TGTWS: Tools thread?

TerryD

Total Tease
Supporting Member
Location
Covington, Va
Put your pants back on Jim.....

Thread for the interesting tools we aquire and use.

I ordered these last night to carry at work doing brush checks on the big DC motors. It has a 1/2" and 7/16" on the same socket which is what I need to pull the covers and lift the shunts. Thought some of you might like them.

Performance Tool M799 8Pc 1/4" Drive Flip Socket Set - Includes: 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2 8mm, 10mm, 9mm, 11mm, 12mm, 14mm, 13mm and 15mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092NJMM5V/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_VDPEB3HEY3NEXCV88991
 

reaver

Lockers Installed
Supporting Member
Location
Caldwell, ID
Oh!! Now here's a thread I could get behind.....

Speaking of, What tools do I need for a first gen to replace a CV on the trail? Just want to make sure if it happens, I'm not stranded.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
Company gave me a couple of gift cards for some photos I took, I so grabbed this bad boy. I love using it. 500 lumen white light, soft light on the back for helping to see colors of wires, and a black light to help me find leaks with dye.

NqOTRNk.jpg


9kGJAFS.jpg


Get it here:

Streamlight 74850 Strion Switchblade Rechargeable Multi-Function Compact Work Light with USB Cord Charger, Red
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084SWJJCZ/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_a_W5E3JGBVJPVMRMM15V4E
 

Bklyn.X

Skid Plates
Moderator
Supporting Member
Founding Member
Location
Brooklyn, NY
Oh!! Now here's a thread I could get behind.....

Speaking of, What tools do I need for a first gen to replace a CV on the trail? Just want to make sure if it happens, I'm not stranded.
I used to replace or help replace CV's on the trail so often I knew this^ by heart back in the day. A friend and I once changed one on the trail with air tools...on the deck to on the deck rolling in twenty minutes. Should have filmed it or at least had someone document the process.

Anyways, interesting tool I've acquired and use.

I’ve messed up a wheel lug while taking off or putting on a tire more times than I care to mention. After the first time I learned not to put the lug nut back on and cross thread the thing. I’ve saved a few by filing or chasing the thread with a die and/or a spare lug nut. A pain but not as bad as the couple of times I had to change the lug.

I f’d up yet another in two spots; near the end of the lug preventing the use of a regular die and back far enough to prevent me from being able to stroke a file through it.

Before taking the hub apart to change it I found a Split Die Thread Repair Tool on the web.

I wasn’t getting the very expensive kit but for $25 plus S&H (still pricy for a little bs tool) I took a gamble and ordered the 12M x 1.25 size for my lug.

This thing worked so well I didn’t even have to put a wrench on it; just some oil, a 26mm 6 point socket and turned it by hand. Like a 10 minute job. Not for everyone but for me worth the $$$ not having to change the lug.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah

Well, it won’t be at the store until next week. Apparently, it wasn’t in stock at any Home Despot in UT in this kit. My wife bought me a 1/2” impact for Father’s Day last year, and it’s fantastic. Only problem is I don’t use 1/2” drive nearly as often as 3/8” drive. And this Milwaukee blows the doors off my Snap-On 18 volt impact.

As an aside, I have a lot of Snap-On 14 volt stuff, and I like them, but Milwaukee has been kicking ass and taking names with their M12 and M18 lineup, especially with all the brushless stuff. And it leaves all the Snap-On stuff in the dust when it comes to performance, battery life, and cost.

So since my Snap-On truck account is going to be paid off this next week, I’m going to start transitioning all my electric power tools over to Milwaukee as my Snap-On stuff wears out.
 

TerryD

Total Tease
Supporting Member
Location
Covington, Va
Well, it won’t be at the store until next week. Apparently, it wasn’t in stock at any Home Despot in UT in this kit. My wife bought me a 1/2” impact for Father’s Day last year, and it’s fantastic. Only problem is I don’t use 1/2” drive nearly as often as 3/8” drive. And this Milwaukee blows the doors off my Snap-On 18 volt impact.

As an aside, I have a lot of Snap-On 14 volt stuff, and I like them, but Milwaukee has been kicking ass and taking names with their M12 and M18 lineup, especially with all the brushless stuff. And it leaves all the Snap-On stuff in the dust when it comes to performance, battery life, and cost.

