What tools do I need?

[vinny68]

If I want to take off my wheels to paint the calipers or swap out rims, what type of tools would be good to have? I'm assuming I'll need a torque wrench that goes up to 110 ft/lbs, right? Is it safe to use the jack that came in the trunk or do I need a floor jack and jack stands? I've also read about problems with the stock lugs/covers and am wondering whether I should go ahead and order a gorilla nuts set before starting anything.

One other question - for those of you who swap out your rims/tires for winter, can you store the set you're not using in the garage or do you have to keep them indoors somewhere warmer like the basement?

[Shakin]

its nice to have a floor jack much easier. Use jack stands and a wheel chock too. You dont need a torque wrench. Put your lugs on tight in a criss cross pattern with a breaker bar, and they'll be fine. You'll know when they are tight enough.

As far as storing your old tires. They should be fine outside if you cover them up. The wheels are aluminum so they wont rust. It would be better inside but a shed would do just fine.

[carchitect]

You dont need a torque wrench. Put your lugs on tight in a criss cross pattern with a breaker bar, and they'll be fine. You'll know when they are tight enough.


While a torque wrench may not be necessary it may be good idea to use it if you don't want your wheels falling off or warped rotors. 110 ft/lbs can feel very different depending on the length of your cheater bar.

Before you raise the wheels you are going to work on make sure to loosen the lugs first. After you get all done take her for a spin to make sure you don't gots any new vibrations. And to finish the job properly make sure you re-torque the lugs after 10-20 miles.

[FloridaRT]

If you are really good, you could paint the calipers without taking the wheels off, through the spokes of the wheel.

LOL, just joking.................now would be a good time to buy a floor jack.

I have two myself.

Bob