Looking for advice on NEW complete Mechanic Tool Set

[Dan48329]

Hello fellow forum members,

I am looking for some advice. I have used the search function and read many posts but haven’t exactly found what I am looking for. Please don’t point me to the search function. With this post I am hoping to use the collective experience of the forum to find an answer to my question.

About 30 years ago I purchased a “Mechanic Set” of Craftsman Tools. They have served me well over the years but I am now looking to fill up a new tool chest. I recently purchased one of the big Industrial 52" Husky Tool Chests. (its fantastic for the price by the way!) Space for tools is not a concern.

So I am looking for advice on the best “set of Tools” that can be purchased to fill it up. I don’t want “buy these socket, these screw drivers, these pliers….etc etc.” Just looking to start with a good set and tweak from there. Maybe it is the engineer in me thinking the tools should match....who knows.

It should also be said, that though Snap-on makes nice tools, I don’t want to drop $40k! So what is there in between Snap-on and Pittsburgh at HF? Are the Husky or Gearwrench sets any good? Is JH Williams, which is a brand of Snap-on, a cheaper alternative? SK seems nice but equally pricey. I did just pick up some ICON tools from HF recently, and I have to say they are pretty nice....so I am not a tool snob.

Again I am hoping to find a complete set of 600-1000 pieces. Preferably under $10K. I would also mention that I am looking for something I can buy on-line and have shipped to the house....so that likely rules out the "tool dealers" who drive trucks around.

Any thoughts you have on brands, sets, or vendors would be greatly appreciated! Again I am really open and would love to hear the thoughts of the group.

Regards!

 

[kd3pc]

personally I would buy used sets of what I would most be using. The 600-1K piece sets will have lots of "tools" you may never use.

Nothing wrong with Craftsman, tool truck tools or industrial supply house tools (williams, proto, blackhawk, etc) to fill a box

Shipping tools to the house can and will get expensive, as shipping has gone crazy this last month. Most tool truck tools can be purchased via the net.

good luck

 

[RKA]

It’s definitely not the engineer in you demanding matching socks and underwear. It’s a different problem.

Go to tekton.com with your list of stuff. They don’t have 1000 pc kits, but it shouldn’t be too hard for you to assemble the list. They organize their sets of tools more narrowly (1/2” impact socket set, 3/8” impact socket set, metric ratcheting wrench set). They do have a 10% rewards plan, so you’ll get money back to spend on additional stuff you either forgot or later decided would be helpful. For specialty stuff you’ll end up with other brands later as the need arises. Tekton mostly offers the basic hardline tools, which is what you arenlooking for it seems.

If you do a little reading here, you’ll find people are pretty happy with the quality of their tools and even more happy with their no questions asked warranty policy. Just email them a pic of the broken tool, they ship the replacement.

 

[Chevy-SS]

Interesting request. In my opinion, this would a 'no-brainer' for me. I'd shop around for a complete (or mostly complete) set of good used tools. Maybe at an estate sale or someone who is getting out of the business. There are some fantastic deals to be had. You could have all the big name, high-quality tools at a fraction of their original cost.

I've had many of my own tools for 50 years and they will easily last another century (or more) and be fully usable and look good too.

So, have some cash available, and a pickup truck, and go searching for a deal. It would be an enjoyable hunt IMHO.

Plus, as another poster mentioned, you would likely end up with lots of tools you don't need with some sort of "mechanic tool set". Whereas, if you bought a used set from someone who had been in the trade, then you'd likely have LOTS of the specialty tools that you REALLY need.

Good luck....................................

 

[Dan48329]

I should note that I am closer to a Mechanic than a weekend DIY'er. So I would say I have used every tool in my current "mechanic set." I have 3 race cars I am building from the ground up now.... So I tend to use even the odd ball tools once in a while!

 

[lardy1]

SK offers several levels of mechanics sets. Pricey but not Snap-On pricey. Domestic production.

 

[930dreamer]

Adding your location might help someone point out a good deal on FB or Craigslist.

 

[tool_scrounge]

I second finding someone who has a full set to sell that is used but not abused. I went to a garage sale recently and the seller had a huge like new Mac toolbox full of snap on tools in perfect condition. He was asking 10K and would have probably taken less.

 

[sberry]

I am always curious about the worry about a few unused tools might be in a cheap set but figure a whole chest of used stuff is different? So much un used in used sets. Everyone needs a Northstar water pump socket, bunch of obsolete stuff. No one worris about paying 30 a piece from snap for a 11 mm in every set looks new after 30 yrs.
Sears sells them for 50 cents and somehow you are getting hosed? If I had to start over would likely start with a Sears super set and add a few nicer things from there as needed.

