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Tools for my 05?

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Old 08-31-2014
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Tools for my 05?

Since I bought my truck, I've been investing in tools...again (don't ask). I've got a fairly good box so far, plenty of sockets in all drive sizes, wrenches, pliers, hammers etc. My question is what other tools or what other sizes may I need for maintenance and minor repairs. I live in an apartment and my small garage limits what I can do (I can't even fully open the trucks doors in my garage), so I won't be pulling axles or dropping transmissions.

My sockets go to 1" in the 3/8ths and 1/2" drives, but I did pick up a 32MM deep impact socket for the axle nut in case I needed it. My combo wrench sets go to 7/8" and 25MM.

I do have some Torx and Hex sockets, but I'm not sure if I have enough sizes. Are those bolts common on this truck? What's the largest I'll run into? SAE or metric?
How about flare nut wrenches? Should I get a SAE or metric set and what sizes will I need?

Sorry for all the questions, but the Boy Scout in me likes to be prepared.
 
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Old 08-31-2014
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Tools you should have are a vacuum gauge, $25-$30 and a OBD2 reader, bluetooth versions that you can use with a smart phone are very handy because you can easily do live readings while driving($35-$50)

For hand tools you sound well stocked, there are specialized tools but I would only get or "rent" them as needed.
And larger wrenches should be purchased as needed, most will be metric, if not all, on a 2005 vehicle.

Vacuum Gauge should be hooked up as soon as you get it and then write down the "inches" of vacuum you have on your good running engine.
This info will be invaluable when you do have an engine problem.
Read here for tips and tests: Technical Articles: Engine testing with a Vacuum Gauge - at Greg's Engine & Machine
 
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Old 09-01-2014
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I've been meaning to pick up an OBD2 reader. Any features I should look for?
As for the vacuum gauge, I didn't even think of that.
Thanks for that link too. I didn't realize a vacuum gauge could tell you so much.
 
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Old 09-01-2014
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Torque pro seems the most popular android app, it can be free or $5-$6

But check their website for best bluetooth adapter.

For wired OBD 2 readers just look at reviews, all are about the same, data-wise, but some have harder to use menu navigation
 
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