Advice for new Auto Techs

[Phantom552]

I know this topic has to already be here somewhere, but apparently my phone and the search feature dont play well together.

What im looking to accomplish is write up a pdf document for new techs to help them get up and running in the industry. The target obviously is the pretty green guys, who tend to start as a gs tech with basic hand tools doing basically brakes and fluids.

What tools would make their life easier? What advice would you give them? What should they try to learn to move up?

Every shop and/or geographical region has its own challenges, hurdles, etc. Which is why im looking to gather as much info as i can.

For example, where im at (AZ) a lot of new guys dont survive the summer season. If the shop youre working in here doesnt provide free cold drinks, a mini fridge or cooler with a few cold beverages in it makes things a lot more tolerable.

 

[gdocktor3]

This is gonna get crazy.

A lot of this (snap on) some of that (Matco) and a pinch of those (Mac). Don't forget the rest. Proto, SK, wright, Williams, gearwrench, craftsman, etc, etc.

 

[Phantom552]

This is gonna get crazy.

A lot of this (snap on) some of that (Matco) and a pinch of those (Mac). Don't forget the rest. Proto, SK, wright, Williams, gearwrench, craftsman, etc, etc.

Ahaha, not looking for a brand war, just the kinda stuff new guys might not think of... good pry bars for example, or a handfull of ball peen hammers, an adjustable oil filter wrench.... a lot of guys get by diying without em, but it sure helps when youre on the clock.

 

[d.mcfarland]

The more and better the tools, the more enjoyable and tolerable the job will be.

 

[plinker]

I had wrote up something similar recently, but it's geared more towards truck & equipment work then automotive. If anyone would like to see it I can post it.

 

[Richard Cranium]

Don't go into debt to buy tools, Buy the best quality you can afford.

 

[Pipe]

Be fast but do it right. Rechecks/comebacks are no bueno. Keep tools close by(in a cart) that can do multiple things.

 

[Rlfd213]

Find a mentor and apprentice under them. Do it right the first time and if you have questions ask. Don't bury yourself in debt just to have a lot of tools or a big box. Learn, learn learn. Elextrical and driveability issues ****

 

[anndel]

I know this topic has to already be here somewhere, but apparently my phone and the search feature dont play well together.

What im looking to accomplish is write up a pdf document for new techs to help them get up and running in the industry. The target obviously is the pretty green guys, who tend to start as a gs tech with basic hand tools doing basically brakes and fluids.

What tools would make their life easier? What advice would you give them? What should they try to learn to move up?

Every shop and/or geographical region has its own challenges, hurdles, etc. Which is why im looking to gather as much info as i can.

For example, where im at (AZ) a lot of new guys dont survive the summer season. If the shop youre working in here doesnt provide free cold drinks, a mini fridge or cooler with a few cold beverages in it makes things a lot more tolerable.

Isn't it an OSHA violation if the shop doesn't at least provide cold drinking water?

 

[SHolt]

The more and better the tools, the more enjoyable and tolerable the job will be.

I would love to see that. I'm currently working towards switching trades from carpenter to commercial transport mechanic!

 

[one9gt]

I had wrote up something similar recently, but it's geared more towards truck & equipment work then automotive. If anyone would like to see it I can post it.

PM me it if you can..thanks


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[d.mcfarland]

I would love to see that. I'm currently working towards switching trades from carpenter to commercial transport mechanic!

So a newcomer with a pipe wrench and a hammer is going to enjoy his/her job as much as someone with access to a huge variety of quality tools? I'm confused as to what you would love to see. Id love to see a list of stuff that won't break the bank and give a newcomer a great tool collection without breaking the bank. That will give them what they want. Tools that make money instead of take money.

 

[Phantom552]

I had wrote up something similar recently, but it's geared more towards truck & equipment work then automotive. If anyone would like to see it I can post it.

Feel free to post it up, id like to check it out even though its a different field.

 

[Phantom552]

Isn't it an OSHA violation if the shop doesn't at least provide cold drinking water?

Dont know offhand, and most shops have bottled water around, but its not always cold lol.

