First I want to say that I am not pushing a particular brand of tools. Most of my pictures & tools are Snap On because it is my choice of tools. I'm sure there are many variations and brands to some of the tools shown. This Thread is for informational purposes only, so feel free to look for and purchase any brand that you feel accommodates your needs.

Over the years I have picked up a few tools that have become my favorites, so I thought I would share a few of them for people that enjoy working on their own bikes.

If you have a Cool Tool then post up a photo with some info on it. Preferably what it is used for, Brand name, and where it can be purchased.


The first tool on the list is a Front Axle Tool made by PITPOSSE called the "Posse Hex Axel Tool". This is a 4 in 1 tool that fits 17, 19, 22, and 24MM Hex type Axles which covers a wide range of motorcycles as you can see.
YAMAHA: R1, R6, YZ, YZF
HONDA: CBR600RR, CBR1000RR, CR, CRF
KAWASAKI: ZX6R, ZX6RR, ZX600E/K, ZX7R, ZX9R, Z1000, KX, KLX, KXF
SUZUKI: GSXR, V-Strom, RM, RMZ

It is available in Aluminum or Steel. You can insert a 3/8 drive extension in the center for removing, installing, torquing axles, or you can just use a socket on the opposite end of the one your using. http://www.pitposse.com/noname7.html

Here is my aluminum one with a little wear on it.
2026

These are new in Alum & Steel.
2027

2028


Here is another 3 in 1 variation made by Komotodraggin. They also make a 4 in 1. http://www.komotodraggin.com/

My 3 in 1 is Steel and fits 19, 22, 24MM Hex type Axles.
2036

Here is another option, but somewhat limits you to axles that are 19MM Hex. If you want a tool for pure muscle, then this is it. This is Snap On 1/2 Drive 19MM Hex.
2037


Ride safe.

Next on the list are some 1/4" bits. I own some rather expensive sets of bits but this set is one of the best things I have ever purchased. Not because of the awesome quality, but because of the great variety and little case makes it easy to throw in your tankbag or backpack. You can purchase similar sets from Snap On, Mac, etc, but this little kit comes from Harbor Freight for around $6.00. That comes out to about $.06 per bit.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=91310

2038


Now for some tools to use with those bits.

This is a Snap On Screwdriver Handle, Ratcheting, Soft Grip, Stubby http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?P65=&tool=hand&item_ID=72225&group_ID=13203&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

You can also purchase different adapters and lengths of adapters as pictured. The shanks or shafts can be removed from the handle to accommodate bits or 1/4" sockets.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/tools.asp?tool=hand&Group_ID=12543&store=snapon-store

2039

This is a miniature Ratcheting Handle. Great for those tight spots. It will accept any of the 1/4" bits as well and is also magnetic so the bits don't fall out. If your doing "Smog Block Off" mod, this tool and a 5MM bit is the only thing you need to actually remove/install the plates. You can purchase each tool separately or purchase as a set.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?search=true&item_ID=75043&PartNo=ya489&group_id=11620&supersede=&store=snapon-store&tool=all

2040

2041

The next tool is for removing oil filters. I use K&N Oil Filter with the nut on the end, so I don't use the tool on my own bike, but I constantly get bikes in the shop that don't have the nut. I have yet to run into a filter that this tool cannot get off. No more driving a screwdriver through your oil filter and destroying it.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?search=true&item_ID=16349&PartNo=ya4050b&group_id=1535&supersede=&store=snapon-store&tool=all

2042


Ride safe.

Nice post!! But I don't need any of those since you have them!! :sing :lmao :thumbup

Another oil filter wrench, I have been using this one for about a year now. Works on my Truck and my 06 R1, bought it at the Home depot, about $14 iirc.

http://www.channellock.com/acb/stores/1/209_-_9_inch_Oil_Filter_Plier_P140C5.cfm

Another oil filter wrench, I have been using this one for about a year now. Works on my Truck and my 06 R1, bought it at the Home depot, about $14 iirc.

http://www.channellock.com/acb/stores/1/209_-_9_inch_Oil_Filter_Plier_P140C5.cfm

For oil filter wrench, I prefer the OEM ones, because I can use my torque-wrench with it and also it fits perfectly on the filter so it won't scratch it. :mrgreen These OEM ones are not expensive either, maybe just a few bucks more. To tighten, I always try to use a torque-wrench whenever there is a torque spec given, and there is a torque spec on oil filters... :yes

Here is an example of the OEM type...

