On Fri, 7 Feb 2003, Kevin McLean wrote:

> There is lots of info on what spare parts are recommended for long trips in a
> Vanagon (a spare van if possible!).  What I would like to know is what tools
> would be the minimum to bring along as well?  Duct tape, WD-40, big hammer????

The minimum tool kit for any vehicle is a credit card with a high credit
limit and change for a pay phone.

A *reasonable* tool kit is another matter of course. :)  Start with a jack
and a lug wrench, naturally.  If you've already decided what spare parts
you're going to carry, then you simply need to figure out what tools you
need to remove and replace those parts.  Be realistic about what you're
going to be willing to replace on the side of the road.

I usually bring a universal screwdriver, allen wrenches, selection of
combination open end/box end wrenches, adjustable wrench, small pry bar,
pliers, vise grips, bailing wire, metal repair tape (better than duct
tape, IMHO), terminal crimpers, spare push-on terminals (male and female),
hookup wire, a couple alligator clip leads, and a DMM. Sometimes I throw
in a socket handle, extensions, and the most common socket sizes. (10mm,
12mm, 13mm will cover most things.  If you've done work on your van
before, just grab the ones that have dirt inside them. This works for the
combination wrenches, too.)  Don't leave out the pry bar, or sooner or
later you'll ruin one of your other tools prying on something.  ;)  It
also works great for removing valve cover bails, but if you plan on doing
that you should throw in a feeler gauge too.

             _ _
  __ _ _   _| | |  | David M. Brodbeck (N8SRE)              Ypsilanti, MI
 / _` | | | | | |  +-----------------------------------------------------
| (_| | |_| | | | @ cyberspace.org
 \__, |\__,_|_|_| "To the optimist, the glass is half full.  To the
 |___/             pessimist, the glass is half empty.  To the engineer,
                   the glass is twice as big as it needs to be."