53. Must-Have Socket Accessories
Most cars, trucks, and lawn and garden implements use metric hex and star fasteners. So why wait until you’re knee-deep in a repair before you discover that you need a special socket? Buy a set of each style now. And if you use an air or electric impact wrench, pick up an impact-rated universal joint and several impact extension bars. Chrome sockets like the ones shown are for use with hand ratchets only, not impact wrenches. Find the best socket set on the market for your next project.
54. Save Your Knuckles With Air Power
An electric impact wrench is a heckuva lot better than a hand wrench. But seriously, nothing beats raw air power and air tools when you want to make quick work of just about any auto or small-engine repair. But first you need a real air compressor like the one shown, not some wimpy $99 2-gallon unit designed to run a nail gun. And don’t get suckered by horsepower ratings; they don’t mean anything. Instead, look for a compressor with at least a 15- to 20-gallon tank and a minimum output of 5 cfm at 90 psi. That’ll power just about any air tool you want, except a sandblaster. For that, you need at least 10 cfm, and a rich uncle. Find an easier way to haul that air compressor around with this super slick cart.
55. LED Light Fits in Tight Places
When it comes to working in small spaces, fluorescent lights are too big, and flashlights aren’t bright enough (and don’t stay put). But the latest rechargeable LED lights fit the bill perfectly. They’re much shorter and brighter than first-generation 70+ LED stick lights. Plus the battery lasts longer (up to five hours on a charge) and recharges faster. So these LED lights are perfect for DIY auto and small-engine work, as well as home repairs. This Stubby II LED cordless light (available at tool stores or online) allows you to switch between a broad 120-degree beam and a focused, flashlight-size beam. See why LED lights are a bright idea for your workshop, too.
56. Get a Torque Wrench!
You may not think you need a torque wrench to install spark plugs or work on your lawn and garden equipment. But studies show that most DIYers overtighten just about everything. And overtightening leads to broken bolts, stripped threads and damaged equipment. With a torque wrench and the equipment manufacturer’s torque value in hand, the problem is solved: A “clicker” torque wrench makes an audible click when you’ve reached the set torque, and with a “beam”-style wrench, you just watch the scale and stop at the right number.
Torque Wrench Tips
Never use your torque wrench as a breaker bar—that’ll damage the torque mechanism.