Need help with weight reduction-eliminating unneeded tools in my trunk [Archive] (2024)

Gene-M

7th June 2006, 13:13

Seriously, I'm carrying around too many tools with me. I know this has been covered lots of time, but I just can't seem to locate the threads.

I have all the large sockets I need in 1/2" drive (lug nuts, transmission drain, rear end, etc.) that I bought special as separates. But, I also have a fairly complete set of 1/2" drive sockets, many of which I'll never need on my Miata. In addition I have a set of 1/4" drive that go up to 12mm, many of which are also unneeded.

In addition I have a set of about 6 combination wrenches, many of which don't get used. After almost rounding off a 10mm nut with one of them, I plan on taking them all out of the car and buying new HQ separates in the sizes I need.

Would you guys like to tell me which sockets I can safely eliminate from my Miata's tool box for certain, and advise me which wrenches I should buy as separates?

I realize that a 1/2" set may be overkill to carry around all the time, but for work at home I have a 3/8" set in my other car that's handy, and the 1/2" drive set is really useful in emergencies such as tire changes, etc.

first miata

7th June 2006, 14:55

I like the credit card and cellphone toolkit. Autozone seems to everywhere.

But I was wondering the same thing about what everyone carries here http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=107221

BikeInDirt

7th June 2006, 16:47

When I got married my wife carried nothing… it really freaked me out…I insisted that my wife carry 5 things...

1) Cell phone w/charger
2) AAA card
3) $200 cash
4) Credit Card
5) Flashlight

That got me to thinking about all the DIY stuff that was driving around with in my car... now I carry the same 5 things + a multi tool...

Chas H

7th June 2006, 17:52

Gene-M

7th June 2006, 23:13

If I can put on my moderators hat for a second, I would like to ask: What's the point of answering someone's thread if you don't have a specific answer to the question? :confused:

This thread is not intended for banter about ideas on carrying around tools, autozone, credit cards, or where to do repairs. It's about advising someone about which tools can be eliminated from a Miata tool box.

I am someone whose nearest friends and relations are all over 100 miles away, and I want to be prepared to take care of issues I can address myself when away from home.

Like I said, I already have it all in a fairly small tool box, now I want to cut the fat out. I'm well aware of most of the sizes I can probably eliminate, but I don't want to toss, let's say, a 7mm socket and wrench, only to discover that I might need it on some fitting I don't know about. ;)

Chas H

7th June 2006, 23:26

10AE1203

8th June 2006, 00:28

I think everything I have fooled with was 10 and 14 mm, except spark plugs and lug nuts. There was a smallish allen wrench on the back brakes, maybe 4 mm. Do you carry the stock lug wrench, or a real socket and breaker bar?

If I was serious about fat-cutting, I'd swap the 1/2" for 3/8".

Ski-Patroller

8th June 2006, 03:17

In the Miata, I just carry tire changing tools right now. In my Subaru and Aerostar (both 120K+) I carry a set of 3/8 drive sockets, open end/ box end wrenches. assorted pliers, screwdrivers, allen wrenches and a volt meter. (I think for the AeroStar the whole package was about $30 (+ the volt meter) from Shucks. Cheap tools but probably adequate on the road.) The one in the Subie is a little better quality, made up of separate sets.

I was looking for a similar smaller set that only had metric tools, but I havent been able to find one.

I used to carry this much (plus a timing light) in my Fiat Spider, and needed it occasionaly

I started carrying tools in my Subie , after a tree bomb (big load of snow off a tree) hit it while it was parked with the wipers running, and spun the drivers side wiper on the shaft. My leatherman was not enough to fix it :( . I recently had to change an alternator in a NAPA parking lot, and was glad for my tool box. :)

I think the Miata is too new to need much but I will start adding things as it gets older.

midknightryder

8th June 2006, 08:16

Boondoggie

8th June 2006, 08:30

Gene,

I assume you've had your miata and your toolbox for quite a few years now....

How many of those tools in the trunk have you ever used when not at home in your driveway? I've only been driving for about 15 years, but I've NEVER had a side of the road breakdown where I was wishing "oh, if only I had..."

Gene-M

8th June 2006, 09:20

Gene,

I assume you've had your miata and your toolbox for quite a few years now....

How many of those tools in the trunk have you ever used when not at home in your driveway? I've only been driving for about 15 years, but I've NEVER had a side of the road breakdown where I was wishing "oh, if only I had..."

