What’s your best buy DIY garage tools?

[gsxr]

Speaking of shop lights, I got this Honeybay set of 4 last year for $100, and was pleasantly surprised with their performance. Price has dropped to $80 for the 4-pack now:

Linkable LED Utility Shop Light 4ft 4800 Lumens Super Bright 40W 5000K Daylight Ideal for Garage ETL/DLC Certified Durable LED Fixture with Pull Chain Mounting and Daisy Chain Hardware Included 4 Pack - - Amazon.com

Linkable LED Utility Shop Light 4ft 4800 Lumens Super Bright 40W 5000K Daylight Ideal for Garage ETL/DLC Certified Durable LED Fixture with Pull Chain Mounting and Daisy Chain Hardware Included 4 Pack - - Amazon.com

smile.amazon.com

There had been discussion previously about shop lights, lumens, color temp, CRI rating, etc... but I can't seem to find the thread via the search function. Anyone remember where that was?

🖥

 

[Jlaa]

Speaking of shop lights, I got this Honeybay set of 4 last year for $100, and was pleasantly surprised with their performance. Price has dropped to $80 for the 4-pack now:

Linkable LED Utility Shop Light 4ft 4800 Lumens Super Bright 40W 5000K Daylight Ideal for Garage ETL/DLC Certified Durable LED Fixture with Pull Chain Mounting and Daisy Chain Hardware Included 4 Pack - - Amazon.com

Linkable LED Utility Shop Light 4ft 4800 Lumens Super Bright 40W 5000K Daylight Ideal for Garage ETL/DLC Certified Durable LED Fixture with Pull Chain Mounting and Daisy Chain Hardware Included 4 Pack - - Amazon.com

smile.amazon.com

There had been discussion previously about shop lights, lumens, color temp, CRI rating, etc... but I can't seem to find the thread via the search function. Anyone remember where that was?

🖥

Here was one of them... Fantastic LED garage lighting - T8/T12 replacement

 

[gsxr]

Here was one of them... Fantastic LED garage lighting - T8/T12 replacement

Jlaa, yup, that was one of the threads. But there was another one where someone explained how CRI rating affected usable light. That's the thread I can't find!

Oh, if we only still had vBooletin...



(kidding! Gerry! Put that down...)

 

[gsxr]

Courtesy of LWB250... the HF LED bar light is on sale again for $19, lowest price I've ever seen. Coupon code: 30992443

Harbor Freight Tools – Quality Tools at Discount Prices Since 1977

Harbor Freight buys their top quality tools from the same factories that supply our competitors. We cut out the middleman and pass the savings to you!

www.harborfreight.com

 

[JC220]

I wish there was a Hazard Fart near me

 

[sheward]

I think I may have paid $15! when they first offered them. This light is also good for charging the 3w batteries that more of the LED lights are using. The battery alone goes for $16 or more at Batteries and Bulbs. Super bright and very useful under the car.

drew

 

[gerryvz]

I wish there was a Hazard Fart near me

Perhaps better said as "Hazard Fraught"..... at least with the longevity of their tools.

 

[alabbasi]

Their tools are getting so good. I'm pretty sure that they're going to put tool trucks out business before long. All they need to come up with is some sort of credit account so that mechanics can have payment plans and it's all over

 

[gerryvz]

Motive Products (the maker of Motive Power Bleeders) is having a 15% off sale on all of its products using the code: ONEYEAR15

This is a good time to buy one of their "Euro" version power bleeders if you've been jonesing for one...

Motive Products - One Man Bleeder & Filler Products

Keep Your Fluids at Peak Performance. Get professional results with the our one-man bleeder and fillers.

www.motiveproducts.com

 

[JC220]

This is a similar type brake blender I have here:

 

[JC220]

Not really a tool as such but I wouldn't be without my W124 Trim clip kit

 

[AMG5PT4]

Have been doing A LOT of W126 SEC interior work at Jono's shop the past 6 weeks - complete interior R&R work for late Gen II and early Gen II. I saw the below EZRed tool on one of Jono's shop tables. I bought one. Small flex head wrench with a magnetic 1/4" bit head on one end and a regular 1/4" socket head on the other. Have used the magnetic bit head a great deal in tight spaces removing fasteners (speaker grills, dash hex head bolts, etc.. The flex head and low profile design really is helpful in tight spaces. Another feature is a knurled cap on each head for turning with your fingers if the space is too tight for normal wrenching.

Amazon.com: EZRED 4S04 Micro Combo Dual Ratchet Socket with 1/4" Square Drive & Magnetic Bit Drive: Automotive

Buy EZRED 4S04 Micro Combo Dual Ratchet Socket with 1/4" Square Drive & Magnetic Bit Drive: Socket Wrenches - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[daantjie]

I recently bought a long ratcheting breaker bar with swivel head from Gedore. Was pricey but man is it ever nice to use. Especially turning the crank by the large nut, you can easily get in there with a deep socket without having to pull off the fan or shroud.

