What mechanic tools to bring on the trail

 

Here is a quick list of mechanic tools to always have with you on the trail.


  • Standard wrenches from 1/4”-1”

  • Metric wrenches from 9mm-21mm

  • 12 point 13mm (unit bearing bolts, not always in a standard set)

  • Breaker bar and socket for lug nuts

  • 36mm (Axle nut, best on a 1/2 drive breaker bar)

  • 33mm (Pitman arm nut)

  • Torx bits 15-50

  • A pair of dikes, vise grips, and needle nose pliers

  • Pry bar and BIG hammer (mini sledge)

  • Flat and Philips head screw drivers

  • 18” Crescent wrench


Take a closer look


ORGANIZATION is key. Having one bag/bin to store all your tools makes sure you never forget a socket or hammer at home.

Standard wrenches from 1/4”-1”

Metric wrenches from 9mm-21mm

  • These wrenches can take apart almost your entire Jeep, pack up small, and are easy to transport. It is always a good idea to have a wide range of wrenches. Some may ask about sockets vs. wrenches. Wrenches do not ratchet and take longer, but can be cheaper, and easier to manage. You may find you have plenty of space where a wrench set and socket set are no problem. If I had to pick one, it be the wrenches.

12 point 13mm

  • In the event you need to take off a unit bearing, having a 12 point 13mm is crucial. While most metric wrenches you have will be 12 point, it is worth having. This is a must! Keep in mind a socket set may be 6 point and that will not work.

Breaker bar and socket for lug nuts

  • Whether it’s a flat tire or stubborn bolt, a breaker bar is always nice to have. In case it isn’t enough, use the handle of your high-lift as a cheater bar for extra leverage!

36mm socket

  • Breaking a U-joint is a common thing. Taking the stub shaft out of the unit bearing is impossible without a socket big enough! A socket this big will most likely be used with your breaker bar, so make sure they fit each other!

33mm Socket

  • This is used to take off a pitman arm. This oddball size is often over looked.

Torx bits 15-50

  • Jeep uses torx bits often. Having a set is easy to add, and could save the day!

A pair of dikes, vise grips, and needle nose pliers

  • Many jobs can be made easier with these tools.

Pry bar and BIG hammer

  • Sometimes a little extra help is needed. A good size pry bar (and even variety) with a big hammer can make those frustrating moments a breeze.

Flat and Philips head screw drivers

  • These are less common on jeeps but can still some in handy. Sometimes it’s not even to fix the Jeep, but other random camping gear.

18” Crescent wrench

  • Jam nuts on control arms and steering linkage come in various sizes. One big crescent wrench to take care of the larger odd sizes.


Keep in mind that this is a general list that can hopefully get you out of most tricky situations. Depending on the trail, wheeling style, and space, consider expanding on this list and tailor it to YOUR specific jeep.

Having tools is important for anyone going wheeling. Having them out and ready makes you 10x more likely to get help from people passing by.