Torquetalk

Just as there are items of recovery kit you should always carry with you, the same applies to the tools as well. But do you pack in a full professional mechanic’s tool box or just an adjustable spanner and screwdriver? Well you need a little bit more than the adjustable wrench and screwdriver but not much.

Probably a useful little tool to have is a multi-tool such as a Leatherman. This might not seem worthy but there are many times I have needed a knife, pliers or screwdriver or something to cut wire or cable ties. Often carried on your belt or in the glove box it is often the nearest thing at hand and what is reached for first.

Hi-Jack!

I have mentioned these previously but they are versatility plus. A hi-lift jack is a very useful tool, not just for lifting the vehicle but can be used as a press, vice, panel straightening tool or even a winch. The handle can even be used to replace a damaged steering rod.

In saying that healthy respect and care is needed in the operation and use, as they will knock you out as quick as look at you, but they are best thing since the adjustable spanner in versatility. I have had mine for over 20 years now and carry it inside the vehicle. Those that are outside tend to suffer from dust and dirt and invariably won’t work as they should with jamming pins which only makes them more dangerous.

Wiring problems are very common on 4WDs and can cripple a vehicle quickly so having a multimeter, crimping tool, side cutters and some insulating tape along with a few spare fuses and connectors can often get you back running again.

Scan I am

Modern vehicles are computerised and while many shy away from fault-finding with such vehicles they are often easy to work with, providing you have an appropriate scan tool to suit your vehicle. These days you can get reasonably a priced scanner to suit your vehicle. One, mind, which is easy to use and will give you the ability to check and clear faults - pretty critical on the modern 4WD.

Computers can be scary things in the bush but with an appropriate way to diagnose computer issue, you are well on your way to less fuss when something goes wrong. Big factor here is to learn how to use and read the scan tool before you leave home. I have friends who learnt this the hard way recently.

Hand tools are important but you don’t need a workshop tool box full; instead tailor your spanners and sockets to your individual vehicle. If you have a Japanese vehicle you don’t really need imperial sockets or spanners, yet those with an old Land Rover will need a selection of imperial and Whitworth.

Numbers game!

Most Japanese vehicles only really need 10,12,13,14,16,17 and maybe 19mm spanners. Same goes for screwdrivers with only a couple of sizes needed in both flat and Philips head screwdrivers. Some modern vehicles are fitted with Torx bolts so check if you need to add them.

It also pays to carry a hub spanner/socket to suit your vehicle in case you need to tighten a wheel bearing or replace a CV. So much easier and simpler than butchering the hub nut with a hammer and screwdriver.

Not really a set of tools and probably something few would consider having but brakeline clamps can save the day when a rubber brake hose splits. It is the worst feeling putting your foot on the brakes and the pedal goes to the floor so clamping off the hose above the split and topping up the fluid will get you home. Mind you it will be somewhat slower as you lose braking on that particular wheel and can get some interesting wiggles when it is a front wheel so take it carefully. Ask me how I know! Oh and you will be pleased to have read this and have added a clamp or two to the tool box.

Okay, the next couple of tools are not really tools in the true sense but are very useful for getting you home again. Having a few cable ties never go a miss and have many uses along with cloth based duct tape. I have even managed to tape up a water hose that split with duct tape and refitted to the vehicle and made the long journey home again without losing water.

Kneads must!

The other item is Knead-it or metal putty which is great patching up holed fuel tanks, radiators, header tanks and much more. I damaged a radiator a few years back deep in the bush and the hole about half way on the radiator so that it wouldn’t hold water for long. A section of Knead-It put onto the area after cleaning with a rag stopped the leak.

I then topped up the radiator (always carry spare water) and enjoyed the rest of the weekend in the bush before the 4-5 hour journey home without any further problems. Even lasted a few weeks more until I could spare the time to get the radiator out and into the specialists to have it re-cored. I still carry a tube today in the centre cubby box.

As for carrying the tools, I used to have mine in an old army ammunition box with a couple of rags, that was, until someone else decided that they had a greater need for my property than I did and stole them out of the vehicle. I still haven’t finally settled on final solution but currently use an old canvas tool bag.