Originally Posted by Oreo

Hi Mad1

My main worry is you jacking up that car and being under it for the first time doing quite a big job. I also slide the wheels under the rails for added safety. I use a floor jack to jack up the car from the diff (some will say it hurts the bushes but if its going to go it probably gone anyway I feel). I know of no real spots to put the jackstand except under the jacking pads. I always do both wheels in the air as I think the car will be more stable with 2 jackstands because the resting on on wheel actually makes the car shaky dues to the suspension. Please can the others can chime in here.

Also don't forget the 12 point hex drive. Study the new arms bolts supplied when you get them and you will know what you need. We don't doubt your ability, it just the safety issue.

Good luck again

Oreo

Originally Posted by mad1

I know you guys are going to be disappointed in me but I couldn't bring myself to spend big bucks. Here is what I bought:

Torque wrench - Beam type - it is double-headed so can drive 3/8 or 1/2" sockets. - $10

3/8" impact socket set (I got it really cheap, so I went ahead) - $15

Liquid Wrench


Since I'm only going to do the tie rods this weekend, I'll hold off the breaker bar and the 1/2" impact socket set. If the tie rod job goes ok, I'll feel comfortable spending some money on a better torque wrench which I'll probably need for the rear suspension.

Originally Posted by tvpierce

Excellent compromise on the socket set -- I hadn't thought of that. Since they're impact sockets, I'm sure they'll hold up to much more torque than standard 3/8" sockets. You will still need a breaker bar though. The 3/8" ratchet is now your weakest link.

Good luck.

Jeff Pierce

Originally Posted by tvpierce

Congratulations!

It is rewarding to be self reliant in the world of automotive repair, isn't it?

Those tools will pay for themselves 100 times over.

BTW, Liquid Wrench is basically useless as a penetrating fluid. Get yourself a can of PB Blaster... you'll be glad you did.

jp

Originally Posted by MattBelliveau

Pickle fork, 1## pc. socket/wrench set (usually under $100 @ walmart for Stanley tools). With your collection of tools, I hardly think you should be looking at buy all high end stuff. Craftsman tools are nice, but hardly needed for the typical DIY. Is there a harbor freight store in your area? You might want to try a place like that. Low quality tools, but you probably won't be using them day after day anyway.