 

[albdentist]

Great for getting at those rear fasteners on the front seat ....PIA

 

[gsxr]

After using my FIL's new GearWrench 84-tooth flex-head ratchet, I splurged on a set of of the 120-toothers. Haven't had a chance to use them, but they feel pretty nice, and have a lifetime warranty of some sort. They occasionally go on sale for less at Amazon, current price is close to the average. Individual pieces are available if you don't need a set.

EDIT: I've had a chance to use them a little. So far, I'm impressed. Pretty good value considering what else is out there.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BTEXPDK/

 

[gerryvz]

I recently got this set of attachments for my drill/driver, which allows you to attach a socket. I expect they will come in VERY handy in the future, particularly for higher torque applications where my Milwaukee power ratchet doesn't quite have the torque to remove a nut or bolt.

Very cheap on Amazon.

 

[gerryvz]

I will say that the Milwaukee 3/8"power ratchet makes very short work of removing M119 cam tower bolts when removing them to "harvest" aluminum cam oiler tubes. I'd say it cuts down the overall physical exertion effort by around 60%, allowing me to pull both cam covers and remove the tubes in about 35 minutes flat. My previous record was 45-50 minutes.

 

[mikeym]

View attachment 95158

I will say that the Milwaukee 3/8"power ratchet makes very short work of removing M119 cam tower bolts when removing them to "harvest" aluminum cam oiler tubes. I'd say it cuts down the overall physical exertion effort by around 60%, allowing me to pull both cam covers and remove the tubes in about 35 minutes flat. My previous record was 45-50 minutes.

It is a great tool... part of my M12 collection.

 

[JC220]

A recent great purchase for me was good used plastic dollys on ebay. 400kg capable each for moving engines. And smaller ones for transmissions/ diffs. Got 6x so far but may need more. Good thing is they are plastic so can be stacked & stored outside and very strong.

 

[gsxr]

Joe, how much are those? I've not seen anything equivalent for sale used on this side of the pond.

 

[JC220]

Joe, how much are those? I've not seen anything equivalent for sale used on this side of the pond.

The Ebay seller here is offering them good used at £24GBP + post for a pair of them Dave. A great price I'm sure new they must cost nearer £100 each. Stamped rated 400kg. He has 500kg versions too but 400 is fine for my use of moving engines

2 x HEAVY DUTY PLASTIC WHEELED DOUBLE "DOLLY" / "SKATE" 800X600X171MM | eBay

Gross weight is rated at 400-500kg (depending on style). THIS HOLDS TWO STACKS OF BALE ARM CRATES.

www.ebay.co.uk

 

[JC220]

I have had a Couple of occasions recently where I had seized brake pads in some of my fleet! Cars that I was just getting around to addressing the brake systems.

The S500 and S320 140s for example. The rear brake pads are still good with plenty of meat on them but neglected and in dire need of pulling the pads, cleaning everything and fresh application of brake grease.

Sooo.... after spending way too long the last time with screwdrivers and a punch trying to get them out I did some searching. Turns out Draper for example make a compact slide hammer just for this job. Works amazingly well! Seized pads removed in seconds with zero prying or hammering required.



Someone is selling them dirt cheap on ebay UK at the moment!



I would like suggestions or recommendations on brake piston wind back tools please! Trying to find a decent one of w124 / w140 / w220 use for 4 piston and 2 piston calipers etc......

 

[JC220]

Bought one of these and really like it so far!



It is a mallet with one copper face and a leather face. Intended for not damaging metal items such as cylinder heads and timing covers. The copper face gives a good solid dead blow smack whilst the leather face is surprisingly tough but cant marr metal surfaces.

Decent addition to the tool box!

 

[ace10]

Bought one of these and really like it so far!

View attachment 108996

It is a mallet with one copper face and a leather face. Intended for not damaging metal items such as cylinder heads and timing covers. The copper face gives a good solid dead blow smack whilst the leather face is surprisingly tough but cant marr metal surfaces.

Decent addition to the tool box!

Is there a vegan option?

 

[gerryvz]

Bought one of these and really like it so far!

View attachment 108996

It is a mallet with one copper face and a leather face. Intended for not damaging metal items such as cylinder heads and timing covers. The copper face gives a good solid dead blow smack whilst the leather face is surprisingly tough but cant marr metal surfaces.

Decent addition to the tool box!

Definitely beats a claw hammer for ensuring that cylinder head front covers are properly seated !!

 

[sheward]

I have one of these. Very useful.

drew

 

[gsxr]

nice! Same item in USA is nearly $60 USD... sheesh...