So since my Snap-On truck account is going to be paid off this next week, I’m going to start transitioning all my electric power tools over to Milwaukee as my Snap-On stuff wears out.
I grabbed the standard brushed 1/2" impact set a few months ago. It does really well but last weekend I had to drag out the old Craftsman air impact to get some stuff done. So I like the utility of the M18 but I think I'm going to look into the Fuel version in the future. I want to compete with my air stuff. My air my 3/8 air ratchet is more powerful than my 3/8 M12 ratchet too, but again it isn't the Fuel.
 

reaver

Lockers Installed
Supporting Member
Location
Caldwell, ID
I grabbed the standard brushed 1/2" impact set a few months ago. It does really well but last weekend I had to drag out the old Craftsman air impact to get some stuff done. So I like the utility of the M18 but I think I'm going to look into the Fuel version in the future. I want to compete with my air stuff. My air my 3/8 air ratchet is more powerful than my 3/8 M12 ratchet too, but again it isn't the Fuel.
I've heard nothing but good things about the m series tools. If I didn't already have an investment in the Dewalt XR series, I'd be getting some of those, but my xr 1/2in impact has been doing everything I ask it to so far.

I'm tossing around the idea of grabbing a 3/8 impact to keep in Gamora though. I think bringing the 1/2in on trips is probably a bit overkill.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
So there are pliers, and then there are Cobra pliers, specifically Knipex Cobra Pliers. I’ve used probably every brand pliers under the sun, and then some. Then a coworker turned me on to these a couple years back. So I bought these two, and have never looked back. First off, Knipex freaking rocks! They make awesome stuff. Secondly, all pliers are not the same. These jaws open really wide, and there are serrations from the opening to the hinge, so you’ve got purchase on every surface. Lastly, the handle is designed so that they lock up on whatever it is you’re trying to loosen or tighten. The harder you push on them, the tighter they lock up. I’ve all but stopped using my smaller pipe wrenches anymore, and I’d put these pliers up against the tool truck brands any day. In fact, after I broke a Blue Point “cobra” plier trying to remove an exhaust stud on a C18, my coworker brought over his Knipex, and the job went so much smoother. Hence why I never looked back. They are the ideal tool for the not-so-ideal situation, which is basically 99% of field work.

JIkeJu0.jpg



AVVBpCq.jpg



VsaRWhb.jpg
 

TerryD

Total Tease
Supporting Member
Location
Covington, Va
So there are pliers, and then there are Cobra pliers, specifically Knipex Cobra Pliers. I’ve used probably every brand pliers under the sun, and then some. Then a coworker turned me on to these a couple years back. So I bought these two, and have never looked back. First off, Knipex freaking rocks! They make awesome stuff. Secondly, all pliers are not the same. These jaws open really wide, and there are serrations from the opening to the hinge, so you’ve got purchase on every surface. Lastly, the handle is designed so that they lock up on whatever it is you’re trying to loosen or tighten. The harder you push on them, the tighter they lock up. I’ve all but stopped using my smaller pipe wrenches anymore, and I’d put these pliers up against the tool truck brands any day. In fact, after I broke a Blue Point “cobra” plier trying to remove an exhaust stud on a C18, my coworker brought over his Knipex, and the job went so much smoother. Hence why I never looked back. They are the ideal tool for the not-so-ideal situation, which is basically 99% of field work.

JIkeJu0.jpg



AVVBpCq.jpg



VsaRWhb.jpg
I need to give a set of these a try.
 

reaver

Lockers Installed
Supporting Member
Location
Caldwell, ID
So there are pliers, and then there are Cobra pliers, specifically Knipex Cobra Pliers. I’ve used probably every brand pliers under the sun, and then some. Then a coworker turned me on to these a couple years back. So I bought these two, and have never looked back. First off, Knipex freaking rocks! They make awesome stuff. Secondly, all pliers are not the same. These jaws open really wide, and there are serrations from the opening to the hinge, so you’ve got purchase on every surface. Lastly, the handle is designed so that they lock up on whatever it is you’re trying to loosen or tighten. The harder you push on them, the tighter they lock up. I’ve all but stopped using my smaller pipe wrenches anymore, and I’d put these pliers up against the tool truck brands any day. In fact, after I broke a Blue Point “cobra” plier trying to remove an exhaust stud on a C18, my coworker brought over his Knipex, and the job went so much smoother. Hence why I never looked back. They are the ideal tool for the not-so-ideal situation, which is basically 99% of field work.

