I'm attempting to make sure I have every concievable size socket and wrench to work on my '86. Does someone have a list or know where I can get one of all the sizes used? I guess a list of all sizes available would also work even if some are too large or small. Thanks for any help.

 

Most wrench sizes for Vettes will be metric. Find a set that has a range of anywhere from 5mm to 21mm.

Look at the larger Craftsman Mechanics tool sets for getting started. You will find that a selection of standard depth and deep-well sockets will be needed and also a variety of drive sizes. You should have 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" drives socket sets in the same ranges.

Wrenchs are another requirement. Combination wrenches (open-end and box-end) in 5mm to 19mm should work for most everything.

There are probably a few bolts or nuts on the car that are larger, but you can get larger sockets or even wrenches individually as you need them.

There are some other items like spark plug sockets, socket extensions, swivels (1 for each size), ratchets, breaker bars and two good quality torque wrenchs ( one in foot-pounds and the other in inch-pounds). Also a set of Torx sockets in T-15 through T-50. A set of flare wrenches for brake lines.

It also wouldn't hurt to have a set of SAE sockets and wrenches. 1/4" to 13/16". There's assorted miscellaneous tools that help; nut drivers, screwdriver sets, brass drifts, etc. One tool that is a big help is a serpentine belt remover tool. They run about $20 but they save a lot of grief when you have to R&R the belt!!

 

Or just get a Craftman, Snap-on or Mac cat. and buy one of everything. One can never have enough tools!!

 

Don't forgot to add the BFH

 

I had to have a T55 to be able to get the rear bearing hubs off the back of my 89. Also had to have a 32mm socket to be able to get the spindle nut off of the same car.

Tim

 

Some good pliers and some nice vise grips.

I just bought some SK Facom 10" slip pliers and absolutely love them. I also found that the vise grip locking wrenches can come in handy when nothing else works. These are tools that you will use around the house as well as on the Vette. In fact, all of the tools mentioned so far can be useful around the house (except maybe metric flare wrenches). That is how I sold my wife on letting me get more tools!

 

NO list of tools will be all-inclusive.
You will never actually own ALL the tools you want or think you need.

Larry
code5coupe

 

How true! And certainly never all the Snap-On tools you want to own...


And when all esle fails, the BFH! Another good tool to have is a beer can holder.

 

Add to that list a set of metric flare nut wrenches for your hydraulic lines.

There's some big sizes, like spindle nuts, hood latches, and control arm nuts that you just buy seperately when you need em.

Also, get a cheater bar and 1/2" breaker bar.

 

Don't forget a 5.5mm socket. I have one, don't know what I'll use it for, but I do remember using it once on my truck, something ignition related.

 

i think i remember using a 22mm socket for the front caliper bracket bolts.

 

That right not one but two are required to adjust rear camber.

And the one real long torx (45 maybe) that you need to remove the AC compressor.

And dont for the electric roof wrench for the guy who has everything.

 

Just how "B" should the "BFH" be?

 

5 pounder should do. Any bigger you could miss and damage the fiberglass.

 

alot of steering columns/ignition switches and stuff like that use 5.5's

 

I have a tool chest full of stuff... and I am always a rod cap seperator away from being complete...

 

If you check, I believe you will find that the spindle nut socket required is a 36mm and not 32mm.

One really useful tool to have is a socket with a 6" Torx T-40 bit. It is most handy when removing the lower plenum bolts on the L-98. Also an extendable magnetic pick-up tool (for the same job). Can be ordered from Wiha Tools #74583 - Power Bit - TORX T40 - 90mm $3.86. Wiha has a lot of excellent specialty tools that can come in handy.

I have found that you cannot have enough 1/4" ratchets, extentions, and sockets for working on the interior of the Vette.

For emergencies in the garage, post on the wall in large numbers that everyone can see, the phone number of the local pizza delivery place. That way if you are under the car your "help" if you have some, can make the call rather than interrupting what you are doing. Just below, you can also scribble in the number of the paramedics or nearest hospital.

 

That's a great idea. I think I'm gonna do that....

 

just buy two of every socket,ratchet,wrench,and driver you can find.also an assortment of bfh's ranging from 16 oz to 5 or 6 lbs.just don't miss







oh and lots of beer