What tools to buy?

[nking79]

What kinds of tools should I purchase for routine work on a Datsun? I hope to be running soon and would like to be ready.

[Conner]

The standard stuff, really.

For taking them apart:
Socket wrenches, 3/8" drive and 1/2" drive.
Short and long extensions for each of the above.
SAE socket set.
Large breaker-bar.
Screwdrivers, three sizes each of Philips & Flat head plus one big flat head to double as a chisle/pry bar.
Rubber mallet.
BFH (Big F'ing hammer)


For putting them back together:
Sockets and wrenches listed above.
Torque wrenches are a must.
I haven't gotten this far, so I don't know what else you need to put them back together.

[nking79]

Thanks for the list. The BFH sounds fun, but what do you use that for?

[Conner]

I've used it for removing the threaded ends of the steering linkage rods from the steering or idler yokes. They get stuck sometimes. Strictly for disassembly and only to be used under control.

[sgriffin]

Also use the BFH for any body/motor/mechanical modifications which arise from frustration.

[S Allen]

BFH's are great but you need to get a pair-one for each hand.

Steve

[ppeters914]

A set of 1, 2, and 5 lb jeweler hammers are also good for fine adjustments. You will also need several crescent hammers; SAE for early models, metric for late.

[itsa68]

Add to the list a can of cuss juice (liquid wrench) to lube those rusted bolts and a box of band-aids for the damage thats going happen to your knuckles when the bolts break anyway.

Oh Yeah, also get some earplugs for the wife or others that may have sensitive ears to cursing.

Ray B.

[JoeK]

BFH's are great, BFH's that are dead blow are even better. Especially for putting things back together without blowing them up, or damaging them.

You'll need both SAE and Metric wrenchs and sockets. I'd start wih 6 point sockets, instead of the 12's. 3 lengths of extensions and at least a universal joint. Breaker bars are great, a pie that fits over your socket wrench will work in a punch. A tool box to organize it all will make your life way less frustrating. The biggest tool in my shop is the shop fridge. And buy bigger than you think you need, because you will fill it up. I meant the tool box.

Over the years, I have come to the belief that the guy who dies with the most tools, wins, just like the woman who dies with the most shoes wins.

[spl310]

Joe,

Will a cherry pie work OK? They do tend to be messy though!!

(sorry, could not resist when I saw the typo...)

The best suggestion that I can give you is to buy one of the tool kits from either Sears, Home Depot, or Lowes. I don't mean the ones that come with some nebulous mail it back and we may replace it warranty - I mean their high end line. Craftsman, Cobalt, etc. Take care of them and they will serve you well. The basic sets from Sears come with nice blow molded cases that keep you from losing tools if you put them back. Keep the tools clean and dry - the cases help with that too.

No matter what you buy, you WILL add to it in time. The amount you will add is dependent on what amount of work you do on the cars. Some tools are single use (valve spring compressor for example) but are indespensible when you need them.

[Conner]

I second the idea of buying a set, particularly of sockets (because they are cheaper than buying the pieces and wrenches separately) and buying Craftsman tools. They are guaranteed for life or until Sears goes out of business, no questions asked. And they are very high quality tools.