Figure 1. Basic toolkit for simple maintenance tasks on lawn and garden equipment.

Figure 2. Additional tools, inch and metric, for more complicated tasks on small equipment.

Figure 3. Additional advanced tools to allow work on larger equipment such as compact tractors and commercial riding mowers.

If you own lawn and garden equipment, you will probably need a few tools for maintenance unless you plan to return the equipment to the dealer every time something is needed. A few basic tools will allow you to do many jobs. If want to do more of your own maintenance, more tools will be required.

Basic Toolkit
Wrenches are basic to any toolkit for use on equipment (see the related article on wrenches). The very minimum would be an adjustable wrench 10 inches in length. You will need spark plug sockets. If you don’t want to invest in a full socket set, you can buy inexpensive individual spark plug sockets that can be turned with a wrench or a cross rod. You will also need a couple sizes each of slotted and Phillips screwdrivers and a pair of pliers. Your toolkit should include safety goggles.

Intermediate Toolkit
A set of combination wrenches spanning 3/8 to ¾ inch would be a good addition, and you may need a metric set spanning 10 to 19 mm. You should also consider adding a small set of 3/8 inch drive sockets in inch and perhaps metric sizes along with a ratchet handle and one or two extensions. Sets of hex drive (“Allen”) wrenches and Torx wrenches are handy. A ball pein hammer, a file or two and a couple of punches are helpful additions. Your toolkit should include an electric-wire cutter and connector crimper.

Advanced Toolkit
Although the term “advanced” is used here, this would be only a beginning toolkit for a professional mechanic or even a serious weekend handyman. It does, however, contain most of the tools needed for occasional work on lawn and garden equipment. A ¼-inch drive socket set will come in very handy when working on small, handheld equipment. If you have a larger garden tractor, professional riding mower or compact tractor, you will need a ½-inch socket set, probably in both metric and inch, containing deep sockets. You will also need to expand the range of your combination wrenches up to at least 1-1/8 inch (30 mm) and add a larger adjustable wrench (12- or 15-inch). You will want a few more screwdrivers and pliers, including locking pliers and adjustable pliers. A set of nut drivers is very handy. You might want to consider a set of either open-end or box-end wrenches to allow you to hold a bolt while turning a nut. A torque wrench is also helpful for installing spark plugs, tightening wheel lug nuts, etc.

As you begin using your tools you will undoubtedly discover the need for other specific tools and specialized tools to accommodate the tasks you need to do on your equipment. Remember to take good care of your tools. Wipe them down after use; store them in a clean, dry toolbox; and use them as they were intended to be used. Wear safety glasses or goggles when using tools. A good set of tools will give a lifetime of service if properly cared for.