[MudLover]

I "came upon" some money recently and I think I'm gonna spend it on getting good tools so I can work on Hercules. What do you guys suggest for basic stuff, the important tools and equipment? I'm running on about a $300 bugget for tools right now, but Christmas is right around the corner. Thanks for the help ahead of time.
Marc

[certifiablejeep]

Don't know what you have now or what, but the most used tools I have since the project began back in august is a compressor, cutoff tools, impact wrench, and a good set of cresent wrenches and sockets.

Don't forget a good hammer

Actually what I mentioned up above has been invaluablle in the rip down of my CJ5, without em, I don't knwo what I would have done. The compressor alone was more then 300 though, so you might have to re-prioritize.

[CJeep]

I saw your "list" of tools in your other post (like a socket set), and have some thoughts for your $300.

First off, priority tools for general mantianince and for a rebuild will be different. I'll assume that you are not doing a frame off, and need to keep her running good. In loose order (ignore if you already have):

1) Torx bits, both types. (If you have not yet encountered this I'd be surprised)

2) a good tourqe wrench (you just gotta have one, or two, the second for < about 25 lbs/feet)

3) Jackstands/jack

3) Electrical multi-tester

4) Rubber mallet

5) Grease gun

6) Breaker bar

7) Wire stripper/electrial tool (you know, with the orange grips)

8) Spark plug gapper

9) Drop light (spring for florescent - helps you get burned in only one spot, not two)

There's more, but I'm sleepy from lunch.

PS. Like cb4158 indicated, I might scrap all of the above and buy a compressor and air tools - I don't know how I lived without them. But this is not "basic"

[bowhunter]

Never under estimate the pawn shops. $300 may get you everything you need.

[Jeep Daddy]

I'd start with the tools everybody needs. As mentioned the Torx are important too.
Screwdrivers - get different sizes
socket sets - 1/4" drive, 3/8" drive and 1/2" drive. Get deep and regular and I'd get at least one set of metric 3/8" drive regular sockets.
open end/box end wrench set American and metric.
(believe me when I say metric - the power steering pump on my rig used a bunch of 15mm bolts.
Ball pien hammers
rubber mallet
sledge hammer (2 pound or so)
as mentioned torq wrench to at least 100 ft/lbs (click style)
as mentioned jack and jack stands.
oil drain pan
filter wrench
funnel
multi meter (as mentioned) know how to use it too.
allen wrench sets (metric and american)
soldering iron - solder

This ought to get you started but every time you begin a project, ask the forum what tools you need and get any specialty tools pertaining to that project before you start. Some you can rent or borrow free from parts houses - i.e. steering wheel puller, lock plate puller, pilot bushing puller etc.

Some tools you may want later, after you have all these tools, are pneumatic tools and a compressor. you may want to get a Ball joint press, welder, torch set, pickle fork for tie rod ends, impact sockets, or jewlers screwdrivers. I used to have just about all the tools you can think of but someone liberated them from me on Christmas Eve about 12 years ago. I've been slowly building them back up.

[SamFromCO]

A couple of small tools that I've needed are snap ring pliers and a socket for the front axle nut.

[jeepdaddy2000]

What ever you buy, get QUALITY tools. They cost more, but there isn't anything worse or more useless than a broken tool on the trail.

[Dtray332]

Don't forget the impact. You know, the one that you hold on that rusty old bolt, give a little turn and then snack with a hammer. Nothing better for getting a frozen bolt loose.

[GEAH]

If you are looking for hand tools like box end and open end wrenchs and sockets check the local flea markets on the weekends. You can some times find used brand name tools (craftsman, snapon)for next to nothing around here and the stuff has a lifetime warrenty. Just run to sears or wherever and get it replaced for a new one.

ALSO Farm/estate auctions are great for cheap tools. welders, industial type stuff for cheap. Anyway good luck or building your collection. Check your local classifieds for the farm/estate auctions. Usually have to get up early on Saturday morning but its worth it sometimes.

[crotz83]

DON"T FORGET THE HOT WRENCH its invaluable!!!!

[werewolf7111]

well- you asked a loaded question so let me ask-

what tools do you currently have?

what task(s) do you anticipate attempting?

buy ONLY top quality tools ( craftsman, snap on, proto, blackhawk etc)

make CERTAIN you know the proper safe use of any tool/equipment you have

unless you have a lot of experience or plan to get it before using them- I personally do NOT recommend any welding/torch related tools due to the skill level needed

Joe MSME PE