Positive Tool Experiences

[smokeysevin]

I spent some time on the 4th rebuilding the carbs on my JS build and wanted to share how something went well for a change. I figure there are probably other must have tools for working on skis that are worth having that I may not have ever seen so I am putting this out in the hope of learning something new and sharing something I have found that works.

For years, I have used whatever screwdrivers were available and while they worked occasionally, sometimes I would end up really fighting with screws. I found out a few years ago about JIS screws which look deceptively close to phillips head screws but didn't buy a set of JIS drivers until a month or so ago. I went with the teal handled vessel brand JIS drivers and was really happy with how well they gripped, the ergonomics of the handle, and the general feel of the tool. Even though they are expensive, they are the right tool for the job and to me, are worth the price. I also picked up an impact driver set to match.



That said, what is your secret sauce tool?

Sean

 

[Christian_83]

One of mine is a "twister handle rachet".
When you turn the handle, the rachet with turn the socket. Very neat for places with space is very limited.

 

[brapperdoodle]

I also picked up an impact driver set to match.

Are you talking about a manual impact driver set? Thats one of my favorite "special tools" I haven't stripped a screw since I found that tool 10 years ago haha.

 

[smokeysevin]

Are you talking about a manual impact driver set? Thats one of my favorite "special tools" I haven't stripped a screw since I found that tool 10 years ago haha.

The white one in the set is a manual impact driver where you hit the handle with a hammer and it comes loose, the other set I bought are just "impact rated" 1/4" hex style drivers that go in an electric impact wrench/impact driver.

I really should pickup a proper manual driver like you are talking about though.

Sean

 

[SXIPro]

One of mine is a "twister handle rachet".
When you turn the handle, the rachet with turn the socket. Very neat for places with space is very limited.
View attachment 412860

I had no idea something like this even existed. I'll be ordering one today. Thanks!

 

[brapperdoodle]

The white one in the set is a manual impact driver where you hit the handle with a hammer and it comes loose, the other set I bought are just "impact rated" 1/4" hex style drivers that go in an electric impact wrench/impact driver.

I really should pickup a proper manual driver like you are talking about though.

Sean

Yeah they are sweet!

To add to your thread though, this tool really changed my life. It is called a "Terminal Crimper Tool" or a "Molex Crimping Tool" and is used for adding a pin to a bare wire. This mimics factory connection pins and can be used for many different types of connectors. There are many companies out there that sell connector kits, these allow you to create professional custom connectors for whatever you want. I personally always use the waterproof type connectors and they work fantastic on just about everything. Anyways, all you need is this tool and some pins. Really a game changer.

 

[smokeysevin]

Ratcheting crimpers are totally worth it. No more wondering if you squeezed tight enough or if your crimper is the right size/style.

On the electrical front, I advocate using non insulated terminals then adding adhesive lined heat shrink over them. I also swear by marine tinned copper wire. I use ankor brand because its accessible but I am sure most others will do well.

Wire sleeve wise, I am really happy with the stuff from wirecare.

Connector wise, I typically order from eastern beaver, they have an awesome selection of oem sealed Japanese connectors.

Sean

 

[mthomps]

Wrenches with ratchet closed ends. It turned fumbling around flipping the open end over and over in tight spaces in to seconds of work.

 

[Sparkplug]

The new right angle milwaukee impact changed the entire wrenching game. The half inch one will pull off lug nuts. Why twist a handle when you can push a button. The impact function is absolutely awesome for those fasteners that are right in between being tight and loose. And for that stubborn rusted bolt in the bottom of the engine bay. Absolutely could not.go back to wrenching without one.

The stubby impact m12 is like 250 ft lbs. It will fit almost anywhere and break any bolt free.



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[smokeysevin]

The new right angle milwaukee impact changed the entire wrenching game. The half inch one will pull off lug nuts. Why twist a handle when you can push a button. The impact function is absolutely awesome for those fasteners that are right in between being tight and loose. And for that stubborn rusted bolt in the bottom of the engine bay. Absolutely could not.go back to wrenching without one.

The stubby impact m12 is like 250 ft lbs. It will fit almost anywhere and break any bolt free.



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I have been using the electric ratchets for years and love them. I didn't realize the right angle impact was out yet, I will need to check that out.

Sean

 

[Sparkplug]

Change the pn to a 20 and that's the bare tool

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[brapperdoodle]

Change the pn to a 20 and that's the bare tool

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WHHAAATTT!!! Buying now!!! How did I miss the right angle impact?? Love my Milwaukee and Dewalt I only have the 18V currently but I think my Milwaukee charger does both 12 and 18

 

[Mentzel]

BSPT pipe taps for kawasaki 1/8” and 1/4”

British Standard Pipe Thread

vs

National Pipe Taper

 

[tor*p*do]

Palm ratchet with deep socket for ebox and elsewhere

 

[smokeysevin]

Palm ratchet with deep socket for ebox and elsewhere

I grabbed a ball swivel one a few years back, it doesn't get used often but when you need one, nothing will replace it.

Sean

 

[Sparkplug]

The gear wrench tap and die set is spendy. But the quality of the taps and dies is better than any other set I've come across. Along with the ratcheting tap handles, I just dunno if there is a better kit out there.

The metal mity vac, not the plastic one, is a true lifesaving tool. Both in general use and engine diagnostics.

The hf Quinn digital torque wrenches have excellent repeatability. I've compared to many others and for the price. The Quinn can't be beat. If your a die hard snap on guy, you can source the maker of their torque wrenches for 1/3 the price. Of throwing money away is your thing.

Milwaukee soldering iron. Not a can't do without tool. Just one that makes jobs so much simpler and hassle free.

The Doyle crimping tool from hf. Holy crap. Best crimping tool ever. I know it's just like all others. But it's 10 dollars.

Home made press brake for a 20 ton press. Just a piece of 1/2 plate and some 1/4 angle iron and you can form all sorts of stuff up to 5/16 100*

I could go on and on. Henry Ford said "if you need something and don't buy it, you pay for it and don't have it" at least thats what I've read anyways. And it's held true from.my experience. Time is money. And jobs go together much cleaner and hassle free with good tools.





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[Ducky]

There are so many tools I have that I love for jetski stuff. Here is a quick one off the top of my head. I enjoy doing wiring, and my OCD likes it to be clean and tidy. The Klein Katapult strippers are awesome!!

 

[Mentzel]

There are so many tools I have that I love for jetski stuff. Here is a quick one off the top of my head. I enjoy doing wiring, and my OCD likes it to be clean and tidy. The Klein Katapult strippers are awesome!!

View attachment 412906

I like klein tools in general.. the screw drivers are great too.

 

[restosud]

this is the best tool i never bought..... wish i could afford it though.

 

[tor*p*do]

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