Tools you'll need

[calamarichris_imp]

For anyone needing to buy tools I would suggest getting a set of metric box wrenches 8 mm to 19 mm, a set of metric 6 point sockets same sizes, 5 and 6 mm allen sockets, a swivel ratchet, a 3" and a 6" socket extensions, a medium phillips screwdrive, medium and large flat blade screwdrivers and then individually buy your specialty sockets and/ or box end wrenches
22mm, 27mm, 32 mm ( or 1 1/4") and the 17 mm allen socket and a torque wrench ( if you are not confident on tightening fasteners)

I buy most of my stuff at Sears, or Harbor Freight but some specialty stuff I order from mcmaster-Carr.

http://www.mcmaster.com/

I must respectfully, yet strenuously disagree with this and with the orange hand-cleaner, (Gojo sucks bowling balls.) Phil Woods hand cleaner is superior in every way to Gojo. It cleans better, but is easier on the handskin, since it's made from woodpulp instead of pumice-stone. I used to think cracked, bleeding hands were a symbol of honor that all mechanics wore with pride, but that's just stupid. Phil Woods hand-cleaner is superior in every way IMO.
And none of us have an elbow-calibrator. I don't trust any mechanic too cheap or too much in a hurry to forgo a torque wrench.

[howlindaug_imp]

+1 on the Phil Wood Hand Cleaner. Used Phil Wood products for years wrenching on bikes (bicycles). It cleans great the first time and takes care of your skin.
Wait,... am I really discussing skin care?

[SanPete_imp]

+1 on the Phil Wood Hand Cleaner. Used Phil Wood products for years wrenching on bikes (bicycles). It cleans great the first time and takes care of your skin.
Wait,... am I really discussing skin care?

LOL

Sent from my SM-T217S using Tapatalk

[Cormanus]

+1 on the Phil Wood Hand Cleaner. Used Phil Wood products for years wrenching on bikes (bicycles). It cleans great the first time and takes care of your skin.
Wait,... am I really discussing skin care?

Well, it's important for when you stroke the tank lovingly. You don't want rough bits leaving scratches. Do you?

[emptysea]

Any recommendations on a tire inflator/air compressor? There seem to be a lot of cheapos out there and I want something that will work for awhile. (not sure if this should be its own thread, but I figured it's a tool. So...)

[the Ferret]

Any recommendations on a tire inflator/air compressor? There seem to be a lot of cheapos out there and I want something that will work for awhile. (not sure if this should be its own thread, but I figured it's a tool. So...)

Are we talking in the garage? Or for on the bike?

In the garage I have a Harbor Freight unit that will inflate tires, blow off parts etc.
Wasn't expensive, around $79 I think. Probably 5 years old now. Made by Central Pneumatic, 2 HP 8 gallon. I consider it minimum size for working in the garage.

For on the bike I carry a Campbell-Hausfeld Unit with the case removed and a connector for my battery tender jr.

[OldF7Guy_imp]

Any recommendations on a tire inflator/air compressor? There seem to be a lot of cheapos out there and I want something that will work for awhile. (not sure if this should be its own thread, but I figured it's a tool. So...)

I bought one of these along with the dyna plug tool. Seems to be well made and I have only used mine once just to make sure it works to air up a tire. I am in no way endorsing this but just making you aware of them.

http://www.motopumps.com/

You can read about it at ADV rider.

http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=931816

[emptysea]

I meant for in the garage, but the on-bike alternative is intriguing as well. Thanks for the replies, OldF7Guy and Ferret

[the Ferret]

Here's the one I carry on the bike

[url=http://smg.photobucket.com/user/theferret111/media/2008_04100004-1.jpg.html]

[emptysea]

That's great! I have a repair kit, but having the inflator, too makes so much sense I don't know why i never thought of it.

As to the garage compressor, what particular accessories/tools do you recommend having for working on my bikes? For non-bike work? I've never had or used a portable compressor before.