Advice on Heavy Duty Mechanic Tools

[HurtinAlbertan]

Hey all,

New account here, love the forum. I'm in the process of accumulating tools for the Heavy Equipment mechanic trade, and I'd love some advice on a few things.

What's the consensus on Tekton Tools? I buy a lot of their stuff (impact sockets, extensions, combinations wrenches) and I've always been impressed with the fit and finish for the value. I just don't know how they will hold up over time. On fairly basic tools like extensions, are they a pretty good bet?

Can a heavy duty mechanic make do with just impact sockets in 1/2 drive, or will the extra thickness be a big problem?

Do the larger sized phillips (#3 #4) get used much? If so, what are they used on?

Can I get away with cheaper combination wrenches on the sizes over 7/8s?

Do the Wera screwdriver rubber handles hold up to grease and brake cleaner fairly well, or should I only buy hard handles?

Snap On online won't take my debit card. How does a general consumer get onto a snap on truck?

Jet and Westward are pretty common lower end industrial brands here in Canada, are they a pretty good bet for tools like adjustable wrenches, prybars, big screwdrivers, ect?

Can I cheap out on 3/4 drive stuff, being that there is enough metal there that they can stand the torque?

Thanks for the help!

 

[Jeepster425]

I have some tekton stuff, very minimal though. The impacts should be good, I have a mix between harbor freight, snap on and craftsman.

Sometimes fitment is an issue with impact 1/2", I actually use alot of chrome craftsman 1/2".but I work on semi's, not tractors or machinery.

Cheaper big wrenches have worked just fine for me, I've got sk that I got for super cheap at a swap meet 7/8-1 3/8, and the pittsburg set 1 3/8-2, never had a problem with any of them.

To get onto a snap on truck, find a local guy and just go talk to him, I believe they list them online? (Not too sure)

I also have the pittsburg(harbor freght) 3/4 drive set, again never had an issue. I believe their impacts are good too, never had a problem with them.


Sent from my SM-G925T using Tapatalk

 

[gdocktor3]

I use my debit card on Snap On's website, the trick is to have money in your account! Just kidding. Welcome! From what I've seen and used, Westward is on par with HF, so I'd go with the brand that's easiest to warranty. I always recommend buying used truck brand tools from eBay, cl, or flea markets, but strongly recommend doing so in this case. Since you're still accumulating, it doesn't appear you need them immediately anyways. While HF tools and similar cheap brands may very well do the job just fine, heavy equipment techs really put their tools to work and you need something reliable and strong that will work each and every time you ask them too. For impact sockets, I'd buy Sunex. I like hard handle screwdrivers and actually only own two soft handles.

Take the time to search used. I've found some incredible deals on barely used Snap On, Mac, SK, etc. I'd say over 50% of my tools were purchased used or new old stock.

 

[bcradio]

What's the consensus on Tekton Tools? I buy a lot of their stuff (impact sockets, extensions, combinations wrenches) and I've always been impressed with the fit and finish for the value. I just don't know how they will hold up over time. On fairly basic tools like extensions, are they a pretty good bet?

I would say they are good for some of the basics. I would upgrade at least wrenches and ratchets though if you are a pro.

Get the Tekton 40" 3/4 dr breaker bar

Can a heavy duty mechanic make do with just impact sockets in 1/2 drive, or will the extra thickness be a big problem?

I think you should have no problem going this route. Just make sure your set doesn't skip sizes.

Do the larger sized phillips (#3 #4) get used much? If so, what are they used on?

I would get at least a #3

Can I get away with cheaper combination wrenches on the sizes over 7/8s?

Buy quality up to at least 1"/19mm

Can I cheap out on 3/4 drive stuff, being that there is enough metal there that they can stand the torque?

Don't cheap out on the ratchet or breaker bar or impact wrench. Sockets and extensions will probably be ok to get less expensive brands.


