What Socket Set?

[Salvadorsshadow]

New Like 200 owner here.  I need to know what the best socket set would be for this bike.  I don't use tools as much as I should, because I have been blessed with vehicles in generally good repair.  That being said, when I need to do something I like to have the right tools for the job, so my natural inclination has always been to buy the "big" sets of tools.  It is my intention to be able to tear down and rebuild just about anything that goes wrong mechanically for my bike.  Right now that simply means being able to change the oil and gear fluid, and being able to do a valve check in about 200 miles. So my question is this:  What socket set would have everything I need (and nothing I don't)?  I'm on a budget so Stanley tools will probably be my go-to.  I want a set that is all sockets/wrenches/extensions and nothing extra (already have screwdrivers, hex keys).  Do I need to buy one of the $50-60 sets or is there a socket set which will have all I need closer to $20?  I ask because, well, I just bought a scooter.  Money will be tight for the next couple of months as I get the tools, helmet, clothes, and cover that I need.

Thanks!

Cross posting in Tech Forum.

[TroutBum]

I use this metric set. http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-20-pc-6-pt-standard-and-metric/p-00934864000P?prdNo=9&blockNo=9&blockType=G9  Can't really go wrong with Craftmens. After this little kit I add sockets as I need to expand the range needed. I would also consider torque wrenches. I got a Craftmens beam style ($20) for torquing 25 ft lbs and under and a standard click rachet torque wrench ($60) up to 150 ft lbs.

[Stig / Major Tom]

OK...this might light up some folks....

But here goes:
Buy the set of metric box wrenches off of the dollar table (or cheap bin), and the metric socket set the same.

I used to have all pricey Craftsman tools - until they were stolen one night. I replaced them 40 yrs ago with the cheapest tool sets I could find - and have never regretted it!!

Unless you wrench for a living or are wrenching on something that leaves the ground with people in it (& even then I think those pros owe too much to those mobile tool truck sales guys) buy the cheap tools. I have never broken a cheap wrench or socket, or damaged a vehicle with these no name wrenches & sockets.

My main principles of wrenching :Tighten things properly. Use the correct size & shape of tool. Get them as you need them. Sure that means more trips to Karl's or Malwart, but you won't end up with a bunch of stuff you never use. After awhile you'll have everything you'll need for yrs to come.
And get 'em by the set, off of the "cheap table" at your local hardware store, or the like. If they have a name on them which you've heard of .....put 'em down and go buy a whole set at Karl's Hardware for the same price of that "name" tool!.

Even the cheap tools are not going to break in the hands of a home mechanic unless he's standing on a tool stuck into a bulldozer.
Stig, swearing by cheap tools and saving my $ for donuts & important stuff
The only socket I ever split was one borrowed from a gas station mechanic. Trying to get one stuck spark plug out of my girlfriend's '67 Mustang convertible. And it was a pro-quality tool.

[tortoise]

Some valve adjustment options.

Consider using a rotator-ratchet when removing engine bottom drain plug to avoid contact with hot oil (17mm 6-point socket).

! No longer available

Walmart . . .

[TroutBum]

OK...this might light up some folks....

But here goes:
Buy the set of metric box wrenches off of the dollar table (or cheap bin), and the metric socket set the same.

I used to have all pricey Craftsman tools - until they were stolen one night. I replaced them 40 yrs ago with the cheapest tool sets I could find - and have never regretted it!!

Unless you wrench for a living or are wrenching on something that leaves the ground with people in it (& even then I think those pros owe too much to those mobile tool truck sales guys) buy the cheap tools. I have never broken a cheap wrench or socket, or damaged a vehicle with these no name wrenches & sockets.

My main principles of wrenching :Tighten things properly. Use the correct size & shape of tool. Get them as you need them. Sure that means more trips to Karl's or Malwart, but you won't end up with a bunch of stuff you never use. After awhile you'll have everything you'll need for yrs to come.
And get 'em by the set, off of the "cheap table" at your local hardware store, or the like. If they have a name on them which you've heard of .....put 'em down and go buy a whole set at Karl's Hardware for the same price of that "name" tool!.

Even the cheap tools are not going to break in the hands of a home mechanic unless he's standing on a tool stuck into a bulldozer.
Stig, swearing by cheap tools and saving my $ for donuts & important stuff
The only socket I ever split was one borrowed from a gas station mechanic. Trying to get one stuck spark plug out of my girlfriend's '67 Mustang convertible. And it was a pro-quality tool.

That's why I buy the smaller kit or buy seperately so I don't end up with a lot of stuff I don't need. It can get way out of hand quickly like screws and other fasteners that seem to multiple like rabbits. lol  There are some tools I would never consider going cheap on like torque wrenches. YMMV.

[Salvadorsshadow]

Well I bought a set.  More than I need.  I'm a sucker for "everything and the kitchen sink" when it comes to tool sets. 

[TroutBum]

lol. Many of us fall victim to the allure of tools.