My parents owned a 4 family house that we lived in too. Always helped my Dad paint and do electrical & plumbing & carpentry fixes. Never thought of it as "on the job training" when I was a teenager. Saved me thousands of dollars over the years with home ownership. Still have a few tools we used.... great memories.... Thanks Dad....you are missed.
I’ll be 30 this month, and my dad did the same with me (or at least tried, I was a knucklehead back then) those times with dad now that he’s gone, he passed over 7 years ago now, are my best memories. Sounds like you had the same great dad.
@@joshhemingway7294 Sorry for your loss. I won't get into all the dumb ass things I did when I was young...but hopefully we all get wiser as we get older... Guess we all wish we could have some do-overs...
Good day, I’m glad to read that you had someone the took care of teaching you the basics to survive in this word. Thank God for him. I’m also glad that you recognize him as the great person on your side, blessings to you and your family. I strongly recommend all the fathers out there to do the same, teach your kids/teens or youngsters to defend their selves. Blessings. Unfortunately I grew up with out my dad, he was killed when I was four. I thank God there are still good people that are open to help, like they did with me.
I still have PTSD working with my dad, there were only 3 tools in the garage, a plier, screwdriver, and a wrench. Pick the wrong wrench, it always became a scene. Nowadays, if he needs help, it's better to just ignore him.
I remember when I first started I would binge watch all of Ericthe carguy's content and then Chris fix, Scanner Danner and now I'm binge watching all of AMD videos. The minute I see you post a video I watch it like it and love it thank you so much for everything
I still binge watch Scotty Kilmer's clips. He's funny AF and his advice on what to look for when buying vehicles is usually excellent. His repair advice however, is not that great. I remember one time, he was demonstrating how to do a cylinder compression test using a conventional compression gauge. He said if the insert that you screw into the spark plug hole is ever tight or gets jammed for any reason, spray it with WD40. Now, that stuff is petroleum-based and is flammable. You don't want to use it around anything where fire or combustion is present. Engine cylinders have both! The only lubricant that's safe to use on anything that screws into the spark plug holes is copper-based anti-seize, which you're supposed to apply to spark plug threads every time you remove or replace them for any reason.
@@je19662008 says who..? Have you personally ever tried to light wd40 with just the spark of a bic lighter.??. Try it 1st b4 you go and blather on the web. And FYI if you lube up those spark plugs, you for sure will throw what ever torque setting they’re supposed to be set at into the weeds.
30 years in the Airlines, my Craftsman tools have served me well. Trucks and cars at home a mix even tools from Pittsburgh have been fine. Car care nut is absolutely correct, some my best tools are the cheapest tools. I have literally beat Harbour Freight tools to death and never failed me. Thanx for another great video.
@@Jj-gi2uv I don’t think so. I have more trouble getting a tool replaced with warranty. I go gear wrench or S&K mostly now. I really do have great luck at HF. No problems tearing stuff up. 👍
My first tools were hand me downs from my Dad. We went thru his ammo boxes of tools and I ended up with a ammo box of a variety but basic assortment. The beginning of my career. I ended up as a mechanic then as Lead mechanic at our school district for 31yrs with a fleet of 98 buses. Now a great retirement 👍
I drove pass a City of Houston,TX, Fire department ambulance broken down on a city street. Guess the city is cutting back on scheduled maintenance or laid off experienced mechanics. . .
Gear wrench is highly underrated too! Especially for a beginner. The prices are really really good. Bolt biters will change your life in the rust belt.
Excellent video on “proper@ Tools to purchase. As a none mechanic, its very good to know as a “home” user A thank you once again for you open and honest opines A lot of information provided that should be taken to heart. .
Yeah I agree! Most of the idiots on RUclips are tool truck fan boys. Of course they are going to say buy only snap on or MAC… when you spend a huge amount of money you have to justify it some way psychologically
When I built my toolset, I purchased All my Craftsman tools thru eBay. I Only bought vintage Craftsman tools “Made in USA”. They have served me extremely well.
I got super blessed and received my late father's snap on tool box filled with snap on wrenches, socket wrenches and a plethera of specialty tools. Most all snap on brand. He was a master Honda tech for almost 20 years. I'll admit I didn't realize how good I got it until i started working on my own cars more.
That was quite a memory to use your dads tools all the time. Keep them locked up better than you think. Would be sad to lose them. Consider engraving all of them..
@@starastronomer knew a new mech who used to put a grind mark on wrenchs showed him error of his way - grabbed wrench and add second grind mark and told him I used two marks lol changed his I D marking
AMD, Once again thanks for sharing your practical experience. Your video needs to contain a proviso that buying a Toyota may result in having a lot of dust gather on your tool collection while you wait for something to fail. In general, people can save a lot of money by buying second hand tools.
For a professional mechanic who is in a shop environment, Snap On is King. As stated in this video, a DIY application is far different. The truth is some Snap On stuff is a lot higher quality & far more DURABLE. Metallurgy is a thing. So it’s not a lie when someone says Snap On wrenches or sockets that are USA made are better than most Taiwan brands. This is a fact. Those who don’t understand manufacturing differences are ignorant to this. But for DIY there’s not a huge need to drop a lot of money on this type of tool. Cheers 🍻
Im a Toyota Technician as well and I definitely agree with MOST of what was said EXCEPT ever since I started at toyota I bought this 216 Piece tool set from Craftman and I can’t see myself using any other alternatives as much as that set on a daily. No it doesn’t hqve everything and occasionally you might need socket wrenches that can give a little more leverage but that set is so masterfully organized and the 3 drawers are divided all 3/8 in one drawer, all 1/2 in another and all 1/4 in another and it helps me so much not needing to get up of the floor every 3 minutes if I forget something. It only cost me 100 dollars and has produced 1000’s in earnings without breaking or losing any of them
Also my experience I use Rigid and stand by that brand in regards to quality and price but Milwaukee is more versatile for a mechanic since the offer some really nice mechanic focused battery tools that Rigid doesn’t that said nothing out there competes with the Rigid subcompact impact wrenches they fit in a lot of uncomfortable areas and makes changing suspension componentes a breeze with a small impact wrench that wont damage anything since the torque isn’t overkill
Not a mechanic but I have a very similar if not the same set and it’s been fantastic. I’ve definitely used that 1/2 for things it’s not meant for and it’s held up great.
there is also a 230 piece similar box on special right now that includes torx sockets for 130$ on amazon but the wrenches are different looking so I don’t know if it’s the same quality
I’m an elevator mechanic. I still use old craftsman v series USA made stuff, Carlyle from Napa, and tekton from Amazon. I’ve got the added requirement that my tools must survive a fall.
Awesome video! I got to replace the struts on my 99 Camry. What I love is how easy Toyota has engineered the car to perform maintenance with minimal tools.
If you don't have the wobbly sockets and are working on the v6 you might be cursing those same engineers. 5sfe Camrys have access for days and are very easy to work on. One of the harder things to do on that car is actually the front sway bar bushings.
I don’t drive a Toyota. Still, I love your videos. I’m a simple diy Mercedes guy and in really every video you posted I’m impressed by your attitude. So honest and correct. Please go on giving people knowledge!
Building your tool kit is a life long thing. Way back in 1981 I bought a Stanley 1/2" metric/SAE socket set to work on my RX4, and it is still my main socket set today. Only last year I spent over $2500 in new tools at one retailer, and well over $4000 in unique test gear for my trade in communications electronics.... Yes, you are always buying more tools. Am so glad I haven't needed to use any of my tools on my Toyota so far...even though so many live in the back of it, including the socket set...
I've been waiting for this one....great job! I agree, don't waste too much money on the professional grade stuff when other stuff will get the job done that we don't do every day! As a DIYer, I've found putting certain tools/items in those big orange Home Depot tool boxes (and are labeled) helps...I have "oil change" and "brake job" and "tire tools" and "electrical tools"...really makes the jobs go faster. And the 10mm socket stays on my little cheapo cordless power wrench...Toyota loves their 10mm bolts!
