My 3 Favorite TOOLS

[@thebluntandonly]

I been doing electrical and mechanical maintenance since 2005 and some of my most versatile tools are the pricier snap on, mac tools and when it comes to sockets I have sets of blue point. My most deadly tool is for breaking anything loose which wouldn't apply to motorcycles is the snap on 12" swedish pipe wrench. The tool is insane. My most used driver was the snap on 7.2v. It's the small one but It has served me almost a decade :). Also snap on makes in my opinion the best crescent wrenches on earth. They do not slip easily and are well made and you wouldn't think so much but I have 115$ in crescent wrenches and I never regret spending that extra mula. Great videos John. I really enjoy going over the span of your channel in the last 6 months. I have a 2020 FLDE and I am considering putting on some fat chiz apes :) Corona got me paranoid about automotive industry layoffs so I haven't pulled the trigger on that yet. Glad to be able to enjoy your channel in this downtime.

[@mrgearheadfromhell]

I have the cordless assortment and almost never drag a air hose around anymore. However I also have several 3/4" and 1" impacts. My latest kick was on the electronic torque wrenches, I needed a new 3/8" and wanted a new 1/4", well after getting them I liked them so much I bought a new 1/2" and then thought I might as well go all the way and bought the 3/4". Having the right tools for the job is a real big deal for my, week before last I did a 40 hour in frame overhaul on a DT466 in 30 hours, that week I worked 31 hours and got paid for 59, last check was for 105 hours. Although I only work 4 days a week and I will be leaving for vacation tomorrow night. 4 days a week 10.5 months a year is how I roll

[@evobtwill8483]

Hey man. I have been a harley Davidson’s technician for about 1 year and 4 months and I love your videos. Very helpful for a relatively new tech. Keep it up!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man! That first year can be a tough one. Glad you made it through!

[@jaseysmith1629]

I agree I have been a tech for going on 4 years and I am still acquiring tools, it’s like a never ending process, I actually work for myself, so buying things like tire machine and balancer don’t count lol

[@edconnor6905]

Thanks for the video. I was a jet engine technician for 28 years, I love snap on tools. Worth every penny.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Jet engines, that would be cool!

[@edconnor6905]

It was allot of fun. A bit rough on your hearing though.

[@billofalltrades1468]

As a auto mechanic I have Ingersoll Rand Milwaukee DeWalt we work on lawn and garden equipment as well as motorcycles and 4 wheelers and side by side. I haven't used air tools in a long time . Like you said, it's a lot more quiet in the shop !

[@williamrusk631]

I appreciate the comment to riders in Pa., 14 degrees yesterday morning in the Pocono mountains, when customers complain about power tools we tell them we can always work slower,

[@Wyngs714]

I have the same set, worth every penny. Been a mechanic for 30 years and up until about 2 years ago I used only air tools. Happily the technology has reached a point to where you can use this stuff professionally. No more air hoses to get in the way all the time, its nice.....................

[@everytoolashammer9427]

I use the Milwaukee cordless tools, they are updated pretty frequently. At the price point it makes it possible to always have the newest model, while replacing them at their end of life. I had the snap on and sold them used even though they seemed better; I don't want to be locked into snap on pricing, as I have been on their scan tools. I agree that people that think they are not proper don't fully understand their capability in the hands of a good mechanic (and yeah I mean tech too..). Anyways man these things are a health saver for people in our field. I think often over looked variable in working on street vehicles is the amount of stress on the body and joints. Anything you can do to infrequent the amount of repetitive movement is a good thing. Love your channel John, watch it all the time!

[@road_king_dude]

This video was badass! As an aspiring future MMI student it helps one get a grasp on the tools of the trade and what your getting into getting hands on with motorcycles.

[@TraceyAllen]

Road Glider if I would do it over again I think I would just start washing bikes and work up. Save the 20k$. It was a great experience school and living in Florida. But you can get a pretty good education in the shop too. If you do it right you will eat and drink Harley Davidson. Average day was left apartment on xl883r for very under paying job at Harley dealership. Bust ass for 9 hours to ride xl883r to school for 6 hours of busting ass. Then go home for 6 hours of sleep. Rinse and repeat. For 14 months. Plus I had 4 full hurricanes while I was there and left for home in #5. It was good but there are other options for turning wrenches. And if you go take an import clinic, Honda is good.

[@jasonmaione4358]

Haha I saw the mention of your buddy from PA, I'm from there as well. Today was 45 and was excited to go riding. It's been in the 30s then will go up to 70 for the weekend. So I'll still live vicariously through your weather down there.

