So you want/are going to be a mechanic/technician

[James O’Hara]

This is advice and should be taken as such I do not accept any liability expressed or implied. I have to write that sentence or people would try to sue me for not using common sense, things out of my control, etc. I am writing it as the same questions seem to be getting asked by the new techs and the DIY guys that want to become technicians. I will try to cover most of the questions and I am taking my time with this to try and make it to the point and not take a lot of time. Here is a playlist of videos that I suggest you watch if you are a serious DIY or want/are going to get into the mechanics/technicians field. There is more stuff that pertains to technicians/mechanics so DIY only guys may need to look through the list. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-gZT3I9va10kKHyZRdAE-1WnVoGI2QTW

Your Pay

If you are Flat Rate or Hourly your pay will be based off your speed/quality of work. When you are flat rate it is just a lot more apparent. When you are hourly there is normally an incentive to be above a certain percentage with bonus’ once someone exceeds a percentage of 100-110% to 115% and sometimes there are different tiers after this. So if you exceed 115% you would get a bigger bonus. When you are new in a flat rate shop you want to ask about getting paid hourly till you get the hang of things. For new technicians with under a year of experience this is how they run it. Some times it is only for 3-6 months other times its till you can get your efficiency over a certain percentage. They also normally have a minimum in flat rate so basically if you have a horrible week you still get paid for at least 30-36hrs. Efficiency is simply the % of time it took you vs the Standard Repair Time also known as book time. So if you did a job in 4 hrs and it pays 2 you would have 50% efficiency. All your jobs are normally averaged for the day then again at the end of the week. The quality of work also plays a factor shoddy work means they can’t rely on you which often means you get paid less and if you keep it up they kick you to the curb. Sometimes if you are having issues they will partner you up to learn from someone else before that happens though. When you are new they anticipate you not being perfect and also being slow.

Work Ethics

You are going to be ridden regardless. Be aware this is all part of being in a shop it is like a fraternity. If you go complain to the boss its only going to get worse and/or get you fired though they would find a legitimate excuse ie he was late to work once. When you mess something up especially when you are new own up to it. Tell your boss and tell him what you did wrong. If you don’t know what you did wrong ask him to show you or have someone else show you so you don’t do it again. If you don’t know what you did wrong write it down when it is explained to you and review it. This goes a long way in building trust. If you are scared of your boss finding out think about what would happen if you don’t tell him and he finds out later. It is much better to deal with it while the vehicle is still there then not.

Tools and what your Employer Expects

You are new they are not expecting you to roll in there with a 15k toolbox and 30k of tools inside. They some times do not even expect you to have tools. It is a question that is normally asked in an interview and be honest about it. If it is not asked then you may want to address it because if they expect you to have tools and you have none you are going to be sol. When someone is new and say they have tools they normally expect a starter set from sears. A diagonal side cutter. A screwdriver set. Maybe a half inch impact and maybe sockets for the impact.

Buying Tools

When buying Hand Tools buy the best you can afford but, also realize that just because it says Craftsman, Snap-On, Mac, Cornwell, or Matco does not mean it is the best. I am not saying you have to own Snap-On right off the bat or to sink 30k into tools. If you plan on doing this as your career buy tools meant to last your career. Realize right now that every tool can and will break eventually. I don’t care if it was forged on Mt. Olympus or in the fire of Hades by Hephaestus himself its going to break. Not every tool has to be the best of the best to work day in and day out. Things like brake pad quick depth gauges and tire tread depth gauges do not need to be the best of the best. Anything that is easily lost should not be expensive. I constantly loose magnets, inspection mirrors, and flashlights. When you are moving quickly it happens or when you drop them sometimes they land where you can not retrieve them.

Tool Trucks

You need to realize you are going to be paying the tool trucks a portion of your paycheck every week for more then likely the rest of your career normally 10% of what you owe. Find out which one of them is the least like a con man and use him primarily. Things you use every day need to be very good quality ie your wrenches, sockets, ratchets, and pry bars. Things like inspection mirrors and pocket magnets buy cheap because you will loose them. Just because it has tool truck name on it does not mean they made it regardless of what the truck guy says and btw not everything snap-on is made in the usa. Simple example is Snap-On taps and dies are Irwin. Matco Air guns are Ingersol Rand. Craftsman professional driving head prybars are made by Mayhew. Mac snap ring pliers are Wilde. Cornwell Impact guns are Ingersol Rand as well. Regardless of what the Snap-On man says not everything is a lifetime warranty and not everything Snap-On is USA made. You must remember that tool truck guys are salesman plain and simple. They make more money by selling their companies product over anyone else’s brand. They also make a premium on tool boxes. Normally the tool truck guys will also warranty those respective brands because they make it for that company but, do not rely on this ask first. These were the brands at the time of me writing this and are subject to change.

