What should I include in my emergency tool set?

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thecantaloupeman

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I am building up a cheapo set of tools that I don't need to worry about getting stolen to keep in my truck in case things go south and I need to fix something on the side of the road. I have no idea what to include in the tool kit though.

Should I get a cheap ratchet set, or would wrenches be more practical? Or even maybe an adjustable wrench? I already have a ****** 5$ tool bag I can keep it all in from HF. I will definitely either have jumper cables or a jumper pack in there and definitely some screwdrivers. Maybe a multi bit screwdriver. What other ideas do ya'll have?
 

Goldie Driver

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Cheapo ratchet set, 1/2 and 9/16 wrenches, and a Phillips, regular, and possibly a Torx in 15, I think, for trim screws depending on your year.

Oh, yeah - tape, coolant/jug o water, and yes - a BFH, or at least a hammer. :D
 

ajd89

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Wd40/pb blaster. Spark plug socket.
 

idahovette

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A roll or 2 of paper towels!
 

Buickspec6231

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3/8 Swivel adapter, various sizes of extensions, small wire brush, FLASHLIGHT.

And the stuff mentioned by others above.
 

C10MixMaster

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ignition module , jumper wire with alligator clips, test light
 

CoggedBelt75

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Vise grips for holding stuff together, a medium size crescent wrench, channel locks. Don't forget a light for that night time break down. Nothing cheaper than a free cheap light that can be held, hung or stuck and plenty bright
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But for the real emergencies that may develop, a roll of toilet paper.
 

Frankenchevy

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Yeah, you guys carry a lot, lol

I bought the dewalt tool set when it was on sale at Costco. Has every size of ratchet, open/closed and some other stuff. I don’t carry a ton of tools. Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever broken down. But I’ve come upon accidents and weather related road closures.

This list sounds like a lot, but it’s really not and is in each of our vehicles as a “go bag”—everyone should have a daily carry go bag. Besides AAA, unlimited roadside with our insurance company and a charged phone, my wife and I also carry a solid FAK/trauma kit, pistol, ammo, matches/lighter, blanket, water, and cans of sardines. That all fits in a normal sized day pack, besides the pistol and phones which are on our body.
 

Doppleganger

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Bulbs, relays, fuses, some primary wire, electrical tape, duct tape.....maybe a few spare common sized bolts/nuts.
 

legopnuematic

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Don't find the absolute cheapest tools, find a tier or two above, because of all places to have things break or round bolts out is on the side of the road.

I like to keep my 20 ton bottle jack and a set of vice grips clamped on it in place of a handle with my truck, chains, straps, hoodie for cold weather. Towels and carb cleaner/brake cleaner.

Cell phone charger with appropriate charging block, fire extinguisher.

30 gallon engine drive compressor helps too :)
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Turbo4whl

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Not in the tool kit, but right next to should also be a First-Aid kit.

Don't find the absolute cheapest tools, find a tier or two above, because of all places to have things break or round bolts out is on the side of the road.

I liked your post, not for the air compressor, but for the better tools. I carry quality tools.
 

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