Quote:
Originally Posted by Jolly Green
Hey guys, I'm trying to collect some tools to help start my resto of my 68 442. I could really use some help on choosing brands cause I HATE buying lemons. So here's a list of tools I'm lookin for, what brands do you suggest and are there any other basic tools I'm missing that you would suggest? Maybe a shop? Thanks!
2+ ton jack
Jack Stands
Torque Wrench (mainly for engine/suspension work)
Pressure Gauge set
Hammer/Dolly Kit
Diagrams (where can I find color wiring diagrams?)
Manuals
Spring Removal Tool
Shim Measuring Device
Anything I'm missing? I got the basics: wrenches, screw drivers, orbital sander, ratchet set (1/4, 1/2, 3/8), brake line wrenches
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Obviously the tools you will need depend on what you see as something you want to take on or discover needing attention along the way. There is never an end to buying tools. I have well over $20,000 invested in tools and still find myself sometimes needing a tool I don't have.
Don't rely on the el cheapo 2 ton jacks from the likes of Wal-Mart or Autozone. They are all crap and can be dangerous. The old Craftsman floor jacks made in the USA are good, only the ones made in China are crap and will leak down.
I didn't see any type of impact wrench. The 1/2 drive 24V battery units are good. 3/8 drive 14V or 18V are good for light work but don't expect to break any large bolts loose with them. Of course there are times nothing replaces air impact tools.
You will likely also need an in/lb torque torque wrench if you are going to be doing upper engine work. You didn't list any socket sets, but you will need 1/2" down to 1/4" drive sets along with 1-1/2" to 12" extensions for all sizes and possibly one set of swivel extensions for your 3/8 drive sockets. Brands? Craftsman is good, Stanley (which produces Snap-on) is good, and though some might cringe, I have yet to break a Great Neck tool or a Blackhawk tool, either of which are less expensive than many other brands yet have lifetime warranty just like Craftsman and Snap-on. I assume you have a decent assortment of open end, box, or combination wrenches. You will need them if you don't have them.
You can find all the references you need on eBay including shop manuals and wiring diagrams. You may also from time to time find GM specialty tools for a given car on eBay.