bare minimum tools

grumpyvette · Feb 12, 2015

ALLEN said:
Grumpy? what do you think the bare minimum of tools would be to build or re-build an engine?
I'm thinking of rebuilding the 383 V8 in my road runner and while I have a standard set of mechanics tools like wrenches ratchets, sockets and a 1/2" torque wrench I'm certainly not in possession of several of the more commonly referred too tools in the numerous engine building threads I see posted here?

well I think the "BARE MINIMUM" would be a HEALTHY CHECKING ACCOUNT BALANCE , and a DEBIT CARD!
STOP AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE FACT YOU NEED BOTH TOOLS AND KNOWLEDGE,
THAT WILL TAKE TIME AND RESEARCH AND SOME EXPERIENCE,
AS I've stated before, I could have you watch me build a kick-ass race engine and then let you try and duplicate the effort, the problem is not in your new found skills its in the fact it takes decades to look over the fit finish and condition of components to know what needs to be tested, clearances required and what might need in depth testing or extensive machine work, and because every last combo will have different requirements you would not have acquired ALL the skills and EXPERIENCE NEEDED,YOU WILL NEED TO DO EXTENSIVE RESEARCH, and the fact is that, until you have had several dozen engine builds in your past, and have acquired several thousand dollars in tools and made dozens of reliable contacts in machine shops and parts supply houses. and made plenty of minor mistakes in the process!
now that in no way means you can.t build a decent engine on the first try, IF your willing to take things slowly , think logically and ask questions and do a good deal of reading!
I'm sure other members will add useful comments, and share experiences
but to answer the question,, and assuming youll do much of the final assembly work yourself... it would rather obviously depend a good deal on how much work you intend to do yourself, theres a great deal to learn and yes it will take some research and time reading and theres a huge difference between assembling parts as they come out of the packaging VS BUILDING and ENGINE CORRECTLY, so reading the sub-links helps,
most of us start out with far less tools than we wish we had, but we tend to buy what we need as we develop both the skills to use the tools and the knowledge of what the tools are used for and why they should be used to begin with.
vs ...procedures you rather pawn off on a good trust worthy local machine shop.
in many places if you join a local hot rod club you may find the local guys may be willing to help and supply loaner tools or some places like advance auto do rent or allow you too borrow tools if you leave a deposit to insure their return.
when I started out I found that having a good engine stand was a huge improvement over working on the garage floor on a large plastic tarp, which is how I built my first 400 Pontiac engine, so if I was just starting Id strongly suggest you get one even if you intend to use it and sell it later to re-coupe much of its cost.
you can rent an engine crane , to remove and install and engine but the rental cost over two or three days my easily exceed the cost of purchasing a good used one, off craigs list , or bargain trader or from HARBOR FREIGHT,locally

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/ ... _200305217

http://www.harborfreight.com/2000-lb-ca ... 69521.html
now you can,t really guess at clearances, even if the machine shop does much of the prep work, so youll need at least a decent caliper and some plasti-gauge strips, thread taps and feeler gauges

https://www.craftsman.com/products/craftsman-mach-series-14-piece-3-8-t-handle-driver-and-bit-set

youll want a decent torque wrench in fact you really should have two,
THIS BEAM STYLE TORQUE WRENCH IS THE TYPE TORQUE WRENCH YOU WANT TO CHECK ROTATIONAL RESISTANCE

BUT NOT WHAT YOULL USE TO TIGHTEN HEAD BOLTS

HUSKY $88 (worked rather well, over all I was pleased)
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-1-2-in-Click-Torque-Wrench-H2DTW/202916180?N=5yc1vZc6ev
FOR HEAD BOLTS AND MAIN CAP STUDS ETC.
youll need a good quality torque wrench

and a torque angle gauge

http://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-3 ... 60669.html

http://www.plews-edelmann.com/oil-cans-and-oilers/

a dremel tool comes in very handy

damper tool

http://www.amazon.com/OTC-4531-Harmonic-Balancer-Installer/dp/B000F5LIW4/?tag=viglink22466-20
BTW when you go to buy a ring compressor...and youll need one of the correct size to fit your engine bore with the rings and pistons your using after the machine shop verifys the bore, cleans the block and hones the bores as required..this type works far better than the others

87vette81big · Feb 12, 2015

Besides Grumpys links and advice....

