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What tools do you carry?

Bill's Workbench

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I have owned many Jeeps in my time here circling the sun. I have also been exploring the Mojave desert begining at the ripe old age of 11.

Over the years, I have built up and then slimmed down what I carry on adventures. I thought Iwould share my take on what I carry, and I would love to hear what you carry when you go off the beaten path.

Here is the list of things I already have and take with me on adventures:

Basic Tools:
  • KNIPEX 86 03 150 Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/49tm0Mr
    These are a game-changer! They have replaced almost my entire set of wrenches in my travel kit. They don't slip, they just work.

  • Lineman's Pliers: https://amzn.to/45A1kRM
    I have the Knipex ones because I am spoiled. But the Harbor Freight ones will do just fine.

  • Bailing wire: https://amzn.to/4jysU7V
    I have only used it once, and I am glad I had it.

  • Klein 11-in-1 screw driver: https://amzn.to/457JOUN
    This is my go-to screwdriver for decades. It has never let me down. I have let it down, but that's a different story.

  • Klein Precision 27-in-1 Screwdriver: https://amzn.to/49fTrmX
    Love this little screwdriver, I have one in the Maverick and one on my workbench.

  • Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/4qMiDqP
    My set is from Home Depot. I got it years ago for like $10.00 or something. I should have gotten like 3 of the sets, oh well. I only carry a few wrenches with me now; the Pliers Wrench above is my go-to now.

  • Bucket Boss - Super Roll: https://amzn.to/4sEzTjU
    By far the best tool roll I have ever had. I have had this thing for 5 years not and it looks as new as the day I got it. It's flexible; it's made of a denim-like material. It holds about the right amount of stuff. It stays in the Maverick under the back seat at all times.

Tires:
  • SmittyBilt AIR COMPRESSOR 5.65CFM: https://amzn.to/4pzqEi3
    By far the best portable air compressor ever. I have tried the cheap/small ones. They do the job, but you'll have to wait 20-30 min for your tires to air up. This one I can air all 4 up in about 5 min.
    Note: You may need to either adapt the fitting, the SmittyBuilt uses a metric fitting.

  • Speedflate 4x basic: https://www.speedflate.com/shop/p/speedflate4xbasic
    I was on the fence before I invested in this, because it's rather expensive at $175.00. I can tell you it's worth the investment. Pumping up all 4 tires at once is a game-changer for time and getting them all to the same pressure. I use it every time I fill the tires with air.
    Note: You will need to adapt the fitting if you get the SmittyBuilt, as it uses a metric fitting.

  • Staun Tyre Deflators: https://amzn.to/3NewpnV
    I have the generic ones of these; I don't know where I got them. I will say they are a pain to set up, but once set, they are GREAT. While everyone else is airing down their tires one by one like fools. I put one on each tire, and by the time I put the fourth one on, the first one is ready. They automatically stop at the pressure I set.

  • Tire repair kit: https://amzn.to/49wwGdh or Harbor Freight.
    I replace this key every year, because I don't want to be stranded with dried-out plugs. It's good insurance to get you home or to the tire repair shop; it may not stop the leak, but it will slow it down.

  • Emergency Valve Stem Replacement: https://amzn.to/49xceci
    I have never used this, but it seemed like a good idea to have one in the kit.

  • Tire Stem Valve Caps: https://amzn.to/3YxWFvW
    $4.00 for 30 of them, need I type more?
Other stuff:
  • Charcoal Odor Absorber: https://amzn.to/4swrChA
    OMG, I never in 1,000,000 years thought these would work. But they get rid of the BO and other orders that build up over time in the car. Been using the same bags for a few years now. They "Recharge" in the sunlight, just throw it on the dash.
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Dave O

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I carry a WolfBox 4000 amp jump box and a roadside subscription
 

f1jim

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I carry a common 4 way lug wrench to replace the useless, cheesy one that comes with the Maverick. Mine bent before it would break the lug nuts loose!
f1jim
 

SorryDad

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I have owned many Jeeps in my time here circling the sun. I have also been exploring the Mojave desert begining at the ripe old age of 11.

