Specialised Tools for Tight Access

[campbeam]

Having the right tools can make a job so much easier and less frustrating.

What tools have you bought either before in preparation or after doing a job where access to use standard tools has been a bit too challenging..

[campbeam]

When I posted the initial question, I specifically had 2 tools in mind. First is the serpentine belt tool. Never heard of it before until having to replace the rear VVTi oil line. Part of the process is removing the serpentine belt and then the power steering pump. I am sure that I bought this tool on eBay after the event. SInce then I have used it when replacing the alternator. Handy tool with a long thin extension

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/16PC-Serpentine-Belt-Adjuster-Tightener-Wrench-Tool-Set-Socket-13-14-15-16-18mm/264548110687?hash=item3d984bd15f:g:scsAAOSwPkhd3lcZ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DD2mjJgtCw

Following YouTube video reviews and demonstrates 2 tools with the 2nd being a belt holder tool. 

[campbeam]

This is the 2nd tool that I bought after replacing the rear VVTi line. Removing the line cover on the side of the engine was painful because with a standard ratchet it was only possible to move 1 or 2 clicks at a time. Subsequently, I never replaced that line cover. Since then, I bought this type of cordless 3/8 right angle impact wrench tool on eBay. At the time of purchase 28.01.2020, I paid $53.19 

 It took me a while to determine that the charging point is actually on the battery not the body of the tool.

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/12V-3-8-65Nm-Cordless-Electric-Ratchet-Right-Angle-Wrench-Tool-Kit-Battery/293359499542?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

This is one of the YouTube videos that I looked at before proceeding. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMB2vyYLi0w

Probably one of the reasons why I ended up going for 65Nm. I was also thinking that 65Nm would be handy for undoing the brake bleeder screw but 90Nm might be too much. I am just saying that is my thinking at the time. Yet to prove that line of thinking when it comes time to bleed the brakes. Most certainly do not want to break off a brake bleeder screw.  

 

 

 

 

[campbeam]

We all need a good pick up tool for those unwanted moments. My existing separate magnetic and grabber ones could be better. After looking at various tool supplier websites for specials last night, I went to eBay and located this combination pick up tool both magnetic and a grabber with a light. 

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/600mm-Magnetic-LED-Pick-Up-Flexible-Multi-Purpose-Rod-Claw-Tool-Stick-Grabber/252603610904?_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908105057%26meid%3D3fa3c2a6e9ab44a4a1ecbb2bd1804c39%26pid%3D100675%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D252603610904%26itm%3D252603610904%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D2380057%26brand%3DHORUSDY&_trksid=p2380057.c100675.m4236&_trkparms=pageci%3A0735f806-8cc3-11ea-aefa-e6378def4d3c|parentrq%3Ad77955f51710a4e867bd1566fff639d8|iid%3A1

I went to the Trade Tools website and located this magnetic pick up tool with a light and mirror. It uses 2 AA batteries. I have noted this one for future reference not just for the mirror but for the light which appears to be 360 degrees rather than tip focused.  

 

https://www.tradetools.com/product-range/auto-and-mechanics-tools/automotive-specialty/force-3in1-mag-flexible-pick-up-tool-with-mirror?SearchId=24829296&SearchPos=6

 

[Tony Prodigy]

On 5/2/2020 at 12:40 PM, campbeam said:

When I posted the initial question, I specifically had 2 tools in mind. First is the serpentine belt tool. Never heard of it before until having to replace the rear VVTi oil line. Part of the process is removing the serpentine belt and then the power steering pump. I am sure that I bought this tool on eBay after the event. SInce then I have used it when replacing the alternator. Handy tool with a long thin extension

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/16PC-Serpentine-Belt-Adjuster-Tightener-Wrench-Tool-Set-Socket-13-14-15-16-18mm/264548110687?hash=item3d984bd15f:g:scsAAOSwPkhd3lcZ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DD2mjJgtCw

Following YouTube video reviews and demonstrates 2 tools with the 2nd being a belt holder tool. 

Definitely very handy to have Ashley. I don't recall, but do need to access the serpentine belt from wheel well too ? 

[Tony Prodigy]

On 5/3/2020 at 9:04 AM, campbeam said:

We all need a good pick up tool for those unwanted moments. My existing separate magnetic and grabber ones could be better. After looking at various tool supplier websites for specials last night, I went to eBay and located this combination pick up tool both magnetic and a grabber with a light. 

