Being a mechanic can be one of the most rewarding professions in the world, especially when you have the right tools to get the job done. Not only does having the right tools make the job easier but it also helps you save time and reduce stress, thus making you more efficient at your job.
If you want to be a good mechanic, you will need an ensemble of the best tools to achieve this goal. So, if you want to up your skills and expertise as a mechanic, here are some of the tools you will need to achieve that.
Wrenches
Okay – you probably saw this coming. When people think of mechanics, one of the first few tools that come to mind is wrenches, so it is not that hard to see why these are top of the list. Wrenches are an indispensable tool, and they come in handy when you need to remove rusty bolts and the likes. Wrenches are also the best tool for applying torque without damaging the tool. You will need your wrenches in almost all automotive repair jobs you handle, so it is best to have a good wrench set in your tool collection. A good thing to do is to have both standard and metric wrench sets, however, if you can’t afford both sets, a metric wrench set will do.
Pliers
Pliers are a must-have for any good mechanic as they help perform a wide range of tasks. You should opt for a full set of high-quality pliers as this will help you save some extra bucks in the long run. However, if you are running on a shoestring budget and may not be able to afford a standard pair of pliers. As I mentioned earlier, make sure that your pliers are of excellent quality – this is why it is best to avoid buying cheap pliers as poor quality can make doing your job properly a hassle.
Ratchet and Socket Set
Another set of important tools you should have in your toolbox are ratchets and sockets. Ratchets are the best tools for working with bolts in awkward angles and hard-to-reach areas. Ratchets typically come in three different sizes – small (1/4 inch), medium (3/8 inch), and large (1/2 inch). It is best to purchase the full set which comes with all three sizes, but if you are short on cash, then you should buy a small-sized and large-sized ratchet. For sockets, you should choose sockets ranging from 6mm, 24mm, to 32mm. These sizes are enough to handle most automobile repair tasks.
Also, keep in mind that deep sockets are perfect for when you need to get to recessed fittings, like spark plugs, that are hard to reach with a regular wrench.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are one of the basic and entry-level tools you will need as a mechanic. With the right screwdriver, you will find handling screws much easier and hassle-free. Recently, cordless screwdrivers are gaining increasing popularity, and many mechanics are adding this screwdriver type to their toolbox. You should look at the best cordless screwdrivers reviews before purchasing one. The most common types of screwdrivers are Flat and Phillips, and you will need to have both screwdriver types in your toolbox. Another less common type of screwdriver is the Torx (six-pointed star-shaped) type. This type is great for working with Torx screws – so you should get one of these too.
Car Jacks
As a mechanic, most times, you will need to work on brakes, gas tanks, tires, and other parts of the car that require lifting the car to access. In such cases, you will need a car jack. Car Jacks are very useful when you need to work on parts situated underneath the car, so these are a must-have in your garage toolbox. With a car jack, you don’t have to expend energy to lift the car manually (plus, this would probably be impossible for most people). You will find different types of car jacks in the market, so you should purchase, at least, two different types. Regardless of the type of car jack you choose, you should pick jacks made from high-quality materials that are strong and sturdy. You should also choose jacks with a big base for maximum support and durability.
If you are just starting your career as a mechanic or you are already a professional, you will need these tools to deliver excellent work. As such, you should invest in these tools to perform better and to make your job easier and faster.