My Advice on Tools

Buy the tool to fit your needs and probable future uses. If it is not a tool that requires precision then it does not require that expensive brand name. Tools that you loose all the time buy the cheapest version that works. Tools that break all the time require a good brand and one that is easily replaced. Tools that you use all the time and break all the time regardless of quality keep 2 of and also assess if a better tool is available. When it comes to tools that need to just work look into industrial brands as well as the tool truck brands. Also check out reviews online, advice from forums, and what mechanics have/use in your shop to do the job.

A simple example of these rules is a magnetic tray from Harbor Freight does the same thing as one from Snap-On and the only difference is about $15 dollars and that is just because the one says Snap-On, it is slightly better quality, and has a warranty. They are also easily lost or run over and $2-4 dollars is a lot cheaper then $15 and a warranty won’t help you if you loose it. This also goes for magnetic pick up tools while having a good/decent brand like Craftsman is good for stronger versions the one you keep in your pocket should be a cheap one such as pepboys or once again Harbor Freight. An example of tools that break all the time are wobble extensions and turbo sockets. These are things that are needed a lot of the time and having a backup of your most used one is recommended to get you till when the tool truck shows up next and can warranty it out.

Jawed turning tools should be used as you would grab something with your hand. What I mean by this is the longer/stronger section should be as your pointer finger would be grabing a pipe and wrapping you one hand around it and trying to rotate it. So rightse tightse – leftse loosie. So when you use the adjustable, pipe wrench, open end of a wrench, monkey wrench, etc the stronger part is applying the force and the weaker part is just keeping you from over rotating. This will keep you from breaking wrenches that adjust to the nut size in whatever fashion as easily and keep you from spreading open end wrenches as easily.

Hammers in my opinion should be hickory handles and make sure the grain is running front to back. The fiberglass handles do not hold up over time and splinter and can be fun to try and change spewing glass fibers everywhere which requires glasses and a face mask, and gloves. Steel handles normally come down to a point even if it’s a smooth point if you miss, which happens everyone makes mistakes, your finger and/or anything else will not appreciate you hitting it. If you feel you will break the wood handle you can measure the circumference of the handle and buy conduit/thin pipe with the same inside circumference. Bend it using a vice or hammer to shape of the handle and heat it with a torch and drive it down till it hits the head using a punch, if necessary, alternating sides with each hit. If replacing a wood handle it is easier to put the conduit/pipe guard on first though you will need to dry fit the head of the tool and mark the bottom so as to install in proper location without obstructing the proper wedging of the handle into the hammer head.

Air tools should be oiled with good quality air tool oil once before use for the day. If using the entire day oil a second time at lunch. Normally 3-4 drops is sufficient though 1/2in air line tools require more 5-6 drops. Also if your air tools take grease you should grease them once every month to two months with Air Tool Grease. This is cheap insurance to keep your air tools running properly. Some people use power steering fluid it works though I use Lucas Air Tool Oil. At the beginning of the day or if you go to another bay make sure to purge the air line of water. If for some reason water gets into your air tool hook up to a dry air line run in forward and reverse till all water is out. Then oil your air tool and run in forward and reverse for 2 mins each direction. Repeat the oiling and running 3 times and this should save your tool from damage.

Ratchets are extremely versatile and in the end you are going to want a set of low profile, Long Handel Flex Head, Stubby Flex 3/8” and 1/2”, Regular. When it comes to ratchets I like quick release because it holds onto the socket/extension and does not allow it to slip easily. When buying quick release you want a low to no profile button. This is so when wrenching in a tight spot it does not get pressed and release the socket and also to allow you in that tight space. The number of teeth you are going to want in every ratchet you own is 72 or more. This is what is known as a fine tooth ratchet and the reason for this is tight locations you need to have less movement between tooth engagements. You are going to also want a true dual pawl. This means inside the ratchet head there is one paw for forward and one paw for reverse. You are also going to want at least 6 teeth engagement. Those two things are normally what dictates whether a ratchet will slip when attempting to tighten or remove a bolt under extreme force. It also dictates how much force can be applied. This is why a good fine tooth ratchet will break less often then a coarse tooth due to the overall surface area of the gears engaged. The other thing to look for is how it feels in your hand. This is going to be the tool you used the most and if it is not comfortable in your hand when you are putting a lot of force on it, it will let you know for the next 3 days. Try and stay away from round metal handle ratchets. You want to opt for something that has a grip that will stand up to chemicals and abuse or metal that is either knurled or slightly square/rectangular in shape. This will greatly reduce your risk of slipping especially when your hands are covered in oil. When buying a flex head ratchet you want to look for the axis to be an adjustable set screw or recessed bolt. The reason for this is if it is just pinned over time it will spread slightly and the head will flop all over the place. When it comes to low profile ratchets a thin handle can be good but, it also has the down side of hurting you hand when applying force so beware. The main ratchets you use daily should be cleaned and lubed every 6 months. You can apply a thin layer of, thin silicone grease or lubriplate to the gear faces. The rest of the ratchet should be oiled with a light weight oil 10 or under. I use Sili-Kroil because it leaves a layer of silicone behind which helps prevent dirt from sticking to parts and also adds another layer of rust prevention. For the ratchets you do not use daily you should oil them once a year following the advice above. When using a ratchet if you are going to put a pipe on it stop and grab a breaker bar and use that.