Thor - 212 Copper/Rawhide Hammer Size 2 1070G - Dead Blow Hammers - Amazon.com

Thor - 212 Copper/Rawhide Hammer Size 2 1070G - Dead Blow Hammers - Amazon.com

www.amazon.com

 

[Stegel]

I would like suggestions or recommendations on brake piston wind back tools please! Trying to find a decent one of w124 / w140 / w220 use for 4 piston and 2 piston calipers etc......

Many thanks for the slide hammer recommendation, I’ve ordered one.

I have this piston spreader - it‘s never failed and feels like it will last forever.

Laser Tools 5113 Disc Brake Piston Spreader

Laser Tools 5113 This disc brake piston spreader has been designed for quad pistons fitted to BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other vehicles.Maximum working range...

www.lasertools.co.uk

 

[JC220]

Many thanks for the slide hammer recommendation, I’ve ordered one.

I have this piston spreader - it‘s never failed and feels like it will last forever.

Laser Tools 5113 Disc Brake Piston Spreader

Laser Tools 5113 This disc brake piston spreader has been designed for quad pistons fitted to BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other vehicles.Maximum working range...

www.lasertools.co.uk

Thanks for that! Looks like a useful tool and better quality than the other similar looking offerings on ebay. (This one has a hex guide VS the cheaper round ones that people give poor reviews on)

 

[Jlaa]

I have this piston spreader - it‘s never failed and feels like it will last forever.

Laser Tools 5113 Disc Brake Piston Spreader

Laser Tools 5113 This disc brake piston spreader has been designed for quad pistons fitted to BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other vehicles.Maximum working range...

www.lasertools.co.uk

Thanks for that! Looks like a useful tool and better quality than the other similar looking offerings on ebay. (This one has a hex guide VS the cheaper round ones that people give poor reviews on)

Oh that looks like a robust tool! It looks much beefier than this one as @JC220 references, which I see all the time..... the one with the circular cross section guide of which reviews are mixed:



However I DO have to remark, 85GBP is significantly more costly than 15USD. Has anyone found that hex-guide tool in the USA?

 

[Jlaa]

OK answering my own question - yikes - that Laser spreader can be found on Amazon in the US --- yikes on price.

https://www.amazon.com/Laser-5113-Brake-Piston-Spreader/dp/B004MLKWDS

 

[Stegel]

OK answering my own question - yikes - that Laser spreader can be found on Amazon in the US --- yikes on price.

https://www.amazon.com/Laser-5113-Brake-Piston-Spreader/dp/B004MLKWDS

View attachment 110229

It’s available for £51 inc delivery here, so not so bad given the quality. It is probably made for Laser by a manufacturer who will provide other suppliers for badging up as their brand so you may find it in the US.

 

[JC220]

Another entry for me- the humble brass drift!



Makes you feel like a bonafide MB tech using this to punch out driveshafts and CV joints. Store it beside your 99% full can of Gleitpaste for extra effect

 

[LWB250]

Another entry for me- the humble brass drift!

View attachment 110440

Makes you feel like a bonafide MB tech using this to punch out driveshafts and CV joints. Store it beside your 99% full can of Gleitpaste for extra effect

A real man's brass drift with 30+ years of use:




Yeah, it's mushroomed, but every few years I'll take the grinder to it and square things up. Definitely a must-have tool.

Dan

 

[gsxr]

Another entry for me- the humble brass drift!

View attachment 110440

I think Joe polishes his rod after each use, Dan.

 

[LWB250]

I think Joe polishes his rod after each use, Dan.

It would appear that he does.

Dan

 

[JC220]

A real man's brass drift with 30+ years of use:

View attachment 110444


Yeah, it's mushroomed, but every few years I'll take the grinder to it and square things up. Definitely a must-have tool.

Dan

I just got this drift a few days ago - been meaning to get one for years - better late than never

 

[Jlaa]

I LOVE THIS TOOL!!!!!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075KMNSPW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why oh why did I not buy this tool years earlier? For years I struggled with pushing pistons back into calipers in 4-pot calipers using a pair of channel locks ---- it was like whack-a-mole! Push one piston in and another comes out. THIS TOOL MAKES IT A PLEASURE!!!!! And it is cheap! It takes less than a minute! No more struggling with channel locks at oblique angles / danger of cocking the piston crooked back into the caliper!

AND --- I realized that I don't even have to take the calipers off to use this tool (although I did take the calipers off this time to replace the rotors on my sport beetle). I was able to open up the pistons just by pushing the upper "lip" of the brake pads (where the green arrows are) and slide out the brake pads.

This tool is the bomb.

 

[liviu165]

Perhaps this has been already addressed, if so I apologize for not keeping up with the posts. Anyway, here is a tool that I think should be in any garage: an air compressor (well, maybe not that size ...).

