Re: Automotive Tools

Clean and Lube your ratchets once in a while to get better ratcheting action. Just be careful when opening it up as springs can fly out and get lost.

Sometimes I use Lithium grease or ATF depending on the ratchet's tooth count.

However I will order some good lubricants later.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0037QG4BS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A3SKJE188CW5XG

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HBNVSK/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Re: Automotive Tools

I sold my Craftsman 1/2" Drive Air Impact Wrench so I need a replacement. This time I decided that I would go for an Ingersoll Rand.

There are very good priced IR 1/2" drive impact wrenches that suits my budget. However there are differences too. One of the main concern is type of material used in the gun's construction. Metal is one and the newer models use composite. My question is how good is composite technology now. We know for a fact that it's lighter but does it mean durability is sacrificed.

Below are the guns I'm choosing from. Power and sound is almost the same except for the weight. The composite is less than a kilo compared to the metal one.

The tried and tested industry standard IR231C. A 25 years old design still considered to be one of the most durable in the industry.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002SRM3I/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

A newer generation composite model. Still few reviews available.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002UNR6W/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

If in my position would you go for extra weight in exchange for a robust gun or go light weight composite but less durability?

Other better impact guns available in the market but are not within my budget. ( i.e IR Titanium models )

Re: Automotive Tools

I would go for the older model still..its already tried and tested..and you can't beat metal for the housing.

Re: Automotive Tools

I would go for the older model still..its already tried and tested..and you can't beat metal for the housing.

Thinking about it too cause most of the time the Mechanics are the one using it. If ever I use it's only occasionally.

Better to get the metal one first and probably an IR Titanium gun later for personal use when budget becomes loose (dreaming) .

None the less I still have a smaller and lighter Snap On IM31 3/8" impact wrench if I needed something easier to swing.

Ordering the IR231C now. Thank you Moji. I was on the brink already for the 231C but needed a small push. It's cheaper too. Go go go.

Ordered this as well. I believe you have one yourself.

http://www.amazon.com/GoodYear-8-Inch-50-Feet-Safety-50-Feet/dp/B0000225E0/ref=pd_ecc_rvi_cart_1

Re: Automotive Tools

Ah yes, that's what i have. Its a good choice for a hose.

Re: Automotive Tools

I have not much experience with air tools aside from my uncle's Milwaukee but I think the glossy metal one's appearance and structure is good enough to win over the composite one. Not sure if that already uses polymer materials but for me, the classic look beats it already.

Call it old school but sometimes, there are things that seems to give you more satisfaction due to it's feel or appearance and prestige.

Note: Your Mileage May Vary 😀

Re: Automotive Tools

the only difference I see in the construction is how much you will be using it. weight is always a factor when you have to use them a lot... I reckon this will be your personal tool and will be cared for properly, so being light could be a plus for old people... :p:p:p

Re: Automotive Tools

the only difference i see in the construction is how much you will be using it. Weight is always a factor when you have to use them a lot... I reckon this will be your personal tool and will be cared for properly, so being light could be a plus for old people... :p:p:p

arrrayyy ko...

more matured users, not ...old people. LOL

Re: Automotive Tools

the only difference I see in the construction is how much you will be using it. weight is always a factor when you have to use them a lot... I reckon this will be your personal tool and will be cared for properly, so being light could be a plus for old people... :p:p:p

Yeah I gave the weight some serious thought too which is very important. However since this will not be a personal use only tool ( mechanics will also use this in my garage ) I decided to go for durability instead.

None the less there's a new IR Hybrid Ratchet /Impact type wrench that has just been released and am waiting for the price to come down. This is what I will get for myself. It's called a Hammer Head and is much more versatile than the gun types.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003V9P6W4/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A8Y9N35ANEOVV

http://www.coptool.com/blog/2010/06/ingersoll_rand_hammerhead_air.html

Re: Automotive Tools

the only difference I see in the construction is how much you will be using it. weight is always a factor when you have to use them a lot... I reckon this will be your personal tool and will be cared for properly, so being light could be a plus for old people... :p:p:p

Amen to that but come to think of it, the air impact wrench is just used on very short bursts and only less than 5% of the whole automotive repair time as it only gets into action in disassembly and assembly.

So I guess the weight factor would still be justified by the strength, appearance and by the cheaper price of the metal version. The hybrid version is also great specially in the tight spots in the engine bay

I still do think that Ninong Jay is still machow enough when the going gets tough

Re: Automotive Tools

The impact is a great tool for dis assembly specially if faced with stubborn fasteners. However for assembly I as much as possible refrain from using it since it can easily strip or snap fasteners unless one is careful. I prefer an air ratchet for assembly

if not the old school spinner handles.

Re: Automotive Tools

Radiator / Intercooler Bent Fins Pliers

We're tired using small screw drivers to straighten out bent fins. How about some Fin Pliers? I found this one below but it's always better to ask for more options.

http://www.eastwood.com/radiator-pli...-rake-kit.html

I also thought about grinding a cheap pair of pliers but it's always good to get the proper set of tools. This intercooler is from an Isuzu trooper and needs to be done to look like new if possible.

It would be better if it's a local purchase. I know some Japanese made ones are available but don't know where to find locally. Maybe our resident tool dealers can help too.

Even a radiator comb if available.

Re: Automotive Tools

How about a DIY version from a coarse tooth human comb for the mean time as a preliminary fix then followed by the right tools for finishing 😀

Re: Automotive Tools

V-Belt and Alternator Belt Change for me.

Good DIY practice for beginners.

The V-belt is at the end of it's service life.

Needs only a 12mm ( alternator belt ) and a 14 mm ( V-Belt ) socket / wrench to pull the job.

Some YouTube videos as reference.

Alternator Belt

V-Belt ( serpentine belt )

Re: Automotive Tools

Just make sure the belts are tensioned correctly. If it's too loose it will squeak or slip. If too tight it would not be good for the bearings.

Job done now.

Oil and Spark Plugs changed also but still need to replace the Fuel Filter.