Now 76, I have been working on cars forever. Best tool: a jewelers eye 'lupe', 10 power. Sold in sets at Harbor Freight, 5 for $5. Close exam of threads, sliver removal, worn off part numbers, black on black plastic ... and as I get older ... ya.
Biggest game changer for me this year was a 1/2 brushless Makita impact and a set of deep-well Icon impact sockets from harbor freight. The set goes down to 10mm, so the tool is so versatile for fastener removal-especially with the impact on Pwr Lvl 1 and in “fastener mode”, which auto-brakes once a fastener is loose, so as not to damage smaller stuff
Also handy tools are a 5/8" swivel magnetic spark plug socket (with a thin wall socket) and extra long Metric Allen Hex Bits (the 5mm is needed to remove/replace those intake manifolds). I, also, find myself using my needle nose pliers with 45 and 90 degree bends for a lot of things (hose clamps, cowl clips, etc.)
Great practical advice on this video. Based on the AMD rating scale I am just an "apprentice" that mostly does DIY brakes and suspension work. Having done brakes, struts, sway bar links, lower control arm, hubs, tie rods and more, I offer a couple of other tool considerations. 1) The corded impact drivers are another option that are bulky but reasonably good. Mine easily spins off lug nuts. 2) Jack stands. Since most of us DIYers don't have lifts and safety is at a premium getting under a vehicle consider jack stands made 100% in the USA.
I wish I've seen your video 15 years ago. I've spent a lot of money on tool sets and they're collecting dust in my garage. As a hack and DIY, I've been using the Astro Pneumatic Tools and I have no complaints. I don't know who makes their tools. I did purchase several Craftsman tool sets from Sears and 90% of them have not been used. I own Japanese cars and the SAE tools are still in the original box.
I bought one of those "mechanic's tool sets" (~ 300 pieces) about 20 years ago. I was lucky. It was the made in USA Craftsman variety. It was a really good value. I'm a fairly light DIY user so I still have the entire set without a single piece lost or broken. I guess I will sell them when I'm too old to use them.
43 years at the Ford/Toyota dealership I have quite a collection of tools. I even have a special box of insulated tools for hybrid vehicles. Lucky for me, I bought a lot of new "real" Craftsman tools right before they turned to junk. Snap-On, I have very few, but they are specialty tools that see very heavy duty use. I can't justify the price of Snap-On tools for everyday wrenching. 100% agree on Husky and Gear Wrench, really good tools that have never failed me. Air tools...... Ingersoll-Rand all day!
I will say, I feel very blessed to be able to use my dads tools for the repairs I've had to do so far. He's slowly over my entire life collected quite a few and man is that a money saver. Also, one can sometimes find good deals on tools at garage sales, auctions and places like that where (assuming you know what you're looking for) you can buy quality tools for quite cheap.
Great, solid advice, regardless of what make you’ll be working on, any newbie wanting to get the best bang for the buck will benefit by the wisdom shared in this video. Some common sizes may be different but the basic guidance given will steer you in the right direction. I’ve been working in & around mechanic shops for well over 40 years and have called on several thousand shops in the 15 plus years I’ve done outside sales. Some advice I can add: Milwaukee cordless rules by far for cordless tools, rarely do I see DeWalt or the Mac version of the same. The Milwaukee holds up very well and works terrific. My favorites of their line up are the fuel 1/4” M12 hex driver, the fuel 3/8” M12 stubby impact and the fuel M18 1/2” mid torque impact. Their high torque 1/2” is a total beast but is significantly bigger and unless you work on large trucks or equipment the mid torque should handle most folks needs. Their grease guns are great for service use, Also like the M12 ratchets. I have a 3/8 regular and am seriously thinking of trying the new fuel high speed. Stick with impact sockets rather than chrome, cheaper & tougher, just not as easy to spot if you drop one. Gearwrech tools are pretty popular, work very well, see lots of Sunex sockets, work great, hold up well and very reasonably priced. Ingersoll is the way to go for air tools, top notch. A good set of prybars is invaluable as is good lighting. I am very fond of my SnapOn ratchets, really a pleasure to use, one place I think paying extra is worth it, and their flank drive wrenches are wonderful, especially on goobered up nuts, but I got mine years ago when they were far more reasonable, no way would I spend what they’re going for now. Their hose removal tool and small pic set are both super too. Lastly, Knipex are worth what they cost for pliers etc IMHO, best I’ve tried.
20 years ago, I started changing oil, I bought my first socket set from Kmart, champion brand. I still have them, the metrics are dirty but the standard are still shiny.
I believe you will need 16 mm socket for the Toyota Supra wiper arm nuts assuming it uses the standard size as most BMWs. In a pinch, you can use 5/8 inch SAE as its close enough if you have that. Also for the supra, you will need a good set of torques and allen (hex) drivers and/or bits especially 8mm, T20 and T25. For the home diyer like myself with 3 different manufacturers in my garage, you should just get sockets, bits, and wrenches without skips. Make sure all your hand tools have lifetime warranties like Icon and Quinn from Harbor Freight, Tekton, VIM, and Gearwrench. Also one last tip, the harbor freight quinn individual 90T ratches are identical to gearwrench and come from the same factory eith only cosmetic differences. You can save a few bucks at HF quinn rebadge and they have a great warranty process if you live near one.
I can not thank you enough for this practical "down to earth video". I have the older Craftsman tools that have been past down and some Pittsburgh stuff mixed in along with Husky..... I own one Snap-On wrench and it has not made me any smarter! Thanks again for what you do.
The one tip,I got helping a neighbour (mechanic, ) when I was about 16 was. Keep your tools clean, something I sill to today at 64. Sill remember friends asking why I helped him for free. Ok he never paid me in cash, but the free teaching have save me more over my life time
100% agree with you on IR guns, I bought my 1st one (IR231) as an auto tech student in 1989 and it’s still running strong. But have switch over to the M18/M12 stuff from Milwaukee
I really appreciate your videos. I didn't have a family background of tradesmen or mechanics but taught myself and joined a car club in high school and college. Eventually I joined a electrician union and that's my career. I recently balked at the prices of servicing my wife's Nissan and decided to do the brakes myself, then realized I should probably be doing the work myself to save money and ensure it is done right. Your videos have given me the extra push to do all of my servicing of my new car, a 4Runner. And, you made me happy with my purchase in how straightforward it is to work on. So thanks man.
I'm a tech at a truck dealership who owns almost exclusively Toyota vehicles. Your advice is very interesting from my perspective. It makes sense in hindsight having worked on my cars, but at my job, the trucks use a smattering of s.a.e. and metric, 3/4 inch drive is a must, but also a long 1/4inch ratchet for high torque in a cramped space. Love your videos! And your voice is oddly soothing
I have been a carpenter and amateur DIY mechanic for 30years. I also use the Dewalt 20volt and Milwaukee M12 and recommend both. Thank you that was the best tool advise.
Back in 1996 a friend of mine bought me my first tool set at Sears. It was a Craftsman 56 piece set. To this day, I still use that tool set. Yes I did added some screwdrivers and a dozen specialty tools. But that tool set allowed me to work on Import, Domestic and JDM vehicles as DIY mechanic. And the only power tool that I still have, is a Ryobi cordless drill that came with a flashlight.
Im a big advocate of starting with hand me downs! Go to garage sales and find old mechanics and tradesmen- tell them you need to put together a toolkit and are looking for pieces. I've met many great people who are glad to repurpose old tools to a starting DIY mechanic- I got old tool boxes full of automotive, soldering, electrical, etc equipment for great prices and people are just thankful to get rid of things they dont use amymore.
Why not buy a hyper tough for 1/3 of the price? Buy a Hypertough Walmart Extended Reach Cordless ratchet for $60. See if you save money over 2 years. If it breaks 2x your still ahead.
Was looking at buying a complete tool kit as I felt like I never had the right tools. After watching this video I now know have 95% of the tools I will need to keep working on my 03 sequoia. And I just did my front suspension this weekend with 3 trips to get specific tools I needed 😂
Thank you for this video. Getting ready to invest in some tools to do my own basic maintenance on my 06 Sequoia and 04 LX 470 and this saved me from making some uneducated purchases. Love this channel.
