Tools needed by a entry level automotive technician

FLRover · Jun 3, 2012

Hello I am near graduation from UTI (large auto school, if you want an honest opinion on the school PM me) and have a job lined up back home at a Jag/Rover dealer. I get a 45% discount on Snap On tool through school and want to build a large starter set on the discount so I don't have to carry a large loan on tools.

Here's what I have currently all Snap On:
3/8 & 1/4 ratchets
3/8 deep/shallow 6 point socket sets SAE/Metric
3/8 extension set
SAE/Metric combo wrench sets
screw driver set and scrip/pick set
pliers set (horrible purchase looking to replace)
1/2 breaker bar
torx set

For electrical I have a Fluke 88A, that's about it.

I am thinking I need:
1/4 & 1/4 metric socket sets
1/2 ratchet
1/4 & 1/2 extension set
mighty vac kit
metric allen wrench set
metric ratcheting combo wrenches
pipe wrenches
adjustable wrench set
vice-grip set
metric nut drivers
snap ring pliers set
channel lock set
file set
tap & die set
extractor set
retreading set
3/8 & 1/2 torque wrench
slide hammer
R134a gauge set

Ingersoll Rand cordless impact

What do you think I should add to this or remove?

Bullet_101 · Jun 3, 2012

Get some torx/reverse (Female) torx, Triple square and tamper proof torx. European cars like to use those kinds of things. Get the snap on thread chaser kit too. That thing is worth every single penny.

zoso · Jun 3, 2012

I'm not exactly sure what an entry level technician uses cause I don't work in the field but as long as you have a good discount it might be worthwhile to get some line wrenches and those long zero offset box wrenches seem like they would be handy.

Brownsfan · Jun 3, 2012

Panel removal tools. Pry bar set. Wire service tools(strippers,crimpers etc). Remember you dont need ALL Snap on. I have the Craftsman pro pry bars and they are good. European radio removal tools. Being entry level I would imagine you will be doing things like replacing cabin air filters and radio replacements so get the plastic panel tools.

chadster1 · Jun 3, 2012

3/8 drive impact wobble sockets

back2class · Jun 3, 2012

Hello I am near graduation from UTI (large auto school, if you want an honest opinion on the school PM me) and have a job lined up back home at a Jag/Rover dealer. I get a 45% discount on Snap On tool through school and want to build a large starter set on the discount so I don't have to carry a large loan on tools.

Here's what I have currently all Snap On:
3/8 & 1/4 ratchets
3/8 deep/shallow 6 point socket sets SAE/Metric
3/8 extension set
SAE/Metric combo wrench sets
screw driver set and scrip/pick set
pliers set (horrible purchase looking to replace)
1/2 breaker bar
torx set

For electrical I have a Fluke 88A, that's about it.

I am thinking I need:
1/4 & 1/4 metric socket sets
1/2 ratchet
1/4 & 1/2 extension set
mighty vac kit (snap-on overpriced)
metric allen wrench set
metric ratcheting combo wrenches
pipe wrenches(snap-on overpriced)
adjustable wrench set(snap-on overpriced)
vice-grip set
metric nut drivers (snap-on overpriced)
snap ring pliers set
channel lock set
file set
tap & die set
extractor set
retreading set
3/8 & 1/2 torque wrench
slide hammer
R134a gauge set

Ingersoll Rand cordless impact

What do you think I should add to this or remove?

Well, some are just silly to buy snap-on.....even at 1/2 price as I noted. I agree, their pliers kinda ****.

You should buy the torx stuff, perhaps prybars, screwdrivers through snap-on for sure. Your list looks pretty good for where to invest in snap-on for the most part.

smothers33 · Jun 3, 2012

If you dont have the flex head ratchets those would definitely top my list, and a ratcheting screwdriver with bits is nice too. Those are luxury tools but definitely save a bunch of timein my opinion. I know this is off topic but how do you like that fluke? Do you have the accessories and if so how are they? My next purchase is gonna be that kit but want some info before I shell out 400

Carguy99 · Jun 3, 2012

didn't see any air tools 1\4 ratchet 3\8 impact 1\2 impact buy good ones and you don't need the biggest one.
Full set 1\4 impact sockets std and that other kind

Make friends with your extensions and swivels... if I enough of them I could work from home...
you also get one heck of a discount on matco...try this http://www.matcotools.com/TechEd/students.jsp

blacK20 · Jun 3, 2012

add flare wrenches to the list.

Laker · Jun 3, 2012

get one of these, actually get two cos they are so cheap. I don't know if Snap-On has their own set. They have saved me countless times.

FLRover · Jun 3, 2012

Thanks for this input I am loving it and very much appreciate it. Please keep it coming!

I looked into Matco but they don't have a truck in my area so I am hesitant to buy from them. At heart I'm a S&K guy, my father is a retired pilot and drilled into my head their product, but same story no dealer support. I worked in small engines for a while and learned the value of a tool truck quickly.

I love my Fluke DMM, I bought a Snap On DMM when I first started school and hated it. Everything about the Fluke is better quality and more refined including the function tools. Amazon has good prices on Fluke, $200 less than what Granger wanted.

JerseyBoatBuilder · Jun 3, 2012

Dont forget Universals to go with your extensions

csargents1546 · Jun 3, 2012

Mac also has a student discount program, Ingressol Rand has on too. Your swivel sockets will quickly become your best friend. Also a 1/4 air ratchet. I hear you on your feeling of UTI as a graudate myself from the AZ campus. Good luck!!!

Sh1thead · Jun 3, 2012

Im a grad from exton campus ... best of luck and don't overthink your tickets. If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck its obviously not a donkey.

Might want to add an Airlift kit to your list ... forget airlocks and burping cooling systems

richfinn · Jun 3, 2012

What do you need the SAE stuff for?

I would be looking for a nice DC current clamp to go with your Fluke 88 if your interested in the electrical side of the job.

FLRover · Jun 3, 2012

richfinn said:
What do you need the SAE stuff for?

I would be looking for a nice DC current clamp to go with your Fluke 88 if your interested in the electrical side of the job.

Use to work as a general mechanic for a private collector with a lot of American classics. Also in small engines.

richfinn · Jun 3, 2012

FLRover said:
Use to work as a general mechanic for a private collector with a lot of American classics. Also in small engines.

OK, I still have my British AF spanners and sockets at home in an old metal box in case I ever restore some old Triumph or something.

FLRover · Jun 3, 2012

richfinn said:
OK, I still have my British AF spanners and sockets at home in an old metal box in case I ever restore some old Triumph or something.

Same here I do own a good bit of vintage British standard tools too, used them when working for the private collector (he loved old Jags and Austin's)

richfinn · Jun 3, 2012

FLRover said:
Same here I do own a good bit of vintage British standard tools too, used them when working for the private collector (he loved old Jags and Austin's)

Have a look at the Autologic scan tool for Jag/Land Rover, Its better than the dealer level kit in many respects and can be upgraded to other brands. Its very expensive but it might be good research for you.

TehMooSe · Jun 3, 2012

Power Probe

Farmer Joe · Jun 3, 2012

Air tools, like someone else mentioned. 1/2" impact gun and a 3/8" Also a good 3/8" air ratchet and 1/4" air ratchet. Defintely going to need a full 1/2" impact socket set as well. I like SK or even Grey Pneumatic.
I'd also recommend a 1/2" universal swivel socket. Also a set of 3/8" swivel sockets.
And air hammer may be useful eventually as well.
A good pair or two of side cutters is always useful, as well as linesman pliers.
And a decent set of screwdrivers, doesn't have to be expensive, but I heard that SO screwdrivers are pretty good, and with your discount it will be worth it.
I'm sure I'm forgetting a lot of things, but just what I can think of off the top of my head.

Fedwrench · Jun 3, 2012

You don't really need the R134 gauge set. Real garages use ac recovery machines that are shop equipment and most entry level techs don't do A/C work.

Make sure you have a good 1/2 drive impact, 3/8 impact, 3/8 drive metic swivel sockets. 1/4 inch and 3/8 air ratchets. Time is money and hand tools are slooow. Think cordless if you have change left over. A CT561 cordless screwdriver will pay for itself in your first month.