Tool boxes are normally a thing of great debate. If you are in a large shop and have to move either from time to time or all the time you are going to need a tool truck brand toolbox or an industrial toolbox from a place like sears. The reason for this is they are welded and the wheels are greaseable and meant to take the constant movement with a lot of weight in them. Regardless of who makes the toolbox you are going to want to check out the weight rating of the entire box and also the weight rating of the individual drawers. Most heavy DIY and mechanics are going to overload their drawers especially when a new to it. This is mainly because bigger boxes cost a premium. If you are a DIY and/or mechanic I would suggest starting out with a tool cart. This is great because when you upgrade to a proper tool box you then have a tool cart you can use to keep all the stuff you use on a daily basis. If your tool box sits in one spot all the time you may be able to get away with a cheaper box but, remember drawer weight rating. I would suggest getting only boxes with dual roller bearing slides. This will make opening and closing the drawers much easier. If you are in a shop that requires you move your tool box a lot or for your cart every 6 months you want to lube your wheels/drawers. If it does not move often once a year is normally ok. To lube your toolbox wheels if it has grease fittings use them if it does not try to use a penetrating oil to get on the shaft and ball bearings for the wheels. For ball bearing drawers oil can be used but, I would suggest graphite or silicone powder. If you use a dry lube you must apply then roll 1/3 of the way and repeat 3 times. This may require you removing the drawers. The advantage to a dry lube though is it does not trap dust and dirt as easily making it less likely to gum up in the future. For non ball bearing slide type drawers. Apply grease to the friction areas.

Torque Wrenches are very important. With that being said does everything need to be torqued? Well lets put it this way in a perfect world you would never have any dirt, debri, or rust/corrosion in your threads. This is exactly where Engineer’s Live is in this perfect little world. So what needs to be torqued. Well this is a matter of great debate among mechanics and technicians. There is anything to do with the engine, transmission, axles, SRS components, seats, and wheels. Then there are those that believe everything should be torqued and somewhere between their first and second oil change they realize the torque spec for filter’s doesn’t work. It is simply not feasible to torque every fastener so you have to find what you are comfortable with. When starting out I suggest you torque anything you think you can break. This will get you a feel for how tight things should be. Most technicians and I assume most serious DIY guys will develop a feel for when the bolt starts to stretch. They then normally go 1/16th to 1/8th past that. Some even go 1 flat on hex bolts which is 1/6th though I have found that when people go past 1/8th it often leads to snapped bolts on things that have been removed more then once or twice. Also when you have gaskets/seals/o-rings you cannot always trust what you are feeling because you may just be feeling resistance from those items. This also steepens the learning curve. Using a torque wrench there are now 4 main styles. Deflecting Beam this uses a beam that flexes as you use it. Click type which uses a ball detent with a spring that is winded/unwinded by turning the handle. It then clicks as the ball is moved off the top of the spring. Electronic torque wrench which uses a strain gauge attached to the handle. Electronic torque wrench with angle reading it also uses a strain gauge but, at the same time uses a gyroscope to measure the angle past the snug point. I prefer the click type batteries always make me wonder how accurate it is and the beam type can be a pain if your muscles are straining as that reading point will keep bouncing. The beam type rarely goes out of calibration it takes a ridiculously large number of uses and it automatically reverts to zero after use. The click type and most electronic types you need to set the handle back to the lowest setting. On the mechanical types some guys even like to go one or 2 full turns past the lowest setting. The point is you don’t want the spring under tension when you are using the click type as for the electronic type I am not quite sure all I know is the instructions always tell you too. Read the directions when you get the tool they are your best bet to keeping it proper and working. Never use a torque wrench to tighten or loosen past what it is set at. So once it click, beeps, or vibrates stop. If you need a little more or a little less use a ratchet, breaker bar, or T-handle just not the torque wrench. If you do it will make the torque wrench go out of spec very quickly.