I bought mine in 1998 from Walmart. I installed a micro filter on it and I still use it to this day. It served me extremely well. It was instrumental (along with a high power impact gun) when taking the 6 bolts/axle on the W/C126. I also have an aluminum portable air tank to take it with me outside when tires need inflated.

 

[sheward]

Another entry for me- the humble brass drift!

View attachment 110440

Makes you feel like a bonafide MB tech using this to punch out driveshafts and CV joints. Store it beside your 99% full can of Gleitpaste for extra effect

Mine is only half that length (don't go there) but knarly fingers make you look like a professional

drew.

 

[JC220]

Finally caved in and ordered today

 

[gerryvz]

Finally caved in and ordered today

View attachment 110725

That is THE MOST handy tool in your quiver when you are visiting the wrecking yards !!!

Not sure how mine can help me remove valve stem seals or M119 head bolts, but I'm sure I'll figure it out.....

 

[JC220]

That is THE MOST handy tool in your quiver when you are visiting the wrecking yards !!!

Not sure how mine can help me remove valve stem seals or M119 head bolts, but I'm sure I'll figure it out.....

I always wondered would I use it much..... do you find it useful?

My thoughts are it should be primarily good for:

Transmission pan drop / underbody shields etc
Brake jobs
Valve cover gaskets

From what I understand it is possible to break the bolt loose by hand then press the button for speed to remove.

 

[Glen]

I always wondered would I use it much..... do you find it useful?

My thoughts are it should be primarily good for:

Transmission pan drop / underbody shields etc
Brake jobs
Valve cover gaskets

From what I understand it is possible to break the bolt loose by hand then press the button for speed to remove.

Looks like you ordered the 1st generation ratchet, be careful breaking loose very tight bolts. The ratchet head on 1st gen models can break if too much pressure is applied. The 2nd gen version is much beefier and can take more abuse, however, they are larger and bulkier.

 

[gerryvz]

Yes, use it like a ratchet to break a bolt loose, and then speed-remove it with the motor. Makes a treat of removing cam bearing caps for aluminum cam oiler tube removal. Cuts the job down by 50-60%.

I wouldn't bother with torque-intensive stuff like valve cover gaskets or trans pan gaskets. But for long nut/bolt removal, or stuff that isn't torque intensive, or is repetitive (LOOSENING trans pan bolts to say, get at a valve body), it's splendid.

 

[JC220]

Looks like you ordered the 1st generation ratchet, be careful breaking loose very tight bolts. The ratchet head on 1st gen models can break if too much pressure is applied. The 2nd gen version is much beefier and can take more abuse, however, they are larger and bulkier.

Thanks for that, I see what you mean now when looking up online. Here is a good video on the subject:

Most comments on that video also state they prefer the earlier, smaller brushed version. So it was a pleaseant mistake that I didn't buy the fuel version! I won't try to undo very tight or large fasteners with it, I generally never break tools. I wanted something to speed up certain tasks that's all but it must also be compact so this one fits the bill I think.

I use the big 1/2 inch Milwaukee Fuel on most everything at the moment. One of the best tools I ever bought. So much power it makes light work of crank bolts etc. Haven't had a single fastener it's so much as hesitated on. This is to fill the gap between using a 3/8 ratchet in tight areas where the big nut f$cker doesn't fit.

 

[gerryvz]

I have the smaller Milwaukee battery ratchet and it works a treat for just about any job I need it for.

 

[JC220]

I recieved the Milwaukee ratchet today - appears nice. My only gripe is that it is a little slow. But sould be totally fine for what it's intended for of course. I am just used to the big nut f#cker removing bolts in a split second. This ratchet will be most useful in areas of restricted swing with a regular ratchet. So yes I am pleased with it!

Since I have 2x new M12 Batteries sitting here I then I went ahead and bought a 3/8 Milwaukee Impact. Compact and also gets great reviews online

Milwaukee M12FIW38-0 12v Li-ion 3/8in Impact Wrench Bare Unit

The Milwaukee12v Li-ion 3/8in Impact Wrench Bare Unit features a 3/8" Anvil with friction ring for quick and easy socket changes, making it ideal for professional and DIY use. This is a naked machine, body only, it is not supplied with batteries or a charger.

www.ffx.co.uk

339nm from what looks almost as compact as a stuby impact appears like a great thing to have!

 

[JC220]

Putting all 3x to use now and finding the 2 newest additions to be great!

 

[gerryvz]

Putting all 3x to use now and finding the 2 newest additions to be great!

View attachment 111645

LoL !! Your impact wrench is showing about the same level of wear that my battery ratchet is. My impact hasn't seen the use that the ratchet has.

I recently purchased a Milwaukee M18-powered chain saw, and am getting ready to buy an M18 reef blower as well...

Chain saw job:


Reef blower: