Basic tool set question

[Loccusst]

What would you recommend for a basic tool set for running in the jeep when you go trail riding? Something along the lines of using to disconnect sway bar end links or remove a damaged steering stabilizer or other such things you may need to repair.

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[AcesandEights]

Something like this:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Mechanics-Tool-Set-94-Piece-H94MTS/308802598
or
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Mechanics-Tool-Set-111-Piece-H111MTS/203541477

Then I'd buy a BFH and torx bits.

 

[Headbarcode]

It really depends on the combination of your mechical skillset and how deep into your Jeep you're willing to dig, while out on a trail.

For starters, whatevers needed to swap a flat tire for the spare, and also removing a damaged driveshaft to prevent peripheral damage.

 

[zrickety]

What would you recommend for a basic tool set for running in the jeep when you go trail riding? Something along the lines of using to disconnect sway bar end links or remove a damaged steering stabilizer or other such things you may need to repair.

I have a small toolbox I've developed over the years... a set of metric sockets, a couple extensions, swivel ratchet, channel locks, side cutters, needle nose, small crescent wrench, combination screwdriver, mini sledge, electrical tape, wire strippers, zip ties, and torx bits I suppose. That will handle 90% of what you come across. Of course without spare parts, this is only half the equation.

 

[Loccusst]

I would like to say I am somewhat decently mechanically inclined and I do have a tendency to not know the meaning of "not possible". This is a good start for me to build off of.

 

[SparkleTooth]

I'd carry a couple of spare batteries and make friends with an electrician

 

[Loccusst]

I'd carry a couple of spare batteries and make friends with an electrician

Guess it's a good thing I used to be MECP Certified then lol. The electrical aspect of these vehicles don't scare me, now ask me to rebuild a motor....that's a different story. The Jeep is a new beast when it comes to the suspension setup too since I am used to autocross and setting up for different tracks. All I can say is I am excited to learn and I absolutely love my Jeep!

 

[GATORB8]

The basics from my kit. Philips and Flathead, metric wrench set, 1/2” deepwell metric sockets, select 3/8” sockets smaller than the 1/2s, a half inch ratchet, and a 1/2-3/8 adapter, and a big adjustible. Zip ties, baling wire, wire snips and the travel roll of gorilla tape.

 

[txj2go]

What would you recommend for a basic tool set for running in the jeep when you go trail riding? Something along the lines of using to disconnect sway bar end links or remove a damaged steering stabilizer or other such things you may need to repair.

It's hard to know what to bring and what not to bring. I waited until sales between Thanksgiving and Christmas and bought a set of Craftsman tools from Lowes. I wanted deep and shallow sockets, 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drive, and a good variety of end wrenches. I bought a set of torx driverbits for 1/4" through 1/2" drive. I also carry a long breaker bar and socket to fit my lug nuts. I picked out a few bits from my home tools but I don't remember offhand what all that was. I also carry a Harbor Freight tow strap, a short shovel about 36" long, a small bottle jack, jumper cables, lithium jump starter, and of course a substantial tire pump. Everything but the bottle jack and tire pump fits in the cubby under the cargo area floor.
I've never had to do anything difficult with the Jeep but one of my previous cars needed a new battery one time when we were far away from home. I was equipped to install a battery pretty easily.
One time we were pretty far from home and had to tighten a timing chain sprocket. We didn't have any tools on that trip but we found an old style gas station that had tools but no mechanic. A couple of hours and we were back on the road.

 

[Geronimo]

I always have overkilled what I take on longer wheeling adventures. My tool bags weigh between 50-80#s. (Combined) 1/2", 3/8" 1/4" sockets and ratchets, extensions,,, Everything needed to install an RK lift kit, pull valve covers, and oil cooler. (Just all the tools not those parts). Full set of open end wrenches from tiny to 1 1/2" in a roll. Heavy Ball Peen hammer, water pump pliers (3 sizes). Tape rule, dike's and small bolt cutters. Stainless bailing wire, and Gorilla tape. Multi-meter, set of wire connectors, screws, schrader valves. Milwaukee cordless 1/2"D impact. 4" cordless grinder with cutoff and grind wheels. ( a stupid amount of tools I know)

I can honestly say I have never needed MOST of it. But as with my work tools, if I leave them at the shop or home, I guarantee I will need them. I have helped strangers in need Many times. I'm still always worried that I have forgot something....... I could use a mini welder that can handle 3/32 7018 rods........dang

My wife and I are SOLO 90% of the time.

My suggestion is think of what can break, what you are capable of repairing or "rigging", and take the tools to do it.

Oh and there is a list for recovery gear, that's a different subject.

 

[Alfred77L8]

Screwdriver, spare battery, and spare tire

 

[Shibadog]

I’m fairly conservative with my stuff. A socket set, a breaker bar, couple of pairs of pliers, Yankee screwdriver with multiple bits, zip ties, electrical type, box of assorted fuses and a roll of gorilla tape. Probably overkill for what I Would need/use on the trail. (I’m pretty sure my Jeep has an engine down there someplace but I don’t think I’ve ever seen it.. I know I’ve got an oil filter and drain plug and there’s that spiffy place on top to add oil, so I’m pretty sure there’s an engine, but it’s awfully well camouflaged)

I’m a pretty fair wrench but the electronics on todays vehicles is beyond me. I’ve rebuilt/rewired vehicles back in the day (think ‘51 Ford pickup with a transplanted 352 4bbl and 4sp.) but anymore, I’m SOL with wiring.

How mechanically inclined are you? Put in sufficient stuff to deal with any repairs you can see yourself making on the trail and call it good. As a minimum, be able to change a tire (regardless of trail conditions) and drop a damaged driveshaft.

 

[Eyeball]

Screwdriver, spare battery, and spare tire

It would be fun to watch you replace your battery with a screwdriver.

 

[txj2go]

I've probably posted this picture before- here are some of the tools I carry. In addition I have a 1/2" drive breaker bar and deep socket for lug nuts.
Besides mechanics tools I carry a small bottle jack, jumper cables, and lithium battery jump starter.

 

[The Last Cowboy]

Lots of good suggestions. Those Husky sets are a good start. Because the factory lug wrench is crap, I would add a 22mm 6 (six) point socket and a breaker bar or long handled ratchet.

@txj2go has a nice, comprehensive set there, the only thing I would add to it as a long handled pry bar, which can come in handy for more things than you would ever imagine.

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