For oil filter wrench, I prefer the OEM ones, because I can use my torque-wrench with it and also it fits perfectly on the filter so it won't scratch it. :mrgreen These OEM ones are not expensive either, maybe just a few bucks more. To tighten, I always try to use a torque-wrench whenever there is a torque spec given, and there is a torque spec on oil filters... :yes

Here is an example of the OEM type...


I've never torqued an oil filter, nor used a tool to install one that has an exterior case such as on the R1. Now, on the YZ's, and some other bikes, you need to remove a housing to get to the filter. Otherwise, I've always just spun the filter on, then once contact is made, I turn it by hand until it's tight. It's a little more than it should be, but I've never had a leak.

I have the red handled filter pliers similar to what R1 Master posted. I also have a conventional style oil filter wrench that you can change out the band for four different sizes.

As to cool tools, probably the one I have now that I like the most is the Ratcheting Overdriver (http://www.mactools.com/Mac/Mac+Products/Catalog/Hand+Tools/Screwdrivers/Ratcheting/RSD590) from Mac Tools. I'm on my second one, as I stripped out the gears attempting to get out a couple of screws that were too tight (should've used a fixed one) with the first one (also a different body style). But, this this is by far the best manual screwdriver around. :old

I've had a lot of great tools during my time as an auto mechanic. I sold 95% of all the tools I had once I got out of the profession as I'd never use them again. I still have the basics, and what I've slowly added over the years to work on my bikes, but that's about it now.

BTW, I'd recommend moving this to the "General Section" and making it a sticky instead of being related to just one bike. :yes

Who makes the best socket for the nut on the triple tree? I can't find a 6-point anywhere, and the 12-points ass it up the minute it touches it.

I use an impact socket on mine....almost all impacts are 6 point. Try Harbor Freight for a cheap set. If you want extra insurance, lay a piece of paper over the nut before putting the socket on for an insulator. may have to use a size up socket and a couple pieces of paper to get a proper fit.

Like KW said, you have to get an Impact socket if you want 6 point 36MM. I don't know of anyone that makes a Chrome 36MM 6 point socket.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?P65=&tool=all&item_ID=3513&group_ID=20765&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

I use some Painters Tape around the nut before putting the socket on. Always worked so far.


Ride safe.

WHOA! Check this biznatch out:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/36mm-6-Pt-Socket-1-2-Dr-for-VW-Volkswagen-Porsche-BMW_W0QQitemZ200024521907QQcmdZViewItem

WHOA! Check this biznatch out:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/36mm-6-Pt-Socket-1-2-Dr-for-VW-Volkswagen-Porsche-BMW_W0QQitemZ200024521907QQcmdZViewItem

That should work, but it would not be my first choice of tools since it's made in Taiwan. They usually do not have tight tolerances so more chance of slipping a little bit and marring the nut.

Just my $.02


Ride safe.

Like KW said, you have to get an Impact socket if you want 6 point 36MM. I don't know of anyone that makes a Chrome 36MM 6 point socket.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?P65=&tool=all&item_ID=3513&group_ID=20765&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

I use some Painters Tape around the nut before putting the socket on. Always worked so far.


Ride safe.

Snap On is an excellent tool company, but also look for other high quality brands such as:

Mac
Craftsman
Husky
Allen
MAtco

MAny of them are lower in cost than Snap On. Also, be sure to hit up your local pawn shop for great deals.

flexhone rotor tool :bow

facom allen wrenches :bow

cyclecat rearstand :bow

flexhone rotor tool :bow

facom allen wrenches :bow

cyclecat rearstand :bow

Nice. Would you mind adding the chain alignment tool you own to the list also? :jiggy


Ride safe.

Personally, one of the most important tools in my toolbox...

http://www.biziworks.com.au/biziworks/BiziGen?ownerID=AEROSHOP&docID=100

Nice. Would you mind adding the chain alignment tool you own to the list also? :jiggy


Ride safe.



ProfiLaser CAT (chain alignment tool) :bow

not really a tool but a real time saver- CycleGadgets quick changer oil drain system :bow

I use this Blast Cabinet loaded with Glass bead to clean rotors.....does a perfect job $99

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=45411

BTW, here's the chain tool I have:

DID Chain tool (http://www.powersportsnetwork.com/enthusiasts/catalog_item_detail.asp?catalog=776&levelcode=6079&product=188940&cattype=&ProductCategoryCode=)

how well does it work compared to others

The DID chain tool is excellent. It does both removal and installation of the rivets/pins on a chain. I will say though that you still want to grind the rivet heads down, or completely off if you can so you eliminate the accidental bending of a pin on removal.

IMO, it's worth the cost as it's extremely sturdy compared to all others.

Here is the Chain Tool I currently use.

