What are some tools you need when starting to do basic DIY Mechanical work and possible home improvement in the future. (midwest.social)

submitted 1 month ago by Edgarallenpwn@midwest.social to c/asklemmy@lemmy.world

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I took my wife's car into the dealership for a warranty a few weeks ago and while they were checking stuff, they said the car needed 1300 dollars of work (piston soak and replace some transmission parts). I ended up doing the soak with my grandpa and took it to a shop for the transmission (wasnt even an issue, just a rivot replacement on a wheel well cover) and ended up saving 700 dollars after accounting for tools, jacks, jack stands, etc.

I want to start working on my own cars for things that can be done easily without expensive specialized tools, and I might be buying a house in the next year. I just want to start getting a decent collection of tools to hopefully save money in the long run.

I currently have a huge range of screwdrivers, soldering equipment, plyer set, socket set, file set, wire cutters and a small tool kit with some misc stuff.

I am mainly looking towards a torque wrench and a good spanner/wrench set, but looking for suggestions on what to get. Holding off on power tools until I wrap my head around brands and batteries.

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[-] EndOfLine@lemmy.world 12 points 1 month ago

Here are a couple of items that I wish that I had picked up earlier. They are not required, but they greatly simplified my life.

headlamp: Trying to balance or prop up a flashlight while working used to result in so much frustration.
tin sheers: I love these so much that they have replaced scissors in most day-to-day applications
flexible drill bit extender: So many screws are in places inaccessible to a drill body. This inexpensive item solves that problem. Magnetic wristbands: Keep those screws and bits from getting lost.
level that is at least 2ft long: I really appreciate having a level that can span two studs (16")
precision / mini needle nose pliers: I don't need them often, but when I do I am always happy that I have them
painters tape: I am surpised how often I use painters tape for all sorts of applications

[-] Edgarallenpwn@midwest.social 2 points 1 month ago

My grandpa was a painter so I understand how awesome painters tape is lol.

I was gifted a 3FT level and have some long needle nose pliers. Got some flexible extenders at the store when I was buying stuff for the last project. A good headlamp or bright lantern is definitely on my list

this post was submitted on 27 Nov 2024

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