 

[vssjim]

I would second on the TEKTON tools you can put together what you want and they have really good deals on sets. You can get a lot for your money and the tools I have from them hold up and work great. If you do have any problems TEKTON's web site replacement link is as easy as it gets.

 

[Fedwrench]

I'm not sure of your location but, if in the USA i recommend these options.

First, cruise the estate sales looking for a recently departed mechanic's sale. You could also look on ebay for a recently retired mechanic clearing out their collection.

Secondly, Proto makes and stocks many levels of master tool sets. Here's an example of one: https://www.tools-plus.com/proto-jcs-0833mas.html?psrid=wtbs_5e80c0ce0b0a86c72f8ca11c

You can't go wrong with Proto but, it may cost more than you want to spend.

Third, VOTECH or tech ed sets. SK offers some nice fairly complete school sets as does Gearwrench and OEM tools.
https://www.toolup.com/GearWrench-8...o-TEP-Set?psrid=wtbs_5e80c36fca5eba29ca7077a6

https://www.harryepstein.com/master-sets-28406.html

https://www.mobiledistributorsupply.com/24975-310-piece-technician-s-set-oemtools

Lastly, why do you need to replace what you already have?

I can see upgrading to higher tooth count ratchets, ratcheting wrenches, long pattern wrenches, and other tools recently released in the last few years but, why throw the baby out with the bath water is you have tools that work now.

 

[Dan48329]

I am near Denver CO.
Reason for the second set is I have a new, second garage for toys. So original set stays in once garage.....tired of walking back and forth.

 

[Firebrick43]

I am near Denver CO.
Reason for the second set is I have a new, second garage for toys. So original set stays in once garage.....tired of walking back and forth.

I hear you. I have three sets working on a fourth. One at work, one in the shed, one in the garage, and a small set in the machine shop and wood shop.

 

[Fedwrench]

I am near Denver CO.
Reason for the second set is I have a new, second garage for toys. So original set stays in once garage.....tired of walking back and forth.

Makes perfect sense to me

In that case, i would probably further recommend what others have said about building a set off of the Tekton.com website.

They would stock most of what you would need, offer excellent customer service, are a great quality product overall, value priced, offer free shipping, and reward points to be used on future orders, and perhaps no sales tax.

 

[SGKent]

I don’t want to drop $40k!

what is your budget? Generally used tools are the best buy. People have a hard time selling full sets when they retire or someone in the family passes away, moves to a smaller dwelling etc.. Your local Facebook Market, Craigslist etc are good starting points.

 

[RKA]

I’m going to offer an option some would consider distasteful. It’s our present reality though. Wait. Within 2 months you will likely come across people unloading their pro tool boxes and listing everything for sale. You have two options, buy the complete set of tools and box, and unload one your existing boxes to upgrade or make an offer on the tools only. This is usually received well because they can sell the box to someone that already has tools and needs to upgrade the box. It may not net them all the cash they need up front, but they will be able to unload an empty box easier than the tools.

Whether you get a good price or not depends on whether the seller is looking at the list prices they paid to value their tools or looking at the cash in hand. You can always leave a number and wait two weeks.

 

[spyerx]

i just went through this exercise myself a few months ago replacing a well used craftsman mechanics set i got back in the mid 90s. I looked for something but i just didn't really find what i wanted and unlike you space is a concern for me. I also wanted mostly domestic made for those i use most, and I like Snap-on ratchets. I'm not a pro mechanic and mostly work on my 911's and daily drivers... so metric only but a bunch of specialty bits, etc.

I ended up with SK chrome sockets, extensions in 1/4, 3/8, Snap on Ratchets (a bunch!), Sunex 1/2 impacts (don't use 1/2 a lot.. and impressed with these), SK wrenches & flares, a ton of different VIM bits/shorties/specialty hex/triple square/torx/etorx, williams & felo screwdrivers, channel lock and knipex pliers, bondhus hex keys/drivers, M12 Milwaukee stubby impact and a few other M12 electrics, and then Gearwrench and Tekton for the seldom used but sometimes needed: stubby combo wrenches, ratcheting closed end, swivel sockets, etc. My torque wrenches are CDI, pry bars/striking drivers from Mayhew.

It wasn't that much work to piece together...

Very happy with the selections and has made working on these old cars a lot more enjoyable, have yet to hit a spot I didn't have the tool for the job.

 

[eyeball]

what is your budget? Generally used tools are the best buy. People have a hard time selling full sets when they retire or someone in the family passes away, moves to a smaller dwelling etc.. Your local Facebook Market, Craigslist etc are good starting points.

You stopped reading too soon. The very next paragraph he mentioned a 10k target.

 

[Dan48329]

Love all of the replies.

I agree, IF I had time I would love to shop around on Craigslist or FB. Unfortunately with kids and a family I don't get a lot of free time to bargain hunt. But I agree....I do love the thrill of the hunt on craigslist.

