What tools to buy.
Former Moderator
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,821
Likes: 5
From: Jacksonville, FL
Here's two more cents...
A breaker bar, various ratchet extensions (a couple of different lengths for each size ratchet you have) and a universal joint for each ratchet size.
Also, don't skimp on the torque wrench. Some folks have had good luck with Craftsman torque wrenches, but I've had three fall apart on me (the "you-break-it-we-replace-it" warranty does not apply to Craftsman torque wrenches). I searched on eBay and got a good used but re-calibrated Snap-on torque wrench for only a few dollars more than a similar Craftsman and it has held up much better.
One piece I added to my tool collection a while ago was an electric impact wrench. I found it on eBay and it has easily been one of the most used tools I have. If you don't have an air compressor to run an air driven impact wrench, the electric is the way to go. With that impact wrench lug nuts come off in a snap, even if I forget to loosen one while the wheels are on the ground. And, tough suspension bolts come right out.
A breaker bar, various ratchet extensions (a couple of different lengths for each size ratchet you have) and a universal joint for each ratchet size.
Also, don't skimp on the torque wrench. Some folks have had good luck with Craftsman torque wrenches, but I've had three fall apart on me (the "you-break-it-we-replace-it" warranty does not apply to Craftsman torque wrenches). I searched on eBay and got a good used but re-calibrated Snap-on torque wrench for only a few dollars more than a similar Craftsman and it has held up much better.
One piece I added to my tool collection a while ago was an electric impact wrench. I found it on eBay and it has easily been one of the most used tools I have. If you don't have an air compressor to run an air driven impact wrench, the electric is the way to go. With that impact wrench lug nuts come off in a snap, even if I forget to loosen one while the wheels are on the ground. And, tough suspension bolts come right out.
Thread Starter
Registered User
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 523
Likes: 0
From: Columbia
I purchased the tools from Sears and decided to start on my little project this past weekend. Got the bumper and the stock lights off with ease, no problems there. But then when I went to plug in the turning signals I realized that the JDM lights have a different style adapter 
. So now I'm waiting on a set from Rick to finish the job, I hope they come in soon 
. Well I guess this gives me ample time to work on my AEM CAI install. I'm taking my time so the upgrades have been going kinda slow 
. Oh yeah I searched and search for the instructions on taking the stock air box off but couldn't find anything. My Helm manual has been ordered but has not arrived yet so can anyone lend a hand.
Thanks
. So now I'm waiting on a set from Rick to finish the job, I hope they come in soon . Well I guess this gives me ample time to work on my AEM CAI install. I'm taking my time so the upgrades have been going kinda slow . Oh yeah I searched and search for the instructions on taking the stock air box off but couldn't find anything. My Helm manual has been ordered but has not arrived yet so can anyone lend a hand.Thanks
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 37,305
Likes: 18
[QUOTE]Originally posted by machokow
[B]I purchased the tools from Sears and decided to start on my little project this past weekend. Got the bumper and the stock lights off with ease, no problems there. But then when I went to plug in the turning signals I realized that the JDM lights have
[B]I purchased the tools from Sears and decided to start on my little project this past weekend. Got the bumper and the stock lights off with ease, no problems there. But then when I went to plug in the turning signals I realized that the JDM lights have
Thread Starter
Registered User
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 523
Likes: 0
From: Columbia
I have not taken the AEM out of the box yet, I will make sure to check for it tonight. I hope I don't fudge up the AEM install. So far my wrenching experience has been pleasant I hope it stays that way 
. But for some reason I know this is going to put my limited skills to the test 
. Oh yeah I just received my KG/mm springs, do you guys think that this install is over my head
.
. But for some reason I know this is going to put my limited skills to the test . Oh yeah I just received my KG/mm springs, do you guys think that this install is over my head.
Registered User
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,408
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From: Denver, CO
I don't think any job is too difficult for the average joe as long as you have the right tools and a decent set of instructions to work with. I think you're definitely going about this the right way. It's amazing how much people pay "mechanics" to do a job that they could easily do for free. A while ago, I had a bad experience with my Ford service department 
and I swore that I'd never let anyone wrench on my car again. With the wealth of knowledge that's available today (especially on these internet sites), it's so easy to perform even the most seemingly daunting tasks. It's really sad, but most people have no idea how much shops are ripping them off to do simple labor. One dealership wanted $450 (labor) to change the spark plugs and wires on my girlfriends car. It took me 20 minutes + $50 in parts to get her up and running again...
and I swore that I'd never let anyone wrench on my car again. With the wealth of knowledge that's available today (especially on these internet sites), it's so easy to perform even the most seemingly daunting tasks. It's really sad, but most people have no idea how much shops are ripping them off to do simple labor. One dealership wanted $450 (labor) to change the spark plugs and wires on my girlfriends car. It took me 20 minutes + $50 in parts to get her up and running again...
