 8-19 mm.

I found 5-6 mm ball end hex drivers to be helpful on my 87 300D.

I found Snap On sockets & wrenches worked far better on those German bolts than Craftsman.

 

[cvairwerks]

I'd also run through utube for the videos that cover the work you are going to need to do over the next few months and see what they are using in the way of tools to get the jobs done. Don't pay a lot of attention to brands, unless it's a task specific tool. That way, you can keep an eye out, knowing what you are soon to need.

 

[jo4gj]

What's your budget ? This is a big factor. I started with a small craftsman set and found buy buying the missing sockets it cost me a lot more in the long run.

 

[gdocktor3]

No need to sell your open end wrenches, just get a double box end (dbe) set to complement them.

My thoughts as well. Preferably Gearwrench or similar dbe ratchet wrenches I think would be a great addition.

 

[M6erfan]

I agree with saving your DOE's and getting a set of DBE's to compliment them.

I disagree with the Gearwrench recommendation. If it were me I'd get a set of non ratcheting DBE's. On conventional box ends the rings are much thinner and allow greater access. I sold my Gearwrench for this very reason...

 

[General Geoff]

I agree with saving your DOE's and getting a set of DBE's to compliment them.

I disagree with the Gearwrench recommendation. If it were me I'd get a set of non ratcheting DBE's. On conventional box ends the rings are much thinner and allow greater access. I sold my Gearwrench for this very reason...

Yep, the ratcheting box wrenches have their uses but I find more often than not, the rings are too thick to fit where they need to go.

 

[Jikst]

not so much of a budget, I just dont want so much stuff thats not necessary. i like the older stuff (bonney plomb williams ..)

having only a 1/2 big ratchet does seam kind of in convenient although i wont be working on newer cars

 

[AA/FC]

having only a 1/2 big ratchet does seam kind of in convenient although i wont be working on newer cars

Only having a 1/2 ratchet would ****! Tight areas with small fasteners happen on all vehicles, regardless or model year. Imagine using you 1/2 ratchet to do dashboard work.....

 

[ssdave]

I personally would buy a good set of standard 12 point 3/8" drive sockets. And, a good conventional ratchet and a wide assortment of extensions from 1 inch through 12 inches. You cant go wrong with Bonney or Williams, or Proto, or Snap-on or Mac or Indestro/Wizard. I'd leave Plomb for collectors; hard to find a good set in good condition, and they really aren't as good in design as newer sockets. I'd also look at low offset DBE, or a quality set of combination wrenches. Look for good finish, well formed broaching without a lot of bevel towards the openings, and thin box end rings for clearance.

Some good quality screwdrivers, a hex key set, as small ball peen hammer, and a half dozen pliers will complete the basic set you need for most things. After that, there's hundreds of tools that you need for specific tasks that you may or may not ever use. Buy them as the need arises. You won't need a whole lot of other things if you just work on a couple of specific vehicles.

 

[gdocktor3]

I agree with saving your DOE's and getting a set of DBE's to compliment them.

I disagree with the Gearwrench recommendation. If it were me I'd get a set of non ratcheting DBE's. On conventional box ends the rings are much thinner and allow greater access. I sold my Gearwrench for this very reason...

Yep, the ratcheting box wrenches have their uses but I find more often than not, the rings are too thick to fit where they need to go.

I'm talking a fixed box end x ratcheting box end. The fixed ends aren't that big. http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemD...ydPy2ssCTrlgizLTC2PQCvvHzBfd7_9mbcaAkuC8P8HAQ

 

[Empty Pockets]

I'd keep the open end wrenches, but pick up a set of Double box end wrenches. As to a socket set, I'd first go with a good quality 3/8 drive set, whatever you do, don't cheap out on the ratchet. You can get a 1/4 drive socket set at a later date, as needed.

As to screwdrivers, you can get a pretty complete set from HF or CM for a reasonable price. At the replacement cost, I just consider them disposable.

Just my $.02

 

[General Geoff]

not so much of a budget, I just dont want so much stuff thats not necessary. i like the older stuff (bonney plomb williams ..)

having only a 1/2 big ratchet does seam kind of in convenient although i wont be working on newer cars

You could get by with just 1/2" and 1/4" sets, though many specialty sockets are only available in 3/8" drive (o2 sensor cutout sockets, spark plug sockets, etc). A 1/2" to 3/8" adapter can be used in those situations.

