To keep your classic car in top shape, having the right tools and gear is fundamental. Whether you’re performing routine maintenance or undertaking a full restoration, being well-prepared will make your journey much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a guide to essential tools and gear that every classic car owner should have in their garage
The Basics: Your Starting Toolkit
Your journey begins with a solid basic toolkit. This includes essentials like wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and a reliable jack. These tools cover most of your routine maintenance needs, from changing the oil to replacing spark plugs. Having these basics ensures you can handle everyday tasks with ease and confidence.
As a general rule of thumb, try to pick up branded tools; these companies tend to be a bit more reliable; think Dewalt, Stanley, Bosch. These companies have built up solid reputations for good reasons.
- Spanners and screwdrivers: Opt for a variety of sizes and types to cover all bases.
- Pliers: Essential for gripping and cutting tasks.
- Jack stands: Safety first—make sure your car is securely lifted when working underneath..
- Rubber mallet: Whilst classic steel hammers have many uses, nothing beats a rubber mallet for giving the occasional part a good whack (be that out of frustration or not) without causing unwanted damage.
- Cable ties and duct tape: No tool kit is complete without these staples; whether it’s just for keeping things neat and tidy, or strapping your bumper back on in a pinch, these are a must-have.
More Specialised Equipment
As you delve deeper into restoration, you’ll discover the need for more specialised equipment. These tools allow you to perform precise adjustments and tackle more complex tasks.
- Impact driver: Makes loosening and tightening fasteners considerably easier. In the same vein, a good drill would also not go amiss!
- Air compressor: Whether you use it to flush out air vents or just top up your tyres, a good quality air compressor is useful for many applications. You can get a large tank that you store in your garage, or a portable mini compressor to keep in your car for emergencies.
- Vice: For those who are skilled in welding, this can be a game-changer for repairing and fabricating parts.
- MAPP gas torch:
Safety First: Essential Safety Gear
Working on cars comes with inherent risks, so prioritising safety is a must. Equip yourself with the necessary safety gear to protect against potential hazards.
- Gloves and Goggles: Protect your hands and eyes from injuries. you can get big boxes of nitrile gloves in a range of sizes online.
- Fire Extinguisher: Chemical extinguishers and fire blankets are essential safety measures in any workshop, and they are always a great idea to have on hand.
- First Aid Kit: Always have one in case of minor injuries.
John’s Top Three tools
- MAPP gas torch: Combine this with a can of Rust off-ice, and you have the perfect recipe for getting seized bolts loose.
- Good lights: a bright and versatile light is a non-negotiable. Whether under a car or at a workbench, proper lighting is a must. Options like the Ring lights are great, as they have magnets and hooks with 360 degree rotation, perfect for hanging on bonnets or sticking to bodywork, and great for saving your eyesight.
- Automatic cleaners: ultrasonic cleaners and vibratory tumblers make fantastic work-bench add-ons. Perfect for cleaning rusty parts or getting mud off of different screws. If you have the budget, these can save lots of time and money in the long run. Various solvents and media can be used depending on what you’re cleaning, making them very versatile.
You can see our TikTok videos for some more detailed info on John’s Top Tools, too!
Organising Your Workspace
An organised workspace can transform your efficiency and safety. Investing in good storage solutions keeps your tools and parts in place, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
- Toolboxes and Pegboards: Keep tools organised and easily accessible.
- Shelving Units: Store larger parts and supplies neatly.
- Labelled Containers: Perfect for keeping small parts and fasteners organised.
Maintenance Supplies: Keeping Your Car Running Smoothly
Stocking up on maintenance supplies ensures your car runs smoothly and looks its best. These items are indispensable for both routine maintenance and restoration projects.
- Oils, Lubricants and Cleaners: Keep all your moving parts well-lubricated and clean to keep them running smoothly.
- Cleaning Products: Maintain your car’s appearance with quality cleaning supplies: items like microfibre cloths will never be amiss; we use them in loads of different applications from buffing windows to padding a vice, they are perfect to keep a small stock of.
- Spare Parts: Having spare parts on hand can save you time and hassle when something needs replacing. Everything from bulbs to bolts can come in handy, particularly if you’re a multi-car household.
When choosing brands and products, rely on reputable names known for their reliability and performance. Quality tools and supplies can make a significant difference in your restoration projects.
Sharing the Journey
Being well-prepared with the right tools and gear enhances your ability to maintain and restore your classic car while ensuring your safety. At Classic Car Valuations, we understand the passion and dedication that goes into caring for these timeless machines. We encourage you to share your favourite tools and gear recommendations in the comments below. Let’s build a community where we can learn from each other’s experiences and keep our classic cars running beautifully.
By investing in quality equipment and prioritising safety, you not only protect your investment but also enjoy the rewarding experience of maintaining and restoring your classic car. Here’s to many successful projects and smooth drives ahead.