[@febrezee69]

Love to see tool series videos. Its nice to see tools that i may not have. I have purchased a lot of tools that have been recommended by KZbinrs. especially when the tool makes sense to own. im all about making my life easier.

[@gilstrapappraisal]

I watched a shit ton of how to motorcycle videos over the last couple years… This video was most informative all of them. You keep hitting it out of the park, thanks for all your work.

[@robinnewcomb2531]

Getting all my bills caught up, credit cards paid off, things looking good! And then... the Snap-On truck pulls in! LOL

[@paulbuckberry7683]

Always happy to have a look through a mans toolbox!!!!!

[@moose3971]

When you are working on something for a profession, you are spot on. I used SnapOn when I did body work, including my orbital sander, which needs rebuilt after 15+ years, but, it was awesome. Now that I only do it for friends or periodically, I went with lower priced alternatives, not making me money, and the tools are not used daily any longer, so cheaper works. I don't understand why so many people are against power tools for speeding up work flow, if they did shit like that for a living, I would almost bet they would change their tune. Keep rockin the vids man, very entertaining and educational.

[@morals57]

Great videos John! Thanks for the content, I know they aren’t easy to keep cranking out. But much appreciated.

[@Puttnutt24]

John, I’m the first “that guy” and I stand corrected. I myself don’t use power tools much but if I did this for eight hours a day, working on as many bikes as you, I too would invest in more quality power tools. I guess in a way, I’m kinda old school, but it’s like the last time I was on a construction job and I pulled out a plumb bob, dudes just started laughing and handed me a lazer level lol. Keep wrenching buddy, you do a great job!

[@TheHarleyTech]

It’s all good man, I got a lot more hate for them in the beginning, and now I get constant questions about them.

[@travisstone30]

More tool videos please! A tool box tour would be the shit!

[@rippinglipsoutdoors2799]

The new milwaukee 12v line is pretty awesome. I actually switched to milwaukee cordless tools. Mostly the impact and the ratchet. I'm a tool technician (anything from cordless tools all the way up to skid steers and excavators.

[@2laneblacktop943]

Cordless is the way to go for sure, I love my Bosch tools, makes things so much easier and quicker just pay attention to your settings and you're good to go. Still love the sound of my air tools though lol, it's old school but it's still cool ! Another great episode John. Had to alter my channel name a bit to avoid any copy rights once I start putting out content.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Air tools do have an enjoyable racket to them!

[@twoweelsgaming9716]

I have the 3/8 electric impact from snap on, it is my favorite tool! I work on tractors it takes a beating everday and still works great.

[@paulgeyer979]

I love your pictoral definition of "gross" weather in the start of your video. I'm in the UP of Michigan and still can't even see grass yet with another storm coming. Really enjoy your videos and hoping to be out riding soon (Before June!).

[@TheHarleyTech]

Well, in my defense, the camera didn’t pick up the gray sky very well. My point was that while it’s bad, it’s still better than the snow pounding everyone up north is taking. Sorry ‘bout Mother Nature treating y’all like crap this year!

[@HankAttack89]

Awesome video as always. I’m an auto tech and those three 14.4 volt tools are my everyday go to

[@TheHarleyTech]

I don’t know how I ever worked without them!

[@trevormac3831]

Hey do you guys tell framers oh its much better building houses with hammers not nail guns if it was my house i wouldn't want you working on it using a nail gun? This is this mans unprofession and he went to school to be highly trained. John you can work on my bike any day. Love the fact you go the extra mile.

[@trevormac3831]

Its suppose to say those guys stupid auto correct

[@hooeetube]

@@trevormac3831 I get the same thing in the computer industry. Everybody knows more than I do about computers and how to repair them.

[@codywaller46]

What do dealers mean when they say "basic tool set"? I see it and hear it all the time at school (MMI) but I have no idea what it means haha. I'm new to wrenching but I absolutely love it. I want to work at a Harley dealership but have no idea how to build my box. Love your videos man! I start Harley in a few weeks and I'm super excited! Your videos helped me get some motivation back!

[@tc223]

John... what about some must have hand tools. ie: torx sockets.. long set or short? Allen sockets? Any speciality wrenches, etc that you get alot of use out of? Also if you were planning a road trip.. what are your must haves in your kit to have with you?

[@Otis884]

Always great advice from a non - professional professional.

[@frederickberger2320]

Was a tech for about 2 1/2 years, had the power tools, but some jobs just felt hand tools were better for. I mostly got MATCO tools, the Snap-On rep was a tool bag at my 1st gig, my 2nd shop it was the reverse, started getting back to Snap-On, as the Matco guy was useless. Great vid's bro, makes me want to get back to wrenching.

