Anyway, I thought it would be good to do an overview and comparison post as I am now in possession of both an original kit and the re-manufactured version.
The original kit includes the following (as confirmed by the official owners manual):
- Tool roll
- Hub cap removal tool
- Combination pliers
- Screwdriver 0.8
- Screwdriver 0.5
- Open end wrench 8/13mm (Hazet)
- Socket wrench (for spark plug, fan pulley nut and wheel bolt)
- Socket wrench 14mm
- Bar (for socket wrench and jack)
The WW remanufactured item is largely the same with small variations. These deviations could be a way of making the kit appropriate for a wider range of cars years. Anyway, you would have to be a really anal person to let that put you off as the kit is pretty sweet for the price point. Here be a few shots giving some side by side comparisons:
All original items shown on top and repro versions underneath:
In summary, there are no prizes for guessing which one I will be keeping. Although, I do have to say that WW have certainly produced a great item here and my only minor criticism is that the finish on a some of the tools could be better. However, I guess any small quality refinements would inevitably push up the manufacturing cost and subsequently the retail price. On balance it seems WW have struck a perfect balance between affordability and a product that closely resembles the original.
Ohh, last thing. I do get a geeky tingle from the fact that my combination pliers say this on the side:
