My tool "collection"

[blazer1]

Just started to get myself some better tools a couple months ago. Here's what I have so far. Keep in mind I am a complete NOVICE.

Please give me your input as to how I can improve or what I may need to add to my collection.

Most are Craftsman, with some Snap On and even Pittsburgh stuff.

 

[NJHandyGuy]

i guess the first ?? with be what are you working on

 

[canuckian]

what you need really depends on what you'll be doing but after looking at what you have, maybe get a decent selection of pliers. Channellock is always a good choice for that. Also maybe pick up a few long handled and flex head ratchets of whatever drive sizes you need. Not sure if you're looking at air tools but maybe a decent impact gun (IR can be gotten fairly economically if you're on a budget). Those items, added to what you already have should make a decent start.

 

[Bull]

I'm with NJHG: what kinds of projects will you be doing?

One of your first acts had better be to buy a stepladder so you don't have to stand on a bucket in your sandals. That thing could kick out on you!

 

[Kirbot]

Looks like a nice start, but as was mentioned above, definitely need some pliers. Go with Channallock brand.

 

[NJHandyGuy]

I'm with NJHG: what kinds of projects will you be doing?

One of your first acts had better be to buy a stepladder so you don't have to stand on a bucket in your sandals. That thing could kick out on you!

wow i don't know how i missed that

 

[2oolhound]

Also get some more lights so you don't need such a slow shutter speed which blurs your photos. We like GOOD photos. It's great to see you're not over crowding your box.

 

[blazer1]

Well first off, I'll use for simple auto repair/care that I can do myself. I am not a mechanic at all, but am learning.

I do have pliers, just wasn't able to post them. I ran out of links. I have some Cresent brand wrenches, 8 and 6". Also some basic pliers but will be upgrading them too.

Thanks for the step stool idea. I don't usually stand on the bucket.

 

[Kirbot]

A long handle flex 3/8" ratchet like canuckian suggested would be a great thing to get next.

Duralast is a good cheap choice
Gearwrench is nice for a little more money
Williams is a good american made choice

 

[Roman G]

It's great to see you're not over crowding your box.

WHAT!!

How the hell ya gonna ever get a bigger box.

I say crowd away!

Roman

 

[Weps]

wow i don't know how i missed that

maybe you're not as into feet as bull is...

 

[Altec]

Looks like you already have all the normal stuff covered!

Things I might add...

Allen Sockets (3/8" Drive SAE and Metric)
Ball-Nose Bent Allen Wrenches (bigger the set the better, and in both SAE and Metric)
Breaker Bar (3/8" and 1/2")
MORE SCREWDRIVERS (Can never have too many)
Nut Driver Sets (SAE and Metric)
Specific Pliers (Side Cutters, Needle Nose, Linemen, whatever looks neat...)

Special stuff you might find handy...

Fuel Line/Transmission Line Disconnect Kit (Handy for some fuel filters)
Double Flare Tool (For replacement brake lines)
Bubble Flare Tool (See above)
Power Probe
Good Multimeter With all the bells, and whistles

How are your power tools looking? Any interest in Pneumatic tools?

Stuff that I think might show itself as handy... My advice though is start looking on Cripe, ToolTopia, Ebay, Harbor Freight, "The Truck," and wherever else. If you see a tool, and say "Wow, that would be nice to be able to do that," or "Wow, that would make doing that easier!" Then it is probably something you should buy! Haha.

Now I gotta ask a couple questions. how are you liking that liner? I'm looking at using the same for my box. Also, the color coded 1/4" drive sockets. How they holding up for you?

 

[blazer1]

Thanks Altec for the advice. Some of the stuff you mentioned I do have just wasn't able to get the pics on here. I have a sawz all and thats about it for power tools. I am going to get me some though. Sooner or later.

As far as your questions:
how are you liking that liner?...I like it. It's actually kinda sticky but the tools never slide around. I did a poor job cutting it to size, I was in a hurry but it's ok.

Also, the color coded 1/4" drive sockets. How they holding up for you? ...Just bought them last week and have only used them a couple times. They seem to chip fairly easily but that is cosmetic I think. They are the Pittsburgh Pro and they were on sale for the same price as the chrome ones so I went with the color. I really don't use 1/4 inch drive except on really light or small stuff anyway so I figured Pittsburgh would fit my needs. For now. If I need to upgrade later I will. The 3/8 SAE sockets are Snap On and the metric are Craftsman.

 

[Altec]

you pretty much have my favorite kinda saw... I use a Porta Cable one, and it looks like hell, but still works! As far as power tools go, a name brand cordless drill is always handy! I also love the cordless impact drivers they have these days. I have a 1/4" DeWalt 18V one, and it is flat out awesome! The nut driver set got a lot less use after that thing showed up...

Thanks for the info! I need to reline my box, but the cost of even HF liner just kills me... That stuff is on my alternative list. The sockets I saw the other day, and thought they might be handy to keep in the truck, or take to a job site. That way if I lose one, or they "walk off" I'm not killing people... Haha.