JIkeJu0.jpg



AVVBpCq.jpg



VsaRWhb.jpg
I don't know if I'd use these enough to justify spending $100 for three sets. Any decent recommendations for about half the cost? I need a decent set of pliers for my tool roll.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
If you can only buy one, get either the 250mm or 300mm size. I seem to use both sizes equally, but the 300mm length ones allow you some more purchase on stuff. I just ordered a 180mm length for doing even smaller stuff. I bought them one at a time, personally. I put them in my Amazon shopping cart, and watched them. Once they went on sale, bam. Ordered.
 

reaver

Lockers Installed
Supporting Member
Location
Caldwell, ID
If you can only buy one, get either the 250mm or 300mm size. I seem to use both sizes equally, but the 300mm length ones allow you some more purchase on stuff. I just ordered a 180mm length for doing even smaller stuff. I bought them one at a time, personally. I put them in my Amazon shopping cart, and watched them. Once they went on sale, bam. Ordered.
I might try these gear wrench ones.

GEARWRENCH 10" Pitbull Auto-Bite Tongue & Groove Dual Material Pliers - 82592C https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JMBT4SH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_ZCQHJNVWHKEGK4N9AAXJ?psc=1
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
I’d be wary of that auto bite adjustment thingy. Looks like something that could break if you’re really putting the hurt on something. shiat like that oftentimes feels gimmicky. In the field, I have two rules when it comes to working with tools. Keep them simple. Make them strong.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
Well, I asked, and the big red machine delivered. I picked up the kit tonight.

wHuxttV.jpg


Then I immediately went to the task of loosening and tightening every lug nut on the Xterra with it. Strong little guy. And much lighter than it’s bigger 1/2” drive brother. And of course, I ended up with another charger. I need more Milwaukee chargers like I need a hole in my head. But I guess it’s nice to have some spares. I’ll probably just put the charger back in this case and keep it there. I plan on keeping the case. Since I know the tool can handle lug nuts, it’ll come with me on camping trips.

Here it is next to the 1/2” drive.

iEFUsl4.jpg


Honestly, it’s a pretty solid deal for what you get. Two 2.0 M18 batteries, the tool, rapid charger, and a case. Cost for me was about $330 for it. If you can only buy one, this is what I’d buy. Get the 1/2” later when you can swing a deal on either 5.0 or high output 6.0 batteries. I have a 9.0 that came with my weed whacker, so I use it when I want to take full advantage of what that big pig can deliver. The 2.0 batteries are great, and are probably by favorites due to their size and weight. But mid torques and higher need the higher amp hour capacity that the bigger batteries deliver. But the little 3/8” drive I just got can give it the beans with the smaller batteries.

The model number for this kit is 2854-22CT. That includes the case, batteries, and charger with the tool. The tool itself is 2854-20 if you want to buy the tool only.
 

TheCrabby1

I Smell Fishy
Supporting Member
Location
Burtonsville, Md
Well, I asked, and the big red machine delivered. I picked up the kit tonight.

wHuxttV.jpg


Then I immediately went to the task of loosening and tightening every lug nut on the Xterra with it. Strong little guy. And much lighter than it’s bigger 1/2” drive brother. And of course, I ended up with another charger. I need more Milwaukee chargers like I need a hole in my head. But I guess it’s nice to have some spares. I’ll probably just put the charger back in this case and keep it there. I plan on keeping the case. Since I know the tool can handle lug nuts, it’ll come with me on camping trips.

Here it is next to the 1/2” drive.

iEFUsl4.jpg


Honestly, it’s a pretty solid deal for what you get. Two 2.0 M18 batteries, the tool, rapid charger, and a case. Cost for me was about $330 for it. If you can only buy one, this is what I’d buy. Get the 1/2” later when you can swing a deal on either 5.0 or high output 6.0 batteries. I have a 9.0 that came with my weed whacker, so I use it when I want to take full advantage of what that big pig can deliver. The 2.0 batteries are great, and are probably by favorites due to their size and weight. But mid torques and higher need the higher amp hour capacity that the bigger batteries deliver. But the little 3/8” drive I just got can give it the beans with the smaller batteries.

The model number for this kit is 2854-22CT. That includes the case, batteries, and charger with the tool. The tool itself is 2854-20 if you want to buy the tool only.
Get the 100lb TORX STICK for tightening your lug nut's . I have one for my Ingersoll 1/2 inch drive and there great .I'm not sure if they have a 3/8 drive version . Just never use it to take anything OFF - only on . Mine spec-ed out at 96.5lb's when I checked it with a high end torque wrench so only a few lb's over .
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
I don’t do torque sticks. Not my thing. My torque wrench is my thing. Every time I take my work truck to the tire shop, and tell them to use a torque wrench, they ugga dugga my lug nuts down with their torque sticks, and every time I get back to my shop, they always turn nearly a quarter before my torque wrench clicks. So nah brah. You can keep your torque sticks.
 

