Amateur and experienced mechanics have one thing in common: they all need the right equipment to be able to work properly. If you’re looking to complete your toolbox so that you can compete with the pros, here are some of the essential tools you’ll need.
1. Wrenches
This popular tool is probably the most common one used for auto maintenance. It’s used to turn fasteners like bolts and nuts and provide a tight grip as you twist and turn. There are many different types of wrenches available nowadays. The most commonly used in the automotive industry are:
- L Keys (Allen Wrenches)
- Open-End Wrenches
- Double Box End Wrenches
- Combination Wrenches
- Stubby Wrenches
- Miniature Wrenches
- Ratcheting Wrenches
- Torque Wrenches
- Impact Guns
2. Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are a staple in any toolbox, and mechanics often need them. These tools can come with a flattened, cross-shaped, or star-shaped tip to fits into the head of a screw so that you can easily turn it. The most common screwdriver types are:
- Flat
- Phillips
- Torx
3. Ratchets
These tools are armed with a socket on one side to make one-way turning much easier. Also called socket wrenches, they help you tighten and loosen bolts quickly and apply torque at odd angles and in confined spaces. Ratchets typically come in three different sizes:
- Small (1/4 inch)
- Medium (3/8 inch)
- Large (1/2 inch)
4. Sockets
These tools come with a plastic or metal socket-shaped cup that fits around the filter. They provide a precise fit when trying to remove a filter cap quickly and with little to no physical effort. Sockets are often the only wrench type that allows you to access recessed filters. They come in two different kinds:
5. Light
When working on cars, there will always be narrow dark spots and crevices that will need some extra illumination. If you need to work inside or underneath the vehicle, it will be dark as well. Having a headlamp or flashlight handy is always a good idea. The former will provide you with additional hands-free lighting, while the latter will be of use when working on your engine.
Be sure to get a lamp with a clear plastic lens. Red and blue filters will also be necessary for those times in which you need increased visibility. If you purchase a flashlight, make sure it has a plastic housing, as metal pieces tend to get hot to the touch after a while. It’s also a good idea to look for handheld lights with an inbuilt hook. They’re much more practical when you need both your hands, as you can easily hang them from your open hood.
6. Drain Pan
A fluid drain pan is a must-have for any type of work that involves changing oil or other fluids. You should get some extra pans so that you can use them for different purposes and avoid mixing liquids that should be recycled separately. When you’re not using drain pans for their intended purpose, you can easily use them as containers to carry your fluids to the nearest recycler.
7. Brake Bleeder
You’ll need one of these handy whenever you’re performing a brake fluid change. Arming yourself with a good brake fluid vacuum that helps you pump the liquid out will make your life much easier.
8. Torque Sticks
This tool is the perfect complement to your impact wrench. It’s useful when you want to avoid over-tightening fasteners while installing your vehicle’s wheels. Torque sticks tend to flex when reaching the torque limit.
9. Breaker Bar
A breaker bar is essentially a socket wrench but with a longer handle. The standard length of these tools is about 24 in. The longer the handle, the more leverage it will provide you when applying torque.
10. Hammer
Sometimes things get stuck and not even the most powerful wrenches, sockets, and ratchets can help you. That’s when a good wack with your trustworthy hammer may be of use. Look for one with a nice rubber handle for enhanced grip.
11. Extension Bars
These long and solid pieces of metal piping are excellent tools to extend the reach of a socket wrench when you need to. Extension bars are typically used to reach recessed bolts.
12. Air Blow Gun
When you need to remove debris or do some non-contact drying and blowing, air blow guns can be your best allies. They generally have a nozzle attached to the airline to deliver a consistent and steady blast of compressed air.
13. Wire Strippers
Of all the tools that you could add to your toolbox, wire strippers may be the most important. Their unique circular shape allows you to expose bare wire by easily pulling off the insulation.
Get the Best Tools For Your Garage!
Now you know the essential elements you’ll be needing to complete your toolbox. If you’re ready to start or expand your collection, visit Capri Tools today and take advantage of our bundled packages.