Being a mechanic means that you rule supreme when it comes to repairing cars and other items. In order to be a good mechanic, it is important for you to have all the tools that will be needed to complete your repair; it is important to have the right tools that will get the job done.
There are many cases where the tools can get the job done, but are of inferior quality and break before you’re done. Make sure that you get tools that are hardy and can handle the work for which they are intended. In this article, we are going to be looking at some of the must-have tools for mechanics.
These are tools that are used mostly in automobile repairs, and most of them come in various sizes, depending on the parts that they will be dealing with. They also come in varied prices, usually depending on the manufacturer of the tools, and the quality. When buying tools, it is always important to go for the highest quality tools, although they don’t always come cheap.
Wrenches
These are tools that are used to twist or turn nuts and bolts. They are a major requirement for mechanics because automobiles have many bolts that may need to be loosened or tightened during repair. They come in different sizes, and when buying a set, you should ensure that it is quality; lower quality wrenches tend to bend or warp when too much force is applied.
Ratchets
Ratchets are mechanical devices consisting of toothed wheels or racks engaged with pawls that permit them to move in only one direction. These also come in various sizes. Some of the most common ratchet sizes or drives are ¼” (small), 3/8” (medium), ½”(large).
These sizes are used very extensively by mechanics, and they are usually included in most starter kits. Again, when you’re buying ratchets, it is more convenient for you to buy them in a set since they usually come with all of the commonly used sizes. In the long run, it is also less expensive.
Sockets
Sockets are tools that efficiently tighten or loosen fasteners, and they come in different lengths.
Socket wrenches
These are tools that offer a quick and efficient way to tighten or loosen different types of fasteners, mainly bolts and nuts. They can be used by anyone, from the layman to the professional. There are many types of sockets of different measurements, shapes, and mechanical properties, bringing about many different options.
Metric sockets
The metric and standard (inches) are the most common measurement systems for sockets, like other mechanical tools. In this regard, metric sockets are only used for metric bolts and nuts, while standard sockets are used for standard bolts and nuts. Using one on the other can damage the bolt heads.
Standard sockets
The drive sizes vary depending on the many different types of bolts and nuts. In cases where these bolts or nuts are in standard measurement, a standard socket is used. There are some cases where you can come across patented brands, and in these situations, the sockets can be specific to the application.
Impact sockets
There are sockets that are designed in such a way that they are used with impact wrenches for additional force (1,000 ft./lbs. or more). They are made from special materials to make them like that. They also come in different point shapes, usually hexagons and dodecagons; these are the most commonly used shapes, although in the past it was octagons that were common.
There are two common socket lengths, and these are shallow and deep. Shallow sockets are made to fit into tight locations, open areas and close angles. Deep sockets can reach bolts that are lodged deeper or in out-of-the-way areas. The common use of the deep socket is inverted ratcheting, when bolts are screwed upwards.
Screwdrivers
An assortment of screwdrivers of different lengths and gauges is important for a mechanic. They are both star and flat. Some have heavy-duty flatheads that can be hit with hammers, while others can have testers to check on electrical current. Some are heavy duty, while others are made for lighter duties.
Pliers
Pliers are a must, especially when it comes to changing hoses, working with difficult connectors and brake jobs. They can be used for a variety of things and they also come in various types. These types include: normal, long- and short-needle nose, and vice grips.
Hammers
These are important for anything that needs a good whack. They also come in an assortment of types, and these include the ball peen and rubber mallet.
Breaker bar
This is an important tool, and especially for beginners, who cannot afford to buy power tools. It is good for loosening tough bolts.
Multimeter
They vary in price range, but be sure to get one that can read amperage.
