Wanna start buying tools...

[Nvidia]

So I'm to the point where I'd like to start piecing together my own engine and replace the gears in my car. Anyone know where I can find a list of all the tools I'd need to do pretty much everything I need that's SPECIFIC to a 5.0? The tools I'd be buying would be just to work on my car, since I'd like to park it this winter and start working on it.

Anything is helpful, and thanks for reading. :SNSign:

EDIT: Also, what's your prefered brand of tools? Anyone to stay away from? Thanks again.

 

[Dbeck002]

Well if you are just an enthusiast working on the engine, for starters get a full 3/8" drive ratchet set.

6 point full standard from 1/4" to 1 1/16".
6 point full metric from 6mm to 19mm

Dont forget all the necessary extensions

you will need standard box wrenches in some cases, you might have to get those along the way, or just invest in a good set now.

Get a dial indicator (doesnt have to be digital)
Get calipers.

you will also need a harmonic balancer puller, which can be rented but you can buy one as well.

You will need razor blades and razor blade HANDLE (dont get cheap on this, get a good handle because youll be using this tool more than anything).

I'm trying to think of other stuff. Lets see.

Oh yes i forgot the most important tool of all, the torque wrench.
Dont get cheap with this one, get a good one.

there are other tools out there that i have never used for instance, cam bearing removal/install tool which is special. Not sure if you will be doing that or not but i should list it anyway.

remember tools arent cheap, and im sure other people will chime in on other oddball tools out there.

personally i use craftsmen and they dont give me problems.

 

[Daggar]

Pick up a 302 engine overhaul manual from your favorite parts store. It will tell you what basic tools you require.

 

[srothfuss]

IMHO You will be fine picking up a boxed set of craftsman tools. Craftsman is a perfectly fine brand if you aren't making a living using your tools.

A drill is also important for making holes that Ford left out of the engine bay.

Also, don't forget a hammer and a BMFH for those really stubbern installations.

 

[jrichker]

Expect to spend some $$$, good tools aren't cheap. The toolkit you use will cost at least as much as the engine you build.

Add to the list:
A digital voltmeter/multimeter.
A 100 ft lb torque wrench and some 1/2" drive sockets for things like head bolts, main bearing caps and flywheel bolts.

Check out the pawn shops for tools. Avoid the cheap stuff, and look for Snap On, MAC, MATCO and Proto brands. They are all first class, professional grade tools. A worn Snap On socket fits tighter and is stronger than many new bargin sockets.

 

[Duro5341]

I would personally go with mastercraft.......wait till the go on sale for 50%-70% off

I use these at work al day, and they do the job quite well
I have probably spent around $1500 on all my tools, including my Maximum Box which I got for 50% off

Definetly get the maximum wrenchs, the long handle give good torque, and they fit quite well. Just do not cheap out on Sockets, wrenchs, and a torque wrench, these are gunna be your main tools

Duro

These are canadian prices too.......

 

[HISSIN50]

I will also add that if you are just a weekend warrior, you can sometimes get by with cheaper tools for things you dont use much. I have stuff that I use once in a blue moon, so the fact that it is cheap does not bother me.

From being flamed in here for such suggestions, I might guess that I am gentler on tools than some. Some peeps will tell you that every single tool you buy should be quality - I cant argue there. I just cant afford to do that. For tools you use regularily like sockets and box end wrenches, definately buy quality tools. Perhaps I dont know what I am missing out on.

Also, if not mentioned, when you can, budget for a decent air compressor set-up. It isnt mandatory for most things, but sure makes quick work of some projects. I find that I dont use my compressor much, but when I do, it really cuts down the wrench time. Note that you would want separate sockets for the air tools - dont use Chrome hand tool sockets with impact tools.



Good luck.

 

[8950HO]

I would personally go with mastercraft.......wait till the go on sale for 50%-70% off

I use these at work al day, and they do the job quite well
I have probably spent around $1500 on all my tools, including my Maximum Box which I got for 50% off

Definetly get the maximum wrenchs, the long handle give good torque, and they fit quite well. Just do not cheap out on Sockets, wrenchs, and a torque wrench, these are gunna be your main tools

Duro

These are canadian prices too.......

Mastercraft?WTF,that`s Canadian Tire`s brand .

Just joking man.Actually the maximum series tools look pretty good and have a lifetime replacement warranty.
I have one of their top line socket sets I bought years ago,before the maximum name came out.No complaints,they are great,and yeah,you can score some good tools on sale at Crappy Tire.

 

[Mavrick]

I love my craftsman tools..

 

[bdollarbill]

Some of the tools I have recently purchased for just my mustang are these.
Iginition module wrench $8 autozone
EFI fuel pressure tester w/ gauge $40 autozone
Astro noid light set $$20 my work
Thexton EFI harness tester $35 my work
Spark tester/coil voltage tester $8 autozone
Power probe circuit tester $80 My work Hydraulic Service co
Power probe test lead set $45 my work
Auto-x-ray scan tool 6000 kit $600 My work
EIS digital multimeter w/ temp & tach hook ups $125 my work
Digital Timing light w/ inductive pick up $100 my work
Plus many torx bits,hex key t handle sets sae & metric.

I have spent $3,000 in tools & a jet mini lathe just this year & I am not a mechanic for a living but I feel like whatever I spend on tools is still way cheaper than paying someone to f-up my car by not knowing what they are doing. I dont trust anyone else to even change my oil...lol

 

[cmozez]

I have it all (over $20K worth) from Mac to Snap-on. There is no better tool for the money than Craftsman.

 

[jmd2914]

craftsmen are good, snap-on is good too if you can find them on ebay.

 

[onefstsnake]

I have it all (over $20K worth) from Mac to Snap-on. There is no better tool for the money than Craftsman.

+1

If you ever break, bend, or wear out a tool, take it to Sears for a new tool.

They nevery give me problems.

Should have some good christmas sales too.

 

[Busted07]

I like craftsman for the simple fact that you can go to the store and get a replacement. where are you going to go to replace a mac/snap-on/matco if it breaks? (this is of course considering you dont work in a shop and the snap-on truck doesnt visit you every week.)

 

[rd]

I started out with basic stuff from Craftsman, and have, in 25 years, broken some. They replaced them on the spot.

The Carquest brand is my current favorite, since they treat me well also.

Otherwise, Fast Freddy's Pawn and Gold is my top supplier. Especially if you need to grind, cut, weld or modify a tool.

Most important, start with six point sockets and, or box wrenches. These will grip better than 12's. There are a few places you need 12 pt, such as the driveshaft to diff flange, though.

You also need regular and deep sockets in the common sizes.

The 6 mm and up are important on most late model Fords.

 

[TheUser]

+1

If you ever break, bend, or wear out a tool, take it to Sears for a new tool.

They nevery give me problems.

I know this generally is the case; I've heard the newer craftsman tools, though, are coming w/ limited warrenties so that you can't get them replaced forever or something like that. Don't know any details, just something I've heard.