Basic tools to get you started

Post date: Dec 25, 2011 12:43:03 PM

When your new to Norton's and you find it difficult enough to work out if a spanner is metric or imperial, suddenly finding AF and Whitworth in your world as well, might leave you a little confused. Heres a list to get you started.

The following list of essentials tools to carry for a 71 Commando Roadster comes from Chris Ghent. Don't forget that you should also have a C spanner for tightening up the exhaust pipes and a clutch puller, both available to members from the club's spares department.

Tools in italics should be carried on the bike, have fun working out there!

3/8 Drive sockets

2 small extensions (more versatile)

spark plug socket

Whitworth

1/4

5/16

AF

7/16

1/2

9/16

1/2 Drive sockets

AF

7/16

1/2

9/16

5/8

11/16

3/4

13/16

15/16

1 1/2

1 5/16

Double ring spanners

Whitworth

3/16 and 1/4

5/16 and 1/4

Ring and open spanners

AF

7/16

1/2 (x 2)

9/16

Whitworth

1/4

Double open spanners

Whitworth

1/4 and 5/16

Other tools

combination screwdriver set, large shifting spanner (rear-wheel), allen keys (including a modified short arm allen key to access the carbs).The next question is where to find AF and Whitworth tools. I'm reliably informed that Flemington markets on Saturday are a good bet for second hand tools. Try and get good quality tools like sidichrome.

Paul

P.S. Chris also supplied the following list of tools and advice

"I find I can fit all of this in the left side panel pocket and a small bag in front of the battery on the Commando. I commute and also do a couple of long trips a year. On the long trips I add a clutch puller and a head gasket. Haven't needed them yet.

shifter 10Ó spanners ...( 7/16 1/2 9/16 AF) (1/4 5/16 W), (7/16 AF is the same as 3/16W), plug spanner (a box spanner is light and the screwdriver can turn it), screwdrivers... small/ large slothead, posidrive. (Combination like the one in the original kit), allen keys... for carbs, ignition rotor, small socket set... including 1/4W and 7/16 1/2 9/16 AF, and extension to reach head nuts

Also carry a spare plug, some electrical wire, a coathanger inside the handlebars, electrical tape, 1/2AF nyloc nuts, other assorted nuts, bolts, washers, fuse, carb screw, chain link, circuit tester (sort with bulb, doubles as trouble light), silicone, if a Roadster carry a condom (for transferring petrol, did you think it was because Roadster riders are naturally more attractive?), Boyer troubleshooting guide from INOA tech tips and a Mars Bar.

Chris Ghent