Torque Sticks vary wildly in their accuracy. They are normally only guaranteed to within +/- 10-15% which is a large margin of error especially for the higher torque ones. I personally do not use them and do not like to use them when instructed. If I do use these I normally use one that is under the specified setting and then just use a torque wrench afterwards.

Combination Wrenches these are your bread and butter. There is rarely a time that you cannot get a wrench into a place. They can be used in place of ratchets and sockets in most cases. You need them to be able to run bolts and nuts up with impacts and such. When it comes to these you want to get a starter set that is the best you can afford. I would stay away from Craftsman unless you can get an older set around 1970s should be a -V- marking on it. I would say a good starter brand is GearWrench unless you have the money to buy Snap-On or some other high quality brand. Most mechanics use Snap-On atm though I have yet to find a set I like or works for me. When I buy wrenches I want something that is wide enough it doesn’t feel like I am breaking my bones or separating my joints when I pull really hard on them.

Older tools can be extremely good. Stuff built between 1950 to 1970 seems to be made out of good quality steel if it is a well known name brand especially for back in that time. Craftsman tools from that era are equivalent or better then Snap-On now in some cases. Here is a link to a website identifying Craftsman markings to give you an idea of date of manufacture and quality. https://home.comcast.net/~alloy-artifacts/craftsman-early-tools.html Snap-On back then was not as good as Snap-On now from what I have heard from other mechanics. Remember if it has a lifetime warranty it can always be traded in as long as they still make it. But, before you do this I would suggest attempting to clean the tool up and if it needs minor repairs to do that. CLR from what I have heard is amazing at removing rust off older tools without damaging them much if at all. Though obviously stuff that is not all metal or is painted would probably be damaged. You need to use some common sense when working with older tools. I have Craftsman round head fine tooth ratchets that put newer ones to shame and I had to buy the 3/8 drive one off ebay but, it only cost me 14 bucks which is about what you would pay for a cheap one now anyway. The difference is it is built to be used heavily as most older ratchets were due to the lack of air/electric tools being used and/or developed at that time. Remember when you get ratchets to clean the internals thoroughly and lube them as stated in the ratchet section.

Long term storage of tools requires some fore thought. While I have not tried all of these methods they are something that should be thought about and any advice would be appreciated. Rust/Corrosion/ Dry rot are what you are trying to fight. Impact sockets/adapters/universals/extensions need to be misted with oil or stored in old oil if for extremely long periods of time. This goes for anything else that is a bare metal. You should also consider putting them in a plastic bag such as 2 trash bags or seal type bags. Air tools should be oiled and air with as little moisture as possible run through them running the tool in either direction 1 full rotation each way. This will insure a good coating of oil. Then all openings and grease points should be taped over with a tape that will help seal out air and prevent rusting. Anything chrome that is nicked up bad should get the same treatment as the impact tools. Electric tools should be run till warm but, not so warm as to melt the plastic bag you put them in same rules as above 2 trash bags or seal type bags. The heat should help to evaporate any moisture left inside the bag. Extension cords, electric tool plugs, anything with a terminal should be taped over with a tape that is sticky enough to stay for a long period of time. I suggest 3M Electrical or packaging tape for taping things up also remember that the surface needs to be clean for the tape to stick well. For hammers I would suggest using a good oil like linseed oil on the handle and spraying a thin layer of a sealant paint meant for steel and paint on the head. Wipe the excess oil away and then put it inside of the plastic bags same deal as before. For ratchets clean and lube the inside with oil and once again plastic bag them. With all the bags try and get out as much air as possible and tape over any openings or seals with tape. Keep the tools in a cool, dry, dark place. Doing this is a great way to keep any tools that are going into storage in good/like new condition.

Tool Brands

While brands are a good thing and can point you in the direction of knowing a tool is of good quality. Beware the ease to fall into fanboyism just because something has a brand name does not mean it is good. A simple way to know which brand is good for what can be rather simple at times. If someone asks you for a pair of Channel Locks most people know these are tongue and groove pliers. Well that tells you what brand to buy for that and same goes for Crescent Wrenches as they are actually Adjustable Wrenches. Other things such as needle nose pliers though there is no definitive winner. I use Channel Locks as I was told by my dad they were the best and I have yet to find a pair that really stands up to the abuse that they do. When it comes to electrical tools for crimping, cutting, and stripping Klien is the way to go. There is no competition. They do cost more but, they are made to do it all day long and I have tried many other brands nothing compares. Most other brands the handles will twist when you attempt to cut things especially with those all in one cutter, crimper, stripper.

Here is a list of brands and their affiliates.

Tool Brands: Who Owns What? A Guide to Corporate Affiliations

Suggested Brands

I am only listing what I have used and works or seen used by technicians extensively.