A real good flashlight light a streamlight to be able to see what you're upselling. :lol:

Think about what entry level tasks are: wheels on, wheels off, LOF, maintenance services, maybe Brakes, trim, and minor electrical, tires etc. oil filter wrenches?

Good luck in your future endeavors.
The best tool you could have is for a seasoned tech to take you under his wing and show you the real world ropes. I can't emphasize the importance of listening and observing how things are you at your new job.

jontar · Jun 4, 2012

a flak jacket, from all the flak you will be taking, about how you can't even take out the garbage properly, and when your done with the garbage the coffee machine needs attention.

Just kidding, somewhat but as a first yr apprentice, expect to start small like changing air filters, tires and oil changes and then maybe after a long while you maybe lucky enough to move on to brakes, and then finally after 15-20 yrs you will finally be allowed to do engines and transmission, if your shop doesn't just unbolt them send them to a special service shop and then you re-install(bolt back up) the overhauled engine or transmission.

Big Gus · Jun 4, 2012

My .02 cents.

1) Cooling system pressure tester.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675838&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

2) Fuel pressure guage kit (not really entry level, but you'll need it if you're in the "biz" long term.)

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675961&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

Davefr · Jun 4, 2012

Your list includes a lot of stuff you probably won't need for a long time (if ever). I'd start slow and build up the tools gradually based on real world needs.

Don't worry about maxing out on the SO discount except for the very basic tools. (ratchets, wrenches, sockets, etc)

camarotoolman · Jun 4, 2012

Trade the sae stuff off, you woun't need it. Use the money the the above. Good luck!

Big Gus · Jun 4, 2012

I wouldn't get rid of the SAE stuff. Yeah, you probably won't use it much, but when you do need it, you need it damn bad.

I was a GM tech for 10 years and on occasion I used my SAE stuff. Your experience may vary, but I wouldn't say you NEVER need SAE stuff.

Also, I'd only buy what you can afford. Don't go into debt buying tools just because of a discount.

hosz · Jun 4, 2012

I don't turn wrenches professionally, but how many vehicles made today use SAE fastners? Ever since I tried to use a std. socket on a late 90s Ford Taurus and rounded off the lug nut, I began to suspect that most vehicles today, including U.S. vehicles, use metric fastners.

If most vehicles today are metric, perhaps the OP could buy SO for his metric set but use a lesser brand, like C-man or SK, to fill out his SAE tools. Or he could search e-bay or craigslist for used SAE tools. There never seems to be a shortage of used SAE tools for sale and they always sell at a discount compared to metric tools.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm guessing most techs today use their SAE tools about as often as the average DIY who owns a vehicle with SAE fastners.

Harwinton · Jun 4, 2012

My 1994 Jeep YJ's still got a lot of SAE stuff on it, but there's some metric mixed in. Overall, though, I'd say I use my SAE tools a lot more than the metric stuff.

And then there's things like exhausts that still use SAE fasteners even on new cars and trucks since they use generic hardware-store parts.

Looking into used SAE tools is definitely not a bad idea. I'd keep an eye out on Craigslist to watch out for anything good.

FLRover · Jun 4, 2012

Once again I appreciate the input. Remember though I am at a English car dealer so its all metric outside of some 9/16" drive shaft bolts I've run into on Rovers

Bullet_101 · Jun 4, 2012

jontar said:
a flak jacket, from all the flak you will be taking, about how you can't even take out the garbage properly, and when your done with the garbage the coffee machine needs attention.

Just kidding, somewhat but as a first yr apprentice, expect to start small like changing air filters, tires and oil changes and then maybe after a long while you maybe lucky enough to move on to brakes, and then finally after 15-20 yrs you will finally be allowed to do engines and transmission, if your shop doesn't just unbolt them send them to a special service shop and then you re-install(bolt back up) the overhauled engine or transmission.

I'm 3 years into a 4 year automotive apprenticeship and I jumped ship over to heavy duty (forklifts). I got really lucky where I did my first 3 years as I was allowed to do pretty much everything that rolled into the shop which was brakes tires and front end. No transmission, final drive or engine overhauls or RnRs. Not even clutches. Those all got sent to a specialty shop to get done, we just charged a 100-200$ "handling fee" as I put it.

