what tools should I buy to work on my Z4
- Thread starter Sky-drive
- Start date
You will need a set of torx sockets and allen keys for sure together with a regular 6-sided 3/8" metric socket set with accompanying ratchet, extension bars etc.
Plus screwdrivers, a trim removal tool, combination spanners of common sizes will come in handy as well
Plus screwdrivers, a trim removal tool, combination spanners of common sizes will come in handy as well
Decent socket set that includes the sizes sometimes excluded like 16mm and 18mm as there are these sizes on the Z4.
A torque wrench, most commonly used is 20-120nm so 3/4 drive would suffice. You could get a smaller one too but to be honest you can do those by hand more easily as it's stuff like brackets for wires that have low settings and unless you're a senseless brute it's not needed.
Jack and stands, ideally a low profile one as otherwise you'll need to drive onto something before jacking (if you use a nice wood or rubber block between jack and car).
Filter wrench in the correct size, the multi-sided ones that are basically a socket. Then you can also use it with your torque wrench.
Maybe some socket adapters to go between 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" if your wrenches don't all match the socket sizes.
A modest breaker bar, 400-600mm type of size.
A torque wrench, most commonly used is 20-120nm so 3/4 drive would suffice. You could get a smaller one too but to be honest you can do those by hand more easily as it's stuff like brackets for wires that have low settings and unless you're a senseless brute it's not needed.
Jack and stands, ideally a low profile one as otherwise you'll need to drive onto something before jacking (if you use a nice wood or rubber block between jack and car).
Filter wrench in the correct size, the multi-sided ones that are basically a socket. Then you can also use it with your torque wrench.
Maybe some socket adapters to go between 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" if your wrenches don't all match the socket sizes.
A modest breaker bar, 400-600mm type of size.
To some extent it all depends on what you plan to do as every job requires a new tool in the collection until you have built up a wide basic range
Spark plugs, oil change, wheel removal, etc.
My first port of call would be Halfords and get one of their Professional range sets. They will have all the basics you need from spanners, sockets, torx bits, hex keys, etc. but on top of that you'll need a good selection of screwdrivers, hammer, pliers, an adjustable spanner, etc.
Spark plugs, oil change, wheel removal, etc.
My first port of call would be Halfords and get one of their Professional range sets. They will have all the basics you need from spanners, sockets, torx bits, hex keys, etc. but on top of that you'll need a good selection of screwdrivers, hammer, pliers, an adjustable spanner, etc.
Not sure how much you want to spend, having spent thousands myself on tools over the years, but these make an excellent starter kit http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Snap-On-Blue-Point-100-pcs-3-8-1-4-Service-Kit-Socket-Set-Inc-VAT-2100MBPGSS-/331632939622?hash=item4d36dd1266:g:EJoAAOSwHnFV1Okc
Indeed I keep one in the back of the van and it has come in very handy on numerous occasions..
Mike
Indeed I keep one in the back of the van and it has come in very handy on numerous occasions..
Mike
Ducklakeview said:
That's nice kit, but £300 is a lot for a starter. I'm sure it would be better to get the 200 piece Halfords Pro set at £175 and have a lot left over for other tools.
http://www.halfords.com/workshop-to...nced-200-piece-socket-and-ratchet-spanner-set
Even that's a lot and realistically would be buying a small quality set and saving money for the many other items needed.
All comes down to budget, preferences and type of work to be undertaken
cj10jeeper said:
The Halfords kit is pretty damn good, I bought a set years ago and still have it, not one socket has split or ratchet failed after much abuse, I also have draper expert which is good for the cash as well as several bits of Snap On and other makes, I can see the logic in buying top level tools if your a mechanic making your living with them but for anyone else the Halfords or Draper are fine.
Here's a list of tools that are all invaluable that won't always come in a toolbox:
1. Hex Bit set that fit on the handle for your other sockets The bits are hardened and much better than using allen keys (good on BMW brakes)
2. A set of Closed Ratchet Spanners
3 A set of Swan Neck Spanners
You can get the last 2 items from Lidl quite regularly and will serve you well should you ever need these tools.
4. Penetrating fluid for shifting difficult rusted bolts
5. A set of small metric spanners (7mm/8mm) for bleeding brakes.
6. Gunson EeziBleed for bleeding the brakes.
7. Extendable wheel brace
1. Hex Bit set that fit on the handle for your other sockets The bits are hardened and much better than using allen keys (good on BMW brakes)
2. A set of Closed Ratchet Spanners
3 A set of Swan Neck Spanners
You can get the last 2 items from Lidl quite regularly and will serve you well should you ever need these tools.
4. Penetrating fluid for shifting difficult rusted bolts
5. A set of small metric spanners (7mm/8mm) for bleeding brakes.
6. Gunson EeziBleed for bleeding the brakes.
7. Extendable wheel brace
Don't forget to allow some funds for the consumables you are likely to need such as, greases, white spirit or degreaser, brake cleaner, penetrating oil, brushes, wire wool, cleaning rags, etc etc - the list can be formidable and you will build it up as you go along.
Best of luck with your efforts.
Best of luck with your efforts.
Exactly what CJ10 said, it all depends on what job you are going to do.
I have loads of tools built up over 20 odd years but still every now and then something will crop up and you need something specific.
Doing the brakes just the other week required an E18 torx socket to get the caliper bracket off which I didnt have, never needed one before.
I have loads of tools built up over 20 odd years but still every now and then something will crop up and you need something specific.
Doing the brakes just the other week required an E18 torx socket to get the caliper bracket off which I didnt have, never needed one before.