Make sure your power tool battery comes with a long warranty. While using the 1/2" impact for breakaway torque, you likely will encounter and cause the battery voltage to drop, which causes the tool to stop rather than constantly hammering/impacting the bolt/nut to removal. The battery is still technically good for lighter torques or use as a vacuum or flashlight, but the battery really needs to be a higher quality level to sustain voltage drops experienced during higher loads. During a warranty request, they usually will let you keep the defective battery which can be used for lesser demand tasks.
Hi!!! I just completed purshasing nearly all the tools (including power tools) as you recommended in the vid. My budget of costs was about $1,100.00 - $1,200.00 Thought subscribers may be interested. Thanks again for your help!!! Best!!!
The 13mm size is fairly common outside Toyota. I recommend having a complete set because it's annoying when you need the one size you're missing . Fairly common with metric sets although SAE are always in a complete sequence.
Thank you so much - I love your enthusiasm and passion to the point I decided to say F it and work on my car. This and other RUclipsrs helped me build my small set and so far been able to change my oil, change transmission temp sensor and taking the valve body out, power steering flush, and brakes. Overall the best investment in both education and time - lost my job and needed to keep myself busy while job hunting. Wish nothing but success for you ❤
Excellent video AMD! As a Canadian I want to add that I would highly recommend the brand MAXIMUM/Mastercraft which is from our national auto store, Canadian Tire. Most of these tools come with a lifetime replaceable warranty. I had a 13yr old 3/8" Mastercraft torque wrench which failed on me. Brought it in and they replaced it on the spot, no questions asked! Great service for us DIY'ers! Cheers!
This is a very educational video for the DYI or just starting to get into a toyota mechanic. However there are a few tools that were over looked. If you do tune ups such as changing spark plugs, they are a standard 5/8 deep plug socket, you will need a 8 inch extension. Its best to have one long and one short in your tool box. Because the engine block is most times are aluminum and the plugs are steel base you have to be careful when you install them back in the block, this is where you can over tighten them. This is where its advisable to have a 3/8 and 1/4 inch torgue wrench on hand. Too loose or too tight will be nothing but trouble. Tune ups are very easy to do just got to be careful on how it is done
Most of hand tools are 40 years old Craftsman from 10-40 piece sets, but I've rarely used any of the sockets or combination wrenches outside of 8-14mm on a Toyota or Honda I've maintained. (None of them are outstanding quality except for the plating.) I have 2 dedicated wrenches for oil and tire changes. All the hand tools I use for car work fit in a pocketed tool roll I keep in the car. The stuff I rarely use is in an old large tool box gathering dust. That's where the large sockets I needed once to replace a clutch and wheel bearing reside. I discarded all then blow molded cases and bags those tool came in. I have few automotive power tools - a DA polisher and a tire compresser. I have many more tools for carpentry, plumbing and light appliance repair than I do for automotive.
I have been running a 3/8s Dewalt impact for the last 6 years. I'm yet to break it. The battery seams to last for ever, never had one die on me. Good stuff man.
Great video. When I began a career as a technician I started with Honda and Acura. I went to Toyota after. Both dealers had some great veterans who showed me what they used daily. They helped me put together basic usable sets. Later on when i stated making decent $, I began getting other tools that I wanted or needed for other manufacturer used vehicles. 👍
Fully agree with you when you say it's not about the tool, but experience. If you are a DIY on a tight budget, you can be innovative to get the job done. 🇹🇹
About 1/3 of all my tools came from pawn shops including floor jacks, jack stands, torque wrenches and all kinds of air tools. If you spend some time and get to know the people at several pawn shops you will find deals on all kinds of things. Battery powered hand tools are so common at pawn shops that they have piles of them. One pawn owner has three semi trailers full of power tools. The down side is that you end up with a bunch of stuff. I now have five chain saws, three 1950s to 1970s drill press's along with tool boxes and tote after tote full of all kinds of hand tools.
One of my biggest suggestions no matter the brand of power tool try to buy the same brand with swappable batteries. You can very easily eliminate the waiting for batteries to charge issue by just simply swapping the battery from one tool to the current tool and charge the one that’s dead. I know you didn’t like snap on cordless tools but I work on semis and have had their smaller 3/8impact for almost 5 years. I use it every single day and it’s never let me down. Keeping the rule of batteries I went ahead and got a flashlight and ratchet that all use the same ones. Could be better options but the modularity of them is awesome! Hand tools I’ve never understood why people use so many different ratchets but it’s also because I work on semis so tight spaces exist but not super often. I have two 3/8 ratchets one standard fixed head and one flex head with a long handle. 1/4 I have a mini ratchet fixed head and a locking flex head with a decent handle on it. I love gear wrench on 1/4 I started with snap on 3/8 and never replaced any other than a 10 I broke not lost (shocking right?) cheaper brands work great for diy guys but professionals should not be afraid to buy cheaper stuff sometimes. I use metric mostly so I buy higher quality metric but cheap standard as I don’t use standard much. Half inch I’ve been super impressed with Pittsburgh impact sockets. Again I work on semis and I’ve never broken a Pittsburgh impact socket. Wrenches honestly I think the larger the wrench the less you really need to have be expensive as they don’t need to be super tight clearance or super tight tolerance. I suggest only getting ratchet and stubby wrenches as you need them. I don’t own any of either. My regular length snap on wrenches have done everything I need them to do and for larger wrenches over an inch I have craftsman which work perfectly for me. Don’t get caught up in sets as they can cost you a lot of money buying stuff you don’t need! I always buy individual tools if I can whenever I need them.
EXCELLENT. Too bad that there was not such advice readily available 40 years ago when I bought my first wrench. I could have saved thousands of headachess (and many dollars) over the year. For the 18 year old first timer - listen to the advice and don't follow my mistakes. The only brand specific advice I have is with cordless technology since batteries are typically not swappable between brands. Buy a brand (dewalt, makita, milwaukee, ryobi, etc.) and then get the tools.
Just an observation. 40 years ago, you were 18 plus 2 years for your comment makes you around 62. now... I'm 61 my self. That makes us that generation that for now has seen the most advancements in this world we live in. we were born before the pagers, cd players, cellphones. Ow boy how time has changed. by the way. I agree with your statement 100%. I my self have wasted so much on tools the I have only used once and some I bought in a deal that I have never used.
As a Toyota lube tech in texas. I think the no skip sets are a good idea. Sometimes we work on non Toyotas and sometimes Tundra lugs will swell to a 23mm. I have used a 20mm as well.
My only complaint is the Pittsburgh sets have skips like 16 mm. Their Quinn and Icon sets have no skips so just make sure you realize that before you buy if that is important to you.
In Canada, don't overlook the maximum line from Canadian Tire. The majority of them have been very good quality for the DIY mechanic. The rest of my tools are Legacy Craftsman and I have a few Snap-on
So true, my box is similar to his blue one. When I started working part time at a different shop it was so packed in that I had no room to bring my box in . I got 5 drawer rolling box with just the bare minimum taken out of my main box. You will be surprised at just how much you really dont need. I mean I didn't go all out and buy everything but bought as I needed it with the rule of calling for it at least 3 or 4 times. Also it feels nice for a change owning a smaller box and having fewer tools. Its a weird achievement, also a recognition feeling you get. Humbled but complete.
I had a friend who was always breaking tools (he abused the heck out of them) so he got what ever had the lifetime warranty so when they broke he just brought it back and got it replaced. A lot of the times i would buy tools from pawn shops from those brands that offer warranty's for their tools with out hesitation because if they break just get them replaced. Also Toyota factory's use Cordless Impact torq drivers 10v as the main fastener for the cars. Some are corded most cordless with computer shut off.
As a DIY for General Maintenance and Repairs for my Toyota's what I use at home, the majority of my tools are Craftsman. I don't really have an issue with them and I know they aren't the best quality anymore not being made in the USA but if I do have an issue you can take it Lowe's (thats if there's no Sears around). Lowe's honors replacements for Lifetime Warranty on hand tools only!
