what do you recommend?

 

He's referring to metric measurements i.e. cause that's what Honda uses SAE = US measurements. IMO snap on is the best, but I have almost all craftsman cause I tend to break a lot of tools and I just bring them back to sears, no issues.

 

I have a mix of both craftsman and husky, with some miscellaneous Great Neck (autozone) things that I will probably only use once.

I do have a set of WalMart combo wrenches. I don't use them much, but they DO do the job. I have since replaced them with a set of ratcheting and pivoting Husky wrenches. If it is a tool you see yourself using once, walmart will probably be fine.

What do you need:
-Ratchet and socket set with 10-17mm 3/8"
-3/8" socket extensions sockets
-combo wrenches in 10-17mm
-one adjustable wrench (because you often need another of the same size for many jobs)
-screwdrivers
-torque wrench (not absolutely necessary for most things, but highly recommended).
-pliers, regular and needle-nose

for bigger jobs you will need
-breaker bar, 1/2" (does not ratchet, for maximum effort)
-1/2" ratchet and large size sockets

 

I'd say the torque wrench is more a given...for tires..but goto Harbor Freight on that one and get the 1/2" clicker torque wrench (with case) on sale for around $10-$15.

Most of the 3/8" metric sockets alone that you need are in a set and on sale at Sears for $9.99 this week - item #34464 then all you need are the 3/8" extension set or there is a combo set with a universal, a 3/8 ratchet, and the other items previously mentioned...FYI you can store them quite easily (except for the torque wrench) in most of those $9 tool bags they sell (I have several)

Update: 24mm socket and 23mm wrench for the differential...note that for a 24mm socket, you will/should use a 1/2" ratchet vs. 3/8" ratchet.


-Justin

 

+1 for Craftsman here too. I started out with a small 20pc metric set back in the day even before I got the S then started adding what I needed here and there. I then aquired a 151 set piece which really covers anything metric.

A lot of good info above. I would suggest adding a 1/4" socket set w/ extensions and swivels. These always come in handy in tight to reach places i.e. removing/installing intake manifold. Get a decent set of Phillips and Standard screwdrivers and a rubber mallet.

Get the best torque wrench you can afford.

When you're ready step up to air tools.

 

Honestly in my opinion. I say contact a snap on agent. They come buy our shop about once a month. He gives me great deals, I have about a grand invested so far. I have seen master techs with some nice tool boxes and they say they have 3 grand + invested in them. But I do agree, craftsman is a good buy for the money you put out for them. Plus break one and go to sears they will give you a brand new one!

 

Keep in mind that 6 point sockets are great, but when you're doing the clutch you'll need a twelve point for the bolts on the pressure plate. Ask me how I know.

 

Keep in mind Sears has a new return policy and if you return tools regardless of reason (even if it broke) they now charge a 15% restocking fee.

 

also go withthe kit that has the size etched on the side of the socket. it only alittle mor ethan the regular ones and alot easier to find sockets. if you plan on working on your car alot, i like the pro series better than the regualr wrentched. they are smother and more comfertable. if your getting the ratchiting ones get a set of regular long too cause the ratcheting one are bigger and dont always fit in tight spaces. oooh dont forget 23mm ( i think) wrench for you diff. drain bolt.

 

Just planning to work on the s2k? you can just about take the whole car apart with phillips screw driver, 10 12 14 17mm sockets/wrenches