Tools & Shop Equipment

Missing the right tool to change wheels, assemble an engine or find leaks in the intake? In this category we bring together special tools, hand tools, ramps, workshop equipment and compressed air for you who work on your own car – whether the project is a quick service or a larger engine build.

Special tools for engine work

Engine work often requires tools made for one specific job. Among our engine work tools you will find, for example, a valve spring compressor for Subaru EJ turbo heads and a cam gear tool for Subaru SOHC engines from Torque Solution, as well as ring compressor sleeves from Wiseco in sizes such as 82.5 and 83.5 mm. The sleeve must match the cylinder bore so the piston can be inserted without damaging the rings. Alignment tools from ACT are made for specific models, such as Honda S2000, Ford Focus and Infiniti G35, so choose based on both model and year.

Find leaks in the intake

A leak tester – such as Torque Solution's model for 2 inch turbo inlets – seals off the intake so you can pressurise the system and listen or use soapy water to find leaks. Leaking hoses and joints can mean the engine does not reach the desired boost pressure, and they should typically be found before adjusting the engine management. The tester must fit the diameter of your turbo inlet, and the test pressure should be moderate and depend on what the system is designed for.

How to choose equipment for wheel changes and lifting

Wheel hanger pins screw into the hub and hold the wheel in place while you fit the bolts, so the threads are not damaged. Torque Solution offers them in, for example, 12x1.5 for BMW, VW and Mercedes and in 14x1.5 for Porsche and Audi, among others – the thread must match your wheel bolts. When choosing ramps and wheel chocks, you should consider several factors:

• Incline: a lowered car typically requires a shallow approach so the bumper clears.
• Load capacity: must suit the car's weight with a margin.
• Width: must suit the width of the tyres.

Always place wheel chocks at the wheels that stay on the ground, and never work under a car supported only by a jack.

Hand tools, compressed air and storage

Everyday work is handled with hand tools, power tools and air tanks and air tools. With compressed air, you should compare the tool's air consumption with the compressor and tank and check working pressure and fittings so the tool can operate steadily. Storage and workshop equipment make it easier to keep track of special tools that are only used a few times a year. In this category you will also find brands such as ARP, BikeMaster, EPI and Race Ramps.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the right ring compressor sleeve?

The sleeve is chosen according to the actual cylinder bore, e.g. 82.5 or 83.5 mm. Check the measurement after any overboring, and typically lubricate the sleeve and rings before inserting the piston.

What thread should the wheel hanger pin have?

It must have the same thread as the car's wheel bolts, e.g. 12x1.5 or 14x1.5. Check the thread in the car's specifications or on an existing bolt before you choose.

What should I look for in car ramps for a lowered car?

Look at the incline so the bumper does not hit, the load capacity relative to the car's weight and the width relative to the tyres. Check the information for the specific part number.

Can a leak tester be used on all turbo cars?

It depends on the diameter of the turbo inlet. Torque Solution's tester is for 2 inch inlets, so measure your system first, use a moderate test pressure and follow the product instructions.