 

[ngk22r]

My advice:

Go back to school and get a real job.

 

[ciscoford23]

A lot of good suggestions. Like many have said don't spend tons of $ on tools. Get decent quality tools. Mostly impact sockets to keep cost down, Metric and SAE combination wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, oil change tools, brake tools.

Most important than that is have a good attitude and be a sponge not a wannbe know-it-all. Poor attitude will get you blackballed by the techs that have been wrenching forever and you'll need their help eventually. Just use common sense. If you need to borrow a tool ask nicely, return it promptly, if you break it get it fixed or replaced. If you get stuck on a problem give it a good try before you ask someone for help. Show them that you really tried. No one expects you to be a master tech right off the bat and don't act like it.

Ford ASSET graduate 1999

 

[SHolt]

The more and better the tools, the more enjoyable and tolerable the job will be.

So a newcomer with a pipe wrench and a hammer is going to enjoy his/her job as much as someone with access to a huge variety of quality tools? I'm confused as to what you would love to see. Id love to see a list of stuff that won't break the bank and give a newcomer a great tool collection without breaking the bank. That will give them what they want. Tools that make money instead of take money.

I didn't mean to quote what you had said I meant to quote plinker. I wanted to see his write up!

 

[gdocktor3]

Don't go into debt to buy tools, Buy the best quality you can afford.

I agree with that. Do your research and buy tools from original manufacturer before they get branded with Matco, Mac, Snap On, etc. Such as pry bars, buy Mayhew. Drill bits and extractors, but Irwin/Hansen. Sears/Craftsman screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, pry bars, channel locks, adjustable wrenches, pick sets, 6 point ratchet wrenches, and some more are all still made in the USA. Those are the best bang for your buck whether you're starting out or been in the industry for years.

 

[Adam.C]

I have some advice:
There's no such thing as a dry torque value. Every fastener needs something on it.
Work clean, stay clean, keep your clothes and hands clean, do clean work, keep your work area and tools clean.
Don't skimp on bit sockets. I would only get Snap On gold torx sockets. They really are that good.
Get the longest ratchets first. Get the best brand you can afford. Then stubbies, then std length.
Get the longest wrenches you can. I wouldn't rush out to buy another set of ratchet combos.
Ratchet wrenches and ratchet screwdrivers can be awesome. I'd buy a ratchet screwdriver set before a set of screwdrivers.
Wear your safety glasses.
Be curious. Ask yourself why a part broke. Look for root causes. Be observant. Broken vehicles are like crime scenes and you are Sherlock freakin Holmes.

 

[Tony G]

Run! get out while you still can. This trade *****. You will burnout by 30 or 40 and then it will be too late. Go back to school for something that is stable and not run by crooks & A-holes.However it is a decent hobby.

 

[Bill Anderson]

Don't go into debt to buy tools, Buy the best quality you can afford.

+1,000,000!!!!

The best tool they can have is their brain, using it not to get brainwashed, browbeat, coerced into buying from the tool trucks, into believing the big 3 is the only option for them.

And while I know this is not a brand war, new techs MUST realize that being saddled with debt, is NEVER smart. Yeah, the temptation is there, but they should know how important it is for them not to even step foot on those tool trucks.

For the 6 socket sets, 2 wrench sets, 1 screwdriver, and a few basic other hand tools, they would need, purchased from a tool truck, would be $2k-$3k. A good mentor could show them how to spend wisely, and avoid debt.

Buy a HF 42" bottom box, or even a 56" bottom box, Gear Wrench, Sunex, or Stanley (and yes Stanley makes decent tools at a very reasonable price) sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pry bars (Craftsman USA with metal top can be had for $30 on sale, and are very nice).

They can buy the box and the tools for less than the basic tools from the Big 3.

Not being in debt as a young person, cannot be stressed enough.

Okay, back on track

 

[Bill Anderson]

Be fast but do it right. Rechecks/comebacks are no bueno. Keep tools close by(in a cart) that can do multiple things.