If they were heirloom tools I would be willing to go up to $20k. But like many of you had said that seems unnecessary.

 

[Wamsutta]

When I hear the phrase "complete tool set," I immediately think of cheap tools because good tools are too expensive to buy as a complete set.

 

[G-Ram]

At work we filled a spare service truck with tools from Napa. They had a “master” set for around $2000. They even let us go through the tool list and remove items we wouldn’t use and exchange it for tools that would be applicable to our trade. I’m in Canada, but I’m sure Napa (or elsewhere) does something similar?


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[Bighead38]

Just read a thread yesterday. I think it was that brown 70’s themed garage and the guy ordered what appeared to be a huge set. Not sure if he ordered them individually or not but we’re all the same brand.

 

[Bighead38]

Found it

Well progress has been ok - but now I’m stuck working at home till this virus blows over I have to say I’ve been gettin stuff done


far back wall bench will be 10 foot 2x4s on their side glued up in packs of 5x4

the bench to the left im just slapping unfinished 2x4's on top and then will cut and bend up some stainless steel, its much narrower only 2 feet deep but perfect for small engine work/grease/gas

Now - tools, i spent the last few months window shopping like an ******* trying to come up with combos of tools/cabinets and all the in betweens. I was so torn, but i was pretty sure i was going to just go to harbor freight and do a massive (and fun) shopping session.

I cam across Teng - i dont know anyone who has any, but their warranty was pretty simple, break it, text them a picture and they have one in the mail same day. Not bad, but the thing that really got me, was the potential of having all my tool warranties under one roof/provider - i never thought of it much before... and ive build all my cars /bikes on a set of cheap accumulated tools over the years. So it was a bit exciting to have a complete set.

I had it shipped to my work since they have a loading dock and that way i was able to dodge the liftgate fee


Thats a lotta stuff!


Parking on the street and bringing these boxes in one at at time was fun - its the little things about being the city!

i know saying it was like christmas seems a little tired, but damn i was loving it, cranked up some music and cracked open a few beers and just started swimming in boxes





i spent the whole night just opening ****, and then a bit of organizing and putting things where i think i want them, but know that as i start working the layout of the items will evolve and they will all find their perfect place. Damn the stuff is satisfying to look at. Never once have i had a "set" of anything... its a nice feeling, everything has its place, and i dont have to worry about building up a set of anything. Mint!

Onto the benchtops - again not a woodworker, i soon realized these 10 foot boards would not work in my pissant jointer. So i just decided to glue them face to face without any prep - it seemed to work, i think clamps and glue seem to override surface finish. Win



Heres 2 stacks after a couple runs through the planer, its coming up great i think. Its far from perfect, but its a benchtop that i intend to beat the snot out of.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Dan48329]

Interesting....never heard of Teng Tools but got to give them credit for putting together a decent looking set. I particularly like how each sub-set of tools has its own holders. So much nicer.

 

[BillK]

I know I will get beat up on this but . . . . how about another set of Craftsman ? I would have no problem buying them if I needed a set.

 

[vssjim]

I have a number of Teng Tools and they work ok the finish is kind of rough and I'm not a full polish only guy but I would still look at TEKTON for over all value for sure I think the ratchets and sockets and even screwdrivers are better than Teng.

 

[Fedwrench]

Tengtoolsusa.com is currently having a 15% off sale through 3/31/2020.

Teng tools are probably best known for being used by Edd China on the older episodes of Wheeler Dealers. I have a few Teng tools. I think the best way to describe them might be function over finish.

 

[DerekV]

For what you’re looking for and given your criteria, just go to tekton.com and have a field day. Nearly all of their import stuff is high quality Taiwan. They also have a growing number of USA tools.

Great prices, comprehensive sets, easy ordering, free shipping, “same brand”...one and done. Tekton.com

 

[bczygan]

Hello fellow forum members,

I am looking for some advice. I have used the search function and read many posts but haven’t exactly found what I am looking for. Please don’t point me to the search function. With this post I am hoping to use the collective experience of the forum to find an answer to my question.

About 30 years ago I purchased a “Mechanic Set” of Craftsman Tools. They have served me well over the years but I am now looking to fill up a new tool chest. I recently purchased one of the big Industrial 52" Husky Tool Chests. (its fantastic for the price by the way!) Space for tools is not a concern.

So I am looking for advice on the best “set of Tools” that can be purchased to fill it up. I don’t want “buy these socket, these screw drivers, these pliers….etc etc.” Just looking to start with a good set and tweak from there. Maybe it is the engineer in me thinking the tools should match....who knows.

