Most valuable tools you own

Hi, I’m wondering what everyone’s most essential, favourite tools are for modding and servicing their 4 Runners. I realize that this is subjective, and we all have different work styles, skills, and budgets but the diversity should be interesting. I’m always open to new gear and tools, what’s everyone using that’s the most essential for them?

 

Your brain

/end thread

 

Torque wrench..... some of the most overlooked are proper torque specs. There is a reason the torque specs were developed (bolt stretch, shear possibility, binding etc.) not just numbers put on paper to look 'scientific'. Greetings to Canada!

 

Good one, @A&P i have one of those as well, and I don’t thing I could have tightened up the bolts on my Victory 4x4 bumpers without it. Great for tight spaces!

 

Big, long ass ratchet for every single rusted and over tightened bolt.

 

Having done a lot of work at home, some tools and garage items that have been invaluable:

-plastic trim removal tools
-combination ratcheting wrench sets
-1/2" 250ftlb torque wrench to properly seat front axle nuts after removal
-spare SS grade 10.9 flare nuts, bolts, and washers from m4 through m14 size
-large metric sized (ie. 14-27mm) extra low profile AND long impact wrench sockets
-those drive-on ramps from Home Depot/Lowes/Harbor Freight for simple work where wheels don't have to come off
-proper high reach floor jack (once you lift our little bottle jacks just don't cut it)
-MANY 5 gal buckets
-having more than 1 set of tools... when my battery was dying and I had to go to Costco and swap it at the parking lot I got weird looks, but I got it done

Probably tons more others can add

 

great answers and suggestions, @iamincrediboy ! Especially the trim tools, probably the most underrated tools in my little shop, lol. I finally broke down and bought a set, and they are really essential for working on modern vehicles when adding mods and accessories so that you don't damage the interior panels that you inevitably end up removing. Thanks!

 

One of my favorite tools, although not used often, is my ridgid 18v impact wrench. I have a pneumatic also, but the electric is awesome and works great!

I always pack it on off-road trips, turning a tire change or other repair into a much easier task in an already precarious situation.

To be fair, I haven’t used it on the 4R yet, but super handy to have.

 

BFH

 

That's a hard question to answer. If i need a tool i buy it and then it will sit buried with most of my carpentry stuff from a past life. I guess the go to besides knowledge would be a good headlamp.

 

This should generate some grins. My "Stop Tool" was handed down to me as part of my dad's Snap-On rolling tool box (he willed them to me via his estate when he passed). He was a diesel mechanic for GM.

This "tool" was made out of a circa 60's Detroit Diesel fuel stop cable. He formed a hook on the end and I still use it today (mostly for fishing things out of places they should not be).

 

Improvised special purpose tools are so cool. Love it.

 

I recognized this "special tool" right away, started driving truck with one of these in the cab.

 

Kind of silly, but a simple set of ratcheting wrenches has proven invaluable for me. I wished I had bought a set sooner! *laughs*

 

M18 ratchet and my flex head ratchet. Those two are invaluable

 

It's too hard to choose...

 

Easy. Choose the red one.

 

See if i can date myself with this necessary tool of the past.

 

The old "points" screwdriver.

 

Telescoping magnet. Fished countless washers, nuts, cotter pins, screws, etc. from some black hole in the engine compartment, a-pillar, frame and such.

 

I had a B&D Snakelight years ago that was very useful. It eventually died, and I've not replaced it - I wonder if they still make those...?

Well, upon checking, they apparently do:

https://www.blackanddecker.com/prod...um-snakelight-rechargeable-flashlight/bdcf4sl

 

Battery powered impact wrench
Torque wrench
Set of metric speed wrenches
Set of metric sockets

Sorry I couldn't list just one

 

Recently? YouTube.

I've attempted more projects after watching someone else's go at them than I ever would have otherwise. Gave me the inspiration to install my lift myself, plus many more projects in addition. YT can also be valuable for how not to do something.

 

Title did say tools.

 

Socket set that is hex shaped instead of those stupid 8 point sockets that round off bolts. Torque wrench, and a breaker bar.

 

Lessons from the shop, a well laid out tool box is my favorite tool.

The worst tool to have is one you can't find when you need it.