Wilsons Sandbox

There have been some great alternatives to buying an expensive fork oil measurement/adjustment tool being shared! Turkey baster set>. Great for sucking out brake fluid from a reservoir, or making a fork oil tool using a zip-tie like Dooden says to mark the level. The set usually comes with a larger baster and a little one + a "parts cleaning brush" and some metal spikes for lacing up a bird. Those are good for all sorts of picking and cleaning duties. When it comes to wrenches and screwdrivers, I stick with name brand stuff {Craftsman and rearly Snap-on/Matco} But, for other stuff, I get "inspired" by walking through a $1 store. Things I've found there that are moto-applicable: Aquarium air line> Great for brake fluid changes! Drop one end of a 18-20 inch piece through a hole made in an empty 16.5oz water bottle top, put a oz. or two of fluid in the bottle for starters and yo've got a cheap bleeder. Done? Take the hose out of the cap, rinse it with brake cleaner for next time. Remove the bottle cap, put a piece of plastic bag over the top of the bottle and replace the cap. Now it's ready for the trash. Bonus: If you've got another bike with two carbs, search online how to make a synchronizer with aquarium line, a wooden yard stick, some szip ties and a bit of hydraulic oil. MacGyver time! Metal cookie sheets> (often 2 for $1). Place one under an engine when working with fluids as a catch all. Ditto a small bread loaf pan. Stick a small ceramic magnet from a craft store inside either and they make good parts wranglers,too. Umbrellas: Umbrellas, you say? I bought a couple that collapse down to about 8 inches and stuck on in my tank bag, tail bag, etc... for whenever. Roadside sun shade or shelter while making a repair in the rain! If the things tear up, remember the were only $1. =) After 4 days of 5 in the rain at Daytona Bike Week one year, I was glad I packed a couple. So was my riding buddy that borrowed one! Chemical lights sticks> A crap shoot buying discount. So, get a few multi-packs since you occasionally get some "duds". Buy right before a trip/campout as they don't have a really long shelf life. If you find the necklace kind, you can make an after hours "Frisbee" to toss around camp! **** Grab a $5 bill and go hunting at your local store. There's no telling what you'll find! =) eddie [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]