 

[Jikst]

I personally would buy a good set of standard 12 point 3/8" drive sockets. And, a good conventional ratchet and a wide assortment of extensions from 1 inch through 12 inches. You cant go wrong with Bonney or Williams, or Proto, or Snap-on or Mac or Indestro/Wizard. I'd leave Plomb for collectors; hard to find a good set in good condition, and they really aren't as good in design as newer sockets. I'd also look at low offset DBE, or a quality set of combination wrenches. Look for good finish, well formed broaching without a lot of bevel towards the openings, and thin box end rings for clearance.

Some good quality screwdrivers, a hex key set, as small ball peen hammer, and a half dozen pliers will complete the basic set you need for most things. After that, there's hundreds of tools that you need for specific tasks that you may or may not ever use. Buy them as the need arises. You won't need a whole lot of other things if you just work on a couple of specific vehicles.

I'll go with this, kind of what everyone else is saying. 3/8 ratchet/sockets, DBE, and other stuff. Thanks for the help

 

[DakotaMan]

I prefer 6 point sockets to 12 point.

 

[theoldwizard1]

For a DIYer, there is nothing wrong with Pittsburgh Pro from HF.

Stick with 3/8" and 1/4" drive sockets. Standard and deep sockets, metric. If you are doing work around the house or on older outdoor power equipment, you will need SAE sizes. You will need some extensions and a universal. Get a "hand spinner" (looks like a screwdriver but with a 1/4" square tip). I use mine all of the time !

Combination wrenches, the same as above. Make sure your screwdriver comfortably fit your hand. Slip joint and arc joint pliers. A couple of sizes on locking pliers (including needle nose). Wire (diagonal) cutters and linesmen pliers.

After that, you will probably just pick up things "as needed".

 

[shockwave]

You will need a descent 1/4 and 3/8 socket set with some bit sets might look at gearwrench 300+ piece set should serve all your needs for house and home repair

 

[bczygan]

Building my first tool set, mostly to work on my own car (Toyota, 80s MB Diesel), and bike. Id like a small set of high quality tools. So far all I have:

- 11 piece metric bonney v double open end wrenches (saves me buying 22 combo piece)
- 1/2 18" Plomb breaker bar
- plan on buying 1/2 beam torque wrench, sockets/ratchet

My questions are: do double open end wrenches suffice or will i strip stuff by not using a closed end? Should i get a 3/8th ratchet and 3/8th and 1/2th sockets or can I get by just fine with a 1/2th ratchet and just 1/2th sockets (saving money and time by only needing 1/2 sockets or will 1/2 ratchet be too big in many situations)? Also 6 point sockets and 12 point closed wrenches are best correct?

Make a list of all the jobs you intend to do on the vehicle. Watch a number of YouTube videos for each one. That will tell you exactly what you need.

Please put your location in your profile.

Bill

 

[skruft]

You have all the advice you need here already. I would just echo that 3/8 drive sockets and the accessory extensions, etc. are probably the most frequently used mechanic's tools.

 

[bczygan]

And box end before ratcheting wrenches. I should have.

 

[theoldwizard1]

And box end before ratcheting wrenches. I should have.

I still don't have them and I have been collecting tools for over 45 years !

 

[Al Borland]

Just bought my first ratcheting wrenches at 52 years old.
Used them a few times already.
Meh.
Bet I can break them.
That's what I do.

 

[B_Lafayet]

The BOGO Gearwrench 1/4, 3/8 socket sets would be a good place to start for a little over $100.

 

[Jikst]

Just bought my first ratcheting wrenches at 52 years old.
Used them a few times already.
Meh.
Bet I can break them.
That's what I do.

i feel the same way. im more traditional and minimalistic. got a dual paw bonney 3/8 wrench and some cheap china 12point craftsman sockets. will probably replace those later. so 12 point strips stuff easier but fits more fittings?

