tool wish list

For someone just starting their "machine tool repertoire" what would be the "must haves" for an xj owner???
I have all the wood tools known to man, have almost NO mechanic's tools...I am on a mission to treat my xj650 with the utmost of everything. It's SWEET and deserves to be cared for! It's fun to learn with all the expertise and info. available on this site!
;-)
thanks

 

Start with a shop manual - Haynes is better than Chilton (but not by much). Sometimes you just need to have that paper copy around. Then move on to a good socket set from Canadian Tire or Sears - you'll be looking at around $300 regular price - watch for sales. Don't skimp - buying good tools once will pay off for a lifetime - in fact, most of them are guaranteed for life, so if it breaks you get a new one free.
Add on a set of metric and SAE wrenches - 10 of each or so.
Getting a set of Japanese screwdrivers couldn't hurt either if you want the best, but I've never had a problem with North American ones - get a set if you don't have them yet.
Another excellent tool is a set of damaged screw extractors, and/or damaged nut/bolt extractors. Amazingly handy when something goes wrong, and it will.
Lets see... other things....
Battery charger, jack stands, 1/2" and/or 3/8" torque wrench, electrical tester/multimeter, automatic wire stripper, oil drain pan, a good handheld work light...
Then there's always the"best haves" -- the XJCD for reference, a Colourtune plug, and a good manometer ("vacuum sticks" - I personally like the CarbTune rig).

 

Sears Craftsman Brand Ratchets: 1/2", 3/8" and 1/4" Drives.

Craftsman Hand-held Impact Tool - 1/2" Drive

Set of Metric Sockets - Regular and Deep 6-Point Hex.

 

you will need allen keys & there are one or two large sockets that may not be in smaller sets, one for the swing arm nuts 32mm?? and the back bolt on the oil filter?? RickO will know the exact sizes & feeler gauges.

 

What a great start; Thanks all!
I saw an "oil filter wrench" the other day for ten bucks. Do I need one of those or is there another trick to getting an old oil filter off? I don't think the guy who had the bike before me ever changed anything!
tks

 

Shouldn't need an "oil filter wrench" unless it's been converted to a spin-on, otherwise the oil filter retaining bolt is a 12mm I believe...Rick has a good point, tho--most "consumer" sockets and wrench sets are 12-point, easier to use but a sure way to round off badly rusted or frozen bolts. Six-point sockets and wrenches, while not as "versatile" (position-wise) are much less likely to slip/tear up bolt heads/nuts.