Combination Wrenches – Gear Wrench, Snap-On
Combination Wrenches (Flat Side Prying) – Snap-On Flank Drive
Stubby Combination – Craftsman Professional 34956, Snap-On
Jumbo Combination Wrenches – Sunex
Ratcheting Combination Wrenches – Gear Wrench (They are stronger then any other)
Long Flex Double Ratcheting Box End Offset Spline – Mountain or E-Z Red
Screwdrivers – Craftsman
Fine Tooth Ratchets – Gear Wrench, Snap-On
Quick Release Fine Tooth Ratchets – Craftsman 44992
Low Profile Fine Tooth Ratchets – Craftsman 44992
Long Handel Quick Release Flex Head Ratchet – Expert, Snap-On (Button sticks out), (Do not buy Mac)
3/4” Drive Ratchet – Craftsman (Try to get USA), Snap-On
6’ 3/4” Torque Wrench – Snap-On, Gear Wrench
Rotating Head Ratchet – Gear Wrench Roto
Socket 4 Rail Tray – Mac SH4448, Vim V444 (Steel clips rarely break and are cheap)
Wrench Organizers (V Shaped Rubbery Plastic) – Vim VS14 (15 Slot)
Impact Sockets – Craftsman (USA Only), Grey Pneumatic
Impact Sockets (Flat Side Grabbing) – Snap-On Flank Drive, Grey Pneumatic 6s
Impact Ball Universal – Craftsman (USA Only), Snap-On, Grey Pneumatic
Impact Extensions – Craftsman (USA Only), Grey Pneumatic
Impact Adapters – Craftsman (USA Only), Grey Pneumatic, Pittsburgh (If need Cheap)
Impact Wobble Extensions – Grey Pneumatic (Discontinued, Can only use on Impact of that drive Size)
Breaker Bars – Craftsman, Snap-On
Speed Wrenches – Craftsman Speeder, JC Penny (Discontinued)
Picks – Set of each – Snap-On, Craftsman (Good Starter), Great Neck (Pepboys)
Hose Picks – Mayhew Dominator 60008 (4 short) or 60002 (3 short + 3 long)
Lady Slipper – Mayhew Ladyfoot (All others are welded and break at shaft to foot)
Spud Bar – Mayhew Line-Up Pry Bar
Chisels – Mayhew (Craftsman are junk)
Punches – Mayhew (Craftsman are junk)
Center Punches – Mayhew (Craftsman are junk)
Automatic Center Punch – Pittsburgh Professional 621
Prybar – Craftsman Professional 61355-998, Mayhew Dominator
Drilling, Blacksmith, Engineer Hammers – Craftsman, Vaughan, Estwing, Plumb
Deadblows – Snap-On, Expert
Electric Engraver – Dremel
Tape Measure – Snap-On TPMA25EM (Inches/Metric), Husky, Stanley
Vernier Dial Caliper – Starett (Expensive), Fowler Dual Read (.001” and .02mm)
Steel Rules – Starett
Pocket Ruler – Empire 6”
Chrome Sockets – Snap-On, Craftsman 6pt (Starting Only)
Hex L Keys- Ball End Only – Allen (Best), Craftsman
Torx L Keys – Allen
Torx, Allen, Inverted Torx Sockets – Craftsman 34845
Mechanic’s Stethoscope – KD Tools 835 (Old not egg shaped)
Cutter, Stripper, Crimper Electrical Tool – Klien 1010 (Perfect starter)
Wire Stripper/Cutter 22-32 AWG – Klien 11057 (Allows Smaller then 1010)
Wire Stripper/Cutter 12-20 AWG – Klien 1105 (For tight places same as 1010 AWG)
Wire Stripper/Cutter 6-12 AWG – Klien 11053 (Allows Larger then 1010)
Wire Crimper/Cutter 10-22 AWG – Klien 1005 (For tight places)
Pencil Soldering Iron – Radioshack 64-2071 (For Circuit Boards)
Torch Soldering Iron – Bernzomatic ST250K (Requires lighter to light)
Propane/Map Torch – Bernzomatic TS8000 Surefire
Solder – Radioshack Rosin-Core .05 diameter Lead Free (Smaller Diameter Better)