This too! The value of mobile carts/boxes, is way underestimated, and saves a bunch of time/year, from running back and forth to a box that is stationary. Which in turn is $ in their savings.

 

[WhiffySpark]

So how many people that posted so far are actually techs?

And good luck on cold water. Most owners could give a damn less about osha, department of labor or the epa

 

[Bill Anderson]

So a newcomer with a pipe wrench and a hammer is going to enjoy his/her job as much as someone with access to a huge variety of quality tools? I'm confused as to what you would love to see. Id love to see a list of stuff that won't break the bank and give a newcomer a great tool collection without breaking the bank. That will give them what they want. Tools that make money instead of take money.

Exactly!!! Getting some wise advise on here. Hopefully the new techs will take heed.

 

[90zcar]

Run! get out while you still can. This trade *****. You will burnout by 30 or 40 and then it will be too late. Go back to school for something that is stable and not run by crooks & A-holes.However it is a decent hobby.

Exactly. Well said


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[plinker]

This is a list I made up for the new guys starting where I work. Some of the list is subjective as others may place more importance on air ratchets being a priority for example. There are also tools meant for class 8 truck work and some fab/hydraulic/build work, which is what I do/work on.

Some things say "(ask)", that stuff is kind of specific or has details about use which need to be addressed. There also could be multiple options available and to ask what others have/use.

It is a good list to start with and I would use it more as a check list then anything. Not everyone will agree on some of the selections, but it's a work in progress.
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This list is a basic list of tools for beginners in truck repair. Some tools are not really "basic" tools and are noted as to inquire about. Some are also included as they are just plain handy.
This is not a comprehensive list and you will find other tools to buy that are not listed and will make life easier. This list is intended to get you started. You will end up borrowing some tools, make a list of what they are and how often you borrow them so you can plan for buying them.

Hammers, pry bars & striking tools
24oz ball peen
3lb mini sledge
45-53oz deadblow
brass hammer/plastic tip hammer
pin punch set, 1/16 to 3/8
center punches
3/4x8" brass drift
roll punch set
cold chisel set
line up punch 8"-10"
screwdriver handle pry bar set to 36"
rolling head/ladyfoot prybar set
30" "die setter" bar (for wheel seal removal) An indexable prybar may work the same way, I have not tried it
screwdrivers for prying **** (do not use you're good screwdrivers for this)
transfer/pattern punches are very nice to have if you do fab work.
various gasket scraper types are available, ask about what to get

Sockets & ratchets
Except for 1/4 drive, buy impact sockets mainly. They will be used the most. Get chrome sockets as needed for clearance problems. 6 point sockets are best unless noted.

1/4 drive
4-15mm, 3/16 -9/16, deep & shallow sockets, 3",6",10" extensions (wobble and normal), impact u-joint, 1/4 to 3/8 adapter . 6" Long flex ratchet, 4.5" standard ratchet, 8pt sockets 1/4, 5/16, 3/8


3/8 drive -
8mm-21mm, 5/16-3/4+, deep & shallow sockets 1.5", 3",6",10", normal and wobble extensions, impact U-joint, 3/8to 1/4 adapter, 3/8 to 1/2 adapter, breaker bar 10", 12" long flex ratchet, 7.5" ratchet, 3/8 male pipe plug socket
hex bit sets, typical sets are 3mm -10mm, 1/8-3/8, Torx set T8/T10 to T55 (usually contains 1/4 & 3/8 drive sockets)
Torque wrench 5-75 ftlb range

1/2 drive
10-24mm +, 7/16-1-1/4 + deep & shallow sockets, 3", 5-6", 10", 15" extensions (normal & wobble except 15") impact U-joint, 1/2 to 3/8 adapter, 1/2 to 3/4 adapter, 10" ratchet, 17" long flex ratchet, 18" breaker bar, 8pt socket set 7/16 to 3/4 +, 1/2 male pipe plug socket, 12pt sockets 1/2, 12mm for driveline
Hex bit sockets, common sizes are 10 ,12, 14, 17, 3/8, 1/2 ,5/8, 3/4
Torque wrench 50-250 ft lbs range
other.........
3/4 to 1/2 adapters
3/4 to 1" adapter

Wrenches, Get 12pt wrenches, most will be anyway.
long combo set 7-19+21, +larger as needed (24,27,30,32 common)
long combo set 1/4-1-1/4 + larger as option
stubby combo wrench set 3/8-15/16
stubby combo set 7-19+21,
ratcheting combo wrenches, user preference to flex or non flex, 10-18+, 5/16 - 3/4+
adjustable wrenches 8", 8" wide jaw, 10"-12", 15"-18"
Pipe wrenches 10"-12" & 18" are nice to have.