That's all the questions I can help with

 

[Billythekid1]

I would goto 1 1/4 in a better brand then get harbor freight from 1 5/16-2 you can just get impact sockets at first then get a few chrome sockets in the sizes u need the thin wall chrome buy a ratchet to use your impact sockets on there r a lot of places a gun won't fit I've worked on heavy equipment for the last year just don't act like u know it all when u get to the new job if u went to school cause u will learn more the first month at the new job then u did in a year of school don't b afraid to ask questions and makesure u know what your doing cause it's a lot easier to hurt someone else working on big trucks they r 50000 pound death rockets when they don't work right and stay away when the drivers drop them off half of them can't drive

 

[Rossco]

Depends really. Are you a trainee? What kinda 'HD' equipment are you working on? What kinda company are you working for? Does the company supply any tools?

 

[04chase]

for hd equipment youll need 3/4 impact or larger. i do this type of work for the phone company and on our bigger trucks (80k gvw) i need a 1" at times for wheels.

For sockets i have found the 8 piece i/r set pretty handy that comes in a plastic box.

i have snap on wrenches up to 1 1/2 and bigger i have harbor freight that i have had to hack for certain jobs.

Hydraulic will require some dual angle wrenches which i have some china ones i actually like because of their skinny profile.

do it for a while and go from there. No matter how long you do it , youll always find a great tool you dont have.

 

[GeorgeFromPa]

get the williams wrenches.. they are monsters.. i do truck frames and stuff. you can put a 10 foot pipe on them and they will never break

 

[HurtinAlbertan]

Some really useful insight here. Thank you. Most of the work that I am currently doing is just working on older heavy equipment for family. I eventually plan on apprenticing at a shop, which is why I am trying to put a box together.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Hey all,

New account here, love the forum. I'm in the process of accumulating tools for the Heavy Equipment mechanic trade, and I'd love some advice on a few things.

First off, welcome to the forum! Keep your wallet handy...

Can a heavy duty mechanic make do with just impact sockets in 1/2 drive, or will the extra thickness be a big problem?

I only used 1/2" impacts working on trucks and equipment. I had chromes, but they never got used. 3/8" drive impacts (and a compact cordless impact wrench/driver to match) can be a lifesaver in tight spots with a lot of smaller fasteners (gearbox and trans covers, engine bolt on parts, etc.)

Do the larger sized phillips (#3 #4) get used much? If so, what are they used on?

I don't recall ever using PH4 and very rarely using PH3. More hex and torx than those in my experience. I've used PH3 more when we get the odd portable Honda generator through the shop than I have working on the big stuff.

Can I get away with cheaper combination wrenches on the sizes over 7/8s?

Short answer is yes. I had a mix of Northern Tool (now Klutch), Harbor Freight and some misc Kobalt USA jumbo wrenches. Also had a set of HF jumbo angle wrenches for hydraulic lines on CAT equipment. Buy cheap to start, shop may provide some, and you can upgrade your daily use ones as you go. It's nice to have cheap ones to cut up if you need to (a coworker had a set of the HF angle wrenches that had the center cut down and re-welded so they were like 16" long).

Can I cheap out on 3/4 drive stuff, being that there is enough metal there that they can stand the torque?

Most shops should provide 3/4" & 1" drive stuff (sockets and impact wrenches). Problem is the shop impact wrenches are usually ancient, heavy, worn out and someone else is using it for the next hour while you wait to get that last stuck nut off. The most needed sockets are usually in use when you need them as well.

The IR 8pc 3/4" impact set that 04chase mentioned is a great set, and will stand up to what you can throw at it. Primarily I'd recommend getting a GOOD 1/2" impact wrench, impact sockets and a 1-1/2" deep impact in 1/2" drive (I opted for Sunex). You'll use it, I swear. Also make sure you have a 3/4" to 1/2" impact adapter, since sometime you just need to spin the larger stuff out after breaking it loose with a wrench, and don't need to lug the big gun around.

 

[ptschram]

Snap On online won't take my debit card. How does a general consumer get onto a snap on truck?

Call 877-762-7662 and ask for them to email your nearest franchisee and for his/her name and phone number.

When you speak with the franchisee, be honest and realistic about your purchasing intentions AND more importantly, have a list of tools you want to buy NOW. If you're on-line, you know the prices, be prepared to pay cash (check or credit/debit card) and also to have your credit run.