Finding a top notch Engine Machinist that is dedicated and honest.
Not a liar & thief.

Everythings costs.
Engine block machine work & valvejob is most important .

philly · Feb 13, 2015

youre also gonna need.... TO DEAL WITH A QUALITY MACHINE SHOP with a GREAT REPUTATION that depends on maintaining good customer feed back for repeat work.
a competent and experienced machine shop, machinist, you can trust to point out whats REQUIRED and what is SUGGESTED is a very valuable asset , you really should look for and researching what you think needs to be done, how that is accomplished and why its likely necessary in any particular application, goes a long way toward preventing both disagreements and wasted money on an engine build AS does having access too or better yet owning some precision measuring tools that allow you to check and verify that any machine work you pay for was in fact correctly done!

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/cca-4 ... 7AodzSgAgg

that kit includes a camshaft degree wheel and a piston stop and a dial indicator for endplay

also should consider some micrometers, inside and outside type, again depending on how much you do yourself vs have the machine shop do.

if youre gonna clean the block yourself you could use these

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/mor-6 ... gQod1XEADw

some wire brushes in brass and steel again if you want to do most of the work yourself.

also a piston ring filing tool,

a valve spring compressor

some sort of valve keeping up while no keeper installed device

a pushrod length checker if you got new heads or you had your factory heads / block milled and or decked

valve spring height micrometer

a torque angle gauge

a rod bolt stretch gauge

some checking springs for your pushrod length and rocker alignment

definitely need to score various bolt removal tools for the inevitable siezed spark plug, broken manifold bolt, snapped stud that is for sure gonna happen.
i guess alot of it depends on your application also, and how much blueprinting and assembly work youll be doing vs paying someone else to do.
should probably score a couple books on blueprinting in general and specifically blueprinting the engine that you are working on, for the purpose you are gonna use it for.

philly · Feb 13, 2015

oh man and chemicals, degreasers, lubes, anti siezes, brake cleaner carb cleaner atf, wd40, corrosion inhibitors, maybe some CLR if you wanna try something fancy on old rotten coolant passages

grumpyvette · Feb 13, 2015

yeah! your correct theres a dozen other tools you might want to use and many you can borrow or rent as they will only be used briefly, or tools, and supplies, you could do without them if you know what your doing and how to check clearances, I thought long and hard about including a dial indicator,
\cam bearing tool, keep in mind as you look thru the list of tools that theres little sense in buying a tool unless you understand what its used FOR and why you would use it in the first place?
If you don,t recognize a tool chances are very good you have no idea what its used for or why theres a need for it

with magnetic stand,

shop carefully the exact same set of mics from the same company can cost $270-$900 depending on where you buy the set
https://www.greatgages.com/products...MIyYigxdnA1QIVU2p-Ch1Z7wX8EAQYASABEgLrvvD_BwE

http://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-3 ... 60669.html
https://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-38-in-steel-letternumber-stamping-set-63675.html

thats one of many reasons I strongly suggest anyone in this hobby has a selection of accurate precision measuring tools

checking lifter

http://www.zoro.com/g/Snap Ring Tools/00059785/
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/lil-49200/overview/

https://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-telescoping-gauge-set-5649.html

https://www.homedepot.com/p/General-Tools-12-in-Inside-Caliper-454-12/202545173?cm_mmc=Shopping|THD|G|0|G-Pro-PLA|&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6J6Lq8Si2AIVlbrACh1ZWQfYEAQYAiABEgI5TfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CLqo4rHEotgCFVLZwAod5HoAtg

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/cnl-927/overview/
valve spring compressors

cam degree wheel,

yes it sure helps to have the correct tools and know where to measure parts

lifter bore hone,

a piston bore hone,

http://www.professionalequipment.com/ex ... ermometer/
Wide temperature range from -58 to 1832Â°F (-50 to 1000Â°C)
ring install pliers

air compressors

long reach air nozzle,

deck bridge with dial indicator

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRO-66797/
adjustable push rod length checker,

ring square tool

with a rocker arm geometry checker,

ring groove cleaner tool

spring micrometers,

a crank snout, turning socket,

a dead blow mallet ,

a can of moly spray lube,
various die grinders

and burrs,

a piston ring filer,

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-900013/overview/
GEAR PULLERS