Angle wrenches, zero degree box wrenches and others are an option later as funds permit. Crowfoot wrenches can be especially helpful in loader work and other applications

Pliers
needle nose 6"
slip joint 6"
wire cutters 8"
Channellocks 10-12", 16"
long reach pliers (double joint type)
snap-ring pliers (various sets available)
filter pliers 16"+
hose pinch off pliers are nice to have for coolant lines and suc. needle nose vise grips can also be use w/ tape or shrink tube on the jaws.
Vise grips (cannot have too many) 5",7",10" curve jaw, 6",9" needle nose, 7",10" flat jaw, C-clamp type are nice to have,

Wiring tools
wire stripper
wire crimper
small wire cutters, 4"
3/8 nut driver
mini torch
test light
basic DMM/multi meter
terminal release tools (ask)
open barrel crimper (ask)
weatherpack crimper (ask)
Cutter/stripper/crimper combo tools are not usually good quality resulting in poor repairs and will not always fit where needed.

Screwdrivers
basic 5pc set w/ 3/16, 1/4, 3/8 flat, no. 1 & 2 phillips (8pc would have a #3ph & couple more flats)
stubby #2 ph & 1/4 flat
mini tip set 4pc w/ 2x flat 2x phillips
Torx set T10 to T27
mini hook & pick set
long mini hook & pick set
cotter pin puller
radiator hose pick (basic one)
screwdrivers for prying **** (do not use you're good screwdrivers for this)
Ratcheting screwdriver (1/4 hex insert bits) >optional< I prefer them.
Decent bit set

misc.
rolling tool box (buy one a lot larger then you think you need.)
tool cart (nice to have eventually)
creeper
cordless work lights, cant have too many, but get quality lights.
magnetic parts dishes/pans
hacksaw
utility knife
tape measures
various squares
metal marking pens/pencils/paint markers
wire bristle brush
magnetic pick up tool (magnet)
mirror
oil filter strap wrench/band wrench, or both
hex key sets, inch & metric,
air blow gun
tire filler and gauge (or inflator gauge)
tread depth gauge
valve core tool
valve cap tool
clip board
air regulator
airline release tool set for pushlock connections
plastic/rubber hose cutter
basic seal puller tool
slack adjuster tools (ask)
round, flat & triangle hand files
putty knives, 1" wide, 3-4" wide

drill bits & taps & ****
drill bit set to 1/2"
rethreading/threadchaser kit
basic carbide bur set
spiral extractor set
Left hand drill set
tap & die set(s)

Air hammer bits
short hammer face bit
cold chisel, 1/2" & 3/4
11"+ long chisel 3/4
3/8 straight punch
pointed punch
truck anchor pin remover installer, expensive but worth it
rounded chisels for removing hydaulic fittings ASK

Air & power tools
Get now...
1/2 impact
3/8 impact
air hammer long barrel style
1/2" cap air drill
angle die grinder 1/2hp
die grinder 1/2hp
Get later......
3/8" cap air drill
straight and angle mini die grinders
1/4 air/battery ratchet
3/8 air/battery ratchet
12v cordless drill/driver
Many other air tools are available, these are the basic "must have" tools I've found, buy others as needed.

 

[Bill Anderson]

Plinker,

That is a very comprehensive list for a beginner, and that was/is very good of you make that list available to them/us. New techs at your place are very lucky to have you around.