JeffPro4x

Hot Pipe
Super Moderator
Supporting Member
Location
Glenside, PA
So there are pliers, and then there are Cobra pliers, specifically Knipex Cobra Pliers. I’ve used probably every brand pliers under the sun, and then some. Then a coworker turned me on to these a couple years back. So I bought these two, and have never looked back. First off, Knipex freaking rocks! They make awesome stuff. Secondly, all pliers are not the same. These jaws open really wide, and there are serrations from the opening to the hinge, so you’ve got purchase on every surface. Lastly, the handle is designed so that they lock up on whatever it is you’re trying to loosen or tighten. The harder you push on them, the tighter they lock up. I’ve all but stopped using my smaller pipe wrenches anymore, and I’d put these pliers up against the tool truck brands any day. In fact, after I broke a Blue Point “cobra” plier trying to remove an exhaust stud on a C18, my coworker brought over his Knipex, and the job went so much smoother. Hence why I never looked back. They are the ideal tool for the not-so-ideal situation, which is basically 99% of field work.

JIkeJu0.jpg



AVVBpCq.jpg



VsaRWhb.jpg
Dude, I swapped to Knipex Cobras about 2 years ago. I can't believe I spent 20 years using garbage Douglas pliers (yellow handles).
 

Prime

Shut up Baby, I know it!
Admin
Location
Denver Adjacent
Well, I asked, and the big red machine delivered. I picked up the kit tonight.

wHuxttV.jpg


Then I immediately went to the task of loosening and tightening every lug nut on the Xterra with it. Strong little guy. And much lighter than it’s bigger 1/2” drive brother. And of course, I ended up with another charger. I need more Milwaukee chargers like I need a hole in my head. But I guess it’s nice to have some spares. I’ll probably just put the charger back in this case and keep it there. I plan on keeping the case. Since I know the tool can handle lug nuts, it’ll come with me on camping trips.

Here it is next to the 1/2” drive.

iEFUsl4.jpg


Honestly, it’s a pretty solid deal for what you get. Two 2.0 M18 batteries, the tool, rapid charger, and a case. Cost for me was about $330 for it. If you can only buy one, this is what I’d buy. Get the 1/2” later when you can swing a deal on either 5.0 or high output 6.0 batteries. I have a 9.0 that came with my weed whacker, so I use it when I want to take full advantage of what that big pig can deliver. The 2.0 batteries are great, and are probably by favorites due to their size and weight. But mid torques and higher need the higher amp hour capacity that the bigger batteries deliver. But the little 3/8” drive I just got can give it the beans with the smaller batteries.

The model number for this kit is 2854-22CT. That includes the case, batteries, and charger with the tool. The tool itself is 2854-20 if you want to buy the tool only.
Dude. Even your tools are too clean.
 

TerryD

Total Tease
Supporting Member
Location
Covington, Va
They hand out 420/426/430/440 Channelock pliers like candy at work and they are good, USA made pliers. I need to try some Knipex but it's hard to say no to free.

I bought these 410s because sometimes you need that extra grip. They have saved me hours of work, being able to remove corroded conduit and air fittings that otherwise wouldn't have come loose.
 

TerryD

Total Tease
Supporting Member
Location
Covington, Va
So there are pliers, and then there are Cobra pliers, specifically Knipex Cobra Pliers. I’ve used probably every brand pliers under the sun, and then some. Then a coworker turned me on to these a couple years back. So I bought these two, and have never looked back. First off, Knipex freaking rocks! They make awesome stuff. Secondly, all pliers are not the same. These jaws open really wide, and there are serrations from the opening to the hinge, so you’ve got purchase on every surface. Lastly, the handle is designed so that they lock up on whatever it is you’re trying to loosen or tighten. The harder you push on them, the tighter they lock up. I’ve all but stopped using my smaller pipe wrenches anymore, and I’d put these pliers up against the tool truck brands any day. In fact, after I broke a Blue Point “cobra” plier trying to remove an exhaust stud on a C18, my coworker brought over his Knipex, and the job went so much smoother. Hence why I never looked back. They are the ideal tool for the not-so-ideal situation, which is basically 99% of field work.