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/600mm-Magnetic-LED-Pick-Up-Flexible-Multi-Purpose-Rod-Claw-Tool-Stick-Grabber/252603610904?_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908105057%26meid%3D3fa3c2a6e9ab44a4a1ecbb2bd1804c39%26pid%3D100675%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D252603610904%26itm%3D252603610904%26pmt%3D0%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D2380057%26brand%3DHORUSDY&_trksid=p2380057.c100675.m4236&_trkparms=pageci%3A0735f806-8cc3-11ea-aefa-e6378def4d3c|parentrq%3Ad77955f51710a4e867bd1566fff639d8|iid%3A1

I went to the Trade Tools website and located this magnetic pick up tool with a light and mirror. It uses 2 AA batteries. I have noted this one for future reference not just for the mirror but for the light which appears to be 360 degrees rather than tip focused.  

 

https://www.tradetools.com/product-range/auto-and-mechanics-tools/automotive-specialty/force-3in1-mag-flexible-pick-up-tool-with-mirror?SearchId=24829296&SearchPos=6

 

Now this tool I could use. I've been meaning to get one and forgotten till now. 

I love this thread !

[Tony Prodigy]

I just realised I posted this in the wrong thread. Sorry Ash. I can't move it now.

Some time ago I decided to purchase a set of wheel protector sockets and on the very first use of the 19mm on my BMW I managed to crack the socket to my total disbelief.

These: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/5pc-1-2-Alloy-Wheel-Nut-Deep-Impact-Socket-Set-Deep-Wheel-Protector-15-22mm/263947899607?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

E36 BMW's use 19mm wheel nuts as opposed to the 22mm for the Toyota. I don't recall using that much force either. It was a relatively cheap set from you guessed where... China and being touted as "high Quality" being described as

• For heavy duty construction, made of Chrome Molybdenum steel, and heat treated for strength and durability
• Protective sleeves, plastic insert design prevents wheels and lug nuts from scratching

Yeah right. I undid the first wheel ok, then by the time I got to do the second it cracked. So I contacted the seller and he graciously sent me a replacement socket. Not that I will attempt to use them again but just to have the set complete. They are nice to look at, but absolute rubbish. Don't bother with these sockets. It will end in grief.

 So I ended up looking for a better quality set and ended up with the Bahco range. Now these are proper quality. Made to impact spec these will serve me well for a very long time.

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Bahco-Wheel-Socket-Set-5-Piece-1-2-BWSS12P5/362682241242?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

I also have these on the way. I love the way they look and the specs look promising too.

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Mag-Wheel-Nut-Deep-Impact-Sockets-3-Piece-1-2-Drive-4-5x-Stronger-17-19-21-mm/282987361687?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Edited May 7, 2020 by Tony Prodigy

[campbeam]

4 hours ago, Tony Prodigy said:

I managed to crack the socket to my total disbelief.

Same thing happened to me many years ago when I was tightening the cylinder head bolts. Quick lesson that there is a difference in quality that you cannot see. All sockets are not created equal. Big reason why many years later I bought the Force brand socket sets with a lifetime warranty at Trade Tools.

[KAA]

Tony's secret identity finally revealed as "The Hulk"

😉

KAA

[Tony Prodigy]

15 hours ago, campbeam said:

Same thing happened to me many years ago when I was tightening the cylinder head bolts. Quick lesson that there is a difference in quality that you cannot see. All sockets are not created equal. Big reason why many years later I bought the Force brand socket sets with a lifetime warranty at Trade Tools.

I totally agree Ash. I'm starting to really like Trade Tools, not only for their tools but as an Organisation.

[campbeam]

1 minute ago, Tony Prodigy said:

I'm starting to really like Trade Tools, not only for their tools but as an Organisation.

I am quite unashamedly happy to promote Trade Tools. I have been going there for for more than 10 years. I am fully convinced that what they sell is trade quality at discounted prices. In all that time, I have yet to hear or see any disgruntled customers. I had a recent experience with another website about extra delivery for a bulky item [20 litre container]. Just happened to check the Trade Tools website and additional shipping charges for bulky items up to 50 kgs was clearly stated. Nothing misleading about them.

