Tool Venders

ddj232 · #1 06-22-2018, 05:41 PM

Tooling up for my RV-8 build. Looking at Cleveland, Browns and Isham (PlaneTools) for their RV Tool Kits. Leaning towards PlaneTools for the DRDT-2 and pneumatic squeezer with their package. I just discovered however that ATS (Aircraft Tool Supply) also offers an RV tool kit as well. Comparing the four I've listed against Van's current recommended tool list, ATS actually has the most complete listing. Curious on any feedback on ATS or recommendations on RV tool kits. Looking through the forum I do not see any current threads about tool kits or tool companies.
Any info is greatly appreciated,

Don J

Steve Barnes · #2 06-22-2018, 05:55 PM

If you are on a budget then just put a list on VAF of what you need, especially the big items. Quite often I see DRDT-2's on here at a bargan price.

Steve

Greenley · #3 06-22-2018, 06:07 PM

If you are going to Oshkosh I will probably be taking my DRDT for sale.

Gary7A · #4 06-22-2018, 10:47 PM

In my experience, PlaneTools' customer service is outstanding.

Gary Kohler

ddj232 · #5 06-24-2018, 12:18 AM

Thanks for the feedback Gary. I'm down to Cleveland or PlaneTools on my RV tool kit.

AusFlyingBear · #6 06-24-2018, 12:39 AM

I recommend Cleaveland.

I spoke with them at Oshkosh before I started my project. They were very friendly and very helpful. Always helpful since via phone or email.

I'm in Australia and they sent it all here with no hassles. Even got the DRDT-2 from them.

cderk · #7 07-05-2018, 03:52 PM

I recommend Cleaveland Tool as well. Service is top notch. I bought my "kit" from them, spoke to Mike, figured out which tools people like to upgrade and followed his advice. I've had a few things break, which were quickly replaced at no charge. My pneumatic squeezer crapped out and Mike arranged for me to send it back to the manufacturer, who took care of me and sent along some replacement parts in case the seals wore out again.

David Paule · #8 07-05-2018, 04:01 PM

They mostly all give decent service.

Add The Yard Store to your list. They have a wide selection of tools and great prices.

Dave

penguin · #9 07-05-2018, 04:16 PM

If you go with the cheapest quote you will get cheap tools and buy most of them again before your project is complete.

A few items are only need a couple of times, then go cheap, in most cases the answer is Cleaveland.

RV6_flyer · #10 07-05-2018, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by penguin

If you go with the cheapest quote you will get cheap tools and buy most of them again before your project is complete.

A few items are only need a couple of times, then go cheap, in most cases the answer is Cleaveland.

Don J:

I send you a direct email saying the same thing that is written above. Did not want to flame any vendor in public so see the direct email.

I have not been able to find tools that IMHO are better than tools sold by Cleaveland.