Beginning Mechanic Recommendations and New User!

[sberry]

Just my thoughts, I think it would be good to invest in some tool truck stuff,

Its not an investment, its tools, a liability that you have to pay for,,, and what they are really worth is on a classified or auction, depreciate worse than a new car. You can buy brand name tools all day long for 50 cents on the dollar used once by a little old lady.

Seen a truck tool box on ebay, couldnt sell it, had a fistfull of receipts that come to 60K, couldnt get 17 including the box. ha.

 

[sberry]

I find I dont need a full set of every kind of wrench they ever invented either. I own my own shop and provide all the tools, no one ever ever fusses to see what brand the ratchets are or if the sets match. Customers could care less, its not something I could charge more for tomorrow morning if I replaced all the craftsman with Snappy.

2 of the best ratches I ever own, some stuff I bought at the parts counter when I was desparate, handle finally slid off after 20 yrs, used severely still only half worn out, never need grease, nothing, not even a loose screw. Wouldn't trade them today for a couple new units from a truck.

 

[EverettNo1]

sberry- I see it as an investment. I'm not buying tools with the idea that I will be able to make money by selling them down the road. Rather, an investment that if I treat well, will last me a very long time. I have no intention to sell any of the tools I buy, especially quality ones. Only if I am desperate and in need of money. I want to do all I can to support the domestic labor force by buying US made tools. I understand I can't buy everything I need American made, but I want to that to the best of my ability. It's something that's really important to me. Doesn't have to be just Snap-On, I prefer any company that makes their products in the USA.

 

[west wind]

Good thing there are no white collar jobs that suffer from this! Oh wait...




Simple solution to this, exercise. How many mechanics do you see that are trully fit? The guys that go out on workmans comp are usually out of shape to begin with. Not saying injury cant happen in a physically demanding job but take care of yourself and your chances drop drastically. Likewise dont be friggan superman hefting heavy stuff around on your own. I use to love when the old guys gave me **** about asking for a hand on something heavy, guess who spent more time out of work?

Arthritis has nothing to do with being fit (which I am anyways) but is a repetative stress injury. And any mechanic will tell you what concrete and repetative motion does to the joints.

Working with cheap tools causes frustration because not only are many jobs already difficult, but now your doing the difficult job with a piece of ****.

Quality tools show the pride you take in your craftsmanship.

How would you feel about you dentist if he pulled out a pick set from harbor freight?

 

[bcradio]

How would you feel about you dentist if he pulled out a pick set from harbor freight?

I'd tell him to make sure its sterile and have at it

 

[west wind]

I'd tell him to make sure its sterile and have at it

Lol. Guess a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do

 

[richfinn]

It,s whats in your head that counts, not whats in your toolbox

That said.....buy the best you can afford, research every purchase, look for the best deals, buy used stuff if its in good order, don,t get sucked in by sales talk and techs playing the "my toolbox is cooler than yours" game (its just a toolbox).

It,s a good trade to be in. Don,t get disheartened by some of the dealer techs who are having it rough, they have had good times and bad but only focus on the present (which is understandable). It will be completely different in 10-15 years time.

 

[SlappyWhite]

Just make sure that the tool box has a very good locking system, regardless of price point!

 

[Steinmetz]

A suggestion: Add these items to your list. A flashlight, an inspection mirror, a magnet on a telescoping stick for retrieving items dropped into relatively inaccessible places, a flexible, retractable, push button claw for the same (me dad used to call this a "****** inverter"), and a brass hammer.

Good luck in school and with your new job.

 

[Steinmetz]

Also: A steel measuring tape and a steel pocket ruler.

 

[Skin]

Arthritis has nothing to do with being fit

You can just as easily get arthritis sitting in a chair pounding on a keyboard 8 hours a day.

 

[richfinn]

sberry- I see it as an investment. I'm not buying tools with the idea that I will be able to make money by selling them down the road. Rather, an investment that if I treat well, will last me a very long time. I have no intention to sell any of the tools I buy, especially quality ones. Only if I am desperate and in need of money. I want to do all I can to support the domestic labor force by buying US made tools. I understand I can't buy everything I need American made, but I want to that to the best of my ability. It's something that's really important to me. Doesn't have to be just Snap-On, I prefer any company that makes their products in the USA.

Your mistaken, I love tools but in no way are they an investment. They are a means to an end (that you will continue to buy for the rest of your career), your pay check at the end of the month doesn,t care what tools you used to fix those cars.

