What tools do I need

[Michael Canning]

I just bought a 01 ram 1500 4x4
What told should I get together to do basic work on it

 

[kad]

Basics:
Set of screwdrivers
Set of metric combination wrenches
3/8" ratchet and set of metric sockets
Set of torx drivers and/or set of torx bit sockets.

If you've got some spare cash:
3/8" drive torque wrench.
1/2" drive torque wrench for wheel lug nuts.
You can get decent ones by Tekton for a reasonable price via Amazon.


That'll handle 95% of maintenance work. Wait until you're actually doing the odd tool jobs (brakes, spark plugs, etc) before you buy the limited use tools.

-K

 

[kad]

Oh and unless it's lifted, you are very skinny or you have access to a lift, a set of ramps is a good idea. I use the 12K lb model from Rhino ramps, you can get them on Amazon as well.

-K

 

[Yarek]

WD-40
RTV
oil catch pan (can be a bucket, whatever works)
something to spin the oil filters
automotive funnel(s), you can have a few sizes. They're cheap.
turkey baster with some thin tubing: you can use that to suck the brake fluid out of the reservoir...

If you haven't worked on cars/trucks/motorcycles for some time and don't have a good "feel" for how much 30 ft-lb is, investing in a torque wrench is really going to pay dividends. First time you over tighten a spark plug or oil drain plug and shave the threads, it will cost you a LOT more than that torque wrench you saved $30 on.

And while store-bought ramps are really nice to have, if you're on a budget, you can make them out of two 8' long pieces of 2x8. Cut them down to 4' long, and cut the rest into 6" pieces. Stack'em up and attach a few at one end, and half as many in the middle. Works like a charm.

 

[Michael Canning]

Ok thank you. Guys and yes I worked on alot or motors in the past lost all my tools in my divorce. I am in the middle of rebuilding my 318 magnum right now she was badly taken care of but using a buddy tool box ..

 

[Yarek]

I hear you. I went through a bitter divorce as well, but my ex didn't know anything about tools She did insist on getting the meat smoker, even though she went vegetarian. What do people do out of spite...

If you haven't seen it already, go to youtube and look for "Louis CK divorce"

Good luck with the repairs!

 

[Robeffy]

Fixing the intake plenum?

 

[jpilk99]

I just bought a 01 ram 1500 4x4
What told should I get together to do basic work on it

I am just about finished bringing back a '97 1500 4x4 that sat for 6 years. In addition to what others say, I'd take a good look at the brake lines. I ended up replacing every inch of mine, including the lines to the 4x4 engager. I used the ni-copper spools!!! Much easier to bend.

Let us know how you progress.

 

[Michael Canning]

I just fixed the intake plenum problem ... I rebuilt the water pump and the power steering pump .. I do need to replace all the break lines and the 4x4 lines