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Concerning tools in general-they're like anything else in life-you (usually, anyway) get what you pay for. How
much to spend on tools depends on , of course, your budget-but also take into account how often you plan to use it,
and for what purpose. If you're the type to just tinker every now and then, or you just need a specific tool for
something that's only going to be done once, or every few years or so, (like replacing rear wheel bearings), then the
bargain bin at the local hardware store or discount tool outlets like Harbor Freight Tools are great places to shop-
just don't complain about the quality (or rather, the lack of it). For more serious types that work on something every
day, or long term projects, by all means spend the few extra bucks and do your shopping at Sears-Craftsman tools
are quality stuff and, of course, come with the no-questions asked lifetime warranty.(Tip-visit some garage sales and
flea markets-you can often find used Craftsman tools for great prices-and still take them back to Sears for a brand
new one if they break.) For people with money to throw around (unlike me), Snap-On, Matco, and FACOM tools are
simply the best-yeah, they're expensive, but worth every penny. (Now, if my lottery numbers would just come
through...). Of all the things that I've learned during the course of this restoration (and it ain't over yet), one of the
most important is that trying to control costs on a project by using cheap materials, equipment, and tools doesn't
always work. Sometimes you do save a little money, but the time and energy you spend for quality results usually add
up to at least the cost of the good stuff you should have bought in the first place. You can agree or not, but I'm
speaking with over 20 years' experience of working on cars, trucks, bicycles, appliances, business equipment-you
name it-and I've got plenty of old, bent, broken, worn-out tools to use as evidence-I learned the hard way. (Of
course, those old screwdrivers DO make excellent prybars....).
As with any other subject, Porsches have their own dedicated followers (some would call us fanatics, but...). I've found numerous sources of advice, suggestions, technical knowledge, insider tips- you name it-on the web and in print. For general Porsche information relating to solving everyday problems on a daily driver (or just about anything else), Pelican Parts' technical forum (bulletin boards, tech articles, parts listings, photos-you name it) is one I visit just about every day. Stop by the 911 Technical forum and try to stump Warren-the "Early S man"-good luck. The 912 Registry is a great site for us often overlooked 912 owners-data, restoration and technical areas, owner's registry-excellent stuff. The Early 911S Registry is a cool site for lovers of the classic, pure Porsche sports car. Check it out. |