[@TheHarleyTech]

The tool guy definitely makes a difference in what brand you do with. The Matco guy here is awesome. I do my best to get some stuff from him, but rarely is it Matco branded.

[@hogluvr1]

Snow gone in Northern NJ. Seventies Friday, then back into the freezer. Glad I have a southern escape, just off the GA/TN/NC border.

[@razzrasmussen5773]

I am one of the Northern guys. Just had first ride last night. Big smile on my Road King Special.

[@TheHarleyTech]

jealous of the bike, but not the weather!!!

[@dilo777]

I went with the brushless Milwaukee 12v stuff....works really well so far

[@chrismorris9065]

You really need an industrial grade ultrasonic cleaner! K&L Supply has some really good ones. Great information. Thanks for sharing.

[@angelsuarez17]

Any tool that can save me time and assist in my project, I'm spending the extra money. Thanks for another great video!

[@chopperwizard666]

Super helpful advice!!! Thanks for sharing your insights on the power tools. It's nice to hear it from a highly trained unprofessional. :) I'm sold on SnapOn!

[@mikeparent2813]

Power tools are the bomb, best thing since sliced bread , in the right hands they will save the customer money in labour , great video John , till next time cheers and shit ya we still have snow 😩🇨🇦

[@TheHarleyTech]

Damn that snow. It’s been a long winter!

[@1550tc]

John you should see if you can swap put the head from the 3/8 to 1/4 drive.....on an air 1/4 blue point we swap those out for 3/8 drive and their really compact to get into tight spots

[@jacobcobb4778]

I own the same power tools. The cordless 3/8” drive ratchet and 18v 3/8” drive impact gun are my go to power tools. Keep making great content man!

[@randycox3521]

I'm off work right now I had to replace a battery in my rider and mow my lawn for the first time this year it's time for a nap but I'll be Bach I think I'll show your videos to my brother and nephew

[@TheHarleyTech]

I like when people share! haha

[@chrisburnett1984]

As a mechanic myself, professional or unprofessional, who knows! But as for myself I switched to Milwaukee power tools. Maybe they should hook you up with a trial run tool. Hint! Hint! Milwaukee tools..... or not. I find them myself to perform better and the customer service is amazing compared to snap on, just something I came across in the trenches.But for now, keep up the videos.

[@cush0099]

Milwaukee m18 have a 5 year warranty. Just saying.

[@alexbooth7110]

Informative and entertaining. Well done sir.

[@arthurleino]

I have Milwaukee, Craftsmen, Harbor Freight and whatever. They all are useful on my Shovelhead.

[@blassmich2]

Grabbing custom dynamics led front and rear signals and the equalizer tomorrow so guess I'll see what happens may get day maker instead idk

[@dadtrap]

John good info but personally I keep my power tools for use on my cars only . Everyone has their preferred methods and all of them are right

[@Gipsydanger03]

John I envy your mornings! it's light out when you leave for work stay safe brother!

[@TheHarleyTech]

It’s a plus, for sure!

[@stephenchota6396]

I messed my wrists and hands up so I'm going to get some power tools. Snap On costs an arm and a leg. Same with Matco. If you're a pro doing this every day it's worth the investment, but us weekend guys have to be more economical. I'm going to price out Milwaukee and Ryobi. Keep up the good work with these videos.

[@davidtaylor6613]

Thanks John. Good info and advice.

[@geoffozevans4500]

Do any of your tools get "borrowed", I had to buy a whole heap of imperial bits & bobs when I bought the Fatboy cos everything I had was metric, big work space you have there John 👍😎

[@chuckellis5069]

GREAT video..!! Been waiting on this for a while now and definitely looking forward to more with this content. For 1. It helps us who love to wrench on our own bikes a chance look at what the “Professionals” are using. 2. It helps your average biker help to understand why he pays what he does to have you work on his bike.. For some jobs it’s WAY MORE cost effective to pay the labor rate then have to purchase all tools to then have to do the job yourself especially the one time jobs! 3. Tools and wrenching on your Bike, it just COOL..!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man, glad you enjoyed!

[@davidwhite5529]

Your awsome! I like all your vids. I ride a xl883l. 2015 model. I hope to one day own a bigger a Harley. At least that's what my bike wants when it grows up. Lol

[@joewyman2235]

John maxwell your right about me living through you , here in central New York the winter just won’t give up I look forward to Wednesday and your newest .as always I really enjoy your work thank you and don’t give up if you want a suggestion how about a piece on seats ? I hear the CVO seats are the best

[@spideliciousx9822]

Another nice vid dude 👍 I use some SnapOn with my hand tools, test light etc, but I use Milwaukee power tools. Mostly 12v. Power tools have their place if used correctly. For the finer work, hand tools are the way to go. I mostly use my 1/4 hex impact driver, right angle drill and 3/8 cordless ratchet. On occasion, the 3/8 impact cordless wrench gets some action too. I've found the Milwaukee tools I've purchased quite reliable and easy to use, and importantly..... Reasonably priced. SnapOn is EXPENSIVE over here!

