Quote:
Originally Posted by StradaRedlands
What you have is probably a good start. As mentioned, both torx and etorx sets are basically required to work on BMWs. An E10 1/4 swivel is necessary for doing oil filter housing gasket and is useful in other spots.
You'll need two jack stands and maybe four at some point. Probably a creeper And remember, if a tool seems expensive and unnecessary, just remember what the cost would be to have a mechanic do the job! |
Buying new tools is my favorite part of DIY!!!
+1000 to the E10 1/4 swivel recommendation!
I ended up getting low profile w/ flat top jackstands along with jackpads
Low Profile, Long Reach hydraulic jack (that one never seems to go on sale at HF)
Wheel ramps - I prefer these whenever feasible.
Low end metric torque wrench - I got a digital 0-135 N-m that works great; however, I wouldn't trust it for those torque values (10-) N-m. Valve cover bolts come to mind.
Trim removal & pick set (for those damn electrical connectors)
Spark Plug Socket - 14 mm thinwall, magnetic, w/ swivel (depending upon your engine)
Torx/E-Torx - you can never have too many of these and you'll need the larger sizes as well. I have a set of long torx bits that are usually my go-to unless they end up being too long. They're handy for getting thru tight spaces. Also, the double box ratcheting E-Torx wrenches are nice.
Coolant vacuum purge & fill kit.
Brake fluid pressure bleed kit.
Wheel hangers/guide pins are nice.
Scan Tool capable of reading all BMW modules - this one may seem obvious, but you never know. Using my scantool to put my rear brakes into service mode made a huge difference. Also, you'll want to be able to reset service intervals. Bi-directional for the more serious DIY'er. Getting ISTA up and running should be the long term goal.
A smart battery charger!!!