What are your MUST have tools/garage gadgets?

[masraum]

Originally Posted by JackDidley

Compressor, battery tool kit and power miter saw. In that order.

Good call on the miter saw. I had a nice Dewalt 12" compound miter. It was super useful.

Like I said, I used the air compressor more for things like a finishing nail gun or stapler on moulding in the house than I ever did on the cars. On the cars, all it really did was remove lugnuts which I could have easily done. I had a couple of air wrenches, butterfly and ratchet style, but practically never used them.

A good drill press is also really nice to have as well as a router, biscuit joiner and a sawzall.

Most of my car tools where fairly simple hand tools, decent screwdrivers, ratchets/sockets/extensions/swivels, wrenches, etc...

[JackDidley]

Originally Posted by masraum

Good call on the miter saw. I had a nice Dewalt 12" compound miter. It was super useful.

Like I said, I used the air compressor more for things like a finishing nail gun or stapler on moulding in the house than I ever did on the cars. On the cars, all it really did was remove lugnuts which I could have easily done. I had a couple of air wrenches, butterfly and ratchet style, but practically never used them.

A good drill press is also really nice to have as well as a router, biscuit joiner and a sawzall.

I trimmed my house with that miter saw and an air brad nailer. I am not sure I remember haw to use a hammer.

[Evans, Marv]

My vise and roll around seat with parts/tool tray.

[petrolhead611]

Engine beam. ideal for changing front wheel drive clutches, any engine mountings etc.

[unclebilly]

Originally Posted by aschen

A really nice fine tooth, soft handle, flex had ratchet is my favorite tool. Its closer to a basic tool than a luxury, but did shade tree mechanic stuff for a few years without one. I think this is the only tool I would pay full on snap on retail to replace if I had to

This one is my favorite. 3/8" ratchet about the same size as a 1/4" ratchet. Gets in tight places.