Over the years, I have built up and then slimmed down what I carry on adventures. I thought Iwould share my take on what I carry, and I would love to hear what you carry when you go off the beaten path.

Here is the list of things I already have and take with me on adventures:

Basic Tools:
  • KNIPEX 86 03 150 Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/49tm0Mr
    These are a game-changer! They have replaced almost my entire set of wrenches in my travel kit. They don't slip, they just work.

  • Lineman's Pliers: https://amzn.to/45A1kRM
    I have the Knipex ones because I am spoiled. But the Harbor Freight ones will do just fine.

  • Bailing wire: https://amzn.to/4jysU7V
    I have only used it once, and I am glad I had it.

  • Klein 11-in-1 screw driver: https://amzn.to/457JOUN
    This is my go-to screwdriver for decades. It has never let me down. I have let it down, but that's a different story.

  • Klein Precision 27-in-1 Screwdriver: https://amzn.to/49fTrmX
    Love this little screwdriver, I have one in the Maverick and one on my workbench.

  • Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/4qMiDqP
    My set is from Home Depot. I got it years ago for like $10.00 or something. I should have gotten like 3 of the sets, oh well. I only carry a few wrenches with me now; the Pliers Wrench above is my go-to now.

  • Bucket Boss - Super Roll: https://amzn.to/4sEzTjU
    By far the best tool roll I have ever had. I have had this thing for 5 years not and it looks as new as the day I got it. It's flexible; it's made of a denim-like material. It holds about the right amount of stuff. It stays in the Maverick under the back seat at all times.

Tires:
  • SmittyBilt AIR COMPRESSOR 5.65CFM: https://amzn.to/4pzqEi3
    By far the best portable air compressor ever. I have tried the cheap/small ones. They do the job, but you'll have to wait 20-30 min for your tires to air up. This one I can air all 4 up in about 5 min.
    Note: You may need to either adapt the fitting, the SmittyBuilt uses a metric fitting.

  • Speedflate 4x basic: https://www.speedflate.com/shop/p/speedflate4xbasic
    I was on the fence before I invested in this, because it's rather expensive at $175.00. I can tell you it's worth the investment. Pumping up all 4 tires at once is a game-changer for time and getting them all to the same pressure. I use it every time I fill the tires with air.
    Note: You will need to adapt the fitting if you get the SmittyBuilt, as it uses a metric fitting.

  • Staun Tyre Deflators: https://amzn.to/3NewpnV
    I have the generic ones of these; I don't know where I got them. I will say they are a pain to set up, but once set, they are GREAT. While everyone else is airing down their tires one by one like fools. I put one on each tire, and by the time I put the fourth one on, the first one is ready. They automatically stop at the pressure I set.

  • Tire repair kit: https://amzn.to/49wwGdh or Harbor Freight.
    I replace this key every year, because I don't want to be stranded with dried-out plugs. It's good insurance to get you home or to the tire repair shop; it may not stop the leak, but it will slow it down.

  • Emergency Valve Stem Replacement: https://amzn.to/49xceci
    I have never used this, but it seemed like a good idea to have one in the kit.

  • Tire Stem Valve Caps: https://amzn.to/3YxWFvW
    $4.00 for 30 of them, need I type more?
Other stuff:
  • Charcoal Odor Absorber: https://amzn.to/4swrChA
    OMG, I never in 1,000,000 years thought these would work. But they get rid of the BO and other orders that build up over time in the car. Been using the same bags for a few years now. They "Recharge" in the sunlight, just throw it on the dash.
Thanks for starting the thread; interesting selection of tools and I suspect the choices are personal to one's lifestyle and routine driving conditions/environment. Much of what I carry is standard fare: hammer, multibit screwdrivers, assorted box/open end wrenches (SAE & metric), pliers, crescent wrenches (multiple sized), vice grips, wire cutter, jumper cables, jumper kit (the kind that's battery powered), rags, plastic poncho, tow strap, zip ties, bungee cords, ratcheting tie-down straps, first aid kit, snow broom, weather proof gloves (2 pair) and other little items I can't recall. There's additional stuff in the center console as well, Thankfully Ford designers have provided us storage under the rear seat. I use all the space. Fortunately, I've had reliable vehicles for many years and have rarely needed to use them for a quick roadside repair - not like in my younger days! I look forward to this thread's development.