Not a mechanic by trade but I do work in a tool heavy trade. I agree with your opening statements. I like to tell people this: "An amateur loves their tools, A professional loves their craft."
I have several hand tools shaped from scrap metal and cheap factory products. (shaped with a grinder) e.g: quenching pin punch tip; cutting anti-slip slots on hammer; grinding rebars and quenching them for cold chisels; cutting an old hammer drill bit tip flat for loosening brake rotors; etc.
I'm a tool addict. I bought the OTC made in the usa ball joint press with the F150 adapter to replace my truck's ball joints and probably won't ever need it again.....
Very useful, because a beginner to Toyota can never possibly know this, no matter how studious, unless someone tells them. The only caveat is, if you buy different makes of car, or your wife etc has a different make or ‘size’ of car say, it’s inevitable you end up buying most of the sizes you don’t have! It’s always 8pm on a Sunday night, when you need the job finished, that you find that one darn bolt or nut, that’s a weird size, but your advice stands even this test - buying the whole lot blind, is costly, and if you can home in on a selection of sockets etc, you buy good ones. Don’t buy crud made out of cheese! Proper spanners, proper metal treated and tempered, and of the right alloy etc, costs proper money. And the first time you are forced to use a breaker bar, you will find out how good the sockets are. Usual top notch from CCN, thanks, take care all.
The odd sizes come handy for after market parts. Some struts bolts on topnare 15 mm instead if Toyota 14 mm for example. I don't have many 3/8, I buy 1/2 and use an adapter if I need to use a 3/8 ratchet. For power tools stick with one brand so you can use the same batteries across the whole line.
You should buy a basic Tool kit set for your specific vehicle. Like you said , some sizes you will never use. A basic 1/4 drive deep and shallow set contains: 8, 10,12, 14. And the same with 3/8 and 1/2 drives. I'm sure they expect you to take it to a mechanic for the hard stuff. Or you can watch this guy's how to and get it done right and do it yourself. I was wondering about what sizes to use. Thank you for the video!! Good video. For a 2012 Toyota Corolla S.
The snap-on crome swivel sockets are awesome! You get what you pay for. 40-80 dollars each. But in my opinion...well worth it. Impact swivel sockets I'm open to different brands .
Great topic , i collected my tools base on my work and always plane to buy on black-Friday or any day when sale is going on such as memorial day etc , and got knowledge while i use to go to the GYM , some people do the same exercise by using different machines and result same exercise for same muscle or portion for your body , same way sometimes tool work same way if you buy different brands etc , make sure the tool you have possible good for multipurpose use .
Another part about buying impact sockets is that you don't have to buy regular sockets for your ratchet you can use those with your ratchet but you can't use the regular socket with an impact if you end up getting an impact so you end up saving money in the long run if you just buy the slightly more expensive impact sockets in the first place because an impact gun is totally worth the investment
I bought a milwaukee 3/8 stubby impact and a 3/8 ratchet and those were life change for me. Does everything I need and the 12v impact will remove lugnuts too
What a great video once again Ahmed!!! I remember a long time ago seeing a movie where a dying father decides to record teaching videos for his unborn son. This should have been one of them :-) I really admire your teachings but also the quality and honesty of your production and content. No wonder your channel is growing so well - but I knew it would happen from the very beginning! Have a great week my friend and God bless!
Get a brand that is easy to warranty. Lowes, home depot, harbor freight. Always look for the discounted tools. A set of ratchet wrenches at lowes on discount was $24
I have mostly craftsman from 30 years ago, some Pittsburgh and some kobalt. All have worked fine for me but I seem to trust the Craftsman for knuckle busting stuff. I also have one of those harbor freight 4 drawer tool carts I got for like $120 that I can roll right out to the car filled with most everything I'll ever need. It's like my crash cart. Saves me a bunch of trips back and forth to my tool room. Also have a BMW so I have a bunch of E sockets that are harder to find a good assortment of. My main advice is to get 6 point sockets and box end wrenches. 12 points with tight bolts are no bueno.
I have a set of Wrightgrip combination wrenches (which have teeth on the open end) and a set of Matco double flex ratcheting wrenches (they are branded Matco, but Icon, ATD, mountain, and others sell the same set). They are awesome. I also have a set of Sunex 3/8 wobble sockets, they are truly amazing. I’ve always used adjustable wrenches for alignments, just so I don’t have to guess which sizes I need.
Another excellent video. And yes, I agree with not buying the "250 PC mechanics set".... learned thr hard way on that one 15 years ago. 😳. God bless my friend.
I started learning how to repair cars in the 70s with my Dad. Our first big project was a complete teardown and rebuild of a Dodge 270 cubic inches V8 for the Dodge Dart. (The same car I learned how to drive in three years later.) I still have some of the Craftsman sockets and wrenches from my Dad's tool kit.
One exception to that 10, 12, 14, 17 rule. 2005-2006 Siennas, the support bracket for rear exhaust. Next time you service one of these you'll be as shocked as I was the second time (first time I assumed it was just something a muffler shop or previous owner did). Look at the bolt head. Yep, ASME, grade 6. They're 3/8-20, which is a real oddball, too.
When both my sons graduated high school I gave them a craftsman tool set each. In those days they were made in the US. They use the sets to this day, well made not expensive tools.
Great Topic. I bought a 2006 LS 430 2 years ago on ebay. The car was 1 owner 99k miles i flew to Fort Lauderdale FL to pick it up. A lady who lived in Japan for half the year she sold international real estate. O agreed to pay the full asking price but only if ahe had the timing belt changed. I just drove it from New Orleans to Vernon Hills IL to visit my mom. I drove it during the lock downs when nobody was on the road for 5 hrs i never went under 100 mph. I paid twice as much for the 2016 Acuca rdx and i barely drive it anymore.
My parents owned a 4 family house that we lived in too. Always helped my Dad paint and do electrical & plumbing & carpentry fixes.
Never thought of it as "on the job training" when I was a teenager. Saved me thousands of dollars over the years with home ownership.
Still have a few tools we used.... great memories.... Thanks Dad....you are missed.
That sucks, divorces are always bad for the kids.
I’ll be 30 this month, and my dad did the same with me (or at least tried, I was a knucklehead back then) those times with dad now that he’s gone, he passed over 7 years ago now, are my best memories. Sounds like you had the same great dad.
@@joshhemingway7294 Sorry for your loss. I won't get into all the dumb ass things I did when I was young...but hopefully we all get wiser as we get older... Guess we all wish we could have some do-overs...
Good day, I’m glad to read that you had someone the took care of teaching you the basics to survive in this word. Thank God for him. I’m also glad that you recognize him as the great person on your side, blessings to you and your family. I strongly recommend all the fathers out there to do the same, teach your kids/teens or youngsters to defend their selves. Blessings. Unfortunately I grew up with out my dad, he was killed when I was four. I thank God there are still good people that are open to help, like they did with me.
I still have PTSD working with my dad, there were only 3 tools in the garage, a plier, screwdriver, and a wrench. Pick the wrong wrench, it always became a scene. Nowadays, if he needs help, it's better to just ignore him.
I remember when I first started I would binge watch all of Ericthe carguy's content and then Chris fix, Scanner Danner and now I'm binge watching all of AMD videos. The minute I see you post a video I watch it like it and love it thank you so much for everything
I still binge watch Scotty Kilmer's clips. He's funny AF and his advice on what to look for when buying vehicles is usually excellent. His repair advice however, is not that great. I remember one time, he was demonstrating how to do a cylinder compression test using a conventional compression gauge. He said if the insert that you screw into the spark plug hole is ever tight or gets jammed for any reason, spray it with WD40. Now, that stuff is petroleum-based and is flammable. You don't want to use it around anything where fire or combustion is present. Engine cylinders have both! The only lubricant that's safe to use on anything that screws into the spark plug holes is copper-based anti-seize, which you're supposed to apply to spark plug threads every time you remove or replace them for any reason.
