Tool Storage
Before anything else, storage matters.
Some prefer tools on a wall, easy to grab and always visible. I’ve found a tool trolley works better — mobile, organized and practical when moving around the garage.
This is the one I use: a trolley by Hazet. Solid construction, smooth drawers and enough space for both tools and small parts. The larger drawers easily fit power tools as well.
You can buy it fully equipped, but I built mine over time. A setup that grows with the tools you actually use.
Socket Set
A good socket set is the foundation.
I went through cheaper sets early on — they work for a while, but don’t last. Switching to higher quality tools makes a difference immediately, and more importantly, over time.
This set covers everything I need in one place: a full range of sizes, clean organization and all the essentials — including Torx and screwdriver sockets. No need to piece things together later.
Ratcheting Wrench Set
A ratcheting wrench set quickly becomes indispensable.
Especially in tight spaces, where a regular wrench slows you down, the ratcheting function makes a noticeable difference. Less repositioning, smoother workflow, faster results.
This set also includes square adapters, adding extra flexibility when needed. It’s one of the few tools I always take along on longer trips — compact, versatile and reliable.
Double Ring Spanner Set
Simple, but extremely useful.
A double ring spanner set is one of those tools you keep reaching for — especially when you need a secure fit on both sides. Reliable, durable and part of the setup for years.
Screwdriver Set
A tool I underestimated at first.
What started as a simple addition quickly became part of the daily workflow. A good screwdriver set covers more situations than expected — and once it’s there, you keep reaching for it.
Reliable, well-balanced and always within reach.
Hammer & Punch Set
A set that quickly proves its value.
Hammer, soft mallet, drift pins, chisels and a centre punch — all in one place, always within reach. Especially the smaller tools tend to disappear over time, so having them organized in a single set makes a real difference.
Simple, practical and used more often than expected.
File Set
Often overlooked, but part of a well-equipped garage.
A good file set is essential for small adjustments, cleaning edges or refining details where other tools don’t reach. Not used every day, but when needed, there’s no real substitute.
Simple tools that do their job quietly — and reliably.
Impact Wrench
A powerful addition to the standard toolset.
An impact wrench makes loosening and tightening fasteners significantly easier, especially when dealing with stubborn bolts or wheel nuts. It saves time and reduces effort in many everyday tasks.
Cordless systems add flexibility, making it easy to use the tool wherever it’s needed.
51 Piece Screwdriver Bit Set
Over time, bits tend to scatter — collected from different sources, often incomplete and rarely organized.
A dedicated set changes that. Everything has its place, and it’s immediately clear when something is missing. That alone makes a difference in daily use.
With a wide range of sizes and types, this set covers virtually everything you’ll need — organized, complete and easy to manage.
Hexagon Screwdriver Set
Used almost daily.
A proper hex screwdriver set covers a wide range of tasks, but the longer sizes make a real difference — especially when access is limited. The extra-long size 3, for example, is essential when adjusting CO on a CIS-equipped Porsche 911.
Keeping them in a complete set also makes organization easier — everything in place, nothing missing.
Torque Wrenches
A torque wrench is essential for proper assembly.
Early on, it’s easy to underestimate how important correct torque actually is. Tightening “by feel” works — until it doesn’t. Once you start working with specified values, the difference becomes obvious.
I keep two torque wrenches for different ranges. This smaller one covers 10–60 Nm with a 1/2″ drive — ideal for more precise work. Combined with factory torque specs, it ensures consistency and avoids unnecessary risk.
And this is the bigger one, with a 1/2″ drive and a range from 60-320 Nm.
Pliers
Pliers are a category of their own.
While most of my tools come from Hazet, this is one area where I prefer Knipex. The build quality, precision and grip are simply hard to beat.
Instead of a full set, I’ve picked individual pieces over time. One of the most useful is the classic water pump pliers — adjustable, secure and reliable under load. Once set, it stays in place and does exactly what it should.
Lineman’s Pliers (High Leverage)
A true allrounder.
High leverage, solid grip and versatile enough for a wide range of tasks. One of those tools that quickly becomes part of the standard setup.
Long Nose Pliers with Cutter
Useful in tight spaces and for more precise work.
The integrated cutter adds flexibility, making it a reliable tool for everyday tasks.
Retaining Ring Pliers (Internal & External)
Essential when working with retaining rings.
Without the right pliers, removal or installation quickly becomes frustrating — or impossible. Having both internal and external versions covers all typical applications.
Self-Adjusting Grip Pliers
A practical addition for holding, clamping or stabilizing parts.
The self-adjusting mechanism saves time and makes them easy to use in different situations.
Wire Stripping Pliers
Clean, precise and easy to handle.
This one by Gedore has proven especially reliable, but similar tools are available from other manufacturers as well.
Spark Plug Wrench
A dedicated spark plug wrench makes a noticeable difference — especially on older Porsche engines where access is limited.
Designed for tight spaces, it allows for controlled removal and installation without damaging surrounding components.
More details on this specific tool can be found in the related article.
