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As a mechanic, you rely on durable, high-quality tools. Even if you only work on your vehicles, you need the right equipment to get the job done efficiently and safely. A well-equipped mechanic's tool set is a smart move and a great place to start. Use this guide to learn more about must-have automotive tools for mechanics. Then equip your workstation with quality items from the best mechanic tool brands.
While there are various tools available to mechanics, some are essential. Every automotive tool kit should have at least one reliable set of sockets and drive tools. Sockets come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. They are used for different types of bolts and nuts that need to be loosened or tightened. Driving tools are used to install and remove screws, nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. Use the right size and shape of quality tools for professional automotive repairs. Consider purchasing bench cabinets to properly store and organize your tools.
Socket sets usually include a ratchet handle and several attachments. Common socket styles include extenders, universal joints, and adapters. Sockets help to quickly loosen and tighten bolts, nuts, screws, and other fasteners. Sockets come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to make sure you choose the right one for your particular job.
The most common sizes are metric and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers). Choose a ratchet with an adjustable speed so you can work efficiently. Choose a sleeve set made from a material that can handle tough jobs, such as stainless steel or chrome vanadium.
The pneumatic ratchet is powered by compressed air or electricity. It has a powerful torque to turn bolts and nuts efficiently. Jobs that would take a while to complete with hand tools can now be done quickly. It is also great for loosening tight or stuck bolts and stubborn fasteners. Air ratchets are a good alternative to regular impact wrenches. They are more accurate, more comfortable to hold, and easier to use in tight spaces.
Torque wrenches tighten to the correct torque. Using a torque wrench prevents fasteners from being overtightened or over-tightened. For example, if the bolt you are working on is over-tightened, the part may come off.
When a bolt or nut is overtightened, the part may be damaged or wear out more quickly. This can lead to very dangerous situations, especially while driving. Torque wrenches come in a variety of sizes and types with different ranges.
The greater the accuracy and size range, the higher the upfront investment. Durability and a comfortable grip are important when choosing a torque wrench.
Impact wrenches provide a powerful burst of force and high torque. This is the most common way to tighten and loosen strong bolts, nuts, and fasteners while working on vehicles. If you choose an electric model, select the cordless option for better maneuverability. You can get impact wrenches that are powered by compressed air or electricity. Impact wrenches come in different sizes, torques, and speeds. Medium torque with speeds between 2000-3000 RPM is suitable for most jobs.
A good set of screwdrivers is essential for many different automotive repair jobs. These driving tools can do everything from tightening screws to prying parts apart. Choose a set of quality screwdrivers, preferably made of hardened steel. Hardened steel is durable even in extreme temperatures.
Screwdrivers come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. Each type of screwdriver is designed for a different purpose. For example, screwdrivers with thin shanks and thin handles are perfect for tight spaces.
A flathead screwdriver has a blade that is usually pointed. It is used for general tightening and loosening of screws.
Phillips screwdrivers have two right-angled blades and are used for screwing screws of the same shape.
A one-piece screwdriver has a single straight blade and is used for loosening and tightening slotted head screws.
Torx screwdrivers have six tips instead of four like Phillips slotted screwdrivers for Torx screws.
Hexagonal screwdrivers have a hexagonal slot in the center for screws with the same head shape. Hexagon screwdrivers are available in metric and inch sizes.
Pliers are versatile tools that can be used for clamping, squeezing, cutting, and bending. When buying pliers, consider their size and weight. The best mechanic's tool should be durable enough to be used regularly and rust-proof. Having the right pliers can make car repairs and modifications easier. Here are the most common pliers found in toolboxes:
Wire service pliers have cutting and gripping edges for cutting wires or holding parts.
Vise pliers are used for clamping or gripping and are adjustable locking pliers.
Long-jaw pliers are for tight spaces and tiny parts.
Carp pliers are adjustable to different sizes.
Repairing any vehicle requires a lot of light. Work lights are one of the best mechanic's tools. They can be positioned to illuminate all parts of the vehicle for you to work on. Work lights can be battery-powered and rechargeable, or they can be plugged in. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some types of work lights have flexible necks so you can direct the light right where you need it. Other lights like flashlights can be used to illuminate large areas, such as underneath a car.
Using clean parts when servicing your vehicle can be of great benefit. Auto parts washers are specialized tools for removing dirt, grime, and grease. They are available in heavy-duty freestanding and benchtop options for smaller jobs. Most parts washers use a combination of water and detergent to clean automotive parts. More advanced parts washer models can also include degreasers or solvents for grease and grime. With some washers, you can even remove harmful substances from parts before they are installed.
Air in the brake lines can cause problems. A brake bleed kit expels air when performing brake repairs. Use basic brake vent kits, vacuum pump kits and a range of specialty supplies for quick repairs and commercial garage tasks.
A funnel is a must-have item for any garage. Ideally available in a variety of sizes, from small to extra large. In addition to basic funnel options, manual and electric pumps can be added for easy access to hard-to-reach places.
Oil drip pans are a common tool for mechanics.
They can catch old motor oil during oil changes. They can also be used to catch other types of oil that may leak out of a car during basic maintenance or repairs. Keep oil drip pans of various sizes on hand.
A jack is one of the best mechanical tools designed to make lifting heavy vehicles easier. Each jack has a weight rating. This rating shows how much weight the jack can safely lift. If you are lifting many different vehicles, choose a heavy duty jack. For a home garage, choose a lightweight jack. Hydraulic and low-profile styles also make it easy to find the right jack model for your garage.
A set of jack stands can also secure your vehicle in place for work. Like floor jacks, jack stands can support the appropriate weight for your vehicle. There is a wide range of jack stands available, from 1500 lb. high level models to 22 ton pin models that can support larger weights.
Wheeled carts can help you properly position your vehicle without starting it. By weight, you'll need wheeled carts specifically designed to support the vehicle you're servicing. Shop for single-wheeled carts, two-wheeled carts and four-wheeled carts.
Mechanical crawlers allow you to easily lie down and roll up underneath your vehicle. Mechanical crawlers prevent you from lying on hard floors. This prevents you from injuring your back, neck, and shoulders during long work periods.
With an OBD2 scanner, you can read vehicle error codes to guide your automotive repairs. These are computer-based diagnostic tools that every mechanic needs, even if you're just making minor repairs to your car or truck.
Engine valves, engine valve seats, and piston rings can tell you a lot about engine wear. Using a compression tester, you can check to make sure that each cylinder is working as expected. Typically, you want a compression reading of 100 PSI or higher for each cylinder, with less than a 10 percent difference between readings.
TIP: Check your compression tester manual for more information on how to take readings and what they mean.
A quality set of mechanical tools will make servicing any vehicle easier and more efficient. Basic tools for automotive repair include sockets, impact drivers, screwdrivers, pliers, jacks, and torque wrenches. Choose durable materials, such as stainless steel. Choose handles that are as comfortable as possible. Invest in the sizes and styles of tools you need, and you'll be prepared for most repairs. Ready to get the best mechanical tools? Use the Home Depot mobile app to find products and check inventory. We'll take you to the exact aisle and shelf.
Author: Leb
Personal blog: https://lebshare.blogspot.com
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