@@je19662008 says who..? Have you personally ever tried to light wd40 with just the spark of a bic lighter.??. Try it 1st b4 you go and blather on the web. And FYI if you lube up those spark plugs, you for sure will throw what ever torque setting they’re supposed to be set at into the weeds.
Same
30 years in the Airlines, my Craftsman tools have served me well. Trucks and cars at home a mix even tools from Pittsburgh have been fine. Car care nut is absolutely correct, some my best tools are the cheapest tools. I have literally beat Harbour Freight tools to death and never failed me. Thanx for another great video.
@@Jj-gi2uv I don’t think so. I have more trouble getting a tool replaced with warranty. I go gear wrench or S&K mostly now. I really do have great luck at HF. No problems tearing stuff up. 👍
That’s because THEY USED to be the best, now their the worst
My first tools were hand me downs from my Dad. We went thru his ammo boxes of tools and I ended up with a ammo box of a variety but basic assortment. The beginning of my career. I ended up as a mechanic then as Lead mechanic at our school district for 31yrs with a fleet of 98 buses. Now a great retirement 👍
That's awesome.
I drove pass a City of Houston,TX, Fire department ambulance broken down on a city street.
Guess the city is cutting back on scheduled maintenance or laid off experienced mechanics. . .
Gear wrench is highly underrated too! Especially for a beginner. The prices are really really good. Bolt biters will change your life in the rust belt.
Excellent video on “proper@
Tools to purchase. As a none mechanic, its very good to know as a “home” user
A thank you once again for you open and honest opines
A lot of information provided that should be taken to heart.
.
Yep been using them for years my box is 75% gearwrench I love them and I have all the brands but I always go to my beloved gearwrench
@@jamesdodson9417 yep, they’re fantastic.
That's the most honest tool buying guide I have seen by far on the internet. Kudos! 👌
Yeah I agree! Most of the idiots on RUclips are tool truck fan boys. Of course they are going to say buy only snap on or MAC… when you spend a huge amount of money you have to justify it some way psychologically
When I built my toolset, I purchased All my Craftsman tools thru eBay. I Only bought vintage Craftsman tools “Made in USA”. They have served me extremely well.
I got super blessed and received my late father's snap on tool box filled with snap on wrenches, socket wrenches and a plethera of specialty tools. Most all snap on brand. He was a master Honda tech for almost 20 years. I'll admit I didn't realize how good I got it until i started working on my own cars more.
That was quite a memory to use your dads tools all the time. Keep them locked up better than you think. Would be sad to lose them.
Consider engraving all of them..
@@cayman9873 All mine are engraved with my house number. It is 4 digits. The chances of someone else having the same number is about 0%.
I feel the pride and joy you must feel! I have my old mans tools, lawn mower and car lol! I'm grateful and blessed too
@@starastronomer knew a new mech who used to put a grind mark on wrenchs showed him error of his way - grabbed wrench and add second grind mark and told him I used two marks lol changed his I D marking
AMD, Once again thanks for sharing your practical experience. Your video needs to contain a proviso that buying a Toyota may result in having a lot of dust gather on your tool collection while you wait for something to fail. In general, people can save a lot of money by buying second hand tools.
Thanks for an honest real world opinion. Some of these other tool RUclipsrs I swear sound like undercover Snap-On salesmen.
For a professional mechanic who is in a shop environment, Snap On is King. As stated in this video, a DIY application is far different. The truth is some Snap On stuff is a lot higher quality & far more DURABLE. Metallurgy is a thing. So it’s not a lie when someone says Snap On wrenches or sockets that are USA made are better than most Taiwan brands. This is a fact. Those who don’t understand manufacturing differences are ignorant to this. But for DIY there’s not a huge need to drop a lot of money on this type of tool. Cheers 🍻
Notes:
Basic Hand Tools:
1. Sockets [8, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19] [21, 22, 24, 27, 30, 32]
2. Hex [10, 8, 6, 5]
3. Breaker bar
Gear wrench
Im a Toyota Technician as well and I definitely agree with MOST of what was said EXCEPT ever since I started at toyota I bought this 216 Piece tool set from Craftman and I can’t see myself using any other alternatives as much as that set on a daily. No it doesn’t hqve everything and occasionally you might need socket wrenches that can give a little more leverage but that set is so masterfully organized and the 3 drawers are divided all 3/8 in one drawer, all 1/2 in another and all 1/4 in another and it helps me so much not needing to get up of the floor every 3 minutes if I forget something. It only cost me 100 dollars and has produced 1000’s in earnings without breaking or losing any of them
Also my experience I use Rigid and stand by that brand in regards to quality and price but Milwaukee is more versatile for a mechanic since the offer some really nice mechanic focused battery tools that Rigid doesn’t that said nothing out there competes with the Rigid subcompact impact wrenches they fit in a lot of uncomfortable areas and makes changing suspension componentes a breeze with a small impact wrench that wont damage anything since the torque isn’t overkill
Not a mechanic but I have a very similar if not the same set and it’s been fantastic. I’ve definitely used that 1/2 for things it’s not meant for and it’s held up great.
Do you know exactly which tool set it is you bought ? Name would be helpful, thanks
there is also a 230 piece similar box on special right now that includes torx sockets for 130$ on amazon but the wrenches are different looking so I don’t know if it’s the same quality
I’m an elevator mechanic. I still use old craftsman v series USA made stuff, Carlyle from Napa, and tekton from Amazon. I’ve got the added requirement that my tools must survive a fall.
Isn't that a hot second to the tool being able to function as a hammer? Lol
The v series Craftsman tools are very good. I also like Tekton tools.
Just updated my torque wrenches. Got a Kobalt 3/8" 20-100 Ft/Lb for $55 and an ICON 1/2" 50-250 Icon Flex for $159.
Awesome video! I got to replace the struts on my 99 Camry.
What I love is how easy Toyota has engineered the car to perform maintenance with minimal tools.
Well they don't make the oil change easy when you need a special tool to remove the filter cover. Poor design for what ? 😎
If you don't have the wobbly sockets and are working on the v6 you might be cursing those same engineers. 5sfe Camrys have access for days and are very easy to work on. One of the harder things to do on that car is actually the front sway bar bushings.
@@lejoshmont2093 yeah I have the 5sfe and I did the sway bar ends. It wasn’t too bad. But I’m happy it’s not the v6.
I don’t drive a Toyota. Still, I love your videos. I’m a simple diy Mercedes guy and in really every video you posted I’m impressed by your attitude. So honest and correct. Please go on giving people knowledge!
This video is the TRUTH from a guy that’s been there, and done that. 👍🏼
Building your tool kit is a life long thing. Way back in 1981 I bought a Stanley 1/2" metric/SAE socket set to work on my RX4, and it is still my main socket set today. Only last year I spent over $2500 in new tools at one retailer, and well over $4000 in unique test gear for my trade in communications electronics.... Yes, you are always buying more tools.
Am so glad I haven't needed to use any of my tools on my Toyota so far...even though so many live in the back of it, including the socket set...
I've been waiting for this one....great job! I agree, don't waste too much money on the professional grade stuff when other stuff will get the job done that we don't do every day! As a DIYer, I've found putting certain tools/items in those big orange Home Depot tool boxes (and are labeled) helps...I have "oil change" and "brake job" and "tire tools" and "electrical tools"...really makes the jobs go faster. And the 10mm socket stays on my little cheapo cordless power wrench...Toyota loves their 10mm bolts!
Harbor freight has great impact sockets. They can take quite a beating never one.
Now 76, I have been working on cars forever. Best tool: a jewelers eye 'lupe', 10 power.
Sold in sets at Harbor Freight, 5 for $5. Close exam of threads, sliver removal, worn off part numbers, black on black plastic ... and as I get older ... ya.
