Tool Time

by J.G. Pasterjak

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1. Work Light
While a fluorescent light isn't the most flattering, it won't burn your hands or ears when you're in tight quarters with it.
Pictured: Mac Tools Professional 26-watt twin tube light with 25-foot cord, $80 @ mactools.com

2. Strap Wrench
Whether you're applying extra force to a reluctant oil filter or preventing hoses from searing your arm, a good strap wrench solves a lot of problems.
Pictured: Craftsman strap wrench, $5 @ sears.com

3. Jack
Unless you recently adopted a kryptonite-hating boy you found in a spaceship, you need a hydraulic jack-ideally made of lightweight aluminum.
Pictured: Mac Tools Lightning Lift aluminum racing jack, $240 @ mactools.com

4. Sockets
A 3z8" drive socket set in both standard and metric sizes, along with a reliable ratcheting handle and a few extensions, will get your nuts off with ease.
Pictured: Husky Micro Tough 50-piece socket set, $40 @ homedepot.com

5. Cutter
You'll reach for this tool to cut, scrape, pry, strip wires, and threaten the bitch who's trying to steal your man... OK, maybe all but that last one.
Pictured: Blue Point PK80, $34 @ snapon.com

6. Duct Tape
Is there anything it can't do?
Pictured: Frost King duct tape, $3 @ sears.com

7. Screwdriver
Cars have lots of screws-who knew? Tame them with a screwdriver with Torx, square-drive, and hex-drive bits.
Pictured: Mac Tools 49-piece ratcheting screwdriver bit set, $110 @ mactools.com

8. Gloves
Professional-grade gloves offer maximum protection without sacrificing feel.
Pictured: Mechanix Wear Original, $25 @ mechanix.com

9. Computerized Tuner <--- Win this tool!
By fiddling with 0's and 1's you can alter your fuel mixture, improve ignition timing, and even enhance automatic-transmission shift points.
Pictured: Diablosport Predator, $439 @ diablosport.com