|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|||
|
|
|
||
|
|
|||
|
||||
|
Car Tips Articles Random Car Tip Article Submit Car Article New and Used Auto Parts Cool Auto links
|
Starter Tool Set for MotorcyclesYou'll accumulate tools as you work on your bike -- but here's a good shopping list if you're starting out. Remember -- quality tools are cheaper in the long run -- and be sure and clean and replace tools when you're done with them! ScrewdriversA set of screwdrivers in different sizes, including both Common (flat blade) and Phillips (Cross blade). I've got a friend who calls them Plus (flat) and Minus (Cross) -- think about it for a moment, it makes sense! Make sure you've got some small blade screwdrivers, also. PliersThese come in many sizes, but be sure you've got a common slip joint pair (about six inches), a pair of Vise-grips (maybe eight to ten inches), needlenose (six inches again), channel lock (largish -- maybe 12 inches). A set of snap-ring pliers is handy for removing circular clips from around shafts and pipes. Note that snap-rings come in both "inside" and "outside" flavors! WrenchesIt's best to have a set of both box-end and closed-end wrenches; many sets are combinations (box on one end, same-size closed end on other end). Make sure you've got the flavor you need (Metric or SAE). Asian or European bikes probably use metric, American or British likely need SAE. Actually, it's nice to have both flavors -- it's not unusual to find one Metric bolt on an otherwise SAE bike (or vice-versa)! It's also nice to have a couple of adjustable crescent-type wrenches in different sizes -- one medium (six to eight inches) and one large (ten to twelve inches). Socket SetsSockets come in multiple sized drives -- 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2". You'll still find all size sockets in most drives. If you can afford it, the 1/2" drive is normally the sturdiest. You'll also want to have some socket extensions -- perhaps from 1 1/2 inches up to six inches or so. A socket "universal joint" will let you access bolt heads at wierd angles. Note that socket sets also come in Metric and SAE flavors. Some sockets are "deep" sockets that are most handy in engine work. Allen WrenchesThey're called "wrenches", but they work more like screwdrivers. You can find these in T-bar layouts, in 90 degree angle bends, and in "Swiss Army Knife" arrangements. You can also find them in socket form (use with a socket ratchet). HammersYep -- try to have a soft-faced as well as a good clobberer hard face. OtherThere are many specialty tools (compression gauges, multimeter, micrometers, etc), but you might want to make sure you at least have a set of feeler gauges and a torque wrench. |