Its kind of sad the state of the automotive trade lately.Its more about producing work than quality. Thankfully I was far enough into my apprenticeship that the government is letting me finish the rest of it at this forklift shop. Once I'm done that I can get into a HD apprenticeship where I'll be credited my first 2 years because I have a journeyman ticket in another mechanical trade.

Murphy4570 · Jun 4, 2012

hosz said:
I don't turn wrenches professionally, but how many vehicles made today use SAE fastners? Ever since I tried to use a std. socket on a late 90s Ford Taurus and rounded off the lug nut, I began to suspect that most vehicles today, including U.S. vehicles, use metric fastners.

If most vehicles today are metric, perhaps the OP could buy SO for his metric set but use a lesser brand, like C-man or SK, to fill out his SAE tools. Or he could search e-bay or craigslist for used SAE tools. There never seems to be a shortage of used SAE tools for sale and they always sell at a discount compared to metric tools.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm guessing most techs today use their SAE tools about as often as the average DIY who owns a vehicle with SAE fastners.

Prepare to be corrected! I use SAE tools daily, but intermittently throughout the day. American cars started to switch over to metric fasteners in the '80s, with most all being completely metric by the 2000's. Older stuff still comes in the bay doors (lots of Jeeps) believe it or not. Another thing to keep in mind, is that standard socket sizes usually fall in between metric sizes. That means that that bolt with the rusted down 13mm head will come right off if you use a 1/2" socket on it, versus rounding off with a 13mm socket. Little tricks like that are essential up here in the rust belt.

I personally have a full set of SAE sockets in 1/4 and 3/8 drive, and 1/2" drive impacts as well. They get used often enough to sit right next to my metric socket sets.

sickboy motors inc. · Jun 4, 2012

You will at some point be measuring. Don't forget tapes,squares,and gauges. (Feeler,plug) also would be good with lube and brake tools.

Gregster · Jun 4, 2012

I always keep few of these in my tool box just in case!

I'd get female Torx and triple square...

FLRover · Jun 4, 2012

Gregster said:
I always keep few of these in my tool box just in case!

I'd get female Torx and triple square...

3 position Lucas switch, smoke/smolder/burn

But remember http://businesscenter.jdpower.com/news/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2009043

shampoop · Jun 4, 2012

Also, remember that some stuff that is pretty dumb to buy from snapon at full price, is a no brainer at half price. With that discount lots of their rebadged stuff is the cheapest you'll find it anywhere, and lots of things that you don't need to be snapon are cheaper or similar in price to the competition at half off.

1stackmack · Aug 26, 2012

New guy here,
Just passing on info I was told to get:

Knipix pliers
Plyworx plier rack
Snapon Battery service kit
Snapon 1/4" general service kit (I think this is discontinued)

Kevin

tjmonsen5 · Aug 26, 2012

I would get 1/4 and 3/8 flex head ratchets. I hardly ever use my non-flex ratchets anymore.
Impact wrench, impact extensions, impact sockets. You will probably be doing a lot of tire rotations.
Torque wrench.
Oil filter pliers, a few different styles.
screwdrivers
a BFH.

SpiderGearsMan · Aug 26, 2012

Big Gus said:
I wouldn't get rid of the SAE stuff. Yeah, you probably won't use it much, but when you do need it, you need it damn bad.

I was a GM tech for 10 years and on occasion I used my SAE stuff. Your experience may vary, but I wouldn't say you NEVER need SAE stuff.

Also, I'd only buy what you can afford. Don't go into debt buying tools just because of a discount.

most of the sae went out when the new motors came out in the late 90s

r134 a machine [ACR 200] has built in gauges
you need ASE cert to legally work on AC

jeffk14 · Aug 27, 2012

SpiderGearsMan said:
most of the sae went out when the new motors came out in the late 90s

r134 a machine [ACR 200] has built in gauges
you need ASE cert to legally work on AC

Huh??? That must be a NJ thing. AFAIK, a 609 cert is all that's required to work on auto a/c. :headscrat

Tools needed by a entry level automotive technician

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