TJ Tools

BoundlessBasu · Feb 19, 2020

Hey all!

Slowly building up my tools while owning the Jeep. Currently picked up this Stanley set: https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/stanley-professional-black-chrome-socket-set-229-pc-0589285p.html

Couple items I know I need to get but some clarification on specs would be helpful!

Torque Wrench - what drive size should I get
- 1/2in - 50-250foot pounds
- 3/8in - inch/pounds
- Assume I need both
Wrenches - SAE or Metric? What sizes should I be looking for
Pliers - Thinking I need 1 of each -
- Clamp
- Needle Nose
- Wire stripper
- Vice grips
Breaker Bar - anything specific?
Floor jacks/Jack Stands - 3 Ton I assume is sufficient?
Chocks
Funnels
Oil Pan

Anything else I should invest into for basic maintenance and expected work on a TJ?

Apparition · Feb 19, 2020

Looks like a good start.

For a jack I primarily use a 1.5t floor jack but sometimes I’ll use a 3t.

Jack stands I’d get a couple of 6 ton stands the height comes in handy if you ever plan on axle swaps or any prolonged work underneath.

A good led light is a must, you need to see.

A good breaker bar works but I also prefer to use an adjustable length 1/2 drive ratchet, great for Jeep trips also.

Steel City 06 · Feb 19, 2020

Consider picking up a set of these over regular jackstands:
https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/powerbuilt-3-ton-all-in-one-jack
They're great to work with because they can be used as jacks and as stands. Simply set the pin, pump away, and then let it out an inch or so so it sits on the ratchet.

Two things to note: (1), still get a floor jack. Under high sideways load these can bind and might not retract on their own, and (2), with very large tires and high lift they won't even reach the frame. They work great under axle tubes on 35"+ tires though.

They have a maximum lift of about 21", which is typical for most large jacks and maybe a bit less than the average 3 ton jackstand.

SteveBarrus · Feb 19, 2020

I love my Milwaukee 12v impact drivers and impact ratchets.

TrueTexas · Feb 19, 2020

If you plan on pulling an ax-15 tranny, you will need an e12 external torx socket and extensions/ swivels

I would also add a 1/2 inch 10-100 or 150 torque wrench

Flare nut wrenches for brakes in both metric and sae

Torx sockets inc. T50 and T55 sizes

Open end and ratcheting wrenches if you didn't mention those above

The specialty one off tools will add up. Purchase them as you go. I have over 25 years worth of tools from dozens of project cars and still needed more for these TJs.

Web98 · Feb 19, 2020

As far as wrenches, unfortunately the TJ has metric and SAE. I have used metric more but have definitely needed both. Keeps it interesting.

Steel City 06 · Feb 19, 2020

SteveBarrus said:
I love my Milwaukee 12v impact drivers and impact ratchets.

View attachment 141275

I have the bigger M18 impact. 1400 ft-lbs. It will either remove the nut or snap the stud trying. Takes 36mm rusted axle bearing hub nuts off my f150 effortlessly when I can't do it with a 6 foot breaker bar.

Definitely a worthwhile tool.

For anyone wanting an impact, make sure you get an impact rated socket set. Standard sockets are made with a harder metal that will shatter and send shards flying everywhere. Impact sockets are heavier wall and softer, so they fail less often and less catastrophically. No point in going blind to save a few bucks on sockets

SteveBarrus · Feb 19, 2020

Steel City 06 said:
I have the bigger M18 impact. 1400 ft-lbs. It will either remove the nut or snap the stud trying. Takes 36mm rusted axle bearing hub nuts off my f150 effortlessly when I can't do it with a 6 foot breaker bar.

Definitely a worthwhile tool.

For anyone wanting an impact, make sure you get an impact rated socket set. Standard sockets are made with a harder metal that will shatter and send shards flying everywhere. Impact sockets are heavier wall and softer, so they fail less often and less catastrophically. No point in going blind to save a few bucks on sockets

I have the big boys also. Tire rotation is a cinch now but my favorite is the compact 12v Brushless Cordless Stubby

Goatman · Feb 20, 2020

Try and get a set of impact deepwell sockets 1/2" drive. SAE and metric. Torx sockets too. Basically the more impact rated tools the better. A good set of mechanics gloves or a box of disposable ones are handy. A real top of the line set of screwdrivers, vicelocks, socket adapter set, dental pick set, fire extinguisher for the garage, several types of electrical connectors (spade, butt, so on) with good wire cutter, a separate crimper (the combo tools are mostly crap) and you should be able to handle most issues. Stock up on some liquid wrench and Kroil. Don't forget shop towels or the wife will kill you when she finds her dish towels covered in crud in the corner.

PCO6 · Feb 20, 2020

You'll need 10mm sockets … lots of 10mm sockets.

Plumber1 · Feb 20, 2020

SteveBarrus said:
I love my Milwaukee 12v impact drivers and impact ratchets.

View attachment 141275

To be properly prepared I recommend these Milwaukee tools also

PS: Milwaukee was nice enough to allow us to use there board meeting room a couple of years ago when I was on a Plumbing Contractors National Board for our meeting. The brought us in lunch and a tour of there facility, whihc is very impressive.

Apparition · Feb 20, 2020

Plumber1 said:
To be properly prepared I recommend these Milwaukee tools also

View attachment 141341

View attachment 141342

You sell them? Forum discount?

Plumber1 · Feb 20, 2020

Apparition said:
You sell them? Forum discount?

I Wish but no

Fouledplugs · Mar 27, 2020

Finally got my floor jack delivered. Been waiting all week for it.
Pro Eagle 3 ton. I plan on buildIng a tube mount for it and mount it in my YJ for the trails. The rubber tires are awesome.

If your Jeep is lifted, this jack is a no-brainer.
https://www.proeagle.com/
They are currently on sale and ship free.