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-900012/overview/
VALKVE SPRING LOAD TESTER

its generally a very good idea to keep all the cam, lifter,valve train and cylinder head components in matched sets, keep components in labeled matched sets, if you intend to reuse used parts in a rebuild. as each wears in, or laps in to its matched components a bit differently thus random assembly increases the chances of future parts
failures
https://www.summitracing.com/search?SortBy=BestKeywordMatch&SortOrder=Ascending&keyword=POW735002

btw, if the parts will be sitting on a shelf in the work shop while you wait, a good soak with wd 40, and wrapping a few criss crossed layers of saran wrap plastic over the loose parts is a good idea as it prevents moisture damage and tends to keep the parts in the correct location slots, and if your working on more than one engine type out some detailed info as to the build ID and place it under the saran wrap.

brazing torch

and a dozen other tools that I use,but I kept thinking back to the first few engines I built and what tools I had on hand and what I used and remembered the treads about BARE MINIMUM LIST OF TOOLS but I do appreciate you gentlemen adding your ideas to the list as I'm 100% sure Ive overlooked a good many things or ignored a few obvious choices

related threads youll want to read thru carefully
elated threads
(DON,T IGNORE THE LINKS AND SUB-LINKS)

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/bare-minimum-tools.11026/#post-48766

http://www.jegs.com/i/INNOVA/336/3555/10002/-1

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/most-versital-shop-welder.1594/#post-50625

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...s-off-under-your-tree.11863/page-2#post-68027

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/tool-boxes-and-chests.10357/page-3#post-69921

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/under-car-safety.26/page-3#post-59431

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/multi-meters.3110/#post-59136

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/first-mig-welder.10392/#post-43002

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/precision-measuring-tools.1390/

http://www.hotrod.com/articles/ccrp-9901-affordable-engine-building-tools/

http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/148-0505-engine-building-tools/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/porting-can-help.462/page-3#post-67176

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/block-prep.125/page-2#post-55610

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/bare-minimum-tools.11026/#post-51843

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...op-needs-a-decent-drill-press.970/#post-50726

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...hen-parts-are-not-available.11371/#post-52007

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ing-the-correct-tools-helps.12466/#post-62446

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/starter-tool-set.6032/

philly · Feb 13, 2015

as far as slapping a motor together yea you're right, you could probably trust most of its gonna fit right out of the box, i guess i looked past the bare minimum part and read too far into the "blueprinting" a motor and that requires some extensive measuring equipment....

it also depends greatly on the motor, for a gen 1 sbc you can buy a rering and gasket kit and just rock out, but for newer import engines, each main bearing is different and fitted and needs to measured for clearance and ordered... shit gets chaotic the more current the motor is...

grumpyvette · Feb 14, 2015

philly said:
......
it also depends greatly on the motor, .......shit gets chaotic the more current the motor is...

one reason of many why I like the early 392 hemi and big block chevy engine designs
A few useful and related engine build resource threads
http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/precision-measuring-tools.1390/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...i-gage-verifying-clearances-on-bearings.1026/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...tion-of-crank-durring-short-blk-assembly.852/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/measuring-rod-bolt-stretch-preload.11050/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/torque-specs-calculator-links-etc.1222/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...g-and-installing-connecting-rods-pistons.247/

87vette81big · Feb 14, 2015

Its not well known but Oldsmobile V8 engines were all Blueprinted from the factory.
How many lasted 200,000-400,000 miles with a Q-jet carburator.
My #2 Favorite engine still. Olds V8.

87vette81big · Feb 14, 2015

The Pontiac V8 connecting rod bearing is the same Clevite part number as the 1949 Olds 303 V8.
A fact but not well known .

Grumpy · Jul 5, 2015

Ive always been rather amazed at the number of guys that start out to build or re-build an engine without even a few basic tools, other than typical wrenches and sockets.
yeah! it can be done,but its rather unlikely to be done correctly and without the ability to accurately measure clearances or support an engine and keep it clean during the process the results are not likely to be reasonably close to what you might expect to have in a durable engine.
it helps a great deal if you take the time and effort to find a trust worthy and reasonably priced local machine shop , and trust me when I say this is critical, and yes, the machinist will seem to point out endless things that should be done to increase durability, or just allow proper component function,and a good machinist will try to guide you in component selection to help avoid mis-matched parts and low quality parts being used, yes quality parts and machine work, ALWAYS COST more than you may expect them too!