Biggest game changer for me this year was a 1/2 brushless Makita impact and a set of deep-well Icon impact sockets from harbor freight. The set goes down to 10mm, so the tool is so versatile for fastener removal-especially with the impact on Pwr Lvl 1 and in “fastener mode”, which auto-brakes once a fastener is loose, so as not to damage smaller stuff
Savage
Also handy tools are a 5/8" swivel magnetic spark plug socket (with a thin wall socket) and extra long Metric Allen Hex Bits (the 5mm is needed to remove/replace those intake manifolds). I, also, find myself using my needle nose pliers with 45 and 90 degree bends for a lot of things (hose clamps, cowl clips, etc.)
Great practical advice on this video. Based on the AMD rating scale I am just an "apprentice" that mostly does DIY brakes and suspension work. Having done brakes, struts, sway bar links, lower control arm, hubs, tie rods and more, I offer a couple of other tool considerations.
1) The corded impact drivers are another option that are bulky but reasonably good. Mine easily spins off lug nuts.
2) Jack stands. Since most of us DIYers don't have lifts and safety is at a premium getting under a vehicle consider jack stands made 100% in the USA.
I wish I've seen your video 15 years ago. I've spent a lot of money on tool sets and they're collecting dust in my garage. As a hack and DIY, I've been using the Astro Pneumatic Tools and I have no complaints. I don't know who makes their tools. I did purchase several Craftsman tool sets from Sears and 90% of them have not been used. I own Japanese cars and the SAE tools are still in the original box.
I bought one of those "mechanic's tool sets" (~ 300 pieces) about 20 years ago. I was lucky. It was the made in USA Craftsman variety. It was a really good value. I'm a fairly light DIY user so I still have the entire set without a single piece lost or broken. I guess I will sell them when I'm too old to use them.
how much for the whole set?
still have the entire set? Did you lock the 10mm spanner in a secure place lol
43 years at the Ford/Toyota dealership I have quite a collection of tools. I even have a special box of insulated tools for hybrid vehicles. Lucky for me, I bought a lot of new "real" Craftsman tools right before they turned to junk. Snap-On, I have very few, but they are specialty tools that see very heavy duty use. I can't justify the price of Snap-On tools for everyday wrenching. 100% agree on Husky and Gear Wrench, really good tools that have never failed me. Air tools...... Ingersoll-Rand all day!
Yes, I will own Toyotas forever. Thank you so much for this video. It's extremely helpful.
Pittsburgh and Quinn haven't let me down yet...
I will say, I feel very blessed to be able to use my dads tools for the repairs I've had to do so far.
He's slowly over my entire life collected quite a few and man is that a money saver.
Also, one can sometimes find good deals on tools at garage sales, auctions and places like that where (assuming you know what you're looking for) you can buy quality tools for quite cheap.
Great, solid advice, regardless of what make you’ll be working on, any newbie wanting to get the best bang for the buck will benefit by the wisdom shared in this video. Some common sizes may be different but the basic guidance given will steer you in the right direction. I’ve been working in & around mechanic shops for well over 40 years and have called on several thousand shops in the 15 plus years I’ve done outside sales. Some advice I can add: Milwaukee cordless rules by far for cordless tools, rarely do I see DeWalt or the Mac version of the same. The Milwaukee holds up very well and works terrific. My favorites of their line up are the fuel 1/4” M12 hex driver, the fuel 3/8” M12 stubby impact and the fuel M18 1/2” mid torque impact. Their high torque 1/2” is a total beast but is significantly bigger and unless you work on large trucks or equipment the mid torque should handle most folks needs. Their grease guns are great for service use, Also like the M12 ratchets. I have a 3/8 regular and am seriously thinking of trying the new fuel high speed. Stick with impact sockets rather than chrome, cheaper & tougher, just not as easy to spot if you drop one. Gearwrech tools are pretty popular, work very well, see lots of Sunex sockets, work great, hold up well and very reasonably priced. Ingersoll is the way to go for air tools, top notch. A good set of prybars is invaluable as is good lighting. I am very fond of my SnapOn ratchets, really a pleasure to use, one place I think paying extra is worth it, and their flank drive wrenches are wonderful, especially on goobered up nuts, but I got mine years ago when they were far more reasonable, no way would I spend what they’re going for now. Their hose removal tool and small pic set are both super too. Lastly, Knipex are worth what they cost for pliers etc IMHO, best I’ve tried.
20 years ago, I started changing oil, I bought my first socket set from Kmart, champion brand. I still have them, the metrics are dirty but the standard are still shiny.
I believe you will need 16 mm socket for the Toyota Supra wiper arm nuts assuming it uses the standard size as most BMWs. In a pinch, you can use 5/8 inch SAE as its close enough if you have that. Also for the supra, you will need a good set of torques and allen (hex) drivers and/or bits especially 8mm, T20 and T25. For the home diyer like myself with 3 different manufacturers in my garage, you should just get sockets, bits, and wrenches without skips. Make sure all your hand tools have lifetime warranties like Icon and Quinn from Harbor Freight, Tekton, VIM, and Gearwrench. Also one last tip, the harbor freight quinn individual 90T ratches are identical to gearwrench and come from the same factory eith only cosmetic differences. You can save a few bucks at HF quinn rebadge and they have a great warranty process if you live near one.
Pawn shops often have a bucket or two of sockets. If you're broke and patient that can be a really good way to put together a socket set
I can not thank you enough for this practical "down to earth video". I have the older Craftsman tools that have been past down and some Pittsburgh stuff mixed in along with Husky..... I own one Snap-On wrench and it has not made me any smarter! Thanks again for what you do.
The one tip,I got helping a neighbour (mechanic, ) when I was about 16 was. Keep your tools clean, something I sill to today at 64. Sill remember friends asking why I helped him for free. Ok he never paid me in cash, but the free teaching have save me more over my life time
100% agree with you on IR guns, I bought my 1st one (IR231) as an auto tech student in 1989 and it’s still running strong. But have switch over to the M18/M12 stuff from Milwaukee
I really appreciate your videos. I didn't have a family background of tradesmen or mechanics but taught myself and joined a car club in high school and college. Eventually I joined a electrician union and that's my career. I recently balked at the prices of servicing my wife's Nissan and decided to do the brakes myself, then realized I should probably be doing the work myself to save money and ensure it is done right. Your videos have given me the extra push to do all of my servicing of my new car, a 4Runner. And, you made me happy with my purchase in how straightforward it is to work on. So thanks man.
I bet she really appreciates your service! My Dad always did mine, and I sure miss him!
I'm a tech at a truck dealership who owns almost exclusively Toyota vehicles. Your advice is very interesting from my perspective. It makes sense in hindsight having worked on my cars, but at my job, the trucks use a smattering of s.a.e. and metric, 3/4 inch drive is a must, but also a long 1/4inch ratchet for high torque in a cramped space. Love your videos! And your voice is oddly soothing
I have been a carpenter and amateur DIY mechanic for 30years. I also use the Dewalt 20volt and Milwaukee M12 and recommend both. Thank you that was the best tool advise.
I've used 10mm socket by far the most on all types of different vehicles, that's the one I'm constantly replacing in my 220 piece set
Excellent advice. I've been DIYing for 50 years, and I had to discover much of what he recommends the hard way.
Back in 1996 a friend of mine bought me my first tool set at Sears. It was a Craftsman 56 piece set. To this day, I still use that tool set. Yes I did added some screwdrivers and a dozen specialty tools. But that tool set allowed me to work on Import, Domestic and JDM vehicles as DIY mechanic. And the only power tool that I still have, is a Ryobi cordless drill that came with a flashlight.
The 👎 is from someone who bought a complete tool kit right before watching this video. 😁
Why you have to be right😁.
I bought so many tools.
Just to end up with a Pittsburgh 301pc set.
🤣 🤣 🤪
@@charlespayne1909 That 301 set is low key one of the best when it comes to kits though.
Lol that was the best message!
Right outside of the return date
Im a big advocate of starting with hand me downs! Go to garage sales and find old mechanics and tradesmen- tell them you need to put together a toolkit and are looking for pieces. I've met many great people who are glad to repurpose old tools to a starting DIY mechanic- I got old tool boxes full of automotive, soldering, electrical, etc equipment for great prices and people are just thankful to get rid of things they dont use amymore.
