Editor’s Note:
We’re thrilled to have James, a professional heavy diesel mechanic with over five years of experience, share his insights with us. Based in Sydney, Australia, James is known for his expertise in diagnosing and repairing commercial vehicles, buses, and performance cars.
In this article, James will go into detail on what tools and equipment to purchase. This article will be helpful to not only beginners, but also to experienced hobbyists, who are looking at what tools to add to their collection. We hope you find his expert advice both informative and practical.
Back To Basics, Get Wrenching
Tools are extremely important. After all without tools, most things cannot be achieved in terms of diagnosis and repairs! In this article, I will be discussing the basic hand tools you will require. So let’s start off with a quick list of the most basic tools you will need!
1.Knowledge
Your brain is the most important tool you have, so use it wisely! Be sure to purchase or research workshop manuals and guides on how to work on your vehicle. Research the task you need to do, the tools required, and the steps involved in completing the job. Remember, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail!
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
While PPE may not seem like an obvious tool, it’s crucial for keeping yourself safe from potential hazards while working on a vehicle. Equipment like safety boots, gloves, eye protection, and more can make the difference between a close call and a serious injury.
3. Basic socket and ratchet set
A basic socket and ratchet set will be the foundation to getting work completed on your car! Whether it’s a basic oil change, or removing suspension components, a socket set is essential! Generally, socket sizes from 6mm-24mm will be enough to do most jobs. This may be different from vehicle to vehicle, and if your vehicle uses imperial measurements, ensure that you get the correct sockets!
Quick tip: If you want to plan for the future, purchasing an impact socket set will allow you to use the sockets on an impact gun should you choose to purchase one in the future without damaging the sockets! You can buy a complete impact socket set from MaXpeedingRods.
4. Wheel sockets
If you’ve ever had a tire changed at a shop, you probably know what I mean when I say that incorrect sockets will leave scratches and damage your wheels. While the wheel sockets may seem similar to regular sockets, they are impact rated and also come with a nylon cover, who’ll will prevent damage to your cars wheels. You can purchase wheel sockets from MaXpeedingRods.
5. A breaker bar
A good breaker bar is what you will be using to crack tight stubborn nuts and bolts such as wheel nuts, suspension nuts, and more. Even if you have impact tools, a good breaker bar is highly recommended, as it can fit into spaces that an impact tool may not be able to.
Another quick tip is to purchase a ratcheting breaker bar, as this will save you the trouble of continuously repositioning your breaker bar.
6. A torque wrench
A torque wrench is extremely important, as it allows you to tighten nuts and bolts to the correct tightness, ensuring that things stay where they’re meant to be. Torque specs can be found for your vehicle online, or in the vehicles workshop manual.
7. A basic spanner/wrench set
Like the socket set, this is another crucial tool that will be used for everything! Spanners are extremely useful as they can get into tight areas where a normal ratchet may not be able to access.
8. Screwdriver set
Screwdrivers are vital as they have a plethora of uses in the automotive industry. You can purchase mid tang or full tang screwdrivers, and both designs have many different uses. Be sure to get both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers.
9. Pliers and cutters
Need to cut a zip tie or pull out a stubborn pin? Pliers and cutters are what you need. Make sure to have a good assortment of different types of pliers, as each will have their own unique uses!
Invest in Quality, Not Just Cost
You don’t need to buy the most expensive tools out there, but good quality matters. MaXpeedingRods offers a wide selection of professional-grade tools that can last you a lifetime. Check out our tool selection to get started.
Getting the right tools to start working on your car can be difficult and confusing, but with the proper approach and James’ expertise, you can begin your automotive journey with confidence. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us for support—we’re here to help keep the car culture thriving!
