Tools list requirment for owning a Binder

W

WesChapman

Member
I'm looking for a list of tools a person should have if they own a binder or other old vehicle. I was looking at my tool collection and realized it comes up short. I have some of the basics, like sockets, open & boxed end wrenches, channel locks, vise grips, screw drivers, torx, etc etc. I have a sears tuneup kit I bought for $5 at a yard sale. It is a metal case, containing a timing light, dwell meter, compression gauge with fittings, vacuum gauge, remote starter button and operations guide explaining how to use and what the results mean. Probably from the 70's? In my specialty tool bin I have a clutch alignment tool (work was throwing it away), a steering wheel puller, 3 legged gear puller, dvom, and mini fridge stocked with water & beer. I have an air impact, but my 2cfm dewalt compressor doesn't have the ompf to run it. I don't have torque wrenches, welder, parts cleaning capabilty or even a decent floor jack.
What else should I have? What do others consider an mel? (minimum equipment list)
 
A roll of duct tape to keep things from moving that aren't supposed to move and a can of wd-40 to keep things moving that are supposed to move.
 
For my Scout II, one of the necessaries was found in the 1979 parts vehicle I obtained. This tool was a small t-handle spark plug remover, with universal joint near the socket.

For my power steering pump bracket, I simply can't get to the #1 plug with any combo of ratchet, socket, and extension. But after finding this tool, I no longer have to worry about it. It fits into a very narrow spot between battery and ps pump when on the #1 plug, and is the epitome of the word "specialty." it couldn't have been made 1/2" shorter or longer and still work.

I realize that the accessory setup isn't the same for everyone, but I just figured I'd mention this type of custom-fit tool. I couldn't change all 8 plugs without it.
 
Flare-nut wrenches - for fuel / brake line fittings

"pickle fork" -- to separate tie-rod ends / ball joints from the arms.

If you decide to buy torque wrench(es), I would not skimp by buying the cheaper versions -- buy a craftsman, snap-on, etc

floor jack -- make sure you buy one with enough capacity (and safety margin) to lift ihs.

Same for jack stands.... Some look really "cheap" to me nowadays...

Large bench vise -- see if you can find a really old American made one. Maybe the cheap chinese are made better now, but the one I have is "pretty sloppy" compared to the old one my corvair mechanic had.

I do not do much work, but I have used berryman's carb cleaner (spray can - not very "friendly" - wear eye protection) to clean off the outside of carbs (off the vehicle).
 
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Great thread idea man!

A mityvac hand vacuum pump is essential!

The tune up kit you described is an excellent score for working with oldskool stuff!

And one of those el cheepo "probe"-type stethoscopes from harbor freight. Same for one of the very inexpensive infrared thermometers.

A front hub nut socket for a 4x4 axle app.

A "cotter pin puller" is an essential for all kinds of work other than pulling cotter pins!

Let's keep this one going but keep in mind the budget restraints we all face and always consider bang-for-the-buck! We're talking typical handy-dan kinda stuff, not pro-level unless the job at hand indicates otherwise.
 
kyleandhisih said:
my power steering pump bracket, I simply can't get to the #1 plug with any combo of ratchet, socket, and extension.
Click to expand...

You should be able to buy a universal joint separately to match your socket set (3/8" drive, I assume).

Still a "pain", but easier...

The 3/8" drive socket set that I bought in the 70's came with one.

Actually, universal drive sockets in a couple common sizes ( like7/16", 1/2", 9/16") are useful depending on the vehicle / engine you are working on...
 
robertc said:
flare-nut wrenches - for fuel / brake line fittings oh yeah! I forgot about these. I will also need a tubing bender.

"pickle fork" -- to separate tie-rod ends / ball joints from the arms. oops, forgot, I have one of these.

If you decide to buy torque wrench(es), I would not skimp by buying the cheaper versions -- buy a craftsman, snap-on, etc good to know. Was looking at a craftsman

Floor jack -- make sure you buy one with enough capacity (and safety margin) to lift ihs.adding to my shopping list

Same for jack stands.... Some look really "cheap" to me nowadays...forgot I have these to. Work was getting rid of them. 6000 capacity.

Large bench vise -- see if you can find a really old American made one. Maybe the cheap chinese are made better now, but the one I have is "pretty sloppy" compared to the old one my corvair mechanic had. going to need a bench first

I do not do much work, but I have used berryman's carb cleaner (spray can - not very "friendly" - wear eye protection) to clean off the outside of carbs (off the vehicle).
Click to expand...

I have a list now to leave around the house where the wife can see it.
 
michael mayben said:
great thread idea man!

A mityvac hand vacuum pump is essential! adding to my list.

The tune up kit you described is an excellent score for working with oldskool stuff!

And one of those el cheepo "probe"-type stethoscopes from harbor freight. Same for one of the very inexpensive infrared thermometers. never even thought about these, but, yeah, I need them!

A front hub nut socket for a 4x4 axle app.you mean, using a socket extension and a hammer is the wrong tool? (adding to shopping list)

A "cotter pin puller" is an essential for all kinds of work other than pulling cotter pins!never seen, but adding to list
Click to expand...

Excellent! Keep em coming, my birthday is in May and my wife thinks I'm the greatest guy ever. (well I keep telling her that anyhow)
 
eric vanburen said:
a copy of the factory shop manual that matches your rig.

A bfh or big flippen hammer.
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I have a 2lb & 8lb. I have used them both on the terra. "flippen", yeah, that's the word I use to. :icon_wink:

and I have a shop manual; best Scout "tool" I have ever purchased.
 
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weschapman said:
excellent! Keep em coming, my birthday is in May and my wife thinks I'm the greatest guy ever. (well I keep telling her that anyhow)
Click to expand...

Or...send me your wife's email addy and I'll "help" her shop on her nickel!

I've been married four times so I know all about how to handle wimmin!!!! Just ask 'em!
 
carl wiese said:
I am very surprised it hasn't been mentioned yet, but how about a


volt meter
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It was mentioned in mt first post cuz I have one. A dvom and a very very old analog unit. Once upon a time there was a specific reason why I bought the analog unit, but now, I can't remember why.
 
You'll need a decent set of drill bits in a box thats sized so you can see exactly what you lose or break. The hf ones are ok well the gold ones if you take care of em and dont speed burn em.
Dont know bout where you live but the estate sale gammit is the best place to find quality tools at cheap prices. And you will run across all kinda weird snizz that you can find some kinda use for. Plus you can try and talk hotwife into going, that way you can make up for that quality time you lose with her working on you junk iron
 
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