JIkeJu0.jpg



AVVBpCq.jpg



VsaRWhb.jpg
What pair is comparable in size to a 420 Channelock? I'm gonna just break down and try a set.
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
So the 180mm is equivalent to 7”. The 250mm is equivalent to 10”. The 300mm is almost 12”. Here’s them in my hand for reference. Mind, I have girl sized hands, so I only wear a large glove.
F3152956-65F7-4864-A0C9-1267FCFF00B0.jpeg
 

12° North Industries

Bought an X
Site Sponsor
Company gave me a couple of gift cards for some photos I took, I so grabbed this bad boy. I love using it. 500 lumen white light, soft light on the back for helping to see colors of wires, and a black light to help me find leaks with dye.

NqOTRNk.jpg


9kGJAFS.jpg


Get it here:

Streamlight 74850 Strion Switchblade Rechargeable Multi-Function Compact Work Light with USB Cord Charger, Red
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084SWJJCZ/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_a_W5E3JGBVJPVMRMM15V4E

How do you like it now that you've had it a short while? We were thinking about adding in a couple of the worklights to the already carried Streamlight brand. We even carry their *pew-pew line but like a secret menu item at a Del Taco.. lol

They make a couple interesting work light options though. That blacklight feature on that would be great for finding scorpions here in the desert landscape too.

- Elena
 

XterraRising

Bumpers Installed
Location
Utah
How do you like it now that you've had it a short while? We were thinking about adding in a couple of the worklights to the already carried Streamlight brand. We even carry their *pew-pew line but like a secret menu item at a Del Taco.. lol

They make a couple interesting work light options though. That blacklight feature on that would be great for finding scorpions here in the desert landscape too.

- Elena

I’m really digging it. The magnet is strong enough to keep it in place, but sometimes it hangs down a bit, and gets knocked onto the ground. But that’s what happens when a 300# gorilla swings his arms around in tight spaces.

The battery life is pretty decent. I did buy another battery to have on hand for quick change out. More often than not, I find myself turning it off to save it, and then give it a quick recharge when I take lunch. It automatically stops charging itself when the battery level is full, and has a blinking red light to indicate it. So it’s no problem leaving it plugged into the work truck overnight. Come out in the morning to a freshly charged up light. I will say that this one is superior to the Stinger Switchblade in that you can take the battery out and swap it. If I could fault the Stinger, it would be for that.

Size is ideal for field work, where space in the toolbox is at a premium, but the shop guys use them too. They all like them.

500 lumen is plenty of light for working. I find that more than that isn’t really helpful. I have a 1000 lumen Snap-On light, and I usually crank down the output to 500 to make the battery last longer.

The black light is a nice touch. Great for finding fuel, oil, coolant leaks etc, especially when dye is used. It’ll also find where your cats have been peeing in corners around the house. Do not use it in a hotel room.

I’ve also found myself using the natural colored light on it to help with wire looms. It really works having a softer light for that kind of work.

All in all, if you start carrying, people will probably buy it. It’s really a good little light.
 

JeffPro4x

Hot Pipe
Super Moderator
Supporting Member
Location
Glenside, PA
They hand out 420/426/430/440 Channelock pliers like candy at work and they are good, USA made pliers. I need to try some Knipex but it's hard to say no to free.

I bought these 410s because sometimes you need that extra grip. They have saved me hours of work, being able to remove corroded conduit and air fittings that otherwise wouldn't have come loose.
What's really nice about the Knipex is you don't really have to squeeze them to get a good grip. They lock on really well.

View: https://youtu.be/CjFTz_SG0OM
 

Bklyn.X

Skid Plates
Moderator
Supporting Member
Founding Member
Location
Brooklyn, NY
5061D262-AB0B-4F1D-9F47-7F0F395E22BE.jpeg


This is my Snap-on FK80. It's a 3/8 drive stubby handle ratchet. It's a bit over 4" length. When my wife over paid for it as a Christmas gift a while back it coast her $80. I thought the price outrageous but she works and bought it with "her money" so WTF.

It was my first "snap-on" tool and I love it. I'm not a pro but I use this little gem more than any other ratchet and haven't had to lube or rebuild it to date. The thing cost over $100 now and although I still might hesitate buying one for myself it made for a fantastic gift.

Just to put it out there; The right tool makes for a great personal gift for family and friends that use and appreciate them.
 
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