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ting-resistance-to-look-for.11312/#post-51472

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/rod-bolt-mics-stretch-gauges.989/#post-51199

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ing-tools-abrasives-sources.10683/#post-46207

Hand Tools - Ratchets and Drive Tools - Page 1 - JB Tools Inc.

Browse JB Tools' wide selection of ratchets and drive tools to meet your automotive needs at JB Tools

www.jbtools.com

Grumpy · Jul 5, 2015

rather interesting related linked info
http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/148-0505-engine-building-tools/

http://www.enginelabs.com/engine-tech/guide-to-proform-engine-building-tools/

http://www.wizardswarehouse.com/products/tools

A Few Basic Precision Tools

Hey GRUMPY, I need a few basic tools to measure bearing clearances and tools for installing a cam, etc, and suggestions? (and yeah, I'm not swimming in cash, so please take that into account!) keep in mind there's a long list of more expensive tools, like mills, lathes, various types of...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/engine/ccrp-9901-affordable-engine-building-tools/

my tool list

THATS EASY! its the skill level and experience of the guy or gal IN that garage that determines the level of expertize,and the resulting finished work, hand tools a decent set of jack stands and knowing what your doing will ALWAYS produce better results than all the lifts, compressors,welders...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

http://www.powerhouseproducts.com/#

Cam Degree equipment / tools

GrumpyVette I've bin reading alot about cam degreeing since i'll be attempting this in the next week or so, I'm pretty sure I can handle the process but wanted to know about the tools used I've read and also watch a video about degreeing a cam but have not found out is it better to use the...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

would suggest purchase of a semi-decent quality floor jack
https://www.harborfreight.com/3-ton-daytona-professional-steel-floor-jack-super-duty-63183.html

and 4 12 ton rated jack stands
https://www.harborfreight.com/12-ton-steel-jack-stands-61599.html

and a cheap mechanics creeper
https://www.harborfreight.com/40-in-300-lb-capacity-low-profile-creeper-69262.html
a couple work lamps

https://www.harborfreight.com/long-line-fluorescent-work-light-46890.html

5/8 in. x 4-3/4 in. Clevis Pin available at home depot for $4 each

I've painted every third jack stands tooth yellow and the second tooth , the one below that red and the first tooth below that blue,
this makes matching the height on all 4 stand far faster too adjust , the third notch for the pawl,
is the preferred creeper height, under my corvettes,
for clutch and brake jobs
and where the pin slides through and locks,
with the pawl and pin engaged the stand height will not change accidentally

and suggest you try to only work on level concrete floors

almost every mechanics tool box needs a few basic measuring tools and supplies, dealing in proven facts as to correct clearance sure beats guessing

https://www.amazon.com/Claytoon-Set...d=1466872286&sr=8-17&keywords=plastilina+clay

http://www.utrechtart.com/Plastalin...currency=USD&gclid=CN3G75zOw80CFQgaaQodKbgFjA
at times having an inspection tools handy when you can't get a good look at a problem any other way
if your going to buy a used short block or a bare block from an un-known private source or most salvage yards, obviously you'll need to do BOTH a close inspection, WITH some measuring tools
AND get some idea of the blocks physical condition
this is also a good inspection tool
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/p-6283- ... pv618.aspx

GOOGLE PV-618 and PV-636

High resolution lens provides a clear image of objects as close as 3/4 inch and over one foot away while providing a wide 40 degree field of view.
Powerful lamp illuminates dark crevices on-demand with the push of a button conveniently located on the handle.
Ergonomically designed handle is comfortable to hold and allows one-handed focusing and light activation.
Rugged and water resistant, ProVision is made of high impact ABS and flexible cable sheathing. (Note: Shaft is water resistant, not the handle.)
PV-618 and PV-636 models have .23â€ diameter, flexible, non-obedient cable. Durable carrying case included.
Accessories available to optimize ProVision for specialized applications.
Made in the USA
Specifications:

Cable Length: 18" (457.2mm)
Cable Diameter: .23"
Handle Length: 6" (152.4mm)
Handle Width: 1.43" (36.2mm)Overall Length: 24" (609.6mm)
Weight of Scope w/ Carrying Case: 1 lb. 5.7 oz (615 g)
Field of View: 40Â°
Optimal Viewing Distance: Min. .8" (20mm); Max. is dependent upon ambient lighting conditions.
Lamp Volts: 2.7 volts (Halogen)
Power Source: 2 AA batteries (not included)
Pressure Necessary to Operate Lamp: 2.9 avg. p/psi; 3.2 max. p/psi

heres a cheaper version that works with a lap top computer

GCA 5.5mm Diameter USB Waterproof 6 Led Endoscope Borescope Inspection Wire Camera (5m)
Price: $18.50 & FREE Shipping on orders over $49. Details

Waterproof wire endoscope

Diameter:5.5mm head, 5 meters long flexible tube

High resolution 1.3MP with 1/12" VGA CMO

6 LED lighting adjustable, can be inspected the hard-to-see areas.

Waterproof : IP67, 60°Viewable Angle. Can take photo & video and save in your computer

https://www.google.com/search?q=pro...=122&ie=UTF-8#q=proform+engine+tools&tbm=shop

http://www.goodson.com/

ENGINE BUILDING TOOL Shopping WISH LIST List
ENGINE STAND

Tapered Ring Compressor

THIS BEAM STYLE TORQUE WRENCH IS THE TYPE TORQUE WRENCH YOU WANT TO CHECK ROTATIONAL RESISTANCE

BUT NOT WHAT YOULL USE TO TIGHTEN HEAD BOLTS

HUSKY $88 (worked rather well, over all I was pleased)
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-1-2-in-Click-Torque-Wrench-H2DTW/202916180?N=5yc1vZc6ev
FOR HEAD BOLTS AND MAIN CAP STUDS ETC.
youll need a good quality torque wrench

the new ICON line looks decent
https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-50-250-ft-lb-professional-torque-wrench-64064.html

Piston Ring Squaring Tool

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/
ringsqtool.jpg

damper tool

btw if youve ever tried to draw on a damper with a crank bolt from a local hard ware store this is frequently the result, that or stripped crank threads, ID strongly suggest use of the correct Damper tool, and use of ARP crank bolts once its properly installed

next time BUY AND USE AN ARP BRAND BOLT
I,ve generally found that if you've stripped the SBC crank snout threads the best answer is to drill and re-thread to the standard and larger BBC crank snout bolt threads size

accurately measure the internal damper and the external crank snout diameter

Measure the crank-snout diameter with a micrometer (above left). Ours measured 1.600 inch, which is right on spec. Then use a dial-bore gauge to determine the inside diameter of the Fluidampr damper (below). Ours came in 1.599-inch, resulting in a .001-inch interference fit. This is the right amount of clearance to provide a good snug fit on the crankshaft, but still be able to install and remove without difficulty. Another method of measuring the damper hub ID of your is with a snap gauge (above right). After setting the gauge, the micrometer is used to to determine the final measurement. In this case, the same measurement as the dial bore gage was reached.
http://www.enginebuildermag.com/Article ... stons.aspx
http://www.arp-bolts.com/

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ARP-134-2501/

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ARP-234-2503/

if your current crank bolt is an ARP bolt, heres the dimensions,
keep in mind a bolt threaded in steel should have 1.5 times its diam. MINIMUM in the threads before the bolt starts to draw or tighten or clamp and TWICE its diam. in the threads is better as a minimum to prevent stripped threads, and remember the bolt should never be allowed to bottom out in the crank snout threads and tighten against the bottom of the drilled hole either[/B]

Summit Racing Part Number ARP-134-2501

Thread Size 7/16-20 RH in.
Underhead Length (in) 2.470 in.
Head Style 12-point
Washer Included Yes
Fastener Yield Strength (psi) 200,000 psi
Fastener Material Chromemoly
Fastener Finish Black oxide
Quantity Sold individually.
Notes Features 5/8 in. socket size.

One tough bolt.