[@RobHarley64]

The BEST motorcycle content out there!

[@adam6661989]

Man, looking forward to that carb video. I just picked up my first bike, a 2005 XL1200C and that was one of my biggest concerns. Mainly just the fact that the bike is stock and I wanted to get an upgraded exhaust and air filter. Heard I would have to re-jet the carb to adjust AFR. Also wanted to say that as someone who just got a Harley, I am loving your videos and probably watched them all over the course of 2 days! Keep em coming!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Congrats on the new bike! I'm also glad your'e enjoying the channel. Not sure when I'll put out the carb video, hopefully soon. I have a ton of footage that I still haven't edited....I really wish I had more time!

[@adam6661989]

John Maxwell thanks man!

[@scottwilloughby3840]

keep up the great work! Didnt get another 48 yet to review? Yeah weather just starting to break in the northeast looking forward to first ride!!! your videos sure did help your northern brothers through the last 4-5 months of winter.Look forward to your videos every week GREAT JOB!!!!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man! No new 48, it’ll be a few months I believe.

[@reubentyson7027]

Thanks John, what’s correct inflation?

[@zulufux5302]

Can't wait to see the carb video... Love watching the videos. Agree with everything you say... Except Craftsman is the sheeet... Soo...

[@jameshiers9679]

Great vid as always. I’d be interested in a tool series of vids.

[@howardwilson3698]

Thanks for the video bought a bunch of craftsman tools but I got a 02 sportster 1200C so I don't get to use them enough to justify the cost change oils &tires in 16 yes guess I should get a REAL !!! bike

[@TheHarleyTech]

Craftsman makes good tools. Rigid sporty is a fun bike!

[@BrianLarson1326]

awesome, thanks for the tool list.

[@johngraves4967]

Tell me about your angle head crimpers... Thanks for sharing your skill with us!

[@exile730]

your video rocks, John Maxwell .... good man!

[@markshuman6261]

i used the power tools aswell. the only draw back is if the bit brakes an you end up buying a primary cvr cause the tool got away from you...lol. but when you need ta make flat rate you need the edge an speed is money bro.

[@bowmag803]

I love my 12 v Milwaukee impact for air handler

[@BlockheadMoto]

You're my favorite tool, King Maxwell. 👑 😜

[@TheHarleyTech]

That’s funny. In the next episode of the tool series, Blockhead meets the Big F*n Hammer, haha

[@BlockheadMoto]

😂

[@TonysGarage]

Dude, just found your channel great great great! Love to wrench I am more a garage wrencher. Just traded my iron which I converted to a hammer 1275 for a 2018 Softail slim. Can’t wait to go to work on it. Again great video!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man! I really like that 18 Slim!

[@TonysGarage]

John Maxwell Thanks, pretty excited about it just wish the weather would corporate.

[@ialokinstein]

I just found your vids.... GREAT stuff, man! Love it! 👍😎

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man!

[@pacman73c1]

Very cool Sir

[@Jnu925]

John, Holy crap! You read my mind. I've been wanting to ask you what tools you recommend. Great video bro.👍

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man!

[@tylerfj24]

yep me too, i knew about the cordless ratchet but not about the other two.. thanks for the heads up

[@jamesthrush1510]

Keep up the good work Mr. Maxwell! Love the videos. Obviously the people complaining about you using your power tools aren’t technicians. If they are then they are idiots.

[@bigj200016]

Harbor freight is my go to for tools, being a DIY dude

[@WWynn-ob1ib]

Could you do a video on what can cause a 2003 Dyna low rider to stumble and cough when you are running in 1st or 2nd gear or when the engine's rpm is around 2000 rpm? Thanks. Really enjoy videos.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Lots of things can cause that. You can message me on FB messenger, if you want some help with the problem. I can usually get back to you within a day or so to try to narrow down the issue.

[@swftsildedly]

Keep up the good advice John, enjoying all your videos.

[@mdoino24]

Awesome video. Love them all man keep up the good work. My question is what is the jack you use on your lift? I have a 2017 LRS and the sears jack doesn't seem to sit properly with this bike. It worked great on my iron. Any tips or ideas on a jack for the LRS?

