hello everyone,rookie needs some advice

[falcon88]

hello everyone,i need some advice about tools.

i am a new auto mechanics student going to have some tools.

right now,

i knew the Snap-on could give 40% off for student,but I need to pay in 4 month .So I think i can only spend about 2k on it.

Mac tool give about 40%-50% off, in an amount up to $7k in total,and i can installments,but i heard about they are not good anymore?because they are belong to Stanley right now,it this true?

Wright tools and Jet group both 40% off ,but Wright tools only one dealer in my city.Jet group i even didn't heard them before.

because i am living in Canada right now,so some brands are not easy to find .Sears in Canada only has one brand hand tools, the craftsman tools, and just a few of it ,almost never had discount.Damn...I likes those GP,Armstrong and GearWrench... they looks good...

the most easy to get in Canada are mastercraft ,stanley and husky.but i am not sure they are useful or not.

so any way,how can i plan to my tools,and suggestion？

 

[66354dream]

I started out with the cheaper stuff ( Craftsman, Husky, Powerbuilt)and worked my way up, I don't know how it is in Canada but here in the States you can walk into a big auto parts chain store and stock up on quite a bit of decent tools for waaaay cheaper than the tool trucks. If possible I'd recommend getting a job at one of those stores since you'll be able to get an employee discount and you'll be somewhat " in the field". Bottom line is get as many tools as you possibly can THEN you worry about replacing/upgrading with the top of the line stuff as time goes by and you gain experience.

 

[falcon88]

I started out with the cheaper stuff ( Craftsman, Husky, Powerbuilt)and worked my way up, I don't know how it is in Canada but here in the States you can walk into a big auto parts chain store and stock up on quite a bit of decent tools for waaaay cheaper than the tool trucks. If possible I'd recommend getting a job at one of those stores since you'll be able to get an employee discount and you'll be somewhat " in the field". Bottom line is get as many tools as you possibly can THEN you worry about replacing/upgrading with the top of the line stuff as time goes by and you gain experience.

wow,get a job from one of them,maybe i can try

 

[dutchgray]

The other way of thinking is to make the most of the available student discounts to get as many tool truck brand tools as you can, for the least money, if you know you're eventually going to own that stuff anyway, as long as you can afford to.

 

[jakemac]

Don't go too far into debt until you have a steady good paying job.

In the meantime, search the used market for decent brands that will get the job done until you can afford to upgrade. Craigslist or Kijiji. Save the student discounts and financing for specialty tools specific to the work you are doing.

Since you're in Canada, check out Gray's offerings. From what I hear, they should be decent quality for the money. And should serve you well enough during your apprenticeship. Stay away from Craftsman's Chinese tools. If you need to pick up Cman, look for the "Made in USA" or "Canada" markings.

Too many mechanic students go into debt to get "professional" tools to impress others, but end up leaving the profession before they even start. Then they're stuck with the debt, and end up selling the tools for a big loss that leaves them still owing money.

I have an Uncle that was a mechanic with his own shop for 60 years. Most of his tools came from Western Auto and later, NAPA. Those tools put three kids through college and built the house they grew up in.

A mid quality tool will get the job done. You can impress others by developing your skills instead. It will cost you less money and put you in a better position to get a job and keep it.

 

[falcon88]

Don't go too far into debt until you have a steady good paying job.

In the meantime, search the used market for decent brands that will get the job done until you can afford to upgrade. Craigslist or Kijiji. Save the student discounts and financing for specialty tools specific to the work you are doing.

Since you're in Canada, check out Gray's offerings. From what I hear, they should be decent quality for the money. And should serve you well enough during your apprenticeship. Stay away from Craftsman's Chinese tools. If you need to pick up Cman, look for the "Made in USA" or "Canada" markings.

Too many mechanic students go into debt to get "professional" tools to impress others, but end up leaving the profession before they even start. Then they're stuck with the debt, and end up selling the tools for a big loss that leaves them still owing money.

I have an Uncle that was a mechanic with his own shop for 60 years. Most of his tools came from NAPA. Those tools put three kids through college and built the house they grew up in.

