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OT— recommendations on mechanics’ tool kit < $200

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Old 02-06-2018, 10:09 AM
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OT— recommendations on mechanics’ tool kit < $200

disclaimer— OP is honestly the worst, least inclined mechanic the world has ever seen, but I’m tired of random tools in my toolbox ( i.e junk box).

I’m assuming made in the USA are better, and instead of specific kits(although that could be helpful), perhaps the brand name is a better place to start.

Are sockets that are compatible with impact drills expected in most quality tool sets or do they need to be bought separately.

Also separate from the too kit, what would be a appropriate size torque wrench for most automotive/rv applications.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 10:22 AM
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This is a pretty solid foundation for a good tool set. No pliers or adjustable wrenches..or screwdrivers in it. Just sockets and a bunch the allen wrenches. None the less, I carry this in my truck with me. Sadly for you, this was on sale over Christmas for $100! (when I got it)

Husky 268 pc. tool set
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 10:29 AM
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I will jump in with what I went with for a torque wrench... Tekton 1/2" drive 25-250 ft/lb, it is not a Snap-on, but I don't really need that quality/price. Covers everything I needed for 5th wheel hitch, trailer wheels & truck:

Amazon Amazon
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 10:53 AM
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Harbor freight actually has decent hand tools with a lifetime warranty. I bought a kit to keep in my truck box. Now when i was full time wrenching on aircraft i used snap on and the other big names and still have all that stuff which is great. But at home i abuse my harbor freight hand tools and they keep on going. I have only broken the t handle allen wrenches and they replaced the whole set when i brought it in.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 11:41 AM
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Costco! I have a tool kit I bought for $70 there and it has lasted me nearly 10 years. I have rebuilt several motors with them. Great quality and guaranteed for life. It misses some important things like a breaker bar or specialty tools but for the most part they are excellent starter kits.

This is not as varied as the kit I bought but is a great place to start:

https://www.costco.com/DEWALT-74-pie...100378845.html
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 12:21 PM
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I would buy a good ratchet and socket set, and then fill in everything else you need with Harbor Freight stuff. I wouldn't try to make my living with tools from HF, but for occasional use, they hold up quite well. I mean really, how much difference could there be with a 3/8" extension from HF vs. one from Snap On, but there is a significant difference in cost.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 12:24 PM
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Klein screwdrivers. Sunex impact sockets.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 01:09 PM
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I bought this one from HF, for $38, its a nice little set to have under the back seat. It fits perfectly if you have the Crew Cab under seat storage as well.

http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-to...ase-63248.html
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 01:10 PM
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Go to Sears and get the craftsman kit at your 200.00 dollar budget and then add additional tools (specialty) as you need them. A torque wrench to 250-300 lbs would be a good initial investment.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 01:55 PM
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Originally Posted by ZAUskycop
This is a pretty solid foundation for a good tool set. No pliers or adjustable wrenches..or screwdrivers in it. Just sockets and a bunch the allen wrenches. None the less, I carry this in my truck with me. Sadly for you, this was on sale over Christmas for $100! (when I got it)

Husky 268 pc. tool set
I bought pretty much this set from Home Depot around Christmas for $100...but it also included a 3-drawer tool box with roller bearing draws and plastic trays that fit each socket in place. I keep it in my mowing trailer (have lots of tools at home) but this seems to be decent quality.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 03:25 PM
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What does "OT" stand for?
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 03:28 PM
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Another vote for Husky here.

I have been using Husky hand tools for a long time now and have been very happy with their quality.

They have a wide variety of kits to choose from. I would recommend using the Home Depot website to see all of their kits as I have found that the stores typically do not stock all they have to choose from.

Be aware also a good part of the truck is metric.
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 03:30 PM
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Originally Posted by xxxsherpa
What does "OT" stand for?
OT = Off Topic
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 05:19 PM
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Originally Posted by b-foster
OT = Off Topic
Thanks. Off topic because it's not about Ford Trucks?
 
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Old 02-06-2018, 05:33 PM
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Originally Posted by xxxsherpa
Thanks. Off topic because it's not about Ford Trucks?
exactly. Gives those a heads up if they are not interested in a non-Ford truck thread
 


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