“Beautiful car. Where are you from?” asked the gas station attendant as I stepped out of my vintage Porsche. Oregon’s full-service gas stations always lead to interesting conversations when you drive a classic car. “LA,” I replied. “That’s a long way in an old car! Aren’t you worried about breaking down?” “Not really,” I answered, feeling confident, though aware of the miles ahead.
The truth is, I had put considerable thought into potential issues on this trip. I wasn’t relying on luck; I had prepared a well-equipped Car Travel Tool Kit, along with a few essential spare parts. Having a long-term relationship with this car, and like many vintage car owners, being accustomed to DIY maintenance, gave me a good sense of what could cause trouble.
Sure, a pristine set of factory tools in a reproduction pouch looks fantastic at car shows and meetups. These kits are great for show, but owning a classic car is about driving it, experiencing the open road, not just admiring it parked.
You likely don’t use your classic car for daily commutes or errands. Instead, you take it to club events a few hundred miles away, seek out winding roads for enjoyable drives, or perhaps, embark on a memorable journey like driving up Highway 1 from Los Angeles to Portland. There’s a unique joy in long trips in a vintage car. The journey becomes more engaging and sensory compared to modern cars where we are often isolated from the driving experience with all the modern comforts and distractions.
So, leave that factory tool kit in the garage. Let’s focus on assembling a practical car travel tool kit that’s genuinely useful for roadside situations, without adding excessive weight or taking up valuable trunk space.
First, consider the nature of your trip. Is it a short weekend getaway within a few hours of home, or a more ambitious multi-day, multi-state adventure? The length and remoteness of your journey should influence the contents of your car travel tool kit.
Essential Tools for Your Car Travel Tool Kit
Screwdrivers: Obvious, but essential. A couple of sturdy flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers are perfect for tightening loose hose clamps or adjusting minor fittings. A small multi-bit screwdriver set is also handy for finer tasks, even fixing your sunglasses.
1/4-inch Drive Sockets: While seemingly small, a ¼” drive socket set with extensions is incredibly versatile for many common car issues, like battery terminals and small fasteners. They are compact and lightweight. Include various extension lengths, a flexible extension for hard-to-reach spots, and a screwdriver-style handle for better leverage. Consider adding ¼” drive bits like Torx for specific applications on your car.
3/8-inch Drive Sockets: Complementing the 1/4″ set, a 3/8” drive ratchet and sockets are needed for larger tasks. Be selective and focus on sizes specific to your car. Always include a spark plug socket and a deep socket for lug nuts. A 3/8” to ¼” adapter expands the versatility of your socket collection. Check accessibility to your spark plugs; if a universal joint is needed for removal, include one in your car travel tool kit.
Allen Wrenches: A folding set of Allen wrenches is compact and covers most common sizes for adjusting various components on classic cars.
Ignition Wire Pliers: These specialized pliers are designed to safely remove spark plug wires by gripping the boot, preventing damage to the wire itself. Avoid pulling directly on the wire to prevent separation from the connector.
Breaker Bar: A 24-inch breaker bar significantly eases loosening stubborn lug nuts when changing a tire. Paired with the correct socket for your lug nuts, it’s a must-have for roadside tire changes.
Tire Gauge and Inflation: Another essential for tire maintenance. A reliable tire pressure gauge ensures correct inflation. Consider a can of tire sealant like Fix-a-Flat for emergency repairs and a small 12V air compressor for inflating tires on the go.
Water Pump Pliers: Versatile for gripping and turning, 10-inch water pump pliers, especially Knipex brand, are excellent for hose clamps, and even for unexpected tasks like adjusting shower heads in hotels!
Needle Nose Pliers: Ideal for intricate tasks and reaching into tight spaces. Electrician-style needle nose pliers with a crimping function add extra utility for basic wiring repairs. A multi-tool like a Leatherman can also cover this and other needs, saving space in your car travel tool kit.
Pliers and Vice Grips: A set of locking pliers (Vice Grips) is invaluable for clamping, holding, or even temporarily repairing parts. Include both standard pliers and Vice Grips for maximum versatility in your car travel tool kit.
Wrenches: Select a few combination open-end/box-end wrenches in sizes specific to your car. For example, German cars often use odd-sized metric wrenches and 10mm. Japanese cars frequently use 12mm. You don’t need a full set; just the sizes that fit critical fasteners on your vehicle. Organize wrenches neatly using a bolt, washers, and a wing nut to keep them together and easily accessible in your car travel tool kit.
Wiring and Electrical Tools: Always carry diagonal cutters and a crimper/stripper for basic wiring repairs. Include assorted crimp connectors, and a roll of quality electrical tape. An inexpensive test light with a probe and alligator clip is incredibly useful for diagnosing electrical issues and tracing circuits.
Utility Knife: A folding utility knife is surprisingly versatile. Use it for trimming fuel lines, opening packaging, or even cutting a plastic bottle to create a makeshift funnel for adding fluids.
Jumper Cables: Even with a new battery, jumper cables are essential. They allow you to jump-start your car or assist others, potentially making new friends along the way!
Gloves: Pack mechanic’s gloves and heavier leather work gloves to protect your hands. Nitrile gloves are also useful for cleaner tasks and fluid handling.
Tool Bag: Choose a compact and durable tool bag to keep your car travel tool kit organized and easily portable. Consider surplus military bags or even repurposed luggage for a unique touch. The goal is functionality and compactness.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, it provides a solid foundation for your car travel tool kit. Always consider any specialized tools specific to your classic car and tailor your kit accordingly. Preparing a comprehensive car travel tool kit ensures you’re ready to handle minor roadside repairs and enjoy your classic car journeys with greater confidence.
