Building a Beginners Toolkit

[mcliquid]

Hello all --

2000

C2 cab

6 speed

US

I just bought a 2000 C2 Cab. I am not a mechanic by any means, but can find my way around my Audi's to change the Air and fuel filters, Fill Fluids, change spark plugs. I have ventured into fixing locks, arm rests, and window issues. I generally go to C&G performance in Pittsburgh for my Brakes, Oil, Sensors, etc.

I did some searching on the site and didn't see a list for starter set of nice to have tools for DYI projects. So I am for advice on tools to buy. I want to build a toolkit that will contain the right tools for simple DYI repairs.

Thanks,

Tom

[gandrade1]

Excellent topic.

I am also interested in the feedback.

So far I have purchased a torque wrench at Home Depot (Husky);a tool set from the same brand with several distinct sockets, extension and two drivers;a low profile jack and 4 jack stands from Sears;a torx bit set also from Sears; an oil cap 'socket' from Autozone and a simple screwdriver set.

Best,

Gus

[Loren]

Hmm... I would say:

- a good set of metric sockets, and combination wrenches

- a set of common torx drivers and metric allen wrenches

- a low cost torque wrench that is used just for wheels

- a mid to upper range torque wrench for engine and suspension use

- a good low profile jack

- a minimum of two jack stands

That should be a good start (IMHO).

[mcliquid]

Thanks Folks Very helpful!!!

How about a Spark Plug socket? Depth: Shallow, Deep / Joint: Standard (none), Swivel, double swivel, universal or flex extension.

Torque wrenches: What ft-lbs are usually used? 5-75 ft-lb, 20-100 ft-lb, 50 -250 ft-lb or 80-400 ft-lb

Thanks again,

Tom

[Loren]

Yes, you will need a 4" wobble extension for the spark plugs and a stubby ratchet helps too. The spark plug socket is standard.

Most of the torqued things you would change are under 100 ft-lb.

[wross996TT]

you might add some security torx drivers.

[Richard Hamilton]

And E/Torx Star Sockets

[gandrade1]

you might add some security torx drivers.

Security Torx ?

[Loren]

For the MAF sensor.

[demosan]

you might add some security torx drivers.

Security Torx ?

Security torx bits are the ones that have a small hole in the center of the bit. As their name implies, they are designed to provide some protection for "improper" DIY's getting into trouble. The MAP sensor torx screws fall in to this category in my 02 C4S as I recall.

get a set, they are inexpensive and will prevent much frrustration when trying to do some "unscheduled" DIY work.

demosan

[70Sixter]

You got good starter advice. My rules from experience:

--NEVER buy cheap, low quality tools.

--If you need a tool buy it, don't borrow it (unless it is rare and/or very expensive).

--Better to have a tool you never use that to not have one you need.

-- You can build a great tool collection by adding to your "starter set" as you need or anticipate needs over a period of years.

And to the list I'd add low profile ramps, a large oil collector/container and a set of chocks.

Go to Griot's Garage and drool.

[mcliquid]

OK so here is the list so far, I am including potential store for purchase.

[sears, Home Depot, Lowes, Snap-on]

All Sizes are metric:

General sets:

Socket

Combination wrenches

Screw drivers

Torx star sets:

Star Sockets

Security drivers(hole in center) (MAF Sensor)

Spark Plugs:

Standard Spark Plug socket

4"swivel extenstion

Stubby Ratchet

Low Torque wrench < 100 ft-lbs for wheels.

Mid - high end Torque wrench < 100 ft-lbs for engine

[Auto Zone]

Oil Cap Socket

2-4 jack stands

1 low profile jack

12 Quart fluid catch pan

Nice to have:

DeoxIT D5 to clean seat belt clips under seat for airbag light.

Can of CRC/Carb Cleaner for throtle body cleaning.

[1999Porsche911]

I would not buy a single screw driver before I got a generic scanner for all my OBD2 cars. No sense in working on a car blind.

[wross996TT]

I would not buy a single screw driver before I got a generic scanner for all my OBD2 cars. No sense in working on a car blind.

Great advice! But I would spring for the Durametric....of course I have done a couple of mods and need that level of detail and resetting.

[SBDinATL]

- a low cost torque wrench that is used just for wheels

- a mid to upper range torque wrench for engine and suspension use

That should be a good start (IMHO).

Any suggestions on brands and cost for a low end and a mid/upper range?

Thanks

[whs]

- a low cost torque wrench that is used just for wheels

- a mid to upper range torque wrench for engine and suspension use

That should be a good start (IMHO).

Any suggestions on brands and cost for a low end and a mid/upper range?

Thanks

You can buy a "low end" wrench at Auto Zone, Pep Boys or any other car supplier for ~$30. These are generally big wrenches for up to 100 - 120 lbs. They are probably reasonably accurate within a few pounds. The torque for your wheels is 95 lbs, so if you are off a couple, no big deal. For lower torque, you may want a more precise tool. Your decision here will be based on how big your want the wrench and the torque range. I would say buy when you need for what you need.

Will