Direction for a new drive se

[RCBS08]

Home hobbyist. Have a few Toyotas and the kids cars I help with, along with all the mowers.

I have been putting together a tool set and I need some advice. So far, I've put together a Proto 1/4" drive and 1/2" drive set. Thought maybe that would do it all and I'd skip the 3/8" set.

Now I'm wavering on the 3/8" drive. Should I add it or finish out the other sets with universal sockets and other goodies?

I'll put my tool set up sometime for critique - I love new tools and this site has been bad for me as a lurker - now it may get worse as a member

 

[GrayFlattop]

Give in to your urges. Buy them all.

 

[B_Bimmer]

I usually use the two you have, but there are times when 3/8" is still necessary. Bit sockets is one of the big areas.

 

[matthew]

Spark plug sockets is another area. 1/2" are available, but plugs are low-ish torque, and well suited to 3/8" drive.

I kinda admire the idea of going minimalist, and concentrate on having a good selection of 1/4" and 3/8" drive tools. I'd sort of like to do it myself, but already have a pretty good 3/8" selection. Might depend on how good your 1/2" drive selection is - deep metric sockets in particular? If you don't have a full 10-19mm deep selection already it's probably cheaper and easier to add 3/8".

 

[crewchief888]

i use 3/8" dr more than 1/4" & 1/2" dr combined both at home and working on const eq.

 

[RCBS08]

I have a 3/8" ratchet just for the bit sets and other things. Just don't have the full socket set.

I have overlap from 10mm to 15mm between my 1/4 and 1/2.

 

[PFSard]

I use my 3/8" drive sets predominantly. So, yes buy some sockets to keep your ratchet company. And you're right, spending time on the GJ site will probably end up with your wallet being emptied out more quickly.

 

[RCBS08]

Re: Direction for a new drive set

I did order the 3/8 set and jumped right in. Complete brake job.

I am glad I went with the new set. 1/4 and 1/2 sound simplistic, but I can tell you the 3/8 was the go-to set. Some of the bolts were to big/tough for the small set and the big set was almost too big at times.

Thanks Garage Journal!

The purchase that paid the most dividends for the brake job: HAMMERS!!