Every time I attempt the simplest project I have to go buy a new tool.When I bought a Harley I figured all those standard sockets I've been acumulating over the years would finally be put to use but literally every time I go to wrench on this bike I end up buying a new tool.My first project changing the handle bars I needed a set of Torx bits.Then I tried to re drill and lower the fender I had to go out and buy a new set of allen wrenchs.Then I decided to throw on a set of fork gaiters, I needed 12 point sockets, actually I just needed a 10mm but I ended up buying a set.Halfway into this project I discovered I need more torx bits because the first set I bought doesn't have one big enough to loosen the forks.What, is Harley in league with the tool industry? Sorry for the rant but it's not like I don't have any tools. I've managed to muddle through with my metric bikes for decades with literally nothing more than a good socket set and common household tools.

 

Everything started going to crap when the Torx bits came out. I didn't have any 12 point sockets either but I asked my wife for the 283 pc. Craftsman mechanic's tool set last christmas and I threw in a full Torx socket set too. I gave all my old stuff to my son.

 

I have wondered the same thing. I recognize that Harleys are sophisticated machinery, but compared to an automobile or my pick-up they are much smaller. Such a wide range of fastners in such a confined space is puzzling to me.

 

OK so my next project will either be wrapping my Thunderheader or installing the Electraglide shocks I got off Ebay. Anybody know what new tools I'll need for those projects?

 

I've started replacing all my Torx screws and bolts with Allen Head bolts and screws. I hate those things.

 

Thank God my second Illness is collecting tools

 

Most of the specialty fastners is due to the manufacturing process. A torx bit holds to the tool better and is faster at getting the fastners installed. Each part of the installation process is specialized to save time and energy for the MOCO, not you.

 

What's the cure? I've tried giving them away but most of the ones I don't want no one else does either.My brother in law did some tile work for me a couple years back, I' got tile tools I don't even know what they're called, how to use them or if they're any good, but I can't throw them away, can I?