Silver Solder – Radioshack .015 diameter Lead Free (Smaller Diameter Better)
De-Soldering Braid – Radioshack 64-2090 (Used for circuit Boards)
Tip Tinner – Radioshack 64-020 (Used for Solder Irons to Protect/Clean tips)
Soldering Iron Holder – Radioshack 64-2078 (Prevents Pencil Iron from burning things)
Heat Blanket – Oatey, Bernzomatic (Protective Blanket to protect behind Propane Torch)
Digital Multi Meters – Bluepoint DMSC683A, Fluke, Extech
Test Light – Cen-Tech 30779
IR Thermometer – Cen-Tech 60725 (Remove batteries when not using)
Magnetic Dial Indicator Base – Pittsburgh 5645
Magnetic Dish – Pittsburgh Automotive
Adjustable Wrenches – Crescent, J H Williams, Snap-On (Do not buy Slide type)
Tongue + Groove Pliers – Channel Lock
Needle Nose – Channel Lock
Mini Needle Nose – Craftsman
Linesman Pliers – Channel Lock, Klien
Slip Joint Pliers – Craftsman
Locking Pliers – Irwin Visegrip
Diagonal Side Cutters – Knipex
Filter Pliers – Pittsburgh Automotive
Strap Filter Wrench – Rigid
Aviation Snips – Wiss
Oil Filter Claw – Bluepoint FWA62121A (No One else’s lasts professionally)
Heavy Duty 10 AWG Extension Cord – Harbor Freight 93674
Hand Vac – Mityvac MV8000 (DIY), Mityvac MV8500 (Technicians)
Automotive Floor Jack – Torin Big Red T83318
Screwdrivers – Craftsman 31798
Micro Screwdrivers – Craftsman 41105
Mini Torx Screwdrivers – Craftsman 41105, Snap-On
Ratcheting Screwdriver – Craftsman 47144
Bit Sets – Craftsman 26535
Creepers – Lisle Jeepers Creeper 92102 (DIY), Matco (Jeepers Creeper for Technicians)
Torque Wrench – Craftsman (DIY or Starting Tech), Snap-On, GearWrench
Pipe Wrench – Rigid (Steel Versions rarely bend with pipe on the handle)
Monkey Wrench/Gas Grips – Crescent Auto Wrench, Rigid Spud Wrench 31400
Telescoping Magnetic Pickup Tool Pocket – Pittsburgh
Telescoping Magnetic Pickup Tool – Craftsman 4132
Drop Light – Philips 22002X1
UV HVAC Light/Glasses – Mastercool 53512-UV
Upholstry Tool (Used for Interriors) – Mayhew, Mac
Flat Blade Razor Blade Scraper Short – Stanley
Retractable Razor Blade Knife – Stanley 99E
Wire Brushes – Harbor Freight, Lincoln Electric
Air Impacts – Snap-On, Ingersoll Rand, Air Cat
Air Ratchets – Campbell Hausfeld (Starter), Ingersoll Rand, Astro Pneumatic
Air Angle Die Grinder – Chicago Pneumatic
Air Cut-off Tool – Chicago Pneumatic
Air Tool Oil – Lucas
Air Tool Grease – Ingersoll Rand
Rubber Tip Blow Nozzle – Amflo
Truck/RV Tire Pressure Gauge – Pittsburgh Automotive
Dual Chuck Tire Inflator – Central pneumatic (Brass End Non-Gauge)
Electric Impacts (Battery) – Milwaukee, Snap-On
Electric Drills (Battery/Corded) – Milwaukee, Makita
Penetrating Oil – PB Blaster, Sili-Kroil (Has Silicone)
Assembly Lube – Lubriplate
Tool Boxes – Snap-On, Mac, Matco, Cornwell, Craftsman Industrial (With optional slides)
Tool Carts – US General Pro (Starter), Snap-On, Mac, Matco, Cornwell
Leather Gloves – 1 thick pair, 1 thin pair, 1 spare of each, rough leather for grip
Nitrile Gloves – Midknight
Cloth /w Rubber Palm/Fingers – MadGrip (Do not use with solvents, ok in the cold)