Fair enough question. :) I have only needed some of my tools at tech days when they actually came in very handy and were appreciated by people changing diff and trans. fluids. But my habit of carrying tools goes back to the days when I lived part-time in Lower Manhattan. The only time my truck ever gave me problems is when I was in a place where, if I couldn't fend for myself, I'd have been in big trouble. Even at that, sometimes I was in big trouble anyway.

Being away from home lots of weekends with my Miata, I feel best having most of my stuff right with me. Another consideration that I didn't mention, is that I don't have a garage yet, and my parking shed and work area (very rural here) is about 50 feet from the house, so it's just more convenient to keep my tool sets in the cars.

JustinHoMi

9th June 2006, 12:09

The only problem with ditching certain sockets is that some cars have had various nuts & bolts replaced during their 10-15 years on the road. For instance, my rear passenger side upper shock mount has 13mm nuts, while the rest of the car has 14mm.

However, maybe we should make a list of all of the standard metric sizes needed? This would at least allow you to remove certain sockets with a high probability that you won't need them. Here's what I know off the top of my head:

common sizes: 10, 12, 14, 17
shock center nut: 19
front upper control arm (inboard), lugnuts: 21

Hmm... it's obvious that I have neglected changing my fluids....

On the other hand, I can't ever remember using 11, 13 (except for the noted exception), 15, 16, or anything smaller than 10. Oh wait... what is the size of the nut that holds the foot stomp on? I think that's an 8.

RADOne

9th June 2006, 12:19

gtxhawaii

9th June 2006, 16:55

Gene-M

9th June 2006, 19:07

However, maybe we should make a list of all of the standard metric sizes needed? This would at least allow you to remove certain sockets with a high probability that you won't need them. Here's what I know off the top of my head:

common sizes: 10, 12, 14, 17
shock center nut: 19
front upper control arm (inboard), lugnuts: 21

Hmm... it's obvious that I have neglected changing my fluids....

On the other hand, I can't ever remember using 11, 13 (except for the noted exception), 15, 16, or anything smaller than 10. Oh wait... what is the size of the nut that holds the foot stomp on? I think that's an 8.

Actually the front and rear chin spoilers are attached with bolts that have 8mm heads. I just bought one at a flea market for just that. It's so small, it can stay in the tool box.;) I know that 10, 12, and 14 are essential; I haven't remembered ever using the 17 though. But these are the kinds of tips I'm looking for. :)

Yeah, I've got the vise-grips and the screw driver with the 4 tips. I also carry a needle nose plyer.

I agree that the 1/2" set is overkill, but that's what I use on my lug nuts, and it works for almost anything else that that I easily can't get with the handy little 1/4" set. I may consider taking the 1/2" set out though, and replacing it with a 3/8" set.

Well, thanks for the feedback. I think I'm getting a much better picture of what I need to do, and I am looking forward to getting my tool kit as light and un-superflous (is that a word) as possible. :cool:

JustinHoMi

9th June 2006, 20:03

Ah, the spoilers. My car doesn't have them... yet!

The 17mm is needed for the lower shock bolt, upper caliper bolt, lower control arm, the balljoints, etc.

Oh, don't forget a 32mm for the spindle nut! :D You'd probably need an impact wrench and air compressor for that one too.

first miata

9th June 2006, 21:04

Hi Gene

Sorry I reread my post and maybe I did not address your inquiry.

As I like any parts store with a cheap tool supply if I am far from home and the car has a problem I can address with with a part and some off the rack tools.

I did ask the same question a year ago here http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=107221 a year ago.

Perhaps I did not get the intial responses on topic I desired and responded more harshly than I desired. I did get some really good info from that thread on what can be done roadside and have passed it on.

Please read this: http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=107221.

If your on the coast of Maine and having trouble just P-Mail me and I will help you if I can.

Happy Motoring

Dale

kshaw

10th June 2006, 13:05

Jim (Pop VII) C

10th June 2006, 18:49

If the question really is: What do I need for an emergency? ... then seems the real question is: What is your mechanical ability, automotive knowledge, and what can you do if stranded along the road somewhere?

I probably carry more than most really need since have the turbo which has it's own associated problems with the extra plumbing, fueling, and ignition devices.

