What to buy: 3/8” ratchet handle, a set of metric sockets (6pt preferred, 8mm – 18mm), short and long extensions. A ½” socket set should be your second purchase.
Wrenches
Combination wrenches are named so because they have two usable ends, typically an open end and a boxed end. The open end is pretty straight forward, where as the box end comes in both 12 and 6 point variants. Again I prefer 6 point to 12 point, but they are much more difficult to find. Some combo wrenches are set up with two different sizes on either end, while these tools are fine they should be seen as a supplement to combination open end/box wrenches where each wrench is a specific size.
What to buy:Combination open end/box end wrenches 8mm – 18mm.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers come in a variety of sizes and configurations, and they seem to be a tool that having a wider variety of is better. Each one will prove to be useful at some time or another. Most folks are familiar with the two basic types or screwdriver, Flathead and Philips. Again, a good assortment of both types in sizes from large to small and short to long is what you need. Do yourself a favor and buy real screwdrivers rather than using one of those handles with the interchangeable tips as they are junk.
What to buy: #0-4 Phillips and ¼”-1/2” flat head screwdrivers in various lengths.
Pliers
Pliers are an invaluable tool for grabbing, squeezing, and holding odd size things. Unfortunately they also tend to be used incorrectly as a substitute for sockets or combination wrenches. Pliers come in a variety of sizes and types and just a few pairs will cover most of your needs. Slip Joint, needle nose and water pump (sometimes called Channel locks, which is a brand name) are tool box staples. Locking pliers often called Vice Grips are also a must as they have extreme grabbing force that cannot be matched; essential for removing a bolt with a stripped head. Vice Grip is a specific brand of locking pliers and really are the best, so get the real thing.
What to Buy: Slip Joint, Needle Nose, and Water Pump pliers. Medium sized Vice Grip locking pliers.
Hammers
There are lots of hammer types out there, but a simple claw hammer will go a long way and get the job done. Along with a hammer an assortment of punches are critical for driving various different sized friction fit parts together or apart. A center punch used for marking parts and cold chisel for splitting/ breaking off stubborn pieces should be included in your set as well.
What to Buy: Claw Hammer, assorted punches, center punch and cold chisel.
Hex Keys
Hex keys, often called Allen Wrenches (again a brand name) are becoming more and more frequently used on Japanese motorcycles. Many of the factory screws on the CB360 are destroyed over years of neglect; I replace these with stainless Allen head fasteners. Having a set of good quality hex keys will make adjusting and servicing your engine in the future much easier, opt for a set of individual keys versus a pocket knife style folding set.
What to Buy: Metric Hex key set from 2mm-8mm (the longer the better).
Adjustable Wrenches
Adjustable Wrenches often called Crescent wrenches (yet again a brand name) are another key part of your tool set. A set of two or three in different sizes are great to have, and while their clamping power is often not ideal, they come in handy when you are dealing with odd sized fasteners. It is important to always buy good quality adjustable wrenches, as the cheap ones fit loosely and tend to slip. While I like adjustable wrenches they should be used sparingly to avoid breaking a fastener or busting your knuckles when they slip.
What to Buy:Good Quality Adjustable Wrenches 6”, 8” and 10” in size.
Next time, In our follow up we will discuss where to buy tools, tool quality and how to spend your money wisely.