Any measuring tools you can recommend for a collision tech?

[Ktmrider83]

Started a new job at a collision center. Looking for a tram gauge and any other measuring devices to determine which parts are bent. Thanks for any suggestions. We dont have an alignment rack and some of these insurance companies like to do bare minimum, the more I can prove right off the bat the smoother the process goes. Thanks for any help

 

[Dingleburry]

I cannot but this may be of interest maybe?

 

[Ktmrider83]

Holy **** haha. It's pretty amazing what can be put back together with enough skill.. I am only doing the mechanical aspect of things, subframe, steering, suspension ect..

 

[mbshop]

Most manufacturers will have the requirements and tools needed to do the job correctly and safely. Why you don't have a rack is beyond me.

 

[Ktmrider83]

Yup it's a real time waster not having it in house. You get these cheap insurance companies that want proof the strut and knuckle are bent let's say, when I can't prove it they say start with the strut.. fails alignment, than I do the knuckle..waste of time

 

[rsanter]

There is a special tape measure with a thin hook on the end
It is used to hook into a body hole and then measure to another point.
Easier and better than using a standard tape measure

 

[4lug39]

https://www.cpooutlets.com/on/deman...kilnart90mini/images/xlarge/kilnart90mini.jpg

A tram gauge is one of thebest tools to have.

 

[speedpower]

A tram gauge will give you most information you need.
If you deal full frame trucks you may need center gauge as well.

Unless you have an alignment machine, you can't tell exactly which suspension part is damaged other than the obvious.

 

[Gmonkee]

I do that in the same capacity. Strip the wreck and replace the big hard parts when replacement parts come in.

Sadly it's become nearly all hack work. Budget rules over all and suggestions yo spend more are not appreciated. Get it to pass alignment and you're golden.
I have ten years in already and you just become another cog in the machine. I do what the boss says and my paydays come.

 

[BikerDad]

https://www.kohls.com/product/prd-3...gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CPWJuY7F6dcCFY9pfgod1IAFbg

 

[creativecars]

Started a new job at a collision center. Looking for a tram gauge and any other measuring devices to determine which parts are bent.

I'm may be sorry I asked, but what kind of 'collision center' does not have a tram gauge?
These things are usually shop equipment and if you want one for yourself then you buy it, but a collision center should have basic shop tools and equipment.

 

[NYBODYMAN]

^^^ +1 on this. Also STECK Tools makes the measuring tape with a hook in the end.
https://www.steckmfg.com/36000_MeasureNStick.html

 

[creativecars]

This one is about as inexpensive as tram gauges get. Autobody tool mart sells these. https://www.autobodytoolmart.com/champ-tram-gauge-non-calibrated-p-11527.aspx