Personally, I have no problem with House Calls, but some guys do.

If you are prepared to purchase, you're likely to find the tools on the truck when you schedule a stop.

I have some VERY good House Calls and I try to take care of them just as well as those who work in shops. Sometimes better!

To answer your questions about tools, keep in mind that you're working on big stuff. What's gonna happen if a cheap tool breaks? Are you gonna get hurt? Are cheap tools gonna scar a fastener to where you can't remove it and reinstall it?

The cost of cheap tools can be far more than their price, good tools can be far more valuable than their price.

 

[Lassen Forge]

Hey Albertan... welcome to the shop!

Some thoughts, having made a living working on diesel stuff...

Remember there's still a need for smaller stuff - think working in governor boxes, injector racks, in the cab of the equipment, etc.

To get into a snap on truck - you walk into it. Get his schedule, and find someplace he's close to where you are, and become his bestest friend. You may have some issue with credit until he (or she) gets to know you, and be ready to empty your wallet as y ou build your gear, but generally they're pretty open to selling stuff to a walk-in or independent pro. Just don't get in over your head, and make sure you show up at their mobile candy store to pay your bills on time.

And to parrot pt... working professionally on heavy equipment or diesel gear, you need good quality tools. Cheap *may* get you by once or twice, but if you abuse it day in and day out (and working diesel, it will get abused) you are setting yourself up for disaster and probable injury. And it ***** turning a wrench with your hand wrapped up from getting whacked or opened up from a failed cheap tool.

 

[ptschram]

Just remember there's still a need for smaller stuff - think working in governor boxes, injector racks, in the cab of the equipment, etc.

Good point. Even HD techs need 1/4 drive stuff.

To get into a snap on truck - you walk into it. Get his schedule, and find someplace he's close to where you are, and become his bestest friend. You may have some issue with credit until he (or she) gets to know you, and be ready to empty your wallet as you build your gear, but generally they're pretty open to selling stuff to a walk-in or independent pro. Just don't get in over your head, and make sure you show up at their mobile candy store to pay your bills on time.

First off, it is as much my responsibility to not over-sell to a customer as it is for a customer to not over-buy. It is definitely a shared responsibility.

If a walk-on gets on my truck and wants to have a long-term relationship with me and has good credit and a stable work/residence history, I have no problem extending credit. It's the guys who jump on the truck in the Wal-mart parking lot when I'm getting prescriptions filled who aren't likely to have credit extended to them. Similarly, if you jump on the truck in the Wal-Mart parking lot and DEMAND I give you a new tool box because you had yours topple out of the back of a pick-up truck as you were running away form having been fired from a shop you WILL be told to GTFO my truck!

 

[Moto77]

I've been in the trade a couple years and started out with Jet and master craft. Honestly both have held up well. Start with the basics and add to it as you advance.
Stay off the tool trucks until your making some better money.
I honestly buy most of my tools online, as there is far better selection than what's available in stores here in Canada.
Personally, I wouldn't bother with chrome 1/2'' drive if I had to do it all over again. Spend the money on a good quality 1/2'' impact set and a good powerful gun. I splurged and got a set of wright impacts and wouldn't hesitate spending money on a quality brand like that, but that's just my opinion.
Keep an eye out on local garage sales and kijiji and you can score some really great tools at low prices. Good luck.

 

[Roddyo]

I used to get by fine with IR deep impacts and a shallow set of 12 point snap on chrome sockets in my road box. I would buy Williams sockets over the snap on new if your not getting the service.

For impacts I would go Sunex or grey pneumatic and watch for sales, especially on Sunex.

Watch for BOGO sales from Gearwrench also.

Screwdrivers. Wait for Christmas if you can. There should be one or two dealers offering members deals almost at cost for Wera, Felo and Wiha.

 

[Pipe]

Also 1/2 crowfeet come in handy sometimes with hydraulic lines.

 

[Gmonkee]

Some consistent and solid advice above.