If you find any spelling errors or incorrect words pm me i will fix it.

Topic

[Rick]

We just hired a new LOF tech at work. He asked me for advice, I saw this on my phone and told him I would print it out for him to read it. I hope you know that you have helped me tremendously, and with this you have helped our new tech.

I appreciate the time it took to write all this. And I will print it out and put it in a folder at work, so I can refer to it as much as I can and show it to new techs we bring on.

[Greg L]

Good info here. Has anyone put together a list of tools suggested for lube techs, GS(general service techs) etc? Company I used to work for had a list of stuff for the entry level guys, and they referenced what all I had way back in the day as I covered most of what I needed. While I was helping and watching the other techs, I paid close attention to the tools they used, how often they used them, etc.

[Dustin]

Good reading and info. When I started and still do from time to time. Is if I have to borrow a tool 3 times. I guess it should be next on my list to buy because other techs get upset if you always needing something. In the beginning it sucks because yes you don’t know what to buy and not a need to dump 15k on a brand new setup.

[James O’Hara]

LOF tool list can be found here along with some advice from other techs: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/11-Tool-Talk/54340-recommend-tools-for-a-new-tech#121175

Any more as a lube tech you need a wide variety of sockets and wrenches. You have plastic skid pans under cars. Plastic covers over things. Most LOF techs also do simple things like light bulb and battery changes and then will do tires when it is slow. Odd normally not used sizes on plastic filter caps.

Some things on that list you might not agree with. I started as a lube tech at pepboys I saw everything from Mercedes to Datsun. The only thing I might add to the list is getting a PIG – Form a funnel. It is basically a metal sheet covered in rubber that you can flex at will. This can allow you to save time by not getting oil on things and having to wipe it off. If you get a weird sized filter plastic cap ask another mechanic and assess how many are going to be showing up if it is a Datsun unless he is a regular don’t buy the tool just figure it out.

I wish I could give more input on the car side for tool lists for different levels of tech but, I became a diesel tech 2-3 months after starting for pepboys. We have different requirements for tools then automotive guys a simple example is our lugnuts require 3/4″ or 1″ impacts to remove/install; Unless you want to do it by hand 10 lugnuts per hub, 6 hubs, 6′ 3/4″ drive Torque wrench, 7in Extension (Harbor Freight ones twist off) and heavy wall deep well socket 1 5/16″ is the avg size torque value is normally 450 ftlbs. I did it by hand once in 45 mins needless to say I hated life afterwards (So very Sore).

[Greg L]

Just thought I’d copy and paste MDK22’s list to here:
Fine tooth Ratchets: 1/4″,3/8″,1/2″ (3/8″ and 1/2″ in Flex if possible Expert, Snap-On, Gearwrench)
Sockets/adapters/Extensions/Universals to Match: 8mm-22mm, 1/4″-1″ (Impact over chrome if you can afford. Rarely will the thinner chrome sockets be needed starting off Grey Pnuematic or “Craftsman USA Made only” for starting out)
Decent Brand Normal Combination Wrenches: 8mm-22mm, 1/4″-1″ (Do not get sets that skip sizes. Gearwrench)
1/2″ Breaker Bar. (Craftsman is normally good and cheap)
1/2″ Impact (A good brand: Ingersol Rand, Air Cat, Snap-On)
Screwdriver Set (with Torx if you can afford. Craftsman)
Oil Filter Wrenches Big and Small Riveted plier style. Harbor Freight (Buy Blue Point FWA62121A if you do a lot of oil changes)
Creeper a cheap one will do to start. (You will need a different one in about 6 months)
A cheap pick set. Harbor Freight or Craftsman if you can afford (Buy a tool truck brand when you can)
A wire brush set. Cheap set is fine. (You’ll need this for batteries)
A cheap valve stem removal tool. I used a slimez brand from pepboys it is cheap.
A cheap dual chuck tire inflator without gauge and a separate tire gauge (Then buy a tool truck one when you can)
A set of decent brand pliers: needle nose, regular, slip joint (Channel Lock, Knipex, Klien)
A good pair of diagonal side cutters (Knipex)
1 pair of Vise Grips 7wr Original with curved jaws
1 chisel of decent quality (Craftsman or better)
A good prybar set. (Craftsman professional driving head or Mayhew driving head available @ Home Depot)
A good brand hammer: Ballpeen or 3lb Black Smith (Suggest hickory handle Vaughan, Estwing, Plumb, Craftsman)
A good engraver or punch set (Put your initials on your tools. It is better/easier to start now)
A place to keep all your tools.

[Greg L]

Of that, there is only a couple of things I would add to that. I would get 1/4″ drive sockets in metric down to 5mm, including 5.5MM(yep its used more than one thinks), and 6mm, and 7mm. I’d also invest in a good torx bit set. Skip the Lisle stuff for that. I actually have a pretty good set from Cornwell with inverted and tamper proof. Snap-on makes good ones as well. I have had bad luck with Mac personally. Also, look at the oil filter tools for the Toyotas. There are two sizes now, and it makes filter removal much easier. Throw in a cordless screwdriver, maybe even a cordless 1/4″ impact if funds allow. If you do tires, get a 1/2″ torque wrench as well. That will keep you out of the other guy’s box for the vast majority of your time, and let you do all the small jobs that the boss hands off to you.

[James O’Hara]

Some more Info for you DIY and Techs.

Air lines

When you have air lines it is best to have a heavy duty line off of your wall outlet and/or compressor and then have a super flexible last 8-10 feet. This requires two different hoses and I would suggest that you use the flexible as an extension type hose. This setup is very advantageous as it allows you to have a heavy hose that if you accidentally run it over with the car or need to run it over the edge of something hard/pointed you can use the heavy duty line. With the super flexible line it allows you to get into tight places a lot easier because you are not fighting the air line as much. Though this line is slightly easier to puncture and/or cut. Which is also why you want a two line setup so you are not out an air line if it does get cut.