BTW - your tire repair kit is something I've considered. However, my concern is living in the northeast, it gets cold and I concern myself in having any liquid type repair items (like say fix-a-flat) where freezing could be a concern. You or anyone have any practical input on that?

Thanks
 
Last edited:

SorryDad

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I carry a common 4 way lug wrench to replace the useless, cheesy one that comes with the Maverick. Mine bent before it would break the lug nuts loose!
f1jim
Hmmm - I DO have an extra in my shed; looks like I better make sure it fits my wheels and add it to my the vehicle. Alternatively, I could buy a 2' breaker bar with dedicated deep (impact quality) socket and set that aside as well. Thanks for posting the obvious!
 

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OP
OP
Bill's Workbench

Bill's Workbench

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The jump box and lug wrench are a great addition as well.

I forgot about the ones I have.

Norco GB40: https://amzn.to/49NBFHI is the one I have. I have never used it, except to charge my phone once.

Foldable 4-way Lug wrench: https://amzn.to/49xu2E7 I think I got mine from Harbor Freight. I have never needed to use this either, but it's in my Tire go bag. I guess I need to check my go bag and make sure everything is still there and in good shape. Thanks for the reminder.
 

icegradner

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I carry a common 4 way lug wrench to replace the useless, cheesy one that comes with the Maverick. Mine bent before it would break the lug nuts loose!
f1jim
Sounds like someone over torqued the lug nuts on your truck. I’ve only used the factory one one time (all four wheels) and it worked perfectly. I still prefer to use a beaker bar.
 
Last edited:
OP
OP
Bill's Workbench

Bill's Workbench

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BTW - your tire repair kit is something I've considered. However, my concern is living in the northeast, it gets cold and I concern myself in having any liquid type repair items (like say fix-a-flat) where freezing could be a concern. You or anyone have any practical input on that?

Thanks
I live in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas. Where things dry out. That's why I replace it every spring.
 

Surly Old Bill

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OP has a pretty good list.

I don't like to pack along extraneous stuff/weight, so I keep it pretty simple.
-combo jumpstarter/tire inflater
-flashlight
-tire patch kit
-screwdrivers, bits and sockets that actually fit Maverick (Metric); but nothing that doesn't fit.
-tow strap and tiedowns
-16' spool of 16-18ga wire and some wire nuts
-Linesman and vice grip pliers
-a couple rag towels, gloves, and small pack of hand wipes for grease.

I remove the sockets, bits, etc. from their factory cases and dump them all in a small ammo box along with everything else that will fit. This easily lives in one of the bins under the rear seat area, or even under a front seat. The jumpstarter and straps also fit under front or rear seats. I'm not in a crew pit, I do not need instant rapid access to every bit and socket, I prefer to save space. I've only seldomly needed to do roadside repairs, ever, in 50 years of driving.

Ford Maverick What tools do you carry? 1768151971650-5
 
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Surly Old Bill

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Ah YES! The replacement for the inadequate factory tire wrench!
I vacillate between keeping a spare breaker bar with the right size socket, or the one from Harbor Freight with the multi sockets. Or just a short section of pipe to slip over the 3/8" socket wrench.
Ford Maverick What tools do you carry? 1768152384164-ch
 

Cancunbadlands

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None, I'm too old to work in my cars, I don't do it anymore, if I got a flat tire I'll be calling road assistant. I don't do any road traveling, I only drive in town, if I have to go somewhere outside town, I prefer to catch a fly, it's easy for me
 

MaverickMark

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I have owned many Jeeps in my time here circling the sun. I have also been exploring the Mojave desert begining at the ripe old age of 11.