The investment is your education/training/knowledge. Thats what will make you money and pay your Mortgage.

You don,t need top of the range American tools to fix cars, you just need decent quality stuff that gets it done, the joy of this site is finding Snap-On quality for half the price, thats why there are so many savvy techs hanging out here, they are out to cut bills and increase knowledge

 

[Shadowdog500]

Welcome to the forum!

Are you going to be working for a guy in his shop? You said "great mechanic" so that is what popped in my mind. If so, ask the guy what he thinks you should get to work in his shop. If he sees you as an apprentice he may let you build your too, set as you build experience. I assume this because you seem young, with going to school in the winter.

Chris

 

[sdguy55]

Here are the drawbacks summed up into a nice little nutshell. Thanks to this economy and more and more dumb people buying cars and thinking they need nothing to last forever the last month I have been required to come into work for my normal 50 hours, got paid 40 one week, 37.7 the second week, 27.9 the third week, 13.7 the fourth and this week I will get 42.3.

Dude i realize times are tough and everything but honestly enough of the bitching. Get over it, you knew what kind of work you were getting into when you signed up for this gig. If you didnt you know now so get the hell out of it if it bothers you this much. And you can make all the excuses in the world but you are the only reason why your still there.

 

[EverettNo1]

I want the tools I buy to be an investment. These will be a way to earn money for a few years, I do not intend for this to be my career (as of right now). By going to school, I mean getting a piece of paper (a bachelor's degree) that says I can run a business or plan a building schedule, whatever it may be. I want these tools to be an investment because I want them to last my whole life. I do agree that education is an investment, the most valuable one at that.

I will be working for the shop owner as a beginning tech. Reason for the air/power tools is I will still have to be efficient and fast at my tasks (which will most likely be oil changes, general inspections and tire rotations). The owner is a really great guy, my parents and I have been going to him for as long as I can remember. I would bring my jeep in to the shop with the check light on, he'd pull the code, clear it, and tell me what might be wrong. Other times, he would go out of his way (or have the other Jeep savvy tech) come look at my Jeep after I experienced a problem. He would show me what is wrong, and how to fix it. The guy isn't out there to make a quick buck, I trust him a whole lot and he will do everything he can to give the best service.

 

[west wind]

Your mistaken, I love tools but in no way are they an investment. They are a means to an end (that you will continue to buy for the rest of your career), your pay check at the end of the month doesn,t care what tools you used to fix those cars.

The investment is your education/training/knowledge. Thats what will make you money and pay your Mortgage.

You don,t need top of the range American tools to fix cars, you just need decent quality stuff that gets it done, the joy of this site is finding Snap-On quality for half the price, thats why there are so many savvy techs hanging out here, they are out to cut bills and increase knowledge

Interesting view point. I can see how one could come to this conclusion, but I disagree. They are an investment. The reason being is that tools are an extension of the human hand. The more knowledge and experience you gain, the more jobs you will be able to do with your tools (provided you still have them). Which you should had you opted to purchase a quality tool with a proper warranty. And there is no shame in wanting to support your fellow American loborers. In fact I applaud you for it.

 

[EverettNo1]

I agree with your viewpoint. I also don't want to spend money for a cheap tool, have it most likely break, then spend even more money on the quality tool. And thank you! What's most important to me is that it's made here, and has a good warranty.

 

[richfinn]

Some fair points and great that patriotism for your fellow Americans is part of your purchase decision (even though I don,t understand it. Why would you put yourself out of pocket if your government wont stop the rot and tax the imports out of the market).

However, Investments increase in value as time goes by, I can tell you from years of blowing my wages on tools that this will never happen

Look at tools as a consumable that deteriorates over time and is superseded by better equipment because in reality thats what happens.

Sure buy good quality and look after them but look for the cheap deals and use what you save on good training and improving your knowledge.

Sometimes Snap On is the best value for the job, but quite often its not and having a fully matching set in whatever colour is in vogue (Kermit Green ) wont make you a better Mechanic/Technician.

I use a mixture of Good/Bad/Ugly tools. I dont buy top of the range power tools because they dont last any longer than the ugly Industrial stuff.

I buy European screwdrivers/pliers/hammers because they are great value for money.

I do like American Sockets/ratchets/spanners. But I cheap out on Impacts because they are soft and they wear out.