As the crankshaft flexes, the damper absorbs incredible amounts of energy. These damper bolt kits from ARP will ensure that your balancer is locked into position. They feature a 1/4 in. thick wide-area washer and an extra tall 12-point head that accepts a deep socket to eliminate the fear of stripping the head.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ARP-134-2501/

now you can probably re-tap the current threads and use a longer bolt and get by for now, but drilling it with the correct larger drill diam. and re-threading for the big block Chevy bolt is the more common route taken once you strip crank threads
viewtopic.php?f=53&t=1480&p=6221&hilit=stripped+crank#p6221

viewtopic.php?f=53&t=1798&p=5680&hilit=stripped+crank#p5680
there is supposed to be about a .0001 -.0002 INTERFERENCE fit! so the damper has far less tendency to spin on the crank snout or work the woodriff key loose, you can generally polish the crank snout, and internal damper hole with a flap wheel and 400 grit sand paper enough to get a smoother surface, then, place the damper in boiling water to heat and expand it and oil its mating surface, use the correct damper installation tool, pick the damper up with oven mitts so you don,t get burned, use the tool to install it

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/otc-6505

I,ve generally found that if you've stripped the SBC crank snout threads the best answer is to drill and re-thread to the standard and larger BBC crank snout bolt threads size

https://www.nookandtranny.com/Info_LT1.html

these tools work well, fit most engines and if you do break off a thread adapter you can order a replacement without needing to pay for the whole new tool, and keep in mind the threads strip or adapters break if the dampers OVER TIGHTENED,ALL TOOLS WILL BREAK IF OVER STRESSED, this CAN generally be avoided with simply taking a few accurate measurements and use of some marvel mystery oil on the damper, crank and the installing tool threads
Yes I busted one thread adapter years back , but it was a P.I.T.A. waiting on a replacement and I learned not to over tighten the tool, and watch carefully on the measurements and have not had that happen for 30 plus years keeping the tool and damper and crank snout well lubed makes it slide on easier
measuring and checking the interference fits correct helps

read thru these threads, for info on seating a damper and re-threading a stripped crank

Degree Wheel
checking lifter

degree wheel

Dial Bore Gauge

Pushrod Length Checker

http://www.summitracing.com/search/...d-length-checkers?autoview=SKU&ibanner=SREPD5
Proform Pushrod Length Checkers 66789 SBC 3/8" rocker studs

Proform Pushrod Length Checkers 66790 SBC 7/16" rocker studs

Proform Pushrod Length Checkers 66806 BBC 7/16" rocker studs
Oil Pump Primer

http://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-3 ... 60669.html

harbor freight has cheap and perfectly acceptable calipers

http://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-dial-caliper-62362.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/1-inch-travel-machinists-dial-indicator-623.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/multipositional-magnetic-base-with-fine-adjustment-5645.html
spring micrometers,

a crank snout, turning socket,

a dead blow mallet ,

a can of moly spray lube,
DECK BRIDGE

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRO-66797/
ring install pliers

piston ring filer,

GEAR PULLERS

floridas hardly the ideal climate for keeping tools rust free so i generally take my set of micrometers out of the storage case and open and close them and spray them down with a light oil like WD 40 and place them back in the box then place the whole box in a 2 gallon zip lock bag in a shallow tupper ware type air tight storage box that is just the size to fit inside one of your tool chest drawers too protect the precision measuring tools , feeler gauges and plasti-gauge youll need to measure clearances correctly.when not in use along with the dial calipers.

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/bearing-clearances.2726/

the reason I bring this up is I recently was over at a friends house where I needed to accurately measure a u-joint bearing cap and asked if he had a micrometer or dial caliper, he responded he had a very expensive looking imported micrometer, he had acquired recently at an estate yard sale for $30,

when he opened the very impressive looking brass and mahogany box the micrometer, inside was a solid rusted mass, I soaked it in marvel mystery oil and acetone mix for 30 minutes then gradually worked it loose and polished it up with 1500 grit wet/dry sand paper figuring no loss at this point and was amazed that after about 30 minutes of constant cleaning it not only looked fairly decent it seemed to read accurately on a test gauge so I think it was mostly ugly surface rust, but it sure looked horrible, and to someone who appreciates good tools,that was depressing.

btw look around at yard sales and estate sales every so often youll find amazing bargains in used precision tools
yes it sure helps to have the correct tools and know where to measure parts

http://www.tooltopia.com/fowler-72-646-300.aspx

http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-micrometer-set-66512.html