Why not buy a hyper tough for 1/3 of the price? Buy a Hypertough Walmart Extended Reach Cordless ratchet for $60. See if you save money over 2 years. If it breaks 2x your still ahead.
Was looking at buying a complete tool kit as I felt like I never had the right tools. After watching this video I now know have 95% of the tools I will need to keep working on my 03 sequoia. And I just did my front suspension this weekend with 3 trips to get specific tools I needed 😂
Thank you for this video. Getting ready to invest in some tools to do my own basic maintenance on my 06 Sequoia and 04 LX 470 and this saved me from making some uneducated purchases. Love this channel.
Make sure your power tool battery comes with a long warranty. While using the 1/2" impact for breakaway torque, you likely will encounter and cause the battery voltage to drop, which causes the tool to stop rather than constantly hammering/impacting the bolt/nut to removal. The battery is still technically good for lighter torques or use as a vacuum or flashlight, but the battery really needs to be a higher quality level to sustain voltage drops experienced during higher loads. During a warranty request, they usually will let you keep the defective battery which can be used for lesser demand tasks.
Hi!!! I just completed purshasing nearly all the tools (including power tools) as you recommended in the vid. My budget of costs was about $1,100.00 - $1,200.00 Thought subscribers may be interested. Thanks again for your help!!! Best!!!
The 13mm size is fairly common outside Toyota. I recommend having a complete set because it's annoying when you need the one size you're missing . Fairly common with metric sets although SAE are always in a complete sequence.
Thank you so much - I love your enthusiasm and passion to the point I decided to say F it and work on my car. This and other RUclipsrs helped me build my small set and so far been able to change my oil, change transmission temp sensor and taking the valve body out, power steering flush, and brakes. Overall the best investment in both education and time - lost my job and needed to keep myself busy while job hunting. Wish nothing but success for you ❤
Excellent video AMD! As a Canadian I want to add that I would highly recommend the brand MAXIMUM/Mastercraft which is from our national auto store, Canadian Tire. Most of these tools come with a lifetime replaceable warranty. I had a 13yr old 3/8" Mastercraft torque wrench which failed on me. Brought it in and they replaced it on the spot, no questions asked! Great service for us DIY'ers! Cheers!
This is a very educational video for the DYI or just starting to get into a toyota mechanic. However there are a few tools that were over looked. If you do tune ups such as changing spark plugs, they are a standard 5/8 deep plug socket, you will need a 8 inch extension. Its best to have one long and one short in your tool box. Because the engine block is most times are aluminum and the plugs are steel base you have to be careful when you install them back in the block, this is where you can over tighten them. This is where its advisable to have a 3/8 and 1/4 inch torgue wrench on hand. Too loose or too tight will be nothing but trouble. Tune ups are very easy to do just got to be careful on how it is done
Most of hand tools are 40 years old Craftsman from 10-40 piece sets, but I've rarely used any of the sockets or combination wrenches outside of 8-14mm on a Toyota or Honda I've maintained. (None of them are outstanding quality except for the plating.) I have 2 dedicated wrenches for oil and tire changes. All the hand tools I use for car work fit in a pocketed tool roll I keep in the car. The stuff I rarely use is in an old large tool box gathering dust. That's where the large sockets I needed once to replace a clutch and wheel bearing reside. I discarded all then blow molded cases and bags those tool came in. I have few automotive power tools - a DA polisher and a tire compresser. I have many more tools for carpentry, plumbing and light appliance repair than I do for automotive.
I have been running a 3/8s Dewalt impact for the last 6 years. I'm yet to break it. The battery seams to last for ever, never had one die on me. Good stuff man.
Being an Electrician, I know all about having the right tool for the job. Loved the video CCN.
You are my favorite spot on RUclips. Continued success, AMD.
Great video. When I began a career as a technician I started with Honda and Acura. I went to Toyota after. Both dealers had some great veterans who showed me what they used daily. They helped me put together basic usable sets. Later on when i stated making decent $, I began getting other tools that I wanted or needed for other manufacturer used vehicles. 👍
Get familiar with your local harbor freight
I like his hand movements, he must have learned them from Scotty. Makes it so much easier to understand. 😃
Fully agree with you when you say it's not about the tool, but experience.
If you are a DIY on a tight budget, you can be innovative to get the job done. 🇹🇹
About 1/3 of all my tools came from pawn shops including floor jacks, jack stands, torque wrenches and all kinds of air tools. If you spend some time and get to know the people at several pawn shops you will find deals on all kinds of things. Battery powered hand tools are so common at pawn shops that they have piles of them. One pawn owner has three semi trailers full of power tools. The down side is that you end up with a bunch of stuff. I now have five chain saws, three 1950s to 1970s drill press's along with tool boxes and tote after tote full of all kinds of hand tools.
This is a good video. I’ve been wrenching for 30 plus yrs. The tool doesn’t fix the car the mechanic’s knowledge fixes the car
One of my biggest suggestions no matter the brand of power tool try to buy the same brand with swappable batteries. You can very easily eliminate the waiting for batteries to charge issue by just simply swapping the battery from one tool to the current tool and charge the one that’s dead. I know you didn’t like snap on cordless tools but I work on semis and have had their smaller 3/8impact for almost 5 years. I use it every single day and it’s never let me down. Keeping the rule of batteries I went ahead and got a flashlight and ratchet that all use the same ones. Could be better options but the modularity of them is awesome!
Hand tools I’ve never understood why people use so many different ratchets but it’s also because I work on semis so tight spaces exist but not super often. I have two 3/8 ratchets one standard fixed head and one flex head with a long handle. 1/4 I have a mini ratchet fixed head and a locking flex head with a decent handle on it. I love gear wrench on 1/4 I started with snap on 3/8 and never replaced any other than a 10 I broke not lost (shocking right?) cheaper brands work great for diy guys but professionals should not be afraid to buy cheaper stuff sometimes. I use metric mostly so I buy higher quality metric but cheap standard as I don’t use standard much. Half inch I’ve been super impressed with Pittsburgh impact sockets. Again I work on semis and I’ve never broken a Pittsburgh impact socket.
Wrenches honestly I think the larger the wrench the less you really need to have be expensive as they don’t need to be super tight clearance or super tight tolerance. I suggest only getting ratchet and stubby wrenches as you need them. I don’t own any of either. My regular length snap on wrenches have done everything I need them to do and for larger wrenches over an inch I have craftsman which work perfectly for me.
Don’t get caught up in sets as they can cost you a lot of money buying stuff you don’t need! I always buy individual tools if I can whenever I need them.
EXCELLENT. Too bad that there was not such advice readily available 40 years ago when I bought my first wrench. I could have saved thousands of headachess (and many dollars) over the year. For the 18 year old first timer - listen to the advice and don't follow my mistakes. The only brand specific advice I have is with cordless technology since batteries are typically not swappable between brands. Buy a brand (dewalt, makita, milwaukee, ryobi, etc.) and then get the tools.
Just an observation. 40 years ago, you were 18 plus 2 years for your comment makes you around 62. now... I'm 61 my self. That makes us that generation that for now has seen the most advancements in this world we live in. we were born before the pagers, cd players, cellphones. Ow boy how time has changed. by the way. I agree with your statement 100%. I my self have wasted so much on tools the I have only used once and some I bought in a deal that I have never used.
As a DIYer I've been impressed by Tekton especially the Ratchet sets and standard Wrenches. Great Video!
I have added on tekton stuff in the last years and have been very happy with them
I've got the full socket and wrench sets. Get a lot of tool for your buck. Easy to turn a profit for an entry mechanic.
As a Toyota lube tech in texas. I think the no skip sets are a good idea. Sometimes we work on non Toyotas and sometimes Tundra lugs will swell to a 23mm. I have used a 20mm as well.
Amazingly Harbor Freight has some really good socket sets.
My only complaint is the Pittsburgh sets have skips like 16 mm. Their Quinn and Icon sets have no skips so just make sure you realize that before you buy if that is important to you.
