Best Garage/Workshop Tools

[jb92563]

On the torque wrench, I figured even having one that is off say 15% is better than not using a torque wrench at all for someone new to DIY.

I agree that an expensive torque wrench is better but lets not give the guy sticker shock or any reason to be discouraged from forging ahead on the DIY path.

I have a HF clicker and it fine for most things that normally just get the "Thats about right" manual wrenching.

All Internal engine components and covers need accurate torquing like the oil pan so that you can get a good seal and not strip bolts into aluminum.

Cross threading is also something to beware of as its easy to do in aluminum.

Be careful with spark plugs too and torque them properly.

[Davev]

I have some really good torque wrenches- one is even made in Germany- which I will assign to the Porsche tool box. I also have some Harbor freight torque wrenches. I checked them against a certified wrench- and one of the cheapies was right on. Another was off 2 lbs and the worst off 4 lbs (50 ft lb test). That's a 4% & 8% error (I think).

So a 8% error on a 7 ft lb bolt is not much to worry about and probably factored in on the design. So I wouldn't worry about it.

[Mark_T]

Originally Posted by Davev

I have some really good torque wrenches- one is even made in Germany- which I will assign to the Porsche tool box.

Stahlwille?

[Davev]

Originally Posted by Mark_T

Stahlwille?

I'll have to check when I head back up north for the summer. I cant recall the name.

[recycledsixtie]

I am going to break down and buy a breaker bar this spring so changing from winter rims/tires to summer/all season will be a lot simpler. It is a real pita using the tool kit wheel nut wrench plus I have got rid of those idiotic security locking nuts. Guy

[opus69]

Quality tools are always a good investment. I have worked on cars for at least 50 yrs. Started w my dad's Snap on tools. Some of the ones he has are at least 60 yrs old and still in good working condition. Point being good quality tools can be a lifetime investment. I have gone through several sets of Craftsman tools over the years and thought they were reliable. Just kept losing them. Storage and organization are now something I pay more attention to. The CD I torque wrench seems to be a good value. Look and feel a lot like Snap on but not as expensive. The latest basic tool set that I use regularly is actually Husky. Design similar to Snap on. They have held up well and came in one of those plastic snap in cases. This helps with the organization. I know immediately what is missing and it helps to keep everything where I can find it.