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/engine/ccrp-9901-affordable-engine-building-tools/

http://www.powerhouseproducts.com

https://www.proformtools.com/

http://www.bierbros.net/EngineBuildingAndPrecisionTools.html

http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/148-0505-engine-building-tools/
almost all starter tool kits are loaded with tools you seldom use to build up the tool numbers in the kits
yet many are still a good value, but remember you'll need a few auxiliary accessory kits for tools like screw drivers ratchet wrenches and a couple ,wire cutters drill bits, pliers,socket extensions and swivels,
frequently used tools like a decent 1/2" chuck electric drill, and vise grips, 12" dial caliper, multi meter,etc.
you can certainly use a couple of soft tool bags as they are far easier to carry , in your car or store than the cheap plastic or flimsy metal boxes that come with most starter tool kits

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-2...d-16-large-total-pockets-HD60024-TH/312387489

https://www.acmetools.com/shop/tool...wTqPfS82YeLeAXpDNp-vuCv3uC7lV2d4aAtIvEALw_wcB

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-138...c-Polished-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/50200791

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-282-piece-Gunmetal-Chrome-Mechanic-s-Tool-Set/1002618996

https://www.walmart.com/ip/IRWIN-2078710-Vise-Grip-3-Pieces-GrooveLock-Pliers-Set/17238102

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-10-Piece-Household-Tool-Set/50029436

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-...Gunmetal-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/1000596571

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-154...-Polished-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/999909119

https://www.lowes.com/collections/Kobalt-Mechanics-Collection/GR_609

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-439-Piece-Mechanic-s-Tool-Set/1001448260

https://gemplers.com/products/dewal...3m7KE5XM0hXefj1ZDtgwWtbHqxTNiEx8aAteQEALw_wcB

https://www.harborfreight.com/5-in-1-digital-multimeter-98674.html

https://www.walmart.com/ip/12-Verni...82195?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=14201

https://www.amazon.com/INTOO-Indust...9Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

https://www.amazon.com/Ridgid-Spade...ll+set&qid=1607798231&sr=8-51&tag=googhydr-20

Last edited: 2 minutes ago

http://www.goodson.com/

dial indicator and magnetic stand

feeler gauges

torque wrench

gear puller

engine stand

engine crane

engine leveler

Valve Spring Height Micrometer

Engine Storage Cradle
btw, if you've ever had to stop a project because you could not locate the required matching bolt, or fastener, to install a bracket or accessory or engine component ,
you know how frustrating it will be to have to stop and locate the required fastener or go to a local hardware store and hope they have the required bolt.
and yes theres a great many sizes and types that are rather unique to automotive use and some specific to brands, and models.
now obviously you can spend a small fortune buying a vast assortment for your shops use.
or you can grab a 5 gallon bucket and a small assortment of ratchets wrenches and sockets ,
and visit your local salvage yard and grab some accessory or component you need and in the process,
you can remove and save, and throw several hands full of assorted fasteners in the bucket , on every trip to the salvage yard when your purchasing used re-buildable major components

to re-stock your shops bolt box.
most salvage yards don,t mind this approach IF YOUR BUYING SEVERAL COMPONENTS in the process,
like all the parts and brackets off an engine , a set of cylinder heads, a power steering pump, or intake manifold for example or the disc brakes
most will NOT allow you to simply start pulling a large selection of fasteners , without a significant component purchase, or two too cover the cost of those fasteners.

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/fastener-storage-idea.3898/#post-10324

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...spare-bolts-and-assorted-spare-parts-in.3557/

Grumpy · Jan 29, 2021

https://www.amazon.com/Clevite-77-M...d=1&keywords=plastigage&qid=1611949792&sr=8-9

every once in awhile I run into some guy that amazes me in that he's never seen or even heard of some basic almost mandatory tool
I was asked to help rebuild an engine in a guys garage, so I brought a few basic tools alone like a torque wrench, bore gauge feeler gauges and micrometer set, and and at least point out what needed to be done.
" at least in my mind"
now if your not into rebuilding engines your unlikely to have a bore gauge or set of
micrometer's but when I pull put some plastigauge and start checking clearances and the guy I'm helping is amazed and says he's never seen plastigauge used before??? that's AMAZING

bare minimum tools

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A Few Basic Precision Tools

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