The swivels for air fittings I do not suggest the ball and socket type if you plan on doing anything a lot with that. I do suggest using the double block style. They work a lot better and are not prone to leaking as easily over time.

The quick disconnect air fittings themselves. I suggest using type D they are meant for industrial use and will last the longest though type C is also common in shops and garages.

Brands

Flexible Air Hoses: Flexzilla, Goodyear Pliovic GS (Best), (Possibly Goodyear F5 Untested)
Heavy Duty Air Hoses: Goodyear Braidair
Air Square Type Swivel: Mac Tools 1/4″ AS60B, Mac Tools 3/8″ AS70B, Blue Point 1/4″ YA502M, Blue Point 3/8″ YA503M
Air Quick Couplers: Snap-On, Mac, Matco, ColorConnex
Fitting Sealant: Permatex High Temperature Thread Sealant (Best), DuPont Teflon Tape

As I come up with new things I plant to keep coming back to this and expanding this post.

[James O’Hara]

Back Probing

Back probing is generally frowned upon. It is very easy to mess something up when it comes to seals in electrical connectors. I have used my back probes and it has saved me a lot of grief. There is a lot to back probing correctly. When you have a back probe you want it pointed like a pencil point that has been used. So the tip of it is like a dome and it tapers back to full circumference. If it is too sharp it will tear or cut the seals on connectors. If it is too big or flat on the end it will roll the seal inside the connectors. You want a back probe that is flexible enough to not break easily or tear the seals and also rigid enough to push past the seals and stay in its basic shape.

I made my back probes using:
Solder
Alligator clips with holes for the string and screw onto my meter leads
Solid Core Guitar String C or D Cord
A jewelers file or real small file.

I cut a length of about 4inches. Then strung the guitar string inside the alligator clip and soldered it in place. It is important to use solid string guitar strings and to use alligator clips without rubber boots covering the jaws. The string in mine is about 1/2″ inside the jaws and leaves 3.5″ sticking out. Then the most important part is to round the edges of the lead end that is outside the alligator jaw. So when you stick in the lead it does not catch, tear, or cut the seal. It is a small thing that makes all the difference in the world. Tapering it at this size is rather hard so do that at your own will.

The reason for this length is so I can hook other alligator leads to it or criss cross the leads and use one alligator clip to create a jumper. These style back probes also conveniently fit inside most wire connectors giving me effectively a test male side pin that fits most connector types.

The probes I use are a D solid string for a guitar.

[James O’Hara]

Really good noid light:

http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-27800-Universal-Noid-Light/dp/B0002SR57Q

Mine is Matco but, it is just a rebranded Lisle

[James O’Hara]

Here is a link to a guide that seems to have a great deal of information about the different fitting types:

http://www.legacymfg.com/Selection_Guide_to_Couplers_Plugs.pdf

[dosmastr]

I got one for you

do they make just shelf liners to fit different sized sockets?

tards like me have never have the money to buy a nice full set, but have a bunch of mismatched ones I’d love to centralize now that I have a garage to put stuff in.

I have a small too chest that the stuff would go into.

[Jon Hart]

I use these socket rails for all my main sockets can swap out the attachments to put what ever you want into them or you can make your own with socket rails some wood and some some socket rail clips

Attachments:

• 20141227_230036.jpg

[James O’Hara]

Craftsman maxes plastic liners with holes in them for different sockets but, it will not last in a shop environment or with heavy use.

http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-socket-organizer-set/p-00965172000P

If it is just casual the ones above should work the more hardcore guys are going to want something like these

http://westlingmachine.com/ToolHolders.html

Though I prefer the Mac One I listed above in the socket tray part. They are not labeled or anything though and being a mechanic i just reach for the right one or one size above and below what i think.

[James O’Hara]

[quote=”Fmxvxx” post=124064]I use these socket rails for all my main sockets can swap out the attachments to put what ever you want into them or you can make your own with socket rails some wood and some some socket rail clips[/quote]

I use those exact same ones only in Mac Version.

dosmastr if you look at that huge list of tools you skimmed over what me and Fmxvxx both use is listed there.

[Jon Hart]

Yeah there Sealey ones I believe and the clips get replaced with nicer clips if and when i wear them out.

I like the tool

I tend to run them all neat and laid out in there and then run another set on my service trolley with all my most used sockets 17mm alloy wheel socket sump plug sockets spark plug sockets etc.

Although I do love those socket trays in the vid they dont offer me the same flexibilty of the rail with some sets i have 1/4 to 1/2 sockets all on the same rail that and the fact nobody makes them here in the Uk and it’ll cost me $160 to organise my sockets

[Author]

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