[masraum]

Originally Posted by matthewb0051

One time I was changing my E30 M3 to Euro spec dog-leg gear box and diff. At some point I couldn't find my 13mm socket. Borrowed another to finish the job.

Some months later in just the right light, I leaned over looking at something at rear of engine and there was my socket stuck to one of the bell housing bolts at the top of the housing so it couldn't be seen from underneath. Still have it 20ish years later.

I've found tools in engine bays. Once or twice they were mine that I hadn't previously been able to find. Another couple of times they were cars that I'd bought and some previous owner/mechanic's tools. Never anything good though.

I did once, many years ago, find a broken SnapOn 1/2" drive ratchet in a parking lot. It had a broken tooth on the gear. I waited to see a SO truck at the gas station across the street and ran it over. The guy replaced the gear and it was good to go.