As usual, i'm getting asked by family what i want for Xmas, and as usual, I'm not sure...

But I think I should get some tools...I usually make em work, but I have random sets of tools...crappy all-in-one socket wrench sets, most are missing parts. I don't have any air tools. I have one torque wrench.

So I thought I'd ask the group (maybe others need ideas, too):

What are must have tools in the Rover garage?

Are air tools worth it?

 

I'd ask for a scanner with live data feed capabilities if I hadn't just bought one.

 

A good, cheap, and I think very important Rover tool is the fan clutch wrench from Atlantic British. There are two of them, a 36MM and a universal for holding the pulley.

Its one of those "nothing else works" tools, and when you have to get the fan clutch off, you will call whoever gave it to you, and thank them for all the skin still on your knuckles. It'll make a water pump job a breeze. Not an easy feat.

Oh, and also the 36MM wrench also fits some Ford and Mercedes Engines as well....and there are cheaper ones than atlantic british sets...

 

Some of the more obsure tools we often forget about are Torx drivers of all sizes and lengths.

Something else that would be nice to have are some 12 point sockets. I've never in my life had a need for any until I had to tighten my valve cover gasket. So difficult to find are they around here that it required an hour drive each way to my nearest Sears.

 

If you tools are miss matched and missing parts. I would ask for one of the 150 or 200 piece sets from craftsman. They are only about $100-150 and they will give you a good starting ground for everything you need.

 

I agree with an OBD2 reader being an excellent gift.

 

• A good light(s) for working on your rig
• tool chest
• garage creeper

________
PRILOSEC WITHDRAW

 

yeah scanguage II...

 

can the scanguage II clear the codes, too? it can clear everything except abs, right?

so compared to the abs amigo, i'm giving up the ability to clear abs codes, but adding much more real-time scanning ability?

robover- why'd you pick the Actron? it is quite a bit cheaper...

 

perhaps a dumb question, but do you guys really use the 1/4 and 1/2 sockets? i find myself using the 3/8 drive, and so i was leaning towards a 3/8-only set, instead of spending lots of $$ on 1/4 and 1/2. seems like the all-in-one kits ending up having tools i never use.

for instance, instead of asking for this: http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...6260000P?mv=rr

i could ask for these two sets: http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...me=Socket+Sets

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...on+Wrench+Sets