Multimeters

[Ray Iyo]

I am trying to troubleshoot a battery drain on a 2003 Windstar using a basic Craftsman multimeter. What multimeters would you recommend for automotive use? I know Fluke is the best, but are there others that can do the job at a cheaper price?

Topic

[twiggy]

The flukes do last forever it seems and they arent terribly pricey. Does your craftsman have a current measure function?

[Ray Iyo]

Yes, it does.

[twiggy]

I think you should use your craftsman you already have. For what you want to do, it doesn’t have to be super precise. Because any bargain meter you buy, I doubt will be much better than the fluke or equiv quality brand. The quality of the bargain brands are pretty bad IMO. However, I did see some fluke meters selling for under $100. Just make sure it can measure current before you buy.

[John]

My Craftsman Professional meter I used to use was pretty good, just didn’t have a min/max or record function. But it would do current draw. It was water/dirt proof and I picked it up for $85 at Sears a few years back

[Tom Sharples]

FLUKE 78 automotive meter. Bought it when I started out, great meter accurate and reliable. Not expensive after 11 years as a tech. Payed for itself a long time ago.
Approx $250 11 years ago. Still available.

[dreamer2355]

If your buying a DVOM, try to make sure it has at least a 10 or 15amp protection circuit.

[SpawnedX]

Fluke. But it once. Buy it for life.

[Ray Iyo]

Thanks for the advice Guys.

[Author]

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