Basic ToolsBelow you will find a list of basic tools for do it yourself motorcycle repair and maintenance. I have tried to explain a little about why they are important and my personal preferences for each. The basic tools on this page should get you through most regular maintenance and some simple repairs. More complex repairs will require Advanced Tools. I am working on that page now. Hand Tools
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When working on Japanese motorcycles, I have found that SnapOn™ and MAC Tools™ are the clear choice to work with for several reasons. First, the handles are carb clean and chemical resistant. Caution: the handles on most Craftsman™ screwdrivers will simply melt and become gooey in the presence of some chemicals. Also, I have also noticed that the SnapOn phillips screwdrivers always fit bikes best. They turn without slipping, due to the tip shape. If I were doing carpentry work I would use a Craftsman screwdriver because their pointed tip holds best in lumber screws. Also, some screwdrivers are equipped with a hex shaped shank. This is so you can put a wrench on the shank to give you more twisting leverage. Sockets come in 6pt (6 point) and 12pt, shallow and deep. Six point or 6pt sockets are hexagonal shaped inside. Meaning they have 6 sides. 12 points sockets have 12 sides, but are still used on a hex nuts. This allows easier access in cramped spaces, because the socket will go on a nut quicker. Wrenches also come in 6pt and 12pt and various styles and configurations. Other Basic Tools
Carburetor Cleaner Is carb clean really a basic tool? Yes it is. We use it to clean not only carburetors, but surfaces that need to accept a gasket or sealer, handlebars that have grip glue or tape residue, greasy chains caked with grit, etc. After years of using different products I find that SuperTech, the WalMart brand, works really well. It does not melt most forms of plastic and rubber as other brands can. It also works well for starting bikes. Occasionally, I do run into plastic that smears in contact with the SuperTech carb clean, so always test it in an inconspicuous area.
Drain Pan Please buy a real drain pan or use and old metal pot. Do not use a plastic dish from your last barbecue or a cat litter pan just because its cheaper. Many plastics are not chemical resistant. They are not designed to contain gasoline and other engine fluids. If you drain engine fluids into a non chemical resistant pan it will soften and could collapse when you try to pick it up. Carb clean or gasoline could eat a hole right through the pan and then you will have a mess on your hands.
This one from JCWhitney.com spout for pouring but instead of a lid it has a plug in the top. Heat Shrink Tubing
Safety Glasses Don't risk your vision because you think you do not look cool while wearing safety glasses. Safety Glasses USA has some really nice styles. No one will ever realize that they are not regular sunglasses.
Yamabond or other sealer, not silicone! Silicone is a wonderful product. RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone is most commonly used as a gasket maker or sealant. It works very well under wet, or water contact, conditions. However, the problem with using RTV on motorcycles is that when used on engine side covers small globules of silicone will break off inside. Eventually clogging oil pump pickup screens or completely blocking bearing oil passages. We find that when repairing engines, side covers with excessive amounts of silicone usually have 50% or more of the oil pickup screen clogged. There are many products that are designed for engine use and are a wiser choice. Most manufacturers recommend that you use their proprietary product. These include:
Over the years, we have found that Yamabond has a better viscosity which prevents dripping. It also has superior sealing capabilities and is designed for the intense heat of motorcycle and ATV engines. After installation is complete, it is easy to remove the excess from the outside of the engine. Giving you a cleaner look. You can purchase Yamabond at your local Yamaha dealer or thru many online retailers. It is carried by BikeBandit. These basic tools should get you through most regular maintenance and some simple repairs. Each Repair Advice Q & A page includes a list of any necessary tools required for that repair. More complex repairs will require Advanced Tools. I am working on that page now. Leave Basic Tools and return to Need to Know |
