Topic: What tools should I buy??

[ateamsam]

Hey guys,

So I recently bought a 74 cb550 and I think it may need some general work done to it.  I changed the oil and the spark plugs and want to get the bike checked over by a mechanic to see if there is anything wrong with the bike that I should/need to get fixed.  I would like to do the work myself if I can but I don't have any tools ... nothing ... nada ... except for some of my brothers stuff while he is away at law school.  Anyways, other than the tools that are provided with the bike kit, what should I buy?  Here is a list of things I want to do:

Sync the carbs
check the compression
change the brake fluid
and clean the carbs
etc that comes up

So if you could give me a laundry list of things to buy I just may do it. 

[B.O.X.N.I.F.E.]

There was a post on this recently, give the search a try.

[scunny]

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=28791.0

[Inigo Montoya]

You NEED an excuse to buy tools? 

[Johnie]

First thing you want to do is buy a service manual for that bike.  Don't get that confused with the "owners" manual.  I am talking the service manual that will help you through the steps of what you want to do.  You should be able to find it on eBay or try www.helminc.com  For the carb sync try a unit many of the guys like called the morgan carbtune.  Then there is a nice set of metric sockets, wrenches, drivers, etc.  I got a nice compression tester at Sears.  You can buy stuff as you need it too.  Like impact driver, spark plug gauge, big hammer we all like to use once and a while   and torque wrench if you decide to get into the work.  Visit some vintage shows and check out www.vjmc.org  

[alltherightpills]

You NEED an excuse to buy tools? 

I've forced myself to have an excuse to buy tools, cause I like them so much.  I don't buy a tool until I need it and my bank account is much happier.  That said, here is what you will need to fix a vast majoity of things on these bikes:

Set of metric wrenches and sockets
Set of JIS screwdrivers (http://www.mcmaster.com/#jis-(japanese-industrial-standard)-screwdrivers/=2jk0oj  Go about 2/3 of the way down the page, get the set of 4 standard screwdrivers for $14.05)
Feeler guages
Impact driver
Multimeter
Torque Wrench
Assorted pliers, crescent wrenches, etc.

You can probably rent a compression tester at an auto parts store like Autozone, O'Reilly's, or Napa.  When I needed to change the O2 sensor in my car, I "rented" the socket that I needed for the job at Autozone.  I paid for the full price of the tool, and then when I returned it, they refunded my money. 

Tools are an investment, and good ones that you take care of will likely last longer than you will.  Check on craigslist for used tools as well.  I know there are some differing opinions about places like Harbor Freight, but I generally only get consumables (sandpaper, lubes, etc) or one-time-use tools from them.  I'd rather save up and buy nice stuff than buy cheap tools.

[moham]

I think the five piece t-handle metric sockets from sportingforless.com are great. They don't preclude the need for regular sockets/wrenches but I use them way more than a regular socket or box wrench.

Like what's been said, when in doubt buy quality. You will learn through experience when you can get by with less, and you don't need to break the bank, just get decent quality stuff and your wrenching experience will be a bit more pleasant. I think Stanley and Craftsmen are decent stuff, certainly not top of the line but not crap either.   

[JBMorse]

+1 on the impact driver.  Invaluable in removing screws from engine side covers as well as valve cover (hopefully you won't need to take that off).  You should be able to get one at a hardware store for under $15.  I got mine at the Ace where I'm working.

Besides that and basic wrenches/sockets, I recommend an NOS style spark plug wrench.  It seems impossible to get at the plugs with a conventional one.  I bought a repro at cycle recycle (there's a link to them in the FAQ) for a decent price.

Good luck!

[Inigo Montoya]

The craftsman socket will work on the plugs.

[754]

Weld a 1/4 drive socket into the end of the stock plug wrench.

[mtr]

A 10mm wrench will take you pretty far 

[Duke McDukiedook]

Dead blow hammer goes a long way with my old bike.

[SanDogDewey]

Vice Grips, baling wire, and duct tape. Is there anything else?

[Blasbo]

Vice Grips, baling wire, and duct tape. Is there anything else?

Zip Ties 

[moham]

Vice Grips, baling wire, and duct tape. Is there anything else?

Zip Ties 

And a bag of Levi Garret. When you're done with your chaw you can stuff the wad into whatever spot is leaking oil...