Tool Question
Road Captain
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 727
Likes: 0
From: A Boston Yankee in Surrey, England
The one thing HD ought to include in every repair manual is an inventory of tools required to work on the bike. They could even do it in broad categories of types of jobs, ie chassis work requires these ones, engine work these, etc. This question gets asked so many times, that it seems a real omission on HD's part. They could also help out by referencing tool sizes in each step of each job (some do, most don't). It'd certainly help knowing where the T27 is needed over the T25.
Having said that, there are a few of these threads that have good lists of stuff. There are the tools you absolutely need and then the additional ones that make life a lot easier, like a good flashlight, cable ties, trays for screws, a can of 3-in-1, that sort of thing. Wander around the tool section of Sears and other hardware stores and you'll find loads of stuff that will make life easier around the shop and drain your wallet at the same time!
One thing I discovered I needed is a THIN tray that will hold about a gallon for draining the oil. I have an oil-draining container, pan shaped on one side with a hole so it's both the drain pan and the container, but it's too tall when laid on it's side to fit under the bike. I had to use a paint roller tray which was a poor alternative.
Having said that, there are a few of these threads that have good lists of stuff. There are the tools you absolutely need and then the additional ones that make life a lot easier, like a good flashlight, cable ties, trays for screws, a can of 3-in-1, that sort of thing. Wander around the tool section of Sears and other hardware stores and you'll find loads of stuff that will make life easier around the shop and drain your wallet at the same time!
One thing I discovered I needed is a THIN tray that will hold about a gallon for draining the oil. I have an oil-draining container, pan shaped on one side with a hole so it's both the drain pan and the container, but it's too tall when laid on it's side to fit under the bike. I had to use a paint roller tray which was a poor alternative.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,261
Likes: 1
From: Deltona, Florida
You can check out the web site for cruz tools, or wind zone, and see what tools come in their kit and put yourself together a kit of your own with better quality like craftsman. You might also want to invest in allen sockets, and the allen tees.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 10,675
Likes: 95
From: Billings,Mt.
I think the other 2 brands mentioned are expensive for what you get.
Last edited by 1flhtk4me; Dec 24, 2008 at 08:55 AM.
Road Captain
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 653
Likes: 1
From: Outer Banks of Insanity, IL
These are all great suggestions but I think your all forgetting the most important piece of the puzzle. When I'm into getting things done on my scoot, I want NO COMMUNICATION from the significant other!! ie..phone calls, yelling from the house, sending the kids out to bug you, etc
Oh yeah, a nice heated garage, good lighting (drop light included), and a decent stereo!!
Oh yeah, a nice heated garage, good lighting (drop light included), and a decent stereo!!
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 990
Likes: 3
From: lakeside ca.
don't forget the socket for the brake pad bolts it is something like a 8 point 4.5 mm and not easy to find.
this is one that you will use a lot or at least I do every 5/10 thou miles
this is one that you will use a lot or at least I do every 5/10 thou miles
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 9,741
Likes: 1,598
From: Danbury CT
Here's a good start.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00937154000P?adCell=A3
Add a set of Torx & Allen sockets, their inch & foot lbs wrenchs & your good to go.
Torxhttp://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00979553000P
Allenhttp://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00934447000P?mv=rr
Add a set of Torx & Allen sockets, their inch & foot lbs wrenchs & your good to go.
Torx
Allen
Last edited by golfblues; Dec 24, 2008 at 10:16 AM.
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 136
Likes: 0
From: Bridgewater, MA
Get an impact driver, the kind you hit with a hammer. I bought an inexpensive one. You don't need it very often, but when you do, it saves from damaging the head of a screw or nut. You would think a breaker bar would do the trick but the impact and twist works a lot better. Also make sure your torx head sockets are quality ones. I have twisted or broken a few cheap ones.