Motion Pro - Jumbo Chain Tool

This is very heave duty tool and you can also purchase the adapters to do Factory Rivets for a "Continuous Chain"

http://motionpro.com/motorcycle/tools/jumbo_chain_tool/

3191


Ride safe.

Digital calipers, one of my most used tools

Digital calipers, one of my most used tools

I got a cheapo version, have to upgrade to something like yours, pocket thread gages are nice to have in the tool box too :thumbup

I just have a cheap plastic caliper I keep in my tool box. I use it to align my chain and adjust the fork height. :thumbup

I just have a cheap plastic caliper I keep in my tool box :thumbup


problably the same one I have too . . . $10.00 special at the tool store, being an old & broke factory rat sometimes does that :lmao

Yeah, I think that's what I paid for it. It's not the most accurate, but it does it's job.

Yeah, I think that's what I paid for it. It's not the most accurate, but it does it's job.

I also have an antique brass analog one I use in my tool box :rolleyes

I also have an antique brass analog one I use in my tool box :rolleyes


This is the one I have. Not quite as fancy as your brass though. :mock

This is the one I have. Not quite as fancy as your brass though. :mock

All 3 of these were inexpensive $10.00/ea. or less at bargain tool stores, but invaluable to have in your tool box when working on bikes. Highly recomend these to anyone wrenching, great reference tools for getting fastener sizes or bolt circle centers, pipe diameters, etc. :thumbup

First I want to say that I am not pushing a particular brand of tools. Most of my pictures & tools are Snap On because it is my choice of tools. I'm sure there are many variations and brands to some of the tools shown. This Thread is for informational purposes only, so feel free to look for and purchase any brand that you feel accommodates your needs.

Over the years I have picked up a few tools that have become my favorites, so I thought I would share a few of them for people that enjoy working on their own bikes.

If you have a Cool Tool then post up a photo with some info on it. Preferably what it is used for, Brand name, and where it can be purchased.


The first tool on the list is a Front Axle Tool made by PITPOSSE called the "Posse Hex Axel Tool". This is a 4 in 1 tool that fits 17, 19, 22, and 24MM Hex type Axles which covers a wide range of motorcycles as you can see.
YAMAHA: R1, R6, YZ, YZF
HONDA: CBR600RR, CBR1000RR, CR, CRF
KAWASAKI: ZX6R, ZX6RR, ZX600E/K, ZX7R, ZX9R, Z1000, KX, KLX, KXF
SUZUKI: GSXR, V-Strom, RM, RMZ

It is available in Aluminum or Steel. You can insert a 3/8 drive extension in the center for removing, installing, torquing axles, or you can just use a socket on the opposite end of the one your using. http://www.pitposse.com/noname7.html

Here is my aluminum one with a little wear on it.
2026

These are new in Alum & Steel.
2027

2028


Here is another 3 in 1 variation made by Komotodraggin. They also make a 4 in 1. http://www.komotodraggin.com/

My 3 in 1 is Steel and fits 19, 22, 24MM Hex type Axles.
2036

Here is another option, but somewhat limits you to axles that are 19MM Hex. If you want a tool for pure muscle, then this is it. This is Snap On 1/2 Drive 19MM Hex.
2037


Ride safe.Hi
Sorry to bother you with this mate, but can you help me with some PJ1 silver matalic paint please-where to get some?
Thanks. John

Hi
Sorry to bother you with this mate, but can you help me with some PJ1 silver matalic paint please-where to get some?
Thanks. John

What model/year bike is the color from?

You never answered the same question in your previous thread (http://www.yamaha-forum.net/forum/showthread.php?t=5731).

Digital calipers, one of my most used tools

a year out of date I know, but nice caliper dude!

a year out of date I know, but nice caliper dude!


I gotta spring for a good set like I have at work . . . or maybe I borrow the work one :lmao

First I want to say that I am not pushing a particular brand of tools. Most of my pictures & tools are Snap On because it is my choice of tools.

I have to make a short comment about the quality of Snap-on. I recieved a set of Snap-on ratchets from a friend for X-mas. I also have Craftsman Ratchets. This past weekend I was working on my truck front axle. The axle nut was stripped and my 1/2 drive impact is only rated to 520 ft lbs. I needed more to get that axle nut off. So I did what any other redneck would do. I nabbed the 1/2 ratchet and 3 ft cheater bar. The craftsman broke on the 2nd jump. The Snap-on lasted the entire beating untill the nut was off.

a year out of date I know, but nice caliper dude!

Thanks Junior, i try not to skimp on precision stuff if i can afford it. Besides, i get stuff at cost from my local tool mart.

