Back in 1984, when I had my first Cougar (70 hardtop), you could walk over to Western Auto and get the diagnostic tools you needed for tuning and repair. Feeler gauges, plug gappers, timing lights…easy to get. Ears were well tuned to rpm, misses, etc.
40 years (or so) later…I am rebuilding my tool chest with the right gear needed to maintain my 70 Cougar (convertible…perfect for Colorado). But I am not finding a good resource for the tools I think I will need. The latest is good tachometer tool (base Cougar…not included until I redo the instrument cluster).
What are the suggested tools, mostly for diagnosis and tuning, that I should acquire? Recommendations on specific tools is greatly appreciated.
Timing light. Preferably adjustable. Vacuum gauge. Tach with dwell function if you have points. Auto range digital multi meter. Capacitor test function if you have points. An old analog meter can also be useful. A probe style test light. Compression tester.
I’ll probably think of a couple more.
Do you have specific tool (as in brand) recommendations?
The problem with “the net and google” is that the noise to signal ratio is poor. It is hard to tell what reviews are legit and which ones are bought or from someone upset for other reasons.
This is always good to have on hand
This will work for you!
I agree with the previous list of tools from xr7g428. I have an Innova timing light and it does a very good job. I also suggest an offset wrench for the distributor hold down bolt. Makes it easy to adjust timing. Another useful tool is a dc amp meter. Good for checking the alternator output. The Harbor Freight version looks OK. Contactless temperature gauge is good to check the temperature of the radiator and thermostat housing. AC pressure gauges are also useful if you have AC. (Spend the money for good gauges. Most of the cheap ones are junk).