 

[GTA Matt]

Step 1: Listen
Step 2: STFU and listen
Step 3: If you borrow it once, go buy it. If you're just starting out and you need something, you're definitely going to need it again
Step 4: LISTEN!
Step 5: Don't buy cheap **** tools just because they're cheap. You want the longest 3/8 ratchet you can get and quality wrenches. Pliers, sockets, screwdrivers, etc. should be pretty straightforward.

Step 6: No claw hammers!!!

 

[kctyphoon]

I'd hate to say it, cause this is a thread with good intentions - but there's too many people in here with different options, and everyone's situation is different. So "MY" advice to anyone who is new, starting ANY job that requires spending money to get started is this -

The only person who can best access your situation is YOU. If you don't have money - then "BORROWING or taking LOANS" out to buy the most expensive tools you can find is just foolish. Do not put yourself into debt starting a new career (you might wind up hating) because other people tell you it's a smart life long investment. NOBODY in here has a crystal ball, and EVERYONE in here can at least agree that their life at 40 or 50 is nothing like they thought is would be when they were 18 , 20 and maybe even 30. If you want a "life long investment" buy cheaper tools (not junk) that still work well, and invest in your future in the form of a bank account, or a home - not a tool box. then, when you've made some money and have a nice coushin, and know for sure this is what you want to keep doing - upgrade later at a slower pace when the burden won't be so great if you feel you need to, or just want to. Options are always nice to have - and you should make any large decision with that in mind. Tool for tool - a box filled with gearwrench and channellock will earn you the same amount of money at the end of the week as one filled with snap on.

Not many people buy a $400,000 home as a first place when they move out of mom and dads even though that's probaly where they might wind up. They start off slow and expand as needed.. Will you spend more money doing that after 30 years? Yes - but you would have made those 30 years of your life much easier on yourself day to day because you didn't start out putting yourself in a hole you then needed to dig yourself out of.. Other things will happen in life you won't expect, and the truth is your life should not defined and dictated by your job. It's just a way to make money, which is another reason why putting yourself into debt for years so you can "make that money back" is just counterproductive. The single most important peice of advice I'd give to a young person is to start saving money before you have real bills to contend with. Even if it's just $25 or $50 a week.. You have no idea how much a few thousand dollars in the bank will help you in the future.

 

[zendriver]

Run! get out while you still can. This trade *****. You will burnout by 30 or 40 and then it will be too late. Go back to school for something that is stable and not run by crooks & A-holes.However it is a decent hobby.

Ah, the words that make 2016 America great! What's a stable career, especially that does not cause burnout?

A lot of old wrenches are retiring (or dying). Younger folks around here, that get training and a little experience, opens shops in a pole barn, or garage out back, turning away business (because they are swamped) and charging nearly whatever they feel like, which if their work is even halfway decent, people will gladly pay.

All jobs stink.

 

[K-Dog]

Gloves, gloves, gloves.
Safety should be number one, always.

 

[Fedwrench]

Entry level techs need to think lube & tires off/on.

It depends on where & what you're working on but, I would start with a service cart like the 6 drawer units from homak or sunex. Yes you could get the harbor freight bottom unit cheaper but, you have better mobility with the smaller units.

1/2 drive impact wrench
1/2 drive deep impact sockets in common lug nut sizes 19, 21, 22mm
Torque stick 90/100/120 ft lbs
Decent digital tire inflator
Lube tools: filter pliers/band wrenches/cartridge filter cap sockets
Sure shot brake clean sprayer
Tread gauge
Trim panel tool
Rechargeable flashlight (the brighter and smaller the better)
Basic pliers dykes/slip joint/long nose/arc joint pliers
Cable hose clamp pliers
1/4 drive socket set (SK master set or similar
3/8 drive socket set (SK master set or similar
VIM hex/torx bit set or similar
Combination wrench set long pattern 7-22mm
Combination screwdriver set
Magnetic screwdriver with assorted torx bits
1/2 drive breaker bar with a 1/2F X 3/8 male adapter
Small & longer handled pry bars
16oz & 24 ozball peen hammer
Soft face hammer
Assorted punches/cold chisels only a few
Led test light
DVOM

I can't stress enough that as an entry level tech, you're working on what is probably the second largest purchase a person makes, their car.
It's not about the tools, it's about a positive attitude, an eagerness to learn, being early to work, work is work and your phone should stay in the bottom drawer of our cart aside from lunch time, and keep your dickbeaters (hands) clean when touching customer cars and don't grease up their mats & carpets with your dirty shoes. Learn quickly that time is money, no wasted steps, or actions. The tech makes the tools do wonders but, no amount of shiny tools can make you a great tech.

