All my tools are SAE. No metic tools what so ever. I am going to have to invest in some tools for the MINI.

I was thinking about getting the following. Set of Metric wrenches (Spanners), Torx screw drivers, Metric Sockets: short and deep well. Metric Allen Wrenches.

I have a set of both Standard and Philips screw drivers. I also have a hydraulic Floor jack.

Can you think of any other tools I might need for general maintenance simple mod instals?

 

You need a 36mm socket for the oil filter. I picked up one at Home Depot fairly cheap. It's a tight fit getting the socket and wrench into position so I sliced a half inch off the socket with a power hack saw. Works great!

 

Torque wrench for rotating wheels along with jack stands. Don't forget metric screwdrivers

 

I understand what a tork wrench is, and what jack stands are. But what the heck is a "Metric" screwdriver?

As far as I know there are 3 types of screw drivers

1. Standard (AKA Blade)
2. Philips (X shapped for installing drywall and other wood type screws)
3. Torx (modified Philips less likely to strip out)

Are you calling the Torx a "Metric"?

 

Based in the smiley face I think he was kidding, but if not don't forget to grab a metric Cresent wrench and hammer to go along with those screwdrivers.

A good basic set of metric hand tools will work fine. Some the brake work requires larger torx bits so if you see a set that goes up to ~42 or 47 you might grab that.

Good luck, I'm off to find a bucket of prop wash and a roll of flight line

 

Don't forget the bucket of curse words...just in case

 

Jack stands.

Also, when you buy your wrenches make sure you get 16mm and 18mm. I have discovered many sets don't include them and you will need them.

 

Good point and this brings up question: do you folks prefer 6 point or 12 point?

I have sets of both and while the 12 point is easier to use (more position possibilities) the 6 point have a tendency to not round off a nut/bolt.

Granted rusted/stuck bolts are found on older cars but I bet I've got at least a 1 pound of knuckle flesh spread across the amount of cars I've owned or worked on over all these years.

 

I always buy 6 point sockets.

 

the bentley manual for 2002-2004 is a good reference too, and appropiate for 2005/6 models, while not a tool, it is helpful. I think Bentley also lists tools that are helpful to own if you want to work on your ride..........

 

Many will tell you there are required when changing the muffler bearings...

 

And for those who like to go fast: some radar grease.

 

Metric screwdrivers was a joke. :impatient Gotcha

 

Kinda reminds me of "Lucas Smoke" that was installed in the electrical systems of the Clasic Mini.

 

The classic mini tool kit includes a hammer to make the starter work. A bag to put the parts that come off after hitting potholes, A flag incase you can't get out of a pot hole. Cardboard to put under the car so everyone doesn't know where you have been parking.......

 

If you are anything like me you will need a good working flash light for when you get mad and throw your tools in the yard at night. A magnetic wand is also helpful in this case.

 

Um, from my experience, torx bits are definitely easier to strip than philips. My friend replaces them with philips whenever he finds one in his car.

I think the metric screwdriver he's talkng about might be an allen key.

 

I have both for just the reasons you mention. I would use a 12 pt. normally, and a 6 pt. for high torque situations, and in situations where you want to maintain the finish of the bolt to as high a degree as possible (anodized lug nuts, etc.). In tight clearance situations, a 12 pt. and a fine tooth ratchet are sometimes a neccessity. For me, its hard to get by without both once you have them.

 

Here's an alternative to cutting down a regular socket.

http://www.autopart.com/TOOLS/TOOLSMAIN/tool/T_2574.htm

I bought one but gave it (and a spare oil filter cartrige) to the family from Nebraska that bought my '02 MC. They are so very far from a MINI dealer and I didn't want Tigger to suffer.

 

I agree with all in this thread but do find the metric screwdrivers most useful. Be sure not to leave them in the back pocket of your levis if you have leather seats.

I picked up my Mini Cooper S Convertible at Sandia Mini in Albuquerque. They have a place of honor in the showroom where the park the car and for you to recieve it. They also have some classic Minis on racks high alone one of the showroom walls . . . and one is above the place of honor. My first blemish (much like the first blemish on my first child . . .something to do with "plate" glass) was/is an oil spot on my convertible top. Worse . . .my wife and I got in the car to drive off . . . before they opened the doors and let us out they explained the basics . . .seat bealt, cd, refrigerated glove box . . .the car was idling and I put the top down . . . now my wife was beneath the classic mini! "Can you get through this tale a little faster, Michael?"

 

Oil leak from "Decorations" onto a new MINI's top, BAD THING. When it hit the wife's hair, MAJORLY BAD THING!

I hope she went fron zero to Witch in 0.029 seconds and ripped their heads off.

They should replace the top for free and pay for her a day at a hair/spa place!

 

Get a Snap-on Blue Point BOERM10 ratching open end wrench. If you ever intend to bleed your brakes, you find it really helpful. And it is only $14.00 retail off the truck.

Rich

 

Used to live in the Quad Cities (Davenport, IA) and would see 2-3 Snap-on trucks a day. Now here in Avon, In (West suburb of Indy) I RARELY see Snap-on trucks.


I think Sears has a Craftsman version though