Recent posts about tools and quality is resulting in me spending more time on the Trade Tools website.

[Tony Prodigy]

6 minutes ago, campbeam said:

I had a recent experience with another website about extra delivery for a bulky item [20 litre container]. Just happened to check the Trade Tools website and additional shipping charges for bulky items up to 50 kgs was clearly stated. Nothing misleading about them.

Recent posts about tools and quality is resulting in me spending more time on the Trade Tools website.

Yep. I guess people have to take a minute and read the disclaimers or any policy for a given company. It is also reasonable to assume that a bulky item will be more to ship than a small item and for this there's some due diligence involved. Never assume otherwise. It also depends what arrangements the company may have with a given logistics company. Some may have better discounts than others hence they all can't offer the same shipping deals.

I'm hoping that my next tax refund is decent enough to hit the credit card and be able to purchase more tools 

[campbeam]

1 hour ago, Tony Prodigy said:

I'm hoping that my next tax refund is decent enough to hit the credit card and be able to purchase more tools

Look forward to seeing what you do buy and from whom.

I think that I have already spent my future tax return [more than once] at Trade Tools and the Detailing Shed, let alone that unnamed mob who sent a follow up email review request. Mentally gave them 5 stars for price and 0 stars for the extra delivery charges. 5x0=0, therefore no reply.

If you do buy that pick up tool from Trade Tools, let us know. Nothing like an independent product review.

[campbeam]

I am sure that I mentioned this LED pen worklight in another post. It certainly came in handy when changing a headlight bulb. The magnet on the clip can also be handy so you have light and both hands free to work. 

https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/search?q=led+light&lang=en_AU

 

[campbeam]

I was having another look at Trade Tools website mainly at the FORCE brand which is currently on sale. I had a closer look at these extra long flat ring sockets and particularly the description which stated " They feature zero degrees offset double-ring ends which are designed to suit areas with limited access or when extra reach is required."

 

https://www.tradetools.com/product-range/hand-tools/spanner-sets/force-6-piece-metric-extra-long-flat-ring-spanner-set?SearchId=25199499&SearchPos=2

https://www.tradetools.com/product-range/hand-tools/socket-sets/force-6-pce-extra-long-flat-ring-spanner-set?SearchId=25199483&SearchPos=1

What also caught my attention was a go-through socket set.

https://www.tradetools.com/product-range/hand-tools/socket-sets/renegade-industrial-3-8-32pc-go-through-metric-socket?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIx5-t7t6_6QIVRaSWCh0g9gChEAYYASABEgJgFPD_BwE

 

 

 

 

[Tony Prodigy]

Good finds there Ash. The through sockets are genius. How many times I'd wished I had one. I've added that set to my cart for now and i'll get back to it soon.

Those zero angle spanners are also excellent. Glad some people are thinking when they design these things.

[campbeam]

On 5/10/2020 at 10:30 AM, campbeam said:

I am sure that I mentioned this LED pen worklight in another post. It certainly came in handy when changing a headlight bulb. The magnet on the clip can also be handy so you have light and both hands free to work. 

https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/search?q=led+light&lang=en_AU

 

This LED pen worklight is on special as a 7 day deal for $3.99 [save$3] Batteries are included. Use these all the time when working on the car and have 1 in the car all of the time for map reading etc.

[Tony Prodigy]

8 minutes ago, campbeam said:

This LED pen worklight is on special as a 7 day deal for $3.99 [save$3] Batteries are included. Use these all the time when working on the car and have 1 in the car all of the time for map reading etc.

Haha, I was just looking at this just this afternoon before leaving work. There are nice tool specials on too which I've saved to cart.. 

[ZZT86]

I got this recently - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07R7JKG74?ref_=pe_19115062_429603572_302_E_DDE_dt_1

Almost identical to the SnapOn version for our dreaded Aurion atm pan bolt 😉 Quality tool, love it.

 

Edited August 15, 2023 by ZZT86
pic

[Tony Prodigy]

You definitely need a short socketed, swivelly tool for that dreaded bolt.

If you recall my transmission service thread, this is what I used.

I also have these for any other eventualities. Beaut little things.

1/4 Drive METRIC

 

3/8 Drive Metric Set

1/4 Drive Imperial