A mid quality tool will get the job done. You can impress others by developing your skills instead. It will cost you less money and put you in a better position to get a job and keep it.

yes ,that is why I want get some suggestion here,because i don't want those Chinese tools,and i also worried about the debt.but those discount for student are attractive.I wish i can make a plan for my tools.let them useful and worth it.

 

[falcon88]

Don't go too far into debt until you have a steady good paying job.

In the meantime, search the used market for decent brands that will get the job done until you can afford to upgrade. Craigslist or Kijiji. Save the student discounts and financing for specialty tools specific to the work you are doing.

Since you're in Canada, check out Gray's offerings. From what I hear, they should be decent quality for the money. And should serve you well enough during your apprenticeship. Stay away from Craftsman's Chinese tools. If you need to pick up Cman, look for the "Made in USA" or "Canada" markings.

Too many mechanic students go into debt to get "professional" tools to impress others, but end up leaving the profession before they even start. Then they're stuck with the debt, and end up selling the tools for a big loss that leaves them still owing money.

I have an Uncle that was a mechanic with his own shop for 60 years. Most of his tools came from NAPA. Those tools put three kids through college and built the house they grew up in.

A mid quality tool will get the job done. You can impress others by developing your skills instead. It will cost you less money and put you in a better position to get a job and keep it.

So for your experience ,if you have 2K can put for Snap-on tools with 40% off.
How would you choice?
could you please make a valuable package for me as a reference.

 

[thegroundpounder99]

Just starting out is tough..... you don't want to get in to deep, but I can understand you want to take advantage of your discount. Is there a time frame you have to use these discounts? And do you have some tools already?


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[maxdustington]

Living in Canada ***** for US made! I live in Toronto and everyone is looking for deals on kijiji, they don't last for more than a few hours at most. Do some research here and figure what to buy with the discount, and then fill in the rest with things you will replace.

Honestly, Pro Point from princess auto is quite nice. I'm a bit of a COO snob and they are high quality enough to make me ignore where they are made. It's going to take a LONG time to build a quality tool collection from used stuff and I understand that's not really practical for a pro. I've been to one estate sale got a lot of nice stuff so that's where I'd be. Also, check out bidspotter but even here in Toronto most of the worthwhile auctions are an hour or more away.

 

[jakemac]

The first place to start would be to contact the school you plan to go to. They should have a list of required tools that they expect you to have when you begin classes. The sooner you have the list, the more time you have to search for used tools or other discounts. Having to rush to compile your tools will cost you more money because your options will be fewer.

Yes, the Truck Brand's discounts look appealing, but you need to realize that they aren't making those offers out of the kindness of their hearts. They're grooming you for lifetime brand loyalty. Those of us of a certain age call that "drinking the Kool-aid". You can google the reference, but it isn't good. Yes the tools are superior quality, but they are also hideously expensive for what you get. One of the things that you are paying for is service. The problem with this is that it's tied to the shop that you're working at and the personality of the truck driver servicing that route. If you leave that shop or if you leave the profession, you loose any relationship you developed with that driver unless the new shop is also in his territory. The extra money you paid is then nearly useless and becomes a waste.

As far as what brands to buy (using wrenches as an example), each brand will feel different in your hand. If you are going to be wrenching 8 or 10 hours a day, you want something that feels comfortable to you. Only you can determine that. You will need to handle a variety of brands to narrow your search.

As far as what tools to buy, once again, check with your school for the basics and then add to that list as needed.

As a general rule, if you have to borrow a tool from someone else more than twice, you should be looking to buy one for yourself. Keep a pad of paper in your toolbox and make a list as you go.

Without more details about what will be required, and what you will be doing, there isn't much more I can tell you at this time.

 

[falcon88]

Just starting out is tough..... you don't want to get in to deep, but I can understand you want to take advantage of your discount. Is there a time frame you have to use these discounts? And do you have some tools already?


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I can use these discount in 4 month from now,but i will begin Co-op work in February .so i should planing to make a order of my tools.and i don't have tools right now.

 

[mikebaker1129]

Great advice ^

 

[falcon88]

Living in Canada ***** for US made! I live in Toronto and everyone is looking for deals on kijiji, they don't last for more than a few hours at most. Do some research here and figure what to buy with the discount, and then fill in the rest with things you will replace.

