TOOLS!, favorites? must haves? etc... Options

[cjh4l22]

so i was looking to make my garage a little more complete as well as cutting down on install/repair time. and i was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what makes the process smother/faster for them. thanks-

[bnr32celica]

Some 6GC-specific stuff to acquire:

--10mm swivel socket (lower thermostat nut on the 5S, get the impact grade set)
--27mm 6point socket (rear stub axles if your bearing assemblies didn't come with new)
--14mm 12point socket (head bolts on 5S)
--30mm 6point socket (valve cover on 5S/front axle if not OEM)
--32mm 6point socket (front axles)
--wobble extensions (try them, you won't go back)

Above all else, know where to buy quality and when you can skimp. Harbor Freight isn't as bad as people make it out to be, most of my impact grade stuff is from there because I couldn't afford the tool trucks (still can't lol). I wouldn't buy a ratchet or normal socket there, but their impact stuff is as good or better than the trucks.

As for non-impact stuff, wrenches, etc...Craftsman. You'll notice I name brands everyone can get. Not everyone has access to the tool trucks, and not everyone wants to pay that kind of scratch. I've been a mechanic off and on for 14 years, and most of my box is stuff Joe Blow can buy at Sears, HFT, or Carquest. Sure, I have SOME Matco or Snapon, but it's mainly specialty tools that would be irrelevant to a normal guy.

The average home mechanic doesn't need a huge box to store their tools...what I recommend and use every day is a tool cart. I keep all my most commonly-used tools on it, and I can wheel it around. A good one at HFT can be had on sale for $100-$150 with drawers, locking lid, and plenty of storage.

Have fun!