Setting Up Your Home Garage Like a Pro
So you’ve decided you want a home garage. Now what? All the automotive knowledge in the world won’t do you any good if you don’t have the right tools. Here are eleven hand tools that are absolute musts for your mechanic kit.
1. Combination Wrench
This simple-looking gadget is more than meets the eye. Keeping a different wrench for every task wastes money and valuable space in your toolbox, but you can avoid that by opting for a combination wrench instead. A quality combination wrench seamlessly brings together the power of an open end and a boxed end.
2. L-Key, AKA Hex Key Wrench
The primary purpose of this essential piece is to tighten and loosen hexagonal bolts. Typically, a standard L-key is a single piece of steel in the shape of an “L”. A hex key should be one of your go-to fastening instruments.
3. Screwdrivers
When it comes to screwdrivers, there are as many tip designs as there are screw sizes and shapes. Some common screwdriver types include:
- Standard – also called flat, flared, or straight
- Phillips – featuring an x-shaped tip
- Clutch – with an hourglass-shaped tip
- Robertson – featuring a square tip
- Torx – with six slots
4. Pliers and Locking Pliers
Pliers are perfect for grabbing and holding components. They offer easy manipulation and a high level of stability. The most common types are:
- Lineman Pliers – for electrical work
- Slip-joint Pliers – for light-duty jobs
- Adjustable Pliers – for different diameter pieces
5. 6-Point and 12-Point Sockets
Sockets are tools you can attach to a wrench, rachet, or torque. To tighten nuts and bolts, you must place them on a ratchet’s square extension. The socket will remain in place as you turn the ratchet’s handle. The most commonly used ones are:
- Six-Point Sockets – These are perfect for tasks that require more force. The additional surface contact on each of its flat edges and its walls’ thickness provide a better grip.
- Twelve-Point Sockets – They make it easier to connect to a fastener head at a greater variety of angles. This feature comes in extremely handy when you’re dealing with narrow spaces.
6. Ratchets
Ratcheting socket wrenches consist of a handle and a socket. They come in many sizes, the most popular ones being 1/4-in, 1/2-in, and 3/8-in drive. Ratchets may be gearless, jointed, flex-headed, or gear-drive.
7. Extensions
This fitted bar lets you expand the reach of a socket when using a ratchet. Extensions are helpful when you cannot reach a nut or a bolt with your favorite tightening tool. Place one of these bars between the wrench and the socket and you’ll be good to go.
8. Torque Wrench
Torque wrenches are perfect for situations when you need to fasten screws and bolts securely. Using a torque wrench will prevent under-fastening, which can be dangerous.
9. Oil Filter
To prevent the accumulation of pollutants in your car engine’s oil, you’ll need an oil filter. Picking the right one for your specific needs is vital when it comes to preventing engine damage. Consult your owner’s manual to determine which one works best for you.
10. Oil Drain Pan
Changing your vehicle’s oil is a great habit to get into. An oil pan will come in handy when transporting your oil waste to your nearest recycling center. It will also help you avoid any messy spills in your garage as you drain your engine.
11. Work Light
No matter what time of day you pick for your mechanical work, you’ll need proper lighting. Using LED, HID, or halogen lamps will keep you on top of your game. A high-quality work light will ensure you don’t miss out on any details.
High-Quality Tools Are Just One Click Away
Doing maintenance work on your car or truck calls for quality tools. Capri Tools offers you the best components to keep your car running its best. Check out our online catalog for all of your garage essentials.