Headed over to the tool store tomorrow to buy some tools. Which Torx should I be getting? Someone said #27 but what others?

 

25, 27, and 40 are common -

Buy GOOD ones, cheapos will break or strip the screws.

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If you are going to the tool store, get an impact screwdriver while you are there.

It has come in handy for me for years.

What's that you ask ? It's a screwdriver you hit with a hammer- The bit end is impact activated and when you strike the aft end with a hammer it twists the bit at the moment of impact.
It doesn't twist it much, and you don't have to swing like Mike Tyson to get it to work, but it is great for breaking stubborn screws loose... Think fork drain, derby cover, primary cover, etc, etc.

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There are some nice ones called Hex-Pro and Star-Pro do a google search and you can see what they are like.

 

Don't get any. Replace all the Torx fasteners with Stainless socket head fasteners. Go to your local fastenal store. I think even Lowes carries Stainless fasteners. While your at Lowes, buy a polishing wheel for your bench grinder, and a tube of fine compound and polish them. Looks way better than chrome, and will never rust in the center like chrome fasteners.

 

Be careful with stainless...it is brittle and not useful in any stress points.....as I learned form this forum some of the bikes use Torx Plus which costs way more than a standard set....the test? torx will fit torx plus head but will be loose.....torx plus will not go into standard torx.....

 

I have not had any issues with the tORX good bits is the key...

 

So if you don't get any, how can you take out the old torx fasteners to replace them?

 

They're fine for bikes. I'm running all Stainless on both my bikes, 08 FXSTC, and 06 XL1200C, everywhere but axles, swingarms, and rocker box covers. Torque ranging from 6 in.lb. to 45 ft.lb. with no issues. The purpose for tossing all my Torx fasteners was to simplify what tools you need to carry when you hit the road. Now all I need is a single Allen pack.

 

You definatly need a hand impact tool and a name brand set of torx including #27 which can be harder to find. then you should have no issues