Honestly, Pro Point from princess auto is quite nice. I'm a bit of a COO snob and they are high quality enough to make me ignore where they are made. It's going to take a LONG time to build a quality tool collection from used stuff and I understand that's not really practical for a pro. I've been to one estate sale got a lot of nice stuff so that's where I'd be. Also, check out bidspotter but even here in Toronto most of the worthwhile auctions are an hour or more away.

Wow,Toronto is a big city,then you can find a lot of goods...but i living in Winnipeg

 

[falcon88]

The first place to start would be to contact the school you plan to go to. They should have a list of required tools that they expect you to have when you begin classes. The sooner you have the list, the more time you have to search for used tools or other discounts. Having to rush to compile your tools will cost you more money because your options will be fewer.

Yes, the Truck Brand's discounts look appealing, but you need to realize that they aren't making those offers out of the kindness of their hearts. They're grooming you for lifetime brand loyalty. Those of us of a certain age call that "drinking the Kool-aid". You can google the reference, but it isn't good. Yes the tools are superior quality, but they are also hideously expensive for what you get. One of the things that you are paying for is service. The problem with this is that it's tied to the shop that you're working at and the personality of the truck driver servicing that route. If you leave that shop or if you leave the profession, you loose any relationship you developed with that driver unless the new shop is also in his territory. The extra money you paid is then nearly useless and becomes a waste.

As far as what brands to buy (using wrenches as an example), each brand will feel different in your hand. If you are going to be wrenching 8 or 10 hours a day, you want something that feels comfortable to you. Only you can determine that. You will need to handle a variety of brands to narrow your search.

As far as what tools to buy, once again, check with your school for the basics and then add to that list as needed.

As a general rule, if you have to borrow a tool from someone else more than twice, you should be looking to buy one for yourself. Keep a pad of paper in your toolbox and make a list as you go.

Without more details about what will be required, and what you will be doing, there isn't much more I can tell you at this time.

Great,thank you!

 

[K-Dog]

Buy them slow and steady. Dont get into too much debt at once.
Get all your basics first and then start looking into the fancy "oooh and Ahh" tools later.

Just realize you will most likely be buying tools for the rest of your career. You don't have to get them all at once.

 

[espyking83]

Mac is overpriced but still quality. You should look at Proto, SK, Williams, Bahco, Armstrong, Wright, Wera, etc. Snap On shouldnt really be on your radar for common tools liek ratchets, sockets and wrenches. They're outstanding tools but out of your price range atm. You dont really need them at this point. Not yet.

 

[falcon88]

Buy them slow and steady. Dont get into too much debt at once.
Get all your basics first and then start looking into the fancy "oooh and Ahh" tools later.

Just realize you will most likely be buying tools for the rest of your career. You don't have to get them all at once.

got it,thanks

 

[falcon88]

Mac is overpriced but still quality. You should look at Proto, SK, Williams, Bahco, Armstrong, Wright, Wera, etc. Snap On shouldnt really be on your radar for common tools liek ratchets, sockets and wrenches. They're outstanding tools but out of your price range atm. You dont really need them at this point. Not yet.

i really want those Proto, SK, Williams, Bahco, Armstrong, Wright, Wera,but they are really hard to find in my city.Sometime i even thinks about the mechanic use snap-on it is because they can not find other brands...

 

[Empty Pockets]

wow,get a job from one of them,maybe i can try

Way back in the day, I started with Craftsman and Powr Craft (Monkey Wards), Through time I have upgraded through estate sales and auctions, mostly

In the past, I have traveled frequently to the Toronto area, You might check out Canadian Tire for inexpensive tools

 

[firworks]

Do you have any tool auctions nearby you? Check on http://www.auctionzip.com/canada.html. I've got Wright, Proto, boatloads of SK, Williams, Snap-On, Cornwell all from tool auctions for dirt cheap. Most on the order of 6$ or less for ratchets. The only issue you might run into is you'll still have to buy your metric sockets somewhere else. No dead farmers around here have a single thing metric.

