For decades now, I have been stubbornly living in the analog age while everyone around me goes digital, when it comes to tools at least. It was only relatively recently that I added a portable impact drill to my kit after realizing how much time and elbow grease can be saved by using a power tool for simple tasks, such as removing and replacing wheel studs on the road. On a recent trip to Canada to collect a 30-year-old Land Rover Discovery 1 my son had bought sight unseen on the internet, I arranged to collect samples of Milwaukee tools for two reasons. Firstly, I could not realistically carry my tool kit with me to Canada from Mexico (Mrs. Bell decided for us all that check-in luggage was a bad idea), and secondly, driving a 30-year-old Land Rover through three countries would undoubtedly present mechanical challenges. I chose a combination of tools, and I am proud to say that these tools, along with a few basics, such as pliers and screwdrivers, did the job of getting us home without too much drama.
M12 Fuel Insider Extended Reach Box Ratchet
I first came across the M12 ratchet on social media. I immediately knew that this product would be useful not only as a workshop essential but also for on-the-road maintenance and repairs. I was not disappointed. The M12 Fuel Insider extended reach box ratchet features a low-profile head design that permits direct insertion of sockets and adapters into the tool. The shorter head profile, which measures over three-quarters of an inch less with a socket in place, enables users to work deep within engine bays and access cramped areas. By combining 60 pound-feet of max torque with 350 RPMs, it quickly removes nuts and bolts and allows more work to be completed in less time. Mechanics benefit from the versatility provided by the included Insider box ratchet sockets (8-19 and 21 mm), a 1/4-inch hex bit, a 1/4-inch anvil adapter, and a 3/8-inch anvil adapter, and the box ratchet 6-point sockets are pass-through up to 15 mm and 9/16 inches. This tool has proven to be highly versatile and useful for a number of applications, from removing wheel studs to installing roof load bars and performing general mechanical work.
The true strength of this tool was illustrated when I had to remove a frame-mounted earth nut that was situated in a cramped space and barely visible; the built-in light, slim neck, and head of the ratchet allowed me to locate and access the nut, and what should have been a half-hour chore was reduced to a pleasant few minutes. The top tip for the use of this tool is to initially loosen and finally tighten nuts with a hand tool, as mechanical sensitivity is essential to the long life of tools. The ratchet does not always have the power to fully torque larger nuts and bolts.
$299 | www.homedepot.com
M18 2-Tool Combo Kit
As I travel in an old, self-built Land Rover Defender camper, I consider a drill/impact drill combo essential. I am forever repairing or maintaining the old Landy. It is a labor of love, I promise.
The M18 2-Tool combo kit provides compact brushless drilling and fastening solutions that integrate the M18 cordless system’s patented technologies and electronics, refined motor design, and balanced ergonomics. It includes a 1/2-inch Compact Brushless Drill/Driver, which measures 6.5 inches in length and delivers 500 inch-pounds of torque, as well as a 1/4-inch Hex Compact Brushless Impact Driver that reaches a high application speed and provides 1,600 inch-pounds of torque. Both compact brushless tools are fitted with brushless motors that have been customized for each device. Redlink electronics optimize the performance of M18 Redlithium batteries, enabling effective power distribution and fewer interruptions for charging. This combo kit comes with two M18 batteries, an M18/M12 Multi-Voltage Charger, two belt clips, and a contractor bag, which is convenient for the storage of all things Milwaukee. We have used both drills for their intended purpose, and they have proven to be solid, powerful, and reliable.
$242 | www.homedepot.com
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