In Canada, don't overlook the maximum line from Canadian Tire. The majority of them have been very good quality for the DIY mechanic. The rest of my tools are Legacy Craftsman and I have a few Snap-on
So true, my box is similar to his blue one. When I started working part time at a different shop it was so packed in that I had no room to bring my box in . I got 5 drawer rolling box with just the bare minimum taken out of my main box. You will be surprised at just how much you really dont need. I mean I didn't go all out and buy everything but bought as I needed it with the rule of calling for it at least 3 or 4 times. Also it feels nice for a change owning a smaller box and having fewer tools. Its a weird achievement, also a recognition feeling you get. Humbled but complete.
As a Toyota Camry owner , I really appreciate you , thanks for taking the time for making DIY a little less intimidating
I had a friend who was always breaking tools (he abused the heck out of them) so he got what ever had the lifetime warranty so when they broke he just brought it back and got it replaced. A lot of the times i would buy tools from pawn shops from those brands that offer warranty's for their tools with out hesitation because if they break just get them replaced. Also Toyota factory's use Cordless Impact torq drivers 10v as the main fastener for the cars. Some are corded most cordless with computer shut off.
As a DIY for General Maintenance and Repairs for my Toyota's what I use at home, the majority of my tools are Craftsman. I don't really have an issue with them and I know they aren't the best quality anymore not being made in the USA but if I do have an issue you can take it Lowe's (thats if there's no Sears around). Lowe's honors replacements for Lifetime Warranty on hand tools only!
Not a mechanic by trade but I do work in a tool heavy trade. I agree with your opening statements. I like to tell people this: "An amateur loves their tools, A professional loves their craft."
Not true, professionals love their tools too.
AMD- I’ve been following you for quite a while now. You are not only informative you also present well and clearly. Bravo!
I have several hand tools shaped from scrap metal and cheap factory products. (shaped with a grinder) e.g: quenching pin punch tip; cutting anti-slip slots on hammer; grinding rebars and quenching them for cold chisels; cutting an old hammer drill bit tip flat for loosening brake rotors; etc.
I'm a tool addict. I bought the OTC made in the usa ball joint press with the F150 adapter to replace my truck's ball joints and probably won't ever need it again.....
My best friends are 10mm, 14mm, 17mm and 21mm. These are a must on all Toyota vehicles
Very useful, because a beginner to Toyota can never possibly know this, no matter how studious, unless someone tells them. The only caveat is, if you buy different makes of car, or your wife etc has a different make or ‘size’ of car say, it’s inevitable you end up buying most of the sizes you don’t have! It’s always 8pm on a Sunday night, when you need the job finished, that you find that one darn bolt or nut, that’s a weird size, but your advice stands even this test - buying the whole lot blind, is costly, and if you can home in on a selection of sockets etc, you buy good ones. Don’t buy crud made out of cheese! Proper spanners, proper metal treated and tempered, and of the right alloy etc, costs proper money. And the first time you are forced to use a breaker bar, you will find out how good the sockets are. Usual top notch from CCN, thanks, take care all.
The odd sizes come handy for after market parts. Some struts bolts on topnare 15 mm instead if Toyota 14 mm for example. I don't have many 3/8, I buy 1/2 and use an adapter if I need to use a 3/8 ratchet. For power tools stick with one brand so you can use the same batteries across the whole line.
You should buy a basic Tool kit set for your specific vehicle. Like you said , some sizes you will never use.
A basic 1/4 drive deep and shallow set contains: 8, 10,12, 14. And the same with 3/8 and 1/2 drives. I'm sure they expect you to take it to a mechanic for the hard stuff. Or you can watch this guy's how to and get it done right and do it yourself.
I was wondering about what sizes to use. Thank you for the video!!
Good video. For a 2012 Toyota Corolla S.
Another video proving once again how great this channel is. Now, if he only had a Honda twin.....
The snap-on crome swivel sockets are awesome! You get what you pay for. 40-80 dollars each. But in my opinion...well worth it. Impact swivel sockets I'm open to different brands .
Thank you. Don't forget a good jack and ramps as well. Eventually you can save up enough money for a lift :)
Take care
Great topic , i collected my tools base on my work and always plane to buy on black-Friday or any day when sale is going on such as memorial day etc , and got knowledge while i use to go to the GYM , some people do the same exercise by using different machines and result same exercise for same muscle or portion for your body , same way sometimes tool work same way if you buy different brands etc , make sure the tool you have possible good for multipurpose use .
Another part about buying impact sockets is that you don't have to buy regular sockets for your ratchet you can use those with your ratchet but you can't use the regular socket with an impact if you end up getting an impact so you end up saving money in the long run if you just buy the slightly more expensive impact sockets in the first place because an impact gun is totally worth the investment
I bought a milwaukee 3/8 stubby impact and a 3/8 ratchet and those were life change for me. Does everything I need and the 12v impact will remove lugnuts too
What a great video once again Ahmed!!! I remember a long time ago seeing a movie where a dying father decides to record teaching videos for his unborn son. This should have been one of them :-) I really admire your teachings but also the quality and honesty of your production and content. No wonder your channel is growing so well - but I knew it would happen from the very beginning! Have a great week my friend and God bless!
Hi Stephane! Thank you for watching my brother! Hope you’re doing well.
Get a brand that is easy to warranty. Lowes, home depot, harbor freight. Always look for the discounted tools. A set of ratchet wrenches at lowes on discount was $24
I've heard nothing but bad things about Harbor Freight.
I have mostly craftsman from 30 years ago, some Pittsburgh and some kobalt. All have worked fine for me but I seem to trust the Craftsman for knuckle busting stuff. I also have one of those harbor freight 4 drawer tool carts I got for like $120 that I can roll right out to the car filled with most everything I'll ever need. It's like my crash cart. Saves me a bunch of trips back and forth to my tool room. Also have a BMW so I have a bunch of E sockets that are harder to find a good assortment of. My main advice is to get 6 point sockets and box end wrenches. 12 points with tight bolts are no bueno.
I have a set of Wrightgrip combination wrenches (which have teeth on the open end) and a set of Matco double flex ratcheting wrenches (they are branded Matco, but Icon, ATD, mountain, and others sell the same set). They are awesome. I also have a set of Sunex 3/8 wobble sockets, they are truly amazing. I’ve always used adjustable wrenches for alignments, just so I don’t have to guess which sizes I need.
Another excellent video. And yes, I agree with not buying the "250 PC mechanics set".... learned thr hard way on that one 15 years ago. 😳. God bless my friend.
I fully agree IR air tools are the way to go. Snap on required a min of 90lbs pressure. IR is happy under 90.
This man is AMAZING! Thank you.
I started learning how to repair cars in the 70s with my Dad. Our first big project was a complete teardown and rebuild of a Dodge 270 cubic inches V8 for the Dodge Dart. (The same car I learned how to drive in three years later.)
I still have some of the Craftsman sockets and wrenches from my Dad's tool kit.
One exception to that 10, 12, 14, 17 rule.
2005-2006 Siennas, the support bracket for rear exhaust. Next time you service one of these you'll be as shocked as I was the second time (first time I assumed it was just something a muffler shop or previous owner did). Look at the bolt head. Yep, ASME, grade 6. They're 3/8-20, which is a real oddball, too.
Great review I like when you call out a company when their product is not worth the money.
When both my sons graduated high school I gave them a craftsman tool set each. In those days they were made in the US. They use the sets to this day, well made not expensive tools.
Great Topic. I bought a 2006 LS 430 2 years ago on ebay. The car was 1 owner 99k miles i flew to Fort Lauderdale FL to pick it up. A lady who lived in Japan for half the year she sold international real estate. O agreed to pay the full asking price but only if ahe had the timing belt changed. I just drove it from New Orleans to Vernon Hills IL to visit my mom. I drove it during the lock downs when nobody was on the road for 5 hrs i never went under 100 mph. I paid twice as much for the 2016 Acuca rdx and i barely drive it anymore.