 

[Xxslyer1]

My advice:

Go back to school and get a real job.

First advice I give the college kids right here!!!!!! They don't listen though!

 

[Richard Cranium]

Some one on another thread said to get the min. tools you need to do the job you are doing. Then start getting the tools that you will need for your next type work will need.

 

[JJThrasher]

I've been in the field just over a year now professionally. I went to tech school for a few years before that. I work at an independent shop that requires an 8-12 on Saturdays. In the last couple weeks I have had to tally up the tools for the insurance man and I came up just a tad under $30K. My tool debt is around a $500 balance I carry with the SO guy. Usually pay him $50 a week and buy something every time my balance gets too low. Honestly I could pay it off, its just not worth it to me.

When I started where I'm at I used basic shop provided tools, and borrowed what I needed. Then I had a 8 drawer cart. Now I have a 75" truck brand box that I own outright.

I work with a guy that has almost no tools and what he does have are Chinese **** that he is constantly having to get warrantied or replace. I don't understand why he goes through the headache.

I'd say my biggest piece of advice is to buy quality tools and only buy what you need.

Gearwrench makes great wrenches at a reasonable price.
SO makes the best sockets (IMO).
Ratchets Matco and SO are bought great and the guy can warranty. Gearwrench 120XPs are good too.
Craftsman screwdrivers work.
OTC makes good suspension and front end tools.
Lisle is a good brand and the auto parts stores can warranty them.

Any brand recommendations are this poster's personally opinions. I am not trying to start a fight or a debate just merely offering my opinions on what I like.

 

[mdtaylorjr]

As a pro I'll tell you that some things need to be high end and some can be off brands. Things that should be high end, torx and hex sockets. Go with snap on for these there is a difference. Most other torx and hex don't fit right and either twist the socket or rip the hole out of the bolt head. Sockets- I've actually picked up great neck sockets at autozone cheap and pretty good quality. Ratchets once again snap on is my preferred brand here. Never broken one and they hold up to anything you throw at them within reason. Screwdrivers- wittes are good ones to start and feel good in hand. Hammers- I like the snap on hbbd series but hammers are a matter of preference buy what feels good to you. Wrenches- depends on your field if your a front end tech who is always using open ends buy the snap on. If your going to use primarily box ends the old cman USA box ends are actually pretty strong. Toolbox- a 40" premium combo from Sears will get you several years while you build your collection less money on box up front = more money for tools. Once you fill it up buy the biggest bix you. Can afford I chose the snap on epiq series its huge. And a cart is invaluable figure out your most common tools load them up in there and roll it car to car. Specialty tools buy as you need them and whatever brands you like. At the end of the day you will always be spending on tools. OEMs keep coming up with new fasteners tland you've got to keep up. And once you get your basics then upgrade to the truck brands. Good luck with your new career choice.

 

[wafrederick]

Impact sockets,you don't have to buy the tool truck brands.Grey Pnuematic and Sunnex will do the job with a much cheaper price and have a lifetime warranty.

 

[dankicksass]

Buy this tire gauge and tread depth micrometer.
Accutire

Buy this tire inflator.
Astro

Buy this wheel weight tool.
Gearwrench

 

[gearheads78]

Elextrical and driveability issues ****

Not as much as rattles LOL

 

[wafrederick]

Not as much as rattles LOL

MY dad had to figure out where a rattle was coming from in a 1977 Chrysler once when he worked at a Chrysler dealership.Other techs could not find it and he did.Took the driver's side front door panel off and found an empty beer can inside the door causing it.Someone down the assembly line threw the beer can in that door when it was built.