My list if making something like an Interstate trip is:
3/8" swivel head ratchet
4" extension
10, 12, & 14 mm sockets
1/4" socket (for 15 additional hose clamps)
6" Ford wrench
4-in-1 Screwdriver
Cheap Leatherman type tool
Small spool of stainless wire
Small spool of steel or duct tape.
Small disposable pen light
Folding reflective warning triangle.
An old pair of panty hose

Have never found any practical reason to carry AAA or have use for a cell phone, but if you have an old discarded one can still use if for 911 emergency calls without paying for any service.

If wishing to help a stranded motorist, can usually just give tham a ride to the nearest gas station. If feeling really generous can help them find a gas can and drive them back to their vehicle.

R808

11th June 2006, 08:33

Anthony

14th June 2006, 18:19

mrpresident

15th June 2006, 11:53

My favorite feature of E30 BMW's is the little toolkit attached to the bottom of the trunk lid. I hardly ever use the tools on the car itself, but if I need a 17mm wrench to change the oil on my CR-V it's easier to grab the one out of the BMW than to fumble through the toolbox in my garage.

It has 8,10,11,13,17,19mm wrenches, a spark plug wrench, a philips screwdriver, and a pair of channellocks.

Wayward__Son

16th June 2006, 00:14

Somebody more knowledgeable, please correct me if I'm wrong.

Japanese cars are standardized. With very few exceptions, you can expect:

8mm (usually interior work like dashboards, trim, etc.)
10mm (all KINDS of stuff, from engine to interior, but usually not suspension)
12mm (some interior, some exhaust, some body/chassis)
14mm (brakes, suspension, body, chassis, exhaust, seatbelts)
17mm (suspension, chassis, brakes)
19mm (suspension, chassis, brakes, lug nuts)
21mm (lug nuts)
32mm (axle nuts [have fun with that on the side of the road])

You'll probably never use much beyond 10, 12, 14 and 17mm.

Although Japanese manufacturers are pretty much standardized, they will occasionally throw in an 11, 13, 15, 16, or 18mm. You know, just to keep us on our toes. But this happens so infrequently that I wouldn't worry about it.

Gene-M

17th June 2006, 02:14

Thanks to all.

I finally got around to cleaning out my unneeded sockets, wrenches, and what not today. My tool box is much lighter and better organized now, though I still haven't found a 3/8" ratchet that want yet. Once I do, I may be able to lighten it up even further.

I know many of you still disagree with me for wanting a nearly complete tool kit with me right in the car at all times, but that's how I have always done things, and that's what makes me comfortable. :)

JerryMc

17th June 2006, 05:15

One can only wonder what Jim needs an old pair of panty hose for. :D Just kidding.

Gene to answer your question, the long answer is:

I have faith in my Miata. I believe it to be one of the best engineered cars on the planet. It has never left me on the side of the road in four years other than one flat tire and I knew at the time I was running bad tires so that was my fault not the Miata's.

I don't carry any tools except for a spare tire and jack. I'm seriously considering leaving these out as well and replacing them with a can of fix-a-flat.

I do all my own maintenance on my vehicle at home and am very comfortable that it will be fine until the next time I lift the hood to work on it.

In most cases if you are paying attention to your car, the way it sounds the indication of your gauges and the way it feels on the road beneath, you will know in plenty of time that something needs attention and can take care of it at home at your leasure.

It goes without saying one must keep up the required routine maintenance on any vehicle to expect good results.

If you feel more comfortable carrying a toolbox by all means carry one. In my case worst case senario is I have to buy a cheap set of tools at whatever parts store I get whatever part I need at the time. Not a bad tradeoff for less baggage in the long term.

The short answer is: I would eliminate all of them including the box they came in.

You may not agree with my persective but maybe you'll see my remarks as food for thought. :wave:

Jim (Pop VII) C

17th June 2006, 20:21

One can only wonder what Jim needs an old pair of panty hose for. ....

Good question and a bit surprised that was not asked earlier. The panty hose is my tool box. Makes a nice padded pouch for the tools listed and stores right inside the jack compartment on my '90. Few other benefits:

1. Handy trunk lid tie down if making an impulse buy when something will not quite fit in inside and close.

2. Emergency accessory belt. Once drove the 100 mile Autobahn trip from Frankfurt to Pirmasens after breaking an alternator belt on my old AMC. Drove it around for a week or so after reaching destination and ordering the proper belt. That was just from using one leg and still had the other as a spare if needed! See no reason why that would not work on a Miata, just need to make a small tight knot.

