Tools...Tools...Tools

[MXonaKawi]

I'm doing a rebuild! A pretty big undertaking. I know a lot of you out there are doing the same. Let's get a great thread going about tools.

I have a great metric socket set, metric wrench set, new set of philips head screwdrivers, flatheads, adjustable wrench, and chain breaker.

I'm thinking about getting t handles, a swingarm bearing tool, one of the electronic torque wrenches, a spoke wrench, and a wheel changing setup of some sort. What else do I need?

Let's chat about what is necessary 'toolwise' to get the bike going and also some great FUN tools the factory riders mechanics use. I've done many projects in the past (not necessarily motorcycles) where I haven't had the right tool for the job and just used what I had and of course I botched the job. I don't want that to happen this time. I know it's expensive, but I think buying all the right tools up front that will last 10-15 or more years is so worth it!

[bansheedave]

12 ton press. Parts washer. Media blaster. Strippers, paints.and most needed tool of all, a six pack of beer.

[Kawa_Mark99]

my swing arm bearing tool ...... its really just screwed rod and a couple of nuts 

[TJXK]

I use a ball joint press.  They are something like $40 from harbor freight.

[TJXK]

Also the motion pro t handle is pretty awesome.  Any T handle with the rotating grip in the middle is a huge time saver.  I can't imagine removing plastics and what not without one.

[MXonaKawi]

Also the motion pro t handle is pretty awesome.  Any T handle with the rotating grip in the middle is a huge time saver.  I can't imagine removing plastics and what not without one.

I'll have to check this out. Can you send me a link?

[TJXK]

http://www.motosport.com/dirtbike/Motion-Pro-Spinner-THandle-14-Drive

There is also a 3/8" version.

I use mine so often the rubber came off of the handle making it a little  hard on the hands.  Doesn't matter much while wearing gloves though.

[ID KX500]

http://www.motosport.com/dirtbike/Motion-Pro-Spinner-THandle-14-Drive

There is also a 3/8" version.

I use mine so often the rubber came off of the handle making it a little  hard on the hands.  Doesn't matter much while wearing gloves though.

I prefer spinners.   

[kkvslayer]

my swing arm bearing tool ...... its really just screwed rod and a couple of nuts 

Thats the same setup I use to pull stubborn piston pins

[MXonaKawi]

That t-handle is really cool. I'm gonna grab that as well as a tire spoon and spoke wrench.

How important is a torque wrench? Do the bolts on the bike really have to be torqued to a certain spec? Or is tight by hand good?

[sandblaster]

By hand is not good enough.
Too tight or too loose is very bad....
Stripped threads or parts falling off your bike can have interesting consequences 

[MXonaKawi]

By hand is not good enough.
Too tight or too loose is very bad....
Stripped threads or parts falling off your bike can have interesting consequences 

Good to know. Do you recommend those electronic torque wrenches or are there others you'd recommend?

[cbrfrenzie]

Another good point to make on tightening bolts / nuts to a certain torque...

Any shaft with a bearing needs to be torqued down properly (swing arm, steering head, wheel axles, etc) to give the bearing the correct pre-load so that it may operate correctly and reliably. 

[MXonaKawi]

Another good point to make on tightening bolts / nuts to a certain torque...

Any shaft with a bearing needs to be torqued down properly (swing arm, steering head, wheel axles, etc) to give the bearing the correct pre-load so that it may operate correctly and reliably. 

Great info! Thanks!

[MXonaKawi]

http://www.motosport.com/dirtbike/BikeMaster-Digital-Torque-Wrench

Which one do I get?