Former mech on old big yellow machines and two questions I lived the answer. Lessor brand big wrenches and 3/4" sockets will get you through a day nicely. You'll beat them to hell eventually anyway doing something desperate. Get better drive tools.
Halfer impact sockets worked great for me as my only sockets. I did see some were wearing a bit after five years.

Lifting devices and many many pieces of dunnage will be your friend. If you work soft land a big steel plate to lay as a base will be so handy. Even old screw jacks of the right size and condition will be a very helpful "cheaper" tool in a sport where everything worth having is more than you'll make all week.

Use mechanical means to lift whenever possible to save your back. Suprermech who can lift anything will not have a long career in that.

Think safety first, lift and block it up solidly before thinking about going under anything. Can you bench press 35 tons?
Will that chain hold up the part without worries? If not get a thicker one BEFORE the lift.

I got out with all fingers and toes intact, even the three in the jar. Lol....

 

[04chase]

Some consistent and solid advice above.

Former mech on old big yellow machines and two questions I lived the answer. Lessor brand big wrenches and 3/4" sockets will get you through a day nicely. You'll beat them to hell eventually anyway doing something desperate. Get better drive tools.
Halfer impact sockets worked great for me as my only sockets. I did see some were wearing a bit after five years.

Lifting devices and many many pieces of dunnage will be your friend. If you work soft land a big steel plate to lay as a base will be so handy. Even old screw jacks of the right size and condition will be a very helpful "cheaper" tool in a sport where everything worth having is more than you'll make all week.

Use mechanical means to lift whenever possible to save your back. Suprermech who can lift anything will not have a long career in that.

Think safety first, lift and block it up solidly before thinking about going under anything. Can you bench press 35 tons?
Will that chain hold up the part without worries? If not get a thicker one BEFORE the lift.

I got out with all fingers and toes intact, even the three in the jar. Lol....

Solid advice , one thing is once things start moving usually its too late. be safe as this job can be dangerous . The longer you do it , you can start to get lazy and gain bad habits so make sure to make them good and dont slack. always releive hydraulic pressure before cracking a line . Saftey glasses that can double as sun glasses are great as i wear them all the time . Had a friend lose an eye to an angle allen wrench and stud (wrench shattered when he was turning it and a shard hit his rhetna) His peripheral vision went to **** and lost alot of abilities he had .

 

[WittHay]

I find working on farm machinery you need both chrome + impact 1/2" drive sockets

#3 +#4 Phillips are used on larger 1970's and 80's farm tractors

Cheaper combination wrenches can be used over 1"

Mac hard handle slotted screwdrivers work well in oil and anti- freeze and for mini pry bars

Jet and Westward are not good options for the tools in your question

Princess Auto 3/4" drive chrome sockets made in Taiwan are OK. I use Westward 3/4" and 1" drive impact sockets with no problems.

Hope this helps. Good luck

 

[Jazz1]

My son as well as being journeyman boilermaker is also heavy equipment mechanic and all his hand tools are Ctire and Jet. No issues. We went pawn shopping to get all his tools few years ago and only spent $1000 including some air tools. Only tool he has bought since was a Dewalt die grinder which turned out to be a POS. Unfortunately their warranty gave him another. Also got a $800 GRAY tool chest for $200 that some other aspiring mechanic had never taken out of the box.

 

[RedneckWelder]

IR air tools- don't go cheap. I did and I had to buy my die grinders (angle and straight) three times

3/8 and 1/2, sometimes 3/4 are the bread and butter drive sizes. Still use 1/4 and 1" but not nearly as much

You want quality ratchets, wrenches up to 1 1/4. If you are putting tons of torque on a tool you don't want to cheap out too much. Grey Pnuematic and Sunex make fine impact sockets in all drive sizes. Also don't hesitate to buy used

Your larger wrenches are typically used for holding nuts for an impact or breaking loose hydraulic fittings. You'll want large crows feet (normal not flare nut), angle wrenches, and pump wrenches

I rarely use my screwdrivers

Good set of pry bars, including the big Mayhew or Snap On 54"

Buy high quality Allen bit sockets and torx sockets. Snap on gold

Get a Fluke 87 multimeter if you can.

Williams, Wright, Proto, SK are brands to look for