I have a sealed taper bottom bracket that needs to be replaced. Additionally, per some advice here I would like to upgrade my crank set to a crank set that has a 46t top gear instead of the current 42t.

Finally, what specialized tools do I need (and which tools do you recommend) for me to complete this work?

The bicycle is a Scott reflex mountain bike.

Socket for crank arm bolts, crank arm removal tool, 22 spline shimano BB socket to remove BB, done. I've looked, seems cheaper to buy a new crank with the chainrings then to buy new chainrings.

Can you recommend a specific crankset and bottom bracket?

In the immortal words of Jeff Spicoli - My dad is a tv repair man, he's got this ultimate set of tools, i can fix it

So all i need is the 22 spline shimano BB socket and a crank arm removal tool. I can handle that.

I am specifically looking for something with a 46 or 48t big chain ring. My current setup is a 42t setup and using the factory knobby tires I am riding my 5-6 mile rides in 6th on the cassette and the 42t gear on the front leaving only 2 gears for downhill stuff. I am switching to a smooth running higher pressure tire and afraid I will spin out my current 42t setup.

bike island and cross lake sales have cheap stuff from time to time, bike island has crazy expensive stuff too.

Don't forget a chain tool as you'll probably need to install a longer chain.

Looking at bike island it appears they have alot to choose from in the under $50 price range (which is my ideal price point)

this model looks very promising
https://bikeisland.com/cgi-bin/BKTK_S...ls&ProdID=1398

It has the 48t large gear and a square taper bottom bracket, but it says it is compatable with a 9 speed, but I only have an 8 speed, will it work?