In all my vehicles, I have ended up carrying heavy toolboxes because like any self respecting do-it-yourselver, I would hate to have a breakdown and not have the tools on hand to fix it.

But, I have been thinking that there is no point carrying these heavy toolboxes and giving up on fuel economy , taking up space etc. If there was really a breakdown, Tampa's finest would not really allow me to do anything but a quick repair if that.

So I wanted the forum's opinion on what to carry in the vehicle so I do not have to kick myself for lack of tools if such a situation arises. I am thinking:

1) Screwdriver - dual kind
2) Pliers
3) 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 19 mm open ended wrenches
4) Vice grips ?
5) Hammer ?

What does the forum think ?

Thanks,
Hugo
84 Mercedes 380SE....99K
99 Dodge Intrepid ES...99K
00 RX300...113K
01 Chrysler Town and Country Ltd...47K

 

That is a good selection, but add a roll of electrical tape, could come in handy.....

 

Duct tape and fuses are always with me along with Allen wrenches.

 

i keep a
1. gator wrench
2. flash light
3. multi-tool
4. set of allen wrenches
5. multi head screwdriver
6. pocket knife
7. baby desert eagle (thanks to my Texas concealed handgun license)

 

The main thing to consider is what is the extent of repair you will be able to do?

I would recommend personal survival things (blanket, first aid kit), then things to warn others (flash-light, caution-sign/flares). & tools to fix would be the last.

Tools would be rudimentary [Why is that tool kit is missing in vehicles sold in USA .. flat+phillips screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench (I hate them but sure beats carrying multiple wrenches), pocket knife) and most important of all working (inflated) spare tire.

Last time I was stranded ... many years ago [mazda-mpv], I had to get the vehicle towed to the shop.

Salim

 

The tools I find most useful are too big to be in a car. So I keep my AAA card and skip carrying dead weight, avoid working on the car on the side of the road when I practically can work on everything with what I have in the garage:

1/2 drive 24" breaker bar, 1/2 drive 18" torque wrench, Craftsman 6 point socket set with 1/2 ratchet, Craftsman metric combination wrenches from 8mm to 22mm, mechanic's creeper, 2 tons hydro jack, 1/2 drive impact wrench, stainless steel oil catching pan, plus usual handtools.

 

Tuned raised a good point. Working on the roadside is not safe.

Not too long ago, we lost some one in Seattle area, who was helping a stranger change a flat. The strange part is that the trooper was behind with flashing lights.

Salim

 

1. Cell Phone (currently iPhone ;-) with a number of a local friend.
2. Tow Chain.

The rest of tools is in my/friend's garage.

 

Here's all I carry: cell phone, jumper cable, and AAA card.

And a can of "Fix-a-flat" (In case I get a flat in pouring rain, freezing weather, or at some unsafe location. I know most tech won't fix a flat filled with that gooey thing, but screw it. My safety is more important than a tire.)