Over the years, I have built up and then slimmed down what I carry on adventures. I thought Iwould share my take on what I carry, and I would love to hear what you carry when you go off the beaten path.

Here is the list of things I already have and take with me on adventures:

Basic Tools:
  • KNIPEX 86 03 150 Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/49tm0Mr
    These are a game-changer! They have replaced almost my entire set of wrenches in my travel kit. They don't slip, they just work.

  • Lineman's Pliers: https://amzn.to/45A1kRM
    I have the Knipex ones because I am spoiled. But the Harbor Freight ones will do just fine.

  • Bailing wire: https://amzn.to/4jysU7V
    I have only used it once, and I am glad I had it.

  • Klein 11-in-1 screw driver: https://amzn.to/457JOUN
    This is my go-to screwdriver for decades. It has never let me down. I have let it down, but that's a different story.

  • Klein Precision 27-in-1 Screwdriver: https://amzn.to/49fTrmX
    Love this little screwdriver, I have one in the Maverick and one on my workbench.

  • Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/4qMiDqP
    My set is from Home Depot. I got it years ago for like $10.00 or something. I should have gotten like 3 of the sets, oh well. I only carry a few wrenches with me now; the Pliers Wrench above is my go-to now.

  • Bucket Boss - Super Roll: https://amzn.to/4sEzTjU
    By far the best tool roll I have ever had. I have had this thing for 5 years not and it looks as new as the day I got it. It's flexible; it's made of a denim-like material. It holds about the right amount of stuff. It stays in the Maverick under the back seat at all times.

Tires:
  • SmittyBilt AIR COMPRESSOR 5.65CFM: https://amzn.to/4pzqEi3
    By far the best portable air compressor ever. I have tried the cheap/small ones. They do the job, but you'll have to wait 20-30 min for your tires to air up. This one I can air all 4 up in about 5 min.
    Note: You may need to either adapt the fitting, the SmittyBuilt uses a metric fitting.

  • Speedflate 4x basic: https://www.speedflate.com/shop/p/speedflate4xbasic
    I was on the fence before I invested in this, because it's rather expensive at $175.00. I can tell you it's worth the investment. Pumping up all 4 tires at once is a game-changer for time and getting them all to the same pressure. I use it every time I fill the tires with air.
    Note: You will need to adapt the fitting if you get the SmittyBuilt, as it uses a metric fitting.

  • Staun Tyre Deflators: https://amzn.to/3NewpnV
    I have the generic ones of these; I don't know where I got them. I will say they are a pain to set up, but once set, they are GREAT. While everyone else is airing down their tires one by one like fools. I put one on each tire, and by the time I put the fourth one on, the first one is ready. They automatically stop at the pressure I set.

  • Tire repair kit: https://amzn.to/49wwGdh or Harbor Freight.
    I replace this key every year, because I don't want to be stranded with dried-out plugs. It's good insurance to get you home or to the tire repair shop; it may not stop the leak, but it will slow it down.

  • Emergency Valve Stem Replacement: https://amzn.to/49xceci
    I have never used this, but it seemed like a good idea to have one in the kit.

  • Tire Stem Valve Caps: https://amzn.to/3YxWFvW
    $4.00 for 30 of them, need I type more?
Other stuff:
  • Charcoal Odor Absorber: https://amzn.to/4swrChA
    OMG, I never in 1,000,000 years thought these would work. But they get rid of the BO and other orders that build up over time in the car. Been using the same bags for a few years now. They "Recharge" in the sunlight, just throw it on the dash.
I carry a general tool kit, a quality tire pressure guage, duct tape, electrical tape, jump starter pack, shop towel roll, electrical tester, and a couple regular towels.
 