I have to make a short comment about the quality of Snap-on. I recieved a set of Snap-on ratchets from a friend for X-mas. I also have Craftsman Ratchets. This past weekend I was working on my truck front axle. The axle nut was stripped and my 1/2 drive impact is only rated to 520 ft lbs. I needed more to get that axle nut off. So I did what any other redneck would do. I nabbed the 1/2 ratchet and 3 ft cheater bar. The craftsman broke on the 2nd jump. The Snap-on lasted the entire beating untill the nut was off.

I agree! I got two dead craftsman ratchets that i need to return, do they still replace or repair for free? I know the problem of craftsman ratchets is mostly the fit of the ratcheting mechanism, it's very sloppy with excessive play. Snap On and SK on the other hand have tighter tolerances which leads to longevity, the use of higher quality metals contribute also. So next time you guys buy a new ratchet, spin it a few times to make sure it's not all wobbly and the reverse lever / switch is not too loose either. Damn... i feel like going to the tool store now, i try to stay away since i'm like a kid in a candy store there :jiggy

anybody tried one of those mac 0* lock-up ratchets yet?

do they still replace or repair for free?
Damn... i feel like going to the tool store now, i try to stay away since i'm like a kid in a candy store there :jiggy
Yes hand tools are 100% free to fix or replace.

I am always ready to hit up a tool store.:humpleg

anybody tried one of those mac 0* lock-up ratchets yet?

Friend of mine has one. Gives it a :thumbup

Yes hand tools are 100% free to fix or replace.


They won't replace torque wrenches after 90 days and there are a few select other Crasftsman hand tools which are not covered.

Craftsman has a Pro line now which is much higher quality than the other stuff. Not on par with Snap On, Mac or Matco. But, better than most.

They won't replace torque wrenches after 90 days and there are a few select other Crasftsman hand tools which are not covered.


Ahhh torque wrenches are "measurement tools"

Friend of mine has one. Gives it a :thumbup


Sweet deal. Last time I looked there wasn't one in a handle that I liked but I'll have to look again, seems like an awfully good idea.

don't forget also Beta tools, they're a bit less than USAG but same quality and great design. I have about half Beta and the rest Snap-on.

The DID chain tool is excellent. It does both removal and installation of the rivets/pins on a chain. I will say though that you still want to grind the rivet heads down, or completely off if you can so you eliminate the accidental bending of a pin on removal.

IMO, it's worth the cost as it's extremely sturdy compared to all others.

Nice post!! But I don't need any of those since you have them!

One of my most useful is the cableoiler

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b250/stigsdump/cableoiler.jpg

be careful about tools though

theres abit of advice for you...think i'm currently in the seriously advanced stages :violin

Tool Envy Syndrome (TES)

Tool Envy Syndrome (TES) is a serious condition that afflicts, in varying degrees, nearly all men who are interested in mechanical things. It is very important to recognize and deal with this condition before it becomes serious; left untreated it can lead to a far more serious condition: Inflammation of the Credit Card (ICC).

TES is known to strike under the following circumstances:
Browsing the latest tool catalogs or sale flyers, visiting stores such as Grizzly or Harbor Freight (Warning: while much less than in earlier years, the tool department at Sears can still trigger small attacks)

Visiting the shop of a friend who has more or better tools than you have, surfing the web site of someone with a well-equipped shop, seeing a well-equipped shop in magazines such as Home Shop Machinist.

Tool Envy Syndrome tends to strike young men particularly hard, due its close relationship to a similar condition: Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS).

Over time, in most men, both of these conditions tend to lessen in severity. In fact, it can be shown that gradual accumulation of tools and gear over a period of years can control both conditions while minimizing the risk of Inflammation of the the Credit Card (this is known as the Mature Phase). It has also been
widely observed that getting married and having children can moderate the risk; primarily, it is believed, due to counseling from a loving wife and the sobering effect of having lots more bills to pay.

Tool Envy Syndrome cannot be controlled by any known drugs (although its effects can be exaggerated by the use of alcohol). Therefore, treatment is currently limited primarily to counseling methods. The first step is admitting that you have a problem. Here are some additonal pointers:
Avoid situations that are likely to cause an attack, when visiting tool stores, leave your credit card at home (Warning: in severely afflicted individuals this can trigger emotional breakdown, fits of crying and other irrational behavior)
Meditate on the fine collection of tools that you already have; recognize that time will make it better.

Find a quiet place. Visualize your ideal shop. Repeat to yourself "It is coming"

I hope you have found this information to be helpful. As a TES/GAS
sufferer myself (now in the Mature Phase) I felt compelled to pass it on to you.