What tools do people use?
Right now, we have snips, a dremel, a drill, and screwdrivers, but I was wondering if any other tools are helpful.
Also, our screwdrivers are wearing out and we would like to refurbish the tips without replacing them. We use the VEX ones, and we already flipped them so we have used both sides. Is it possible to cut them to get more out of them?
Yes. We cut ours down when they’re worn. After cutting it you may need to file the end down a small amount as sometimes it won’t fit in the hole. And I’d suggest needle nose pliers. And possibly a hammer for bending.
I’m just getting started - new program, I’m new to the school (a middle school), and I have received 4 out of 10 kits along with a competition playfield.
What specific sizes of allen wrenches and combo wrenches/nut drivers (for nuts) do I need?
For hex wrenches, I think I need:
5/64" (gold motor screws)
3/32" (regular black screws)
1/8" (playfield screws)
For combo wrenches, I think I need:
7/16" (large playfield screws)
3/8" (smaller playfield screws)
?/?" (regular black screws - what size is this…not one I have in my modest collection of SAE wrenches)
Also, as I’ll be buying a number of these, is there a go-to source for inexpensive T-handle hex wrenches, combo wrenches, and nut drivers in the sizes needed for VEX?
rather than going for bulk inexpensive, get a few expensive. Get a non-ball 3/32 allen, a ball 5/64 allen, and a good 11/32 nut driver.
Use the brands Hudy and RD-logics for the allens, and Losi for the nut driver. You can find these on ebay.
Also, McMaster probably has some good allens, as others have pointed out.
Wiha Tools allen wrenches are the best I’ve ever used. My oldest are six or seven years old and still going strong. They are especially good for motor screws. They cost a lot more than most brands, but they are terrific.
Search the forum for old tool recommendation threads. There are a lot of them.