Most helpful tools to own?

dgamby · Post by **dgamby** » 17 Nov 2011, 06:54

Sorry for the many posts going on, just shows my lack of knowledge and the high amount available on this forum!

Since I have decided to, at least for a while, keep the Volvo 850 and try to do repairs myself, I figure I probably should put a few essential tools on my Christmas list!

So, aside from a basic socket set, jack and jack stands, what are the most helpful/essential tools to own when working on the Volvo 850?

Thanks everyone!

Post by **Choguy03** » 17 Nov 2011, 07:34

Deep well sockets, always come in handy.
Extensions, 3" and 6".
Air tools. Expensive but help a ton.
Torque wrench.

Sometimes, it is easier to just buy as you go unless you want to build a big set.

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Post by **jblackburn** » 17 Nov 2011, 07:49

RAMPS.

Jack stands kinda scare me, so I'd much rather have ramps for anything I'm doing that doesn't involve taking the wheels off.

And Torx screwdrivers/sockets. T25-T40.

A good set of 1/4" sockets and 3/8" sockets.

I've never used a torque wrench on anything. Unless you're rebuilding the head on the motor, I really don't think you need it. Just be aware of what needs to be snugged down real well and what just needs to be tight enough.

Nuttydriver · Post by **Nuttydriver** » 17 Nov 2011, 09:03

For a diyer harbor freight has an awesome 301 pc tool set. It's normail price is right around $180 and it's got just about everything you could need. 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" sockets and ratchets lots of torx and allen reverse torx… otherwise very nice set. The sockets and ratchets are pretty good and hold up well. Well worth the money. Here is a link to it on their website. http://www.harborfreight.com/profession ... 45951.html

Post by **matthew1** » 17 Nov 2011, 11:15

You've already got them: the white gloves that came with every 90's Volvo in the jack kit. (True story.)

Post by **vjaneczko** » 17 Nov 2011, 12:11

+1 on Harbor Freight - they'll get you cheap tools to get started. If you have the coin, go with Craftsman which have the lifetime warranty.

Ramps, extensions, deep sockets, Torx bits, all very good suggestions.

One to add: a loaner car so you can run out to buy something you forgot in the middle of a repair!

Additionaly, get some work gloves (keep the grease off your mitts and keeps the cuts & bruises to a minimum), shop rags (gobs of grease & grime appear from nowhere), and plenty of lights - just be careful of the (1) cheap florescent lights that don't give off a lot of light, and (2) the high output bulbs that can burn skin easily.

Another good suggestion is a plastic/rubber keyboard cover for your computer so you don't get grime on it when you're visiting MVS in the middle of a repair!

Post by **rspi** » 17 Nov 2011, 12:34

Ramps, Good Quality Torque Bits, Magnet, 15/16" box end wrench, torque wrench (not an expensive one), Shop light, rags, anti-seize compond, oil filter wrench, nice oil pan.

http://www.atthetipwebs.com/technologyi ... ct2999.jpg

http://www.atthetipwebs.com/technologyi ... CT3006.JPG

FCPEURO · Post by **FCPEURO** » 17 Nov 2011, 12:55

Deep well sockets
Impact gun (electric or air)
Good quality ratchet set with extensions

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Post by **fazool** » 17 Nov 2011, 13:36

* Select Craftsman or similar tools with a lifetime warranty

*3/8" drive metric socket set
*1/2" drive breaker bar and 1/2" drive metric deep socket set
*Metric combination wrrench set
*Metric hex key set
LED shop light
*Combination screwdriver set
*10,15,20,25 Torx drivers
C-clamp or cheaper caliper spreader tool
Gorilla brand lug wrench (big bar with 19mm Deep socket)
* combination plier set (long nose and slip joint and vise grips

Nuttydriver · Post by **Nuttydriver** » 17 Nov 2011, 13:39

The 301 piece harbor freight tool set has a life time warranty as well it's still not craftsman quality and you have to keep your receipt. As long as you show them a receipt they don't argue about exchanges.