It should also be said, that though Snap-on makes nice tools, I don’t want to drop $40k! So what is there in between Snap-on and Pittsburgh at HF? Are the Husky or Gearwrench sets any good? Is JH Williams, which is a brand of Snap-on, a cheaper alternative? SK seems nice but equally pricey. I did just pick up some ICON tools from HF recently, and I have to say they are pretty nice....so I am not a tool snob.

Again I am hoping to find a complete set of 600-1000 pieces. Preferably under $10K. I would also mention that I am looking for something I can buy on-line and have shipped to the house....so that likely rules out the "tool dealers" who drive trucks around.

Any thoughts you have on brands, sets, or vendors would be greatly appreciated! Again I am really open and would love to hear the thoughts of the group.

Regards!

A Craftsman set for $999.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I am against buy large sets. I bought what I needed, when I needed (not so much lately).

Start with a full set of chrome 1/4" and 3/8" drive sockets, SAE and metric, short and deep. Most 3/8" sets need to add a couple of additional larger sockets. Make sure you have several different size extensions and swivels. Don't waste your money on 1/2" drive.

Wrenches and screwdrivers the same.

After that, buy what you need when you need it.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Who died and left you a pile of cash ?

Got your oxy-acetylene set, Mig and TIG on order ?

PS. I still want the 3hp brown Craftsman compressor !

 

[sberry]

That set above has a lot, lots of dbe with offsets that take a lot of time to collect and buy. That is a nice set, it's something I would consider if I had to start over. Gets a lot out of the way right up front and fast.
Lots of good stuff there, nut drivers, offsets, some ratchet types which are ok. Got some pliers, screwdrivers many of these don't have,, very good start.
Some use the speeders, I could do without those but it's so cheap stuff like that doesn't matter.

 

[VolvoRyan]

SK has some nice kits. You can also buy à la carte and get what you want. Snap-On will also sell through the internet. Both have some fantastic customer service and free shipping.

If I had all the money in the world, I'd never buy another tool set as a set. Some brands offer things that others don't, some brands have better stuff than others for certain tools. All sets have tools that you will never use.

If you pick and choose, you can get a better mix of tools that fits your specific needs, and for less money.... then you can buy other cool stuff with the extra money! Bendpak?

-Ryan

 

[Dan48329]

That Craftsman set looks a lot like the set I bought about 30 years ago! I'd need to look at the quality again because I bought some extra screw drivers that were Craftsman a few years ago, and they are horrible.

As for saving money for other things....I already have the car lift, TIG/MIG, CNC plasma table, screw type air compressor, mill and lathe. So I have just about everything a guy could need.....very blessed.

 

[lardy1]

https://sktools.com/shop/other-automotive-tools/master-sets.html

Worth a look.

 

[VolvoRyan]

That Craftsman set looks a lot like the set I bought about 30 years ago! I'd need to look at the quality again because I bought some extra screw drivers that were Craftsman a few years ago, and they are horrible.

As for saving money for other things....I already have the car lift, TIG/MIG, CNC plasma table, screw type air compressor, mill and lathe. So I have just about everything a guy could need.....very blessed.

Jealous.

If I were at that position, and it all had to be from one place, I'd go with SK. Build a "wishlist" up on their site, and pull the trigger. It won't be a "set", but it'll be a big box on your door step. Snap-On will let you set up a wishlist as well.

My reasoning is that everything will at least be pretty nice, lots will be exceptional. There's nothing better than a really good fitting wrench or socket.

-Ryan

 

[Ton ton]

Looks like you got a sweet package deal.

 

[Dan48329]

Looks like you got a sweet package deal.

Haven't bought anything....yet

 

[chrismenke]

I'm with the folks who mentioned that there are going to be triple bank boxes filled to the gills on the market in a few months at fire sale prices. Sad but true.

I remember in 2008 seeing triple bank pro boxes from Snap On, full with pro automotive tools for $5k. I'd imagine you're likely to see that again very soon.

I'm pretty OCD about box organization, but a firm believer that not one brand has the best of everything, so I'm not too concerned about everything being matchy matchy. That's what you're likely to see in a tech's box as well.

 

[jimmyin3D]

A complete tool set with all the tools being the same brand is never any fun. It's much better to choose the best from different brands.

I am against buy large sets. I bought what I needed, when I needed (not so much lately).

Start with a full set of chrome 1/4" and 3/8" drive sockets, SAE and metric, short and deep. Most 3/8" sets need to add a couple of additional larger sockets. Make sure you have several different size extensions and swivels. Don't waste your money on 1/2" drive.

Wrenches and screwdrivers the same.

After that, buy what you need when you need it.

If you have a budget of 10K means you are probably looking for quality. Like others have said it’s much better if you pick and choose what you need from different sources, you’ll get the most bang out of ur buck that way. A little more time consuming but it’ll be worth it. Start with SK and there 1/4 3/8 and 1/2 socket sets. They are probably the best in your situation for being affordable, quality, American made tools.