Topic: Tools

[Dylan780]

So today I went and picked up the shell for my new drift car project. It is a fully caged s13 240sx and I will be dropping an sr20 into it. I do not have a garage at my new place but my parents thankfully are giving me full use of theirs.

Now I have basic tools like a nice ratchet/socket set, tons of wrenches, screwdrivers etc. etc. all stuff you would find in anyones garage.

What I am looking for are what are some tools I should pick up that would help when building a car up from a rolling chassis. I am going to picking up an engine hoist but I am more looking for tools that will help in awkward positions or any specialty tools I might need.

Any help or info is appreciated!

[Dylan780]

I will be doing no fabrication myself if any at all. I am simply putting in the sr20/tranny and getting the car to a running state. Once I drive it for a while and learn the basics of drifting then I will start to do little modifications here and there.

[Infusion]

Airgun and compressor works wonders

[RedndWhite]

Airgun and compressor works wonders

Could not agree more. All of the stuff I've done on my driveway has been with hand tools (subie heads, front end work, mr2 engine drop, other projects), but at work with proper air tools, they make the job so ridiculously easy.

[jvd]

It's a nice-san. Aka Lego.

Buy specific tools as you need them.

There's very few bits on that car that will require special tools. Couple bigger sockets for axles/front spindles are all I can think of.

If you don't have air tools get an electric impact... even a small one. Break bolts loose with socket wrench and then switch to the little impact. Same for going back in. Impact on. Snug up with wrench. Really handy for all the little bolts.

[Dylan780]

I picked up an air tool kit yesterday at Can Tire, Regular $350 on for $99 so I couldn't say no. Also picked up a proper torque wrench, I think I should have everything I will need besides the engine hoist.

[LilDrunkenSmurf]

What size torque wrench? It's nice to have smaller ones for easier to shear bolts (in-lbs).

[Dylan780]

I have a friend who I think might be lending me his engine stand. And the torque wrench I bought is 3/8".

[Barrett]

If you're swapping the engine I'd also recommend an engine crane or something to raise it up off the floor, and lower it into the bay.

[Dylan780]

If you're swapping the engine I'd also recommend an engine crane or something to raise it up off the floor, and lower it into the bay.

That's what the engine hoist is for.

[Jay89]

Pry bars and hammers I use mine almost on a daily basis

[ultimatt]

That's what the engine hoist is for.

Leveler?

[seat safety switch]

Pry bars and hammers I use mine almost on a daily basis

Yeah, you really can't go wrong with a high quality mini sledge, dead blow hammer and rubber mallet.

I have one of these, though it's no longer available, for prying: http://www.leevalley.com/en/wood/page.aspx?cat=1,43411,43417&p=32511

It did however fail me on the Miata suspension job, so I would imagine trying to do the furious rage that is an S13 tension rod would probably also defeat it.