 

[Jim C.]

nice thinking. wanted to skimp by only using 1/2 drives but a 3/8th ratchet seems like the way to go

I try not to skimp on tools. A good tool that gets the job done well is worth its weight in gold. Building a complete set of tools can literally take decades. Try to buy what you need when you need it and get the best stuff you can AFFORD at the time. Unless you're making a living with your tools, and need them right now, I'd try hard not to go into debt because of tool purchases. Don't be afraid to buy a used (but not abused) tool. There's a ton of tools available on the second hand market. Many are in great condition and ready for another lifetime of use, particularly if you're looking for the basics, like wrenches, sockets, pliers, hammers, etc.

Jim C.

 

[sberry]

I am with the gang says buy a 300 piece set and go from there. Forget all this brand **** at this point and get the basics instead of trying to cherry pick each tool when you got no idea what you are doing.
Some of the designers of these sets kind of do, Sears covers basics well in thier 309 and if you don't need something orvdont use it are not out much. Add some pliers to it, 430 and 440 channelocks, 6 and 10 r vise grips, couple hammers, hf screwdriver set and pair or 2 of diagonal cutters, cheap 18 inch pipe wrench.
Add stuff as you come across it, I like nut drivers especially for work on appliances. Sell Sears ratchets and get hf and one of their breaker bars if a set doesn't come with one.
The ultra cheap hr grinder isn't much good but the one a step above is, get a 4 1/2 and couple wheels so you can make a cut or grind off a bolt.

 

[sberry]

I finally bought ratchet wrenches but for the most part can love without them, save all that **** for later. Buy bit sets from Wal-Mart or HF as needed, if it doesn't work buy a better piece as needed and while an obsessed type may find something cheaper the auto parts stores have most every 1 off tool on hand when you score a part.

 

[sberry]

I finally bought ratchet wrenches but for the most part can live without them, save all that **** for later. Buy bit sets from Wal-Mart or HF as needed, if it doesn't work buy a better piece as needed and while an obsessed type may find something cheaper the auto parts stores have most every 1 off tool on hand when you score a part.

 

[isuhunter]

OP - I'm not car mechanic more of a hobby user. I really like the gearwrench 3/8 socket set I picked up and got a 1/4" set with it. Worth a look at in my opinion.

I was convinced I needed reversible ratchet wrenches. But after finding a wrightgrip 1/2 wrench on ebay for a few dollars I want more of those and will continue with my regular straight nonreversible gearwrench set.

 

[Inabox85]

watch my review. The set sells on sale for 180.00

 

[FlushingDIYer]

Wrenches are an absolute must-have. You can go nuts, you can go used, or you can go hybrid.

Right now:

NEW: Craftsman 24-piece Full Polish Metric Combination Wrench Set for $49.99 (plus whatever coupon Sears has going on right now!) $2 a wrench is a pretty good deal... (Yeah, I know they're Chinese, but unless you're going to be working on rusted out SUVs, I don't think you'll crack one of these...)

USED: Some Snap-ons on Craigslist for $180... maybe he lets them go for $150... Then you pick up whatever you need from Autozone/etc. at $6-$12 per wrench...

NEW/OLD: Or you can piece together a badass set from someplace like Cripe (either on ebay or through their website)... The KDs/Allens are good (not great) USA wrenches from yesterday! I've purchased about 12 of these for my ALL USA set!

KD 13mm full polish 6-pt box end

I would definitely pick up a set of "specialty" wrenches. I think flare-nuts are a great first-set of specialty wrenches. Nothing ***** like stripping a bolt...

This Craftsman 9 pc. Standard and Metric Flare Nut Wrench Set for $29.99 right now is a great little deal. (Especially during those moments when someone rebuilds a caliper with an SAE bleeder bolt! )

Ratcheting wrenches are cool. Sure, they make things go faster. But I find I don't really use them that often...

And yes, I'd get a 3/8 set before anything. But if you're going to start off doing a lot of suspension work, I wouldn't be against starting off with 1/2 set.

Good luck in putting that set together!!

 

[stang2007]

Budget? how much are you willing to spend.

the HF Pro 301 Piece is 199 but you can use a %20 coupon gets you to ~160

Sears has Several 300+ kits for 199.

 

[Jikst]

http://i.imgur.com/z1qDH29.jpg
spent about 130 on all that

Thanks for the help. Will be getting DBE, pliers, hex keys, hammer, and some extensions. Looking good

 

[Jikst]

some guy on another thread said some of race car mechanics only carry an adjustable and ratcheting DBE wrenches no sockets, wonder why that combo