Naturally, without the proper tools and equipment it is impossible to properly service your vehicle. It would also be virtually impossible to catalog every tool that you would need to perform all of the operations in this book. Of course, It would be unwise for the amateur to rush out and buy an expensive set of tools on the theory that he/she may need one or more of them at some time.
The best approach is to proceed slowly, gathering a good quality set of those tools that are used most frequently. Don't be misled by the low cost of bargain tools. It is far better to spend a little more for better quality. Forged wrenches, 6 or 12-point sockets and fine tooth ratchets are by far preferable to their less expensive counterparts. As any good mechanic can tell you, there are few worse experiences than trying to work on a vehicle with bad tools. Your monetary savings will be far outweighed by frustration and mangled knuckles.
Begin accumulating those tools that are used most frequently: those associated with routine maintenance and tune-up. In addition to the normal assortment of screwdrivers and pliers, you should have the following tools:
NOTE: If possible, buy various length socket drive extensions. Universal-joint and wobble extensions can be extremely useful, but be careful when using them, as they can change the amount of torque applied to the socket.
| Fig. 1: All but the most basic procedures will require
an assortment of ratchets and sockets
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| Fig. 2: In addition to ratchets, a good set of wrenches
and hex keys will be necessary
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| Fig. 3: A hydraulic floor jack and a set of jackstands
are essential for lifting and supporting the vehicle
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| Fig. 4: An assortment of pliers, grippers and cutters
will be handy for old rusted parts and stripped bolt heads
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| Fig. 5: Various drivers, chisels and prybars are
great tools to have in your toolbox
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| Fig. 6: Many repairs will require the use of a torque
wrench to assure the components are properly fastened
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In addition to the above items there are several others that are not absolutely necessary, but handy to have around. These include Oil Dry( (or an equivalent oil absorbent gravel — such as cat litter) and the usual supply of lubricants, antifreeze and fluids, although these can be purchased as needed. This is a basic list for routine maintenance, but only your personal needs and desire can accurately determine your list of tools.
After performing a few projects on the vehicle, you'll be amazed at the other tools and non-tools on your workbench. Some useful household items are: a large turkey baster or siphon, empty coffee cans and ice trays (to store parts), ball of twine, electrical tape for wiring, small rolls of colored tape for tagging lines or hoses, markers and pens, a note pad, golf tees (for plugging vacuum lines), metal coat hangers or a roll of mechanics's wire (to hold things out of the way), dental pick or similar long, pointed probe, a strong magnet, and a small mirror (to see into recesses and under manifolds).
| Fig. 7: Although not always necessary, using specialized
brake tools will save time
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| Fig. 8: A few inexpensive lubrication tools will make
maintenance easier
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| Fig. 9: Various pullers, clamps and separator tools are
needed for many larger, more complicated repairs
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| Fig. 10: A variety of tools and gauges should be used
for spark plug gapping and installation
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| Fig. 11: Inductive type timing light
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| Fig. 12: A screw-in type compression gauge is recommended
for compression testing
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| Fig. 13: A vacuum/pressure tester is necessary for many
testing procedures
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| Fig. 14: Most modern automotive multimeters incorporate
many helpful features
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A more advanced set of tools, suitable for tune-up work, can be drawn up easily. While the tools are slightly more sophisticated, they need not be outrageously expensive. There are several inexpensive tach/dwell meters on the market that are every bit as good for the average mechanic as a professional model. Just be sure that it goes to a least 1200–1500 rpm on the tach scale and that it works on 4, 6 and 8-cylinder engines. (If you have one or more vehicles with a diesel engine, a special tachometer is required since diesels don't use spark plug ignition systems). The key to these purchases is to make them with an eye towards adaptability and wide range. A basic list of tune-up tools could include:
A tachometer/dwell meter will ensure accurate tune-up work on vehicles without electronic ignition. The choice of a timing light should be made carefully. A light which works on the DC current supplied by the vehicle's battery is the best choice; it should have a xenon tube for brightness. On any vehicle with an electronic ignition system, a timing light with an inductive pickup that clamps around the No. 1 spark plug cable is preferred.
In addition to these basic tools, there are several other tools and gauges you may find useful. These include:
As a final note, you will probably find a torque wrench necessary for all but the most basic work. The beam type models are perfectly adequate, although the newer click types (breakaway) are easier to use. The click type torque wrenches tend to be more expensive. Also keep in mind that all types of torque wrenches should be periodically checked and/or recalibrated. You will have to decide for yourself which better fits your purpose.
