Borrowing tools at the shop...

[brit road garage]

The shop I work at is a father sun business and iv worked there since I was 14 part time it's only in the last year I have bought my own tools, they never asked me to but other techs there kept loosing there tools so I bought a trolley and stuck a top box on it, I only work there a couple days a week and I'm only 18 but I take pride in my tools and I enjoy using them, but there's another tech there that works there 5 days a week and doesn't own a single tool himself no one particularly minds but he has lost a few tools and didn't repay for them, and he calls me sad for buying my own tools at 18, he's a good tech but doesn't seem to even care about owning any tools of his own which I find strange?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[toolin' around]

The fact that you took the time to post the original post tells me you have the right work ethic, and it sounds like to guy also figured this. The coffee shop gift card is a good idea... thank you's don't need to be expensive, just timely and thoughtful... this is something you could do now that shows your appreciation.

Thanks for your service, and thanks to Audi for a great program. I'm sure they aren't assigning you to jobs that are beyond your training level, but you are freeing up more experienced techs to work on more complex tasks. I own two Audi's, and I'd be proud to think they have given someone like you the opportunity to work on them!



Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[Chuck122]

A little beer goes a long way in showing appreciation

 

[theamcaddict]

Its ok. Pay him back and show your appreciation. I heard about that program. I work in a porsche,audi,vw dealer.

Thank you for your service.

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk 2

 

[phil du jour]

I have to agree with this. I don't mind lending my tools out at all but if you have my only 10mm socket or wrench every day im going to get annoyed very quickly.

On the flip side I don't like being dependent on others to finish my tasks.

OP, what you borrow at work, do you have at home? If so bring it in. Go buy a tool cart at HF and fill the sucker until you get your main box. A few days I might tolerate it, but a few weeks...

You do get a pay check from this place right? If so you don't need your tax return to go to HF and pick up an impact wrench and some basics. Even after you get your primary box its still good to have those back ups and a tool cart is always useful. They'll get used believe me.

Perhaps this might sound harsh but there is no excuse for anyone to go the better part of a month without something as basic as an impact wrench if you're serious about a career in automotive repair. A few hundred dollars at HF is absolutely justified in this instance, regardless of what you have on order, instead of severely handicapping yourself working out of a very basic tool kit.

I have not received a paycheck yet, I have just enough money in the bank to buy gas to get back and forth to work until I do get paid. I am relying on my tax return for everything at the moment. As soon as that comes in I will buy an impact wrench and socket set first thing along with a decent torque wrench which the kit does not come with.

For those interested, here is the tool list: http://www.audivets.com/SnaponVeteransToolKit.pdf

 

[signcrafter]

Lots of good replies but just to add to what's been said. There is a HUGE difference between a guy borrowing some tools for a couple weeks and who appreciates it and the guy who just doesn't want to buy tools and takes borrowing them from co workers for granted.

What all are you doing right now? Just basic stuff like oil changes and tire rotations and brakes?

Since it's an audi program the guy has some assurance you aren't just a bum to lazy to get your own tools and that you will have some nice tools in a week or two. As long as you return his tools clean and in a timely fashion it should be fine. Bring in the basics so you aren't always grabbing his. I would have no problem with you borrowing tools. Even if it slows me down a little. The problem would be the guy that keeps borrowing and never buys his own and doesn't ever return the favor in any way, basically a free loader using my tools to earn a check.

Like mentioned buy him lunch a couple times a week. Bring in a coffee for him or a gift card. Throw a case of beer in his car for him, DON'T BRING IT IN THE SHOP!!!! When the snap on man comes this week slip him a 20 dollar bill to pay down his tab. These things don't cost much but show that you aren't taking his generosity for granted. Shows that you do appreciate what he is doing and that you are trying to repay the favor.

Also when you get your tools and start buying more ask him if there is anything that you should get that he doesn't have that the two of you can share. Maybe a tester or specialty tool, or luxury tool. Buy it and let him know he can use it anytime he wants. This will also show that you are trying to return the favor.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I really need to get an air wrench but I can't afford one ...

Skip lunch, eat PB&J or whatever to save a buck and pick up a cheap one at HF or go to a pawn shop. Maybe even ask the shop foreman for a $100 loan.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Like mentioned buy him lunch a couple times a week. Bring in a coffee for him or a gift card. Throw a case of beer in his car for him, DON'T BRING IT IN THE SHOP!!!! When the snap on man comes this week slip him a 20 dollar bill to pay down his tab. These things don't cost much but show that you aren't taking his generosity for granted. Shows that you do appreciate what he is doing and that you are trying to repay the favor.

Those are all great suggestion. Nice to know that some people still know how to show there appreciation !


Years ago, I had an electronic tech do some repairs on a DVD player for me (I had already researched the problem and found the solution on line; bad capacitors). It took him about 15 minutes with a solder sucker and soldering iron in the company electronics shop (on his lunch hour) to swap in a half a dozen caps.

My wife was so happy to have here DVD player back, she made him a couple dozen cookies. I had a life long friend after that !

 

[Skin]

I have not received a paycheck yet, I have just enough money in the bank to buy gas to get back and forth to work until I do get paid. I am relying on my tax return for everything at the moment. As soon as that comes in I will buy an impact wrench and socket set first thing along with a decent torque wrench which the kit does not come with.

For those interested, here is the tool list: http://www.audivets.com/SnaponVeteransToolKit.pdf

Do you have a CC or are you one of those people who doesn't believe in them? Not trying to dog you here but you still need an impact wrench ASAP and the Earthquake 3/8" and a set of sockets certainly isn't going to set you back so much you wont be able to eat.

Like I said even if I were you i'd make the decision in about half a second to run a small amount of debt up to get myself what I need to function, even more so if its going to be a career for me.

 

[atwageman]

The shop I work at is a father sun business and iv worked there since I was 14 part time it's only in the last year I have bought my own tools, they never asked me to but other techs there kept loosing there tools so I bought a trolley and stuck a top box on it, I only work there a couple days a week and I'm only 18 but I take pride in my tools and I enjoy using them, but there's another tech there that works there 5 days a week and doesn't own a single tool himself no one particularly minds but he has lost a few tools and didn't repay for them, and he calls me sad for buying my own tools at 18, he's a good tech but doesn't seem to even care about owning any tools of his own which I find strange?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

He's a mooch. Plus nobody has told him to go screw himself. That's why he's not interested in getting his own tools.

To the OP. Sounds like your treating the mechanics and their tools with respect. In due time you will be borrowing less and less. And thank you for your service.

 

[phil du jour]

Do you have a CC or are you one of those people who doesn't believe in them? Not trying to dog you here but you still need an impact wrench ASAP and the Earthquake 3/8" and a set of sockets certainly isn't going to set you back so much you wont be able to eat.

Like I said even if I were you i'd make the decision in about half a second to run a small amount of debt up to get myself what I need to function, even more so if its going to be a career for me.

I have a CC but it is a small one and it is unavailable for usage currently. As in it is maxed out. If it were an option I would have used it already.

As far as being set back so far I can't eat - I have a wife, a daughter, and my combined total of all liquid assets is 135 dollars in checking. So... yep. I know that throwing numbers out there is just asking for trouble, but I have nothing to hide. I'm actually looking through the house for stuff that I can hawk on Craigslist.

edit: actually, my buddy has a cordless DeWalt impact driver that he offered to sell me. I'm gonna offer him my ipad 2 as a trade. I don't know if it's a 1/4" or 1/2 or what. He bought it when he worked construction for putting bolts on girders or something like that. He can sell that and totally get his money's worth.

 

[Sheriff Roscoe]

Buying the guy gift cards, lunch and beer in return is certainly a nice gesture but could also take that same money and buy a few cheap tools that you're having to borrow regularly.

 

[Skin]

I'm actually looking through the house for stuff that I can hawk on Craigslist.

No need to get crazy. Perhaps your father in law has one in what he was going to give you. The main point to your co-worker(s) is you're making the effort beyond just being content with working with so little. It really will speak volumes about how serious you are.

If you were next to me I could practically set aside a few drawers for you out of my duplicates. Mainly I have them so im not shut down if I misplace a socket/wrench or if my impact takes a dump I have another to use. Not every shop has someone like that though.

 

[signcrafter]

I'm not going to make any promises but I will check tomorrow if I have a spare 1/2" impact laying around. May even have a 3/8" air ratchet. If I do they won't be new but I will make sure they work before sending them. If I do have an extra it's yours. Like I said no promise but I think I have an extra.

 

[HaroRider]

Also when you get your tools and start buying more ask him if there is anything that you should get that he doesn't have that the two of you can share. Maybe a tester or specialty tool, or luxury tool. Buy it and let him know he can use it anytime he wants. This will also show that you are trying to return the favor.

Thats a really good idea.

 

[phil du jour]

So I come back to my computer and I have a PM from Airframer offering to send me a spare SO 1/2" impact wrench. I think I broke my arm from falling out of my chair and hitting the floor so hard.

The killer thing was his offer was not the only one I received - I was also offered a tool from 56FordGuy, which prompted more jaw-dropping and neurotic injuries sustained from a blown mind.

Couple that with...

I'm not going to make any promises but I will check tomorrow if I have a spare 1/2" impact laying around. May even have a 3/8" air ratchet. If I do they won't be new but I will make sure they work before sending them. If I do have an extra it's yours. Like I said no promise but I think I have an extra.

and I think I might go into a coma. Promises or no, the gesture is monumental.

The generosity of the folks on these forums is mind-boggling. I can not believe this. I am now completely and utterly 100% dedicated to Garage Journal and the folks here. This generosity will not be forgotten and I will be paying it forward, as well as paying it back in whatever way I can.

I don't know if this board has any fancy awards or tags or anything but those three folks need whatever they are. I hope you guys hit some rich gold vein in your back yard one day from just mowing the grass or something insanely good happens to you. I am really at a loss for words and proper expression of gratitude. Just... thank you.

 

[MRunabout]

Looks like the kit doesn't come with impact wrenches. If you're still strapped for cash after getting your tools, I'd suggest looking at the 1/2" Earthquake impact at Harbor Freight. They don't have the best balance or ergonomics but they're an incredible bang for the buck to get you by until you can get better tools.

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-to...-in-professional-air-impact-wrench-68424.html

If you have more, I'd suggest the Ingersoll Rand 2135QTI gun. Super light, balanced, powerful, quiet (you'll learn to appreciate it or may regret it later) and cheap compared to competitors. Sure, the Snap On may be rated a bit higher in terms of specs and have fancy features like anvil stopping (which I love btw) but you can't beat the IR in price and quality. You can get an IR 3/8" and 1/2" for close to the price of a single Snap On MG725 1/2" impact.

Lastly, ask the guys at the shop about what their most commonly used tools are and put those on your priority list. You don't always have to buy them off the tool truck although it would be more convenient if something breaks and you need to warranty it. I have a bunch of sockets from Ingersoll Rand, OTC and Grey Pneumatic that I bought from Tool Topia through Amazon.

 

[scottv]

First I would like to thank you for your service. Next Understanding your not having tools and the program I would gladly let you use my tools to help you knowing your not just making a living off me but your in a program for Vets and your tools are coming. Im for taking care of our Vets. Again thank you. Scott

 

[jeffmoss26]

I work in IT for a manufacturing company. We have an assortment of hand tools in the department, but from time to time I will borrow something from maintenance or the tool crib. The maintenance guys provide their own tools; the tool crib is mainly consumable items, drills, etc.
I always take care of whatever I am borrowing whether it's someone's personal item, or company owned, because I know if someone abused my tools I would be PISSED!

I get to see how people treat company provided laptops and cellphones. That's another rant in and of itself!
Plus, I get to see how certain people did to their company owned cellphones and laptops..

EDIT: Again, thank you for your service!

 

[fhemm20]

I wish I had something to give to a vet that seems very grateful for everything he receives. Hopefully some additional advise to what has been provided here will serve as beneficial.

As was mentioned before, tooltopia is a good place to fine deals on tools. As well as tooldiscounter.com. I stay pretty strapped for cash, so I often have to hunt for a deal. I also have to strategize on what in buy and when. Example: I buy thinwall impact sockets instead of chrome and impact sockets. Just make sure you keep track of them because try diss appear in a dark engine bay in a hurry if you drop them. I bought a cheaper combo wrench set and whenever I damage or have to modify one, I replace it with a good one (but I still look for a deal on one).

I hope that helps a little.

Thanks for your service. My dad is a USAF vet and I tried getting in but failed my physical as meps for some injuries I sustained when I was young, so now I work on firetrucks. Keep it up and remember that what goes around comes around, so keep up the hard work and pay it foreword when the opportunity presents itself.

 

[phil du jour]

Thanks for all the tips guys.

My SM brought in his 1/2" air wrench to let me use until I have one of my own. It is old, I have no idea what brand it is as the housing is blank and the markings rubbed off a long, long time ago. After doing a lot of scrounging I had just enough tools to do what I am currently tasked with (used car inspections and oil changes) and I managed to make it through the 10-hour shift without having to borrow one tool. I am going to get the guys that let me borrow their stuff some $20 gift cards, probably just straight Visa cards so they can use them wherever they want. I also helped the guy who lent me his tools Saturday move his gigantic toolbox and all of his stuff from his current bay (that he had occupied for the last 8 years) to his new bay when he was struggling and nobody seemed to be paying any attention to him for some reason.

I did get my toolbox in today, but no tools. I posted a picture of it on the 'Let's see your toolbox' thread. It's gorgeous, I felt like a giddy schoolgirl who just got a pony.

Again, thank you all for all of your help. This message board is amazing. The generosity extended to me here has done a lot to change the way I have traditionally thought about things in life - I am historically a very cynical person who looks out for number one because nobody has ever really stopped to give me a hand very often, ever since I was a little kid. But the way you guys have all helped me has really challenged that attitude, and the way it made me feel is something I want to very much give to other people as well. So I think beyond paying it forward I am going to try to just be more helpful to others at work, if they are struggling. Whether it's spotting them when they are having trouble getting a car on the lift or helping them with a nut that won't break, or donating money to charity or volunteering my free time to something, I really think I am going to really stop being such a selfish *******.

Thank you all. You have changed my life, it seems.

 

[ford guy]

Glad to see that your box arrived! I shipped your package today, & you should see it Thursday. Now I gotta go find the picture of your new box!

Bob

 

[turdferguson13]

Nice toolbox! I've used the same one for the last 2 years and I love it. Lots of good advice here for you, I think you are going to do well!

 

[arms1970]

Lots of good replies but just to add to what's been said. There is a HUGE difference between a guy borrowing some tools for a couple weeks and who appreciates it and the guy who just doesn't want to buy tools and takes borrowing them from co workers for granted.

What all are you doing right now? Just basic stuff like oil changes and tire rotations and brakes?

Since it's an audi program the guy has some assurance you aren't just a bum to lazy to get your own tools and that you will have some nice tools in a week or two. As long as you return his tools clean and in a timely fashion it should be fine. Bring in the basics so you aren't always grabbing his. I would have no problem with you borrowing tools. Even if it slows me down a little. The problem would be the guy that keeps borrowing and never buys his own and doesn't ever return the favor in any way, basically a free loader using my tools to earn a check.

Like mentioned buy him lunch a couple times a week. Bring in a coffee for him or a gift card. Throw a case of beer in his car for him, DON'T BRING IT IN THE SHOP!!!! When the snap on man comes this week slip him a 20 dollar bill to pay down his tab. These things don't cost much but show that you aren't taking his generosity for granted. Shows that you do appreciate what he is doing and that you are trying to repay the favor.

Also when you get your tools and start buying more ask him if there is anything that you should get that he doesn't have that the two of you can share. Maybe a tester or specialty tool, or luxury tool. Buy it and let him know he can use it anytime he wants. This will also show that you are trying to return the favor.

Yea years ago. I let a guy borrow some clamps. No biggy, then he kept coming back. Then without my permission goes in my box. "Bro I have 6 kids to feed, and you got like 40 clamps, whats the big deal?" Ahhhh I love people.

 

[chris142]

Its the guys that keep borrowing the same tool over and over and never buy one that irk me. Like the guy that works on northstars and never buys the water pump socket. Or like the guys next door that specialize in rebuilding engines but dont own a tq wrench.

 

[AndrewV]

For those who can't find it... i help you lol.

Just got it in today. No tools to fill it with yet though!

 

[d4dawg]

Sorry, off-topic. I'm curious as to which brand of Triple Square bits do you or the guys at the Audi dealership use?

 

[ttpete]

Phil, where are you in MI? I'm in Dearborn, and I'm a retired wrench. Let me know what you need that's not in your toolbox now, and if I have extras, you're welcome to them.

PM me.

 

[bodyguy16]

Its great to see people change ! Congrats on the new job / box and I wish you a long healthy prosperous career !

Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

 

[phil du jour]

Sorry, off-topic. I'm curious as to which brand of Triple Square bits do you or the guys at the Audi dealership use?

Phil, where are you in MI? I'm in Dearborn, and I'm a retired wrench. Let me know what you need that's not in your toolbox now, and if I have extras, you're welcome to them.

PM me.

d4dawg - I'm not sure what the brand is. I'll ask around for you tomorrow at work.

ttpete - Will do.

 

[red93spyder]

I use the MAC long XZN bits. They do occasionally shatter when the axle bolts are on there good. I've had to warranty my 8mm and 10mm bits 1 time each over the last 2.5 years. My short guys are titan brand. Those have never let me down, and those 14mm rear caliper carrier bolts take a 24" breaker to crack loose.

 

[BajaBound]

I use VIM triple squares that I bought from amazonand they are absolutely awesome. I was doing the rear brakes on my touareg and the 3/8 socket connected to a 1/2 to 3/8 adapter pulling all of my weight on a 24" ratchet and they where absolutely perfect when I was done.

I highly recommend them to anyone and especially the OP as he is getting started.

 

[d4dawg]

Thank guys. I like to work on my VW which like the Audis has many Triple Square bolts. I have a set from Titan which works just fine, but I am thinking of getting another set as backup. I have read good things about the VIM set also. Was just wondering what the official VW/Audi technicians use?

 

[MGibson]

Sorry I havent read all the topic. But I work in a small garage, and there 4 technicians. foreman and the boss. We all have our own tools, some more than others. Some have the bare minimum. I have a growing collection. If I borrow a tool more then 3 times I buy it. Best way really!

WELL the tool truck (snap on) came one week and I purchased some rad hose pliers. (can't remember the model number) But I didn't need to use then and filled them in my box. Came to get them out and they weren't there. Looked in another draw! nothing. Went over to the other techs box, they were on there!! Covered in coolant and trans. oil! Said nothing I was fuming! went back to get something else out of my box and he had put they away with out cleaning them!! I was seeing red! put them on his tool box and told him he has 2 seconds to get them cleaned! he laughed in my face and told me to fu*k off! at the point I seen red and the last thing I remember was one of the guys pulling him having a very ****** nose!

BE WARNED! (lol)