Timothyd

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I have owned many Jeeps in my time here circling the sun. I have also been exploring the Mojave desert begining at the ripe old age of 11.

Over the years, I have built up and then slimmed down what I carry on adventures. I thought Iwould share my take on what I carry, and I would love to hear what you carry when you go off the beaten path.

Here is the list of things I already have and take with me on adventures:

Basic Tools:
  • KNIPEX 86 03 150 Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/49tm0Mr
    These are a game-changer! They have replaced almost my entire set of wrenches in my travel kit. They don't slip, they just work.

  • Lineman's Pliers: https://amzn.to/45A1kRM
    I have the Knipex ones because I am spoiled. But the Harbor Freight ones will do just fine.

  • Bailing wire: https://amzn.to/4jysU7V
    I have only used it once, and I am glad I had it.

  • Klein 11-in-1 screw driver: https://amzn.to/457JOUN
    This is my go-to screwdriver for decades. It has never let me down. I have let it down, but that's a different story.

  • Klein Precision 27-in-1 Screwdriver: https://amzn.to/49fTrmX
    Love this little screwdriver, I have one in the Maverick and one on my workbench.

  • Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/4qMiDqP
    My set is from Home Depot. I got it years ago for like $10.00 or something. I should have gotten like 3 of the sets, oh well. I only carry a few wrenches with me now; the Pliers Wrench above is my go-to now.

  • Bucket Boss - Super Roll: https://amzn.to/4sEzTjU
    By far the best tool roll I have ever had. I have had this thing for 5 years not and it looks as new as the day I got it. It's flexible; it's made of a denim-like material. It holds about the right amount of stuff. It stays in the Maverick under the back seat at all times.

Tires:
  • SmittyBilt AIR COMPRESSOR 5.65CFM: https://amzn.to/4pzqEi3
    By far the best portable air compressor ever. I have tried the cheap/small ones. They do the job, but you'll have to wait 20-30 min for your tires to air up. This one I can air all 4 up in about 5 min.
    Note: You may need to either adapt the fitting, the SmittyBuilt uses a metric fitting.

  • Speedflate 4x basic: https://www.speedflate.com/shop/p/speedflate4xbasic
    I was on the fence before I invested in this, because it's rather expensive at $175.00. I can tell you it's worth the investment. Pumping up all 4 tires at once is a game-changer for time and getting them all to the same pressure. I use it every time I fill the tires with air.
    Note: You will need to adapt the fitting if you get the SmittyBuilt, as it uses a metric fitting.

  • Staun Tyre Deflators: https://amzn.to/3NewpnV
    I have the generic ones of these; I don't know where I got them. I will say they are a pain to set up, but once set, they are GREAT. While everyone else is airing down their tires one by one like fools. I put one on each tire, and by the time I put the fourth one on, the first one is ready. They automatically stop at the pressure I set.

  • Tire repair kit: https://amzn.to/49wwGdh or Harbor Freight.
    I replace this key every year, because I don't want to be stranded with dried-out plugs. It's good insurance to get you home or to the tire repair shop; it may not stop the leak, but it will slow it down.

  • Emergency Valve Stem Replacement: https://amzn.to/49xceci
    I have never used this, but it seemed like a good idea to have one in the kit.

  • Tire Stem Valve Caps: https://amzn.to/3YxWFvW
    $4.00 for 30 of them, need I type more?
Other stuff:
  • Charcoal Odor Absorber: https://amzn.to/4swrChA
    OMG, I never in 1,000,000 years thought these would work. But they get rid of the BO and other orders that build up over time in the car. Been using the same bags for a few years now. They "Recharge" in the sunlight, just throw it on the dash.
Yeah, most of that and vice grip welding clamps, a variety of cam lock tie-downs and a jump box
 

MightyMav

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No tools yet but what I DO carry is a 10" long, 2"x10" board to place the jack on in case of a flat.
I don't want to set the jack with it's small base on God-knows-what kind of ground surface I'll encounter if I get a flat.
Just a precautionary thing.
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