I like good quality meters and test equipment.

Other stuff, I will use any old **** or make my own out of junk or tools I buy used

 

[jmm]

I want the tools I buy to be an investment. These will be a way to earn money for a few years, I do not intend for this to be my career (as of right now). By going to school, I mean getting a piece of paper (a bachelor's degree) that says I can run a business or plan a building schedule, whatever it may be. I want these tools to be an investment because I want them to last my whole life. I do agree that education is an investment, the most valuable one at that.

It's nice to have top line tools and all, but DO NOT burden yourself with debt if you aren't sure this'll become a career. Trust me. Imports and cheaper US brands work just as well if you know how to spot quality and use your stuff correctly. My other 2 cents...you don't need a piece of paper to run a business or go places in the construction trade. If you want a career in the trades, 2 years -- minimal student loan damage -- is all you need; in some fields not even that. I'm not too much older than you and spent 2 years in a 4 year college before I realized what a crock it was (guess I thought I could trick myself outta wanting to wrench). There I was, 20 years old, no degree, and debt a mile high. Finally figured it out. It took a while to get in the free and clear, and make some sort of plan, but I'm there now. No doubt you're a different person than I was, but take what I and the rest of us are saying to heart. Best of luck.

 

[EverettNo1]

richfinn- The people that make decisions on outsourcing are making them based on capital gains, all they see is revenue from a product. I see every purchase I make as casting a vote for what product is in highest demand. I would rather vote on a domestic good than an outsourced one, because that is what the higher-ups look at. While letters and such can work, not purchasing outsourced products is the best way to show their business practices work. By buying goods made in the USA, I am speaking their languages, as I can believe a fair amount of the bean-counters don't know the difference between a ratchet and an extension.
jmm- I will do my best to stay far away from debt as I can. I have already told myself that I will only purchase tools I have cash in hand for, and setting limits for myself. And a piece of paper makes it much easier to change directions later on in life in the business field. I do honestly appreciate all the advice given here, it means a lot and I am learning a lot about the field already

 

[sdguy55]

If your going to be paying mostly in cash i can tell you with absolute certainty that your best bet on an American made tool is SK. They make some fantastic stuff and i guarantee they will outlast you if your doin just light duty stuff. This is coming from a guy who, while in college bought Snap-On, makes a living bendin wrenches and does so with SO. The first time i handled an SK ratchet and wrench i just said 'WOW'. The wrenches feel very nice in the hand and the ratchets are top notch. Believe me SK is your best bet. SO would be way overkill.

 

[dirtmister16]

not sure if anyone mentioned it while i was reading.

but two items i use several times a day. my streamlight stylus pro flashlight, my pocket screwdriver. i don't leave home without either, oh and one should always have a knife handy as well.


you guys covered every other tool aspect if you ask me.

 

[richfinn]

richfinn- The people that make decisions on outsourcing are making them based on capital gains, all they see is revenue from a product. I see every purchase I make as casting a vote for what product is in highest demand. I would rather vote on a domestic good than an outsourced one, because that is what the higher-ups look at. While letters and such can work, not purchasing outsourced products is the best way to show their business practices work. By buying goods made in the USA, I am speaking their languages, as I can believe a fair amount of the bean-counters don't know the difference between a ratchet and an extension.
jmm- I will do my best to stay far away from debt as I can. I have already told myself that I will only purchase tools I have cash in hand for, and setting limits for myself. And a piece of paper makes it much easier to change directions later on in life in the business field. I do honestly appreciate all the advice given here, it means a lot and I am learning a lot about the field already

I think it would be prudent to concentrate on your career and your own finances rather than trying to fix the US economy.

Look after number one first, and then you can look after your family

 

[EverettNo1]

sdguy55- I don't know of any S-K retailer near me other than Grainger, and I don't have an account with them. If I'm not mistaken, Grainger is similar to White Cap in that you need to have an account set up with them through an "organization" or business. Correct me if I'm wrong though.
dirtmister16- Check on both of those. I'm never without at least one knife on me
richfinn- I don't have a family to support, and I'm going to do my best to buy what I can that is made here. If your saying I should not support the domestic work force, I have to disagree with you there

 

[scouting]

If I'm not mistaken, Grainger is similar to White Cap in that you need to have an account set up with them through an "organization" or business.

Wrong on both counts, white cap and grainger will sell to the average joe, they. just prefer to sell to contractors, etc. You won't get quite the same level of service, but in my experience they'll gladly take your money.

That being said, I'd rather buy SK tools online, usually you can get a better deal.

 

[Beaubeau]

Buy impact not chrome, saves getting double down the line, grey pneumatic has the duo socket, thin wall impacts that's what I have, I got every size from 1/4 to 1/2 short and deep, saved heaps and everyone always borrows the big 1/2 ones...but if you want us made get snappy impacts 3/8 is the most common used for light vehicle I'd say + a mg325 and that will get a lot done.
if your going euro torx and more torx

 

[sdguy55]

sdguy55- I don't know of any S-K retailer near me other than Grainger, and I don't have an account with them. If I'm not mistaken, Grainger is similar to White Cap in that you need to have an account set up with them through an "organization" or business. Correct me if I'm wrong though.
dirtmister16- Check on both of those. I'm never without at least one knife on me
richfinn- I don't have a family to support, and I'm going to do my best to buy what I can that is made here. If your saying I should not support the domestic work force, I have to disagree with you there

Nope they will take your cash just fine. I would urge you to buy at least one wrench and one ratchet from them and compare it to whatever else you are thinking about buying. Myself i have an SK 17" flex head and i LOVE that thing. Use it way more than my SO's. Actually the only time i reach for my SO 1/2 drive stuff is if its closer quarters (i have a 9-10" SO 1/2 drive ratchet) or more leverage (24" locking flex head)

 

[richfinn]

sdguy55- I don't know of any S-K retailer near me other than Grainger, and I don't have an account with them. If I'm not mistaken, Grainger is similar to White Cap in that you need to have an account set up with them through an "organization" or business. Correct me if I'm wrong though.
dirtmister16- Check on both of those. I'm never without at least one knife on me
richfinn- I don't have a family to support, and I'm going to do my best to buy what I can that is made here. If your saying I should not support the domestic work force, I have to disagree with you there

Hey Everett, I,m not knocking your choice to support USA manufacturing. I think thats great. All I,m saying is don,t let them convince you everything they make is the best thing for your country. If you buy something just cos its American (rather than on quality/value for money) that would go against everything the USA stands for (i.e. Free Market Economy).

One day you might have a family and those extra dollars may come in handy.

Best of luck in whatever route you take, keep up the research

 

[EverettNo1]

Scouting- Maybe I'm just thinking of the friendly jobsite delivery service White Cap has lol. I have seen pretty good deals on S-K stuff online. Now how about S-K compared to Wright?
beaubeau- Good ideas on buying impact vs chrome! I already have a pretty good set of chrome in 1/4-1/2, but I think I will do that for deep sockets and such from now on. Thanks!
sdguy55- I like that idea, I will definitely look into it. There's a granger in my town I never knew about so that should make it easy to get S-K. How's Wright compared to S-K?
richfinn- I don't think you are knocking me bud. If it's buying a screwdriver made in china for $1.50 vs a US made one for $1.55, I would buy the US made one. When it comes to drills, I don't think I will pay over $400 when I could get a just as capable makita for half the price. It's hard for me to look far down the road when I haven't been too far down the road myself haha

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Have you tried to sign up for Snap-On's SEP program yet? It's set up for folks in tech school mostly, but I've heard of folks working as techs while going to school for something different being able to sign up. Worth contacting them and seeing what they can do. Then you can get some top of the line stuff for half price, and no debt since you can't buy on payments. Matco, Mac, IR, and a ton of other companies run similar programs as well. Worth checking out. I've been enjoying the benefits without breaking the bank (yet).

Everything else has been pretty well covered. For a beginning tech, you're pretty well covered with what you have and what has been suggested. Grab a Streamlight Stylus, a variety of oil filter wrenches and a 5 drawer service cart. You'll be able to store everything in that and add a big box later if you need to. Hell, I know techs that have got by fine with just a Craftsman top box on a bench for years.

 

[EverettNo1]

ihateminimumwage- I have heard of the program, but I didn't think I was eligible due to not going to school full time for being a tech, I'll definitely look into it though! Snappy at half price doesn't sound too bad to me lol. I have a pretty nice light already, only bad thing is it has 123 cells which are a pain in the *** to pay for/ get replacements for due to the rarity of them. I'll look into carts with wheels. I was looking at a wright top chest, but that might as well be bolted to the floor for portability