[@blackfootnativeMT]

Always enjoy your vids John keep up the good work greetings from Montana

[@DG-america]

John: Doc, it hurts when I do this. 👋 Doctor: Dont do that. Lol. Great vids John. Always entertaining. How's about a day off Vlog? Like on a ride, or hanging with the Georgia undesirables that I'm sure you know plenty of, or meeting the rest of the crew at the shop like that cool ass boss that let's you vlog at work?

[@Baloski46]

Great info thanks!

[@claytonlowell9766]

Would you recommend the long neck or normal 14.4 ratchet for someone about to start motorcycle mechanic school? thanks!

[@brianstrelick6098]

Do a tool box tour!! Snap-on is the best 95% of the time!!

[@markj127]

Just found the channel. Greetings from Gainesville.

[@woodrowbutler5152]

John i work with all types of tools daily ive used snap on, makita to craftsman and what not air tools to cordless, if i were you i would check out the new Milwaukee tools price is high but get what you pay for i prefer them to snap on but to each their own keep wrenchin

[@TheHarleyTech]

The snap on vs Milwaukee battle will forever go on! I’m a big fan of supporting small business, too. My snap on rep is just that, a small business. On top of quality tools, I know a guy that feeds his family because of the money I spent.

[@woodrowbutler5152]

Right on man

[@frdmstnggt99]

Top 3 tools: 1. Super Scraper SS-1 2. EasyPuller Locking Pliers with 2lb Slide Hammer attachment 3. Nut-Sert tool (more of a fabrication tool I’ll admit)

[@daflea66]

You may have included a video on this already but I would be curious to know which saddlebag tool kit you would recommend.

[@steventwiddy3402]

Hey john where did you get that really nice tool roll I saw that you got in one of your videos ?

[@guillermozepeda5545]

Can you do a video on how to change gas fuel gage on 2003 dyna. Thanks

[@brian3013]

Thanks John great video.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks for watching!

[@randycox3521]

My brother kind of got knocked down due to Health however I finally brought up your videos and he that said he is interested so here goes

[@bryanhallman8183]

Not to rub it in, but yesterday and today, it was sunny and 100* here in Phoenix. ;-)

[@cmoran80]

John, love all of your videos! I've got an off topic question. I want to lower the rear of my 2017 Street Glide 2", what would you recommend? Thinking about Burly Slammers.

[@cluuck4617]

Snap-on truck stops by our shop weekly. They rebuild and replace on the spot. Maybe request one.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Damn, my guy sends it off.

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Thanks John great video!! Keep them coming!! 🤘🏻

[@johncasor9698]

i retired as a Fleet Machanic from Wonder Bread. used and have many air/battery hand tools. they save your wrist from serious problems / surgery. believe me... very smart using power tools.... Also never trust a battery tool for tightness. i found battery's go low and lose the torque. then you think it is tight, Haha.... you should check important torque with hand tools, 35 years as a machanic talking here. good luck my friend...

[@jeffreybrewer3462]

John, I'm a big fan of your videos and enjoy them weekly. Thanks for another great video. I'm an aircraft mechanic and enjoy working on my Electra Glide. Your videos gave me some great insight on techniques and things to look for on my ride. BTW...what do you use to edit your videos?

[@calebgodwin3224]

Snap-on makes good stuff but as far as power tool I've changed. I have been buying the Milwaukee stuff lately and had incredible luck.

[@kennethwise7108]

Hi John quick question here I have an older Road Glide and I need to tighten the Riser bolts underneath of the top tree. What is the best method to gain access to these?

[@Joecook1234]

Has to be makita or I don’t know if you can get them in the U.S but Hilti is where its at!

[@anthonywarren1845]

Just had my bike stage 2, with Vance and Hines powerduals, eliminates 400s, SE high flow intake, and torque cam. What's your opinion, have you ever did this combo.

[@anthonywarren1845]

And it's a m8

[@philedwards1460]

hey John,love your channel. I have a possible topic. Cams. I know there is a lot of videos on cams, but you seem to be alright.lol. being a harley tech do you only use S&S. I have a 2009 ultra and truly cannot decide what to get. I know I want torque in the lower RPM's. Like from 1500 to 4000 is my main riding style. Just a thought. keep the shiny side up. RSMF

[@wieserxx]

Good job!

[@kennethwise7108]

Nevermind, i found that if you simply turn the bars hard over you can get access to the bolt with a 3/4" socket. I re-torqued it to 40'/lbs. I didnt use locktite but cuz it looks like a PITA to remove and reinstall.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Good deal. Sorry I never responded. Busy busy!

[@kennethwise7108]

I totally understand, its that time of the year

[@freakfiveoh]

I know you said you got your tools while in school, but do you have any suggestions for people looking for deals but aren't eligible for a student discount?