3. Handy rag for wiping off FL love bugs, oil dribbles, and from cooking my fingers on the chrome dip stick handle.

4. Twisted together they make a very strong short rope. Couple months ago used a pair as a tow rope on my lawn tractor to pull my neighbor's '55 Chey 3 blocks. The road incline made it too difficult to push.

There are other tools that could be used, but just trying to get rid of unneeded extra baggage. Have enough of that already behind my 45' belt buckle!

The extra tools carried in conjunction with with the supplied tire equipment, spare fuses and fuse puller inside the fuse cover should cover just about anything that would be needed for a roadside repair. There is a time when towing may be needed .. since don't plan on dropping things like the PPF or axle during a roadside repair.

MarkM1991Silver

18th June 2006, 22:20

Just watching the 24 Hours of Le Mans on TV (aren't DVRs great??). They had a little segment on the toolkits one team at least puts in its car in case a driver has to affect a repair out on the circuit. They included:

tie wraps
snippies
flashlight
duct/racer's tape
fuses
relays
screwdrivers
vice grips
hammer

Fascinating about the panty hose. I need to watch some reruns of MacGyver...

Studdg

19th June 2006, 03:01

Jim may have just proved that Douglas Adams is full of poo.

If you must carry tools, just carry the minimum that you listed above.

10AE1203

20th June 2006, 22:30

I've NEVER had a side of the road breakdown where I was wishing "oh, if only I had..."

Wish I could say the same.

Ski-Patroller

14th July 2006, 14:56

I just picked up an unusual tool kit at Ace Hardware. It is all Metric (Available either way) and has open end/racheting boxend combo wrenches. In addition there are sockets and two adapters to make 2 of the racheting boxe ends into 1/4 and 3/8 drive rachet handles with a wobbeler extension. It also has a 1/4" drive screwdriver handle with flat, phillips, torx and allen bits.

Pretty much everything except pliers and a VOM. There is no sparkplug socket, but I can't imagine needing that on the road. :rolleyes:

It is pretty light and compact. Cost $65 but the tools seem to be pretty good quality. (not SnapOn, but this is my emergency kit)

rhooper

14th July 2006, 22:26

Beyond the ubiquitous 10, 14, 17 ('99+ oil drain plug), and 19, definitely keep around a 23 and 24 for the rear end for the NB guys at those tech days, can't remember if those sizes were the same on the NA. Just swapped my '99's diff oil this last weekend and had to swing by Sears to pick those up. Wrenches or sockets + breaker bar should work, you will probably have to leverage the wrenches with something else on factory installed fill plugs if you go that route, though.

You have a breaker bar in there, too? Der Big Hammer is another necessary tool for any Miata, well, assuming you know how to change shocks properly. Sometimes der Big Hammer helps with stuck bolts, as well, in which case a little drift to guide die force of den Big Hammer may be useful. Also, my former local parts shop used to give me free little bottles of liquid wrench, one of those was often a life saver.

You keeping a floor jack or jack stands in there? I'm not sure about the quality of most of those aluminum ones, but was fairly impressed with the weight of the AC Hydraulic jacks for being made of steel. Definitely a fair deal lighter than the floor jack one of my buddies keeps in the bed of his truck, which weighs about 150lb. or so. Broken, actually, says he keeps it in there hoping that someone will try to steal it. Well, still, 60 lbs. min, I'd hate to keep that much in a Miata. Maybe a scissor jack + stands is the way to go if want the ability to raise your car but don't mind it taking a while.

Edit: oh yeah, a couple of handy wrenches for brake system bleeding and slave cylinder replacements, 8 & 10. The 19 is also used on the PPF, definitely good to have if you need to replace a clutch. Can't remember if I used a wrench or socket, though, been too long.

Savington

18th July 2006, 22:38

IMO, you could get away with two or three adjustable plumber's wrenches in various sizes, and mabye a HF torque wrench if you're so inclined. A few zip-ties and mabye a roll of duct tape, and you're done.

If you need anything more than that, you're in a bigger snafu than I would attempt to repair on the roadside. :) For what it's worth, I carry a flashlight, a credit card, and my cell phone, and that's it. (I'm a weight fanatic, though, so the idea of carrying around the extra 35lbs of spare tire/jack/tire iron is not appealing to me.)