 

[Rrumbler]

My first tool set was from Montgomery-Ward in 1960, full set of Power-Kraft combination wrenches and sockets and ratchets; still have them except the ratchets which got stolen or lost somewhere down the years. They are still the ones I reach for first, and I have many different brands; the only "tool truck" brands I have, though, are ones that I have found or picked up at yard or garage sales. Lots of good tools out there, some better than others, of course, but if you look at the fit and finish and get quality stuff, you don't have to spend a fortune. It's just my own opinion (others may share it, though, too) that a lot of guys who crow about their expensive tool truck tools are over compensating. Snap-On, Mac, Matco, Cornwell are indeed good, but they are not the only good ones, and they seem to think their tools are made of gold; you can do as well for a lot less money.

 

[demolitionman]

i really want those Proto, SK, Williams, Bahco, Armstrong, Wright, Wera,but they are really hard to find in my city.Sometime i even thinks about the mechanic use snap-on it is because they can not find other brands...

Wera screwdrivers are the bomb! Love them sooo much. fwiw.
Wrightgrip wrenches, Snappy ratchets and sockets(or SK chrome sockets to me feel and perform same as snappy at 1/3 the price), GP 3/8 impact sockets are very nice and thin although the markings leave somthing to be desired, Knipex plyers.

Falcon, you did the right thing by coming here asking for information. However, you need to realize the internet is your friend and if you learn to use Ebay, as well as Amazon, and the classified section here on this board, you can fill in your tool collection for 1/2 the cost and yes most everything on amazon and ebay I believe ships to Canada! Am I right guys? Still, I'm a sucker for some Snapon and I really really feel their hardline stuff like I said before is in fact, something special. To me at least.

 

[M-EGT]

Pawn shops! I've seen full sets of Snap On for quite cheap

 

[falcon88]

Pawn shops! I've seen full sets of Snap On for quite cheap

,i haven't think about this ...good idea,thanks

 

[falcon88]

Wera screwdrivers are the bomb! Love them sooo much. fwiw.
Wrightgrip wrenches, Snappy ratchets and sockets(or SK chrome sockets to me feel and perform same as snappy at 1/3 the price), GP 3/8 impact sockets are very nice and thin although the markings leave somthing to be desired, Knipex plyers.

Falcon, you did the right thing by coming here asking for information. However, you need to realize the internet is your friend and if you learn to use Ebay, as well as Amazon, and the classified section here on this board, you can fill in your tool collection for 1/2 the cost and yes most everything on amazon and ebay I believe ships to Canada! Am I right guys? Still, I'm a sucker for some Snapon and I really really feel their hardline stuff like I said before is in fact, something special. To me at least.

of couse,internet is good ,but i also should think about warranty,if those brand do not have a dealer in my city,it will be hard.but i will check it ,

thank you for your help

 

[falcon88]

My first tool set was from Montgomery-Ward in 1960, full set of Power-Kraft combination wrenches and sockets and ratchets; still have them except the ratchets which got stolen or lost somewhere down the years. They are still the ones I reach for first, and I have many different brands; the only "tool truck" brands I have, though, are ones that I have found or picked up at yard or garage sales. Lots of good tools out there, some better than others, of course, but if you look at the fit and finish and get quality stuff, you don't have to spend a fortune. It's just my own opinion (others may share it, though, too) that a lot of guys who crow about their expensive tool truck tools are over compensating. Snap-On, Mac, Matco, Cornwell are indeed good, but they are not the only good ones, and they seem to think their tools are made of gold; you can do as well for a lot less money.

1960...OMG

 

[83c10submariner]

Jet tools are in most cities in Canada. I live in halifax ns and they have a warehouse here. Check out there webpage for their flyers. And as for buying them many part places Cary them and have to honour the flyer price. I bought things like brake line flaring kit from them on sale for cheep. Better quality then power fist which I broke first time use.

 

[83c10submariner]

Here is the like to find a distributers in your area http://www.jetgroupbrands.com/brands/view/locator_dealer.php?

 

[falcon88]

Here is the like to find a distributers in your area http://www.jetgroupbrands.com/brands/view/locator_dealer.php?

very helpful,thank you,i find one dealