I vote for stashing money away like you're already actually buying tools, but don't actually buy anything until you need it or can get an awesome deal on it. Join one of the big popular forums that have a very active "hot deals" thread going, like at GJ: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=29661 .
Oh, and be sure to join the Craftsman Club... it's free and you can get some really decent deals on stuff too.
Dr. Hess wrote: When I was starting out wrenchin', I added to my tool collection based purely on immediate need. That is, if I was doing ball joints on a Caddy, I needed a BFH, so I bought a BFH. Next project might need a 15" adjustable wrench, go buy one. Next project might need a 17mm combination wrench, buy one. Next jack stands. Every project needed at least one new tool. Then one day I reached the point that I had a project to do and I had every tool I needed.
This is the answer.
I've got safety glasses and gloves, as well as a multimeter.
My first task is swapping the rear, carrier and all, on my '90 Miata. Sonic stopped by last night (thanks!!!) to look my Miata over and give me pointers. Came to the quick realization that I have immediate needs. My jack is a small cheap one, $20 PepBoys special, so I need to upgrade that. Also need a good rachet and socket set. The axle bolts are 14mm, and my sockets for that size are 12 point. My rachet is also a small rinky dink one. So off to Harbor Freight I go to upgrade, and get a breaker bar.
Here's a trick for axle nuts. Skip to 0:45
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_um-77hZWY
A lot of people think 6 point sockets are much stronger than 12 point sockets. The truth is that (while this is probably valid), the quality of the socket makes a much bigger difference.
That said, my 12 point harbor freight sockets have performed EXTREMELY well.
Here's a trick for balljoints
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISY8bGof3bQ
double wrench trick:
I know theres not a whole lotta Craftsman love going around right now, but there is a big sale this weekend at Sears/C-man stores. I do want a set of gear wrenches and also some power woodworking tools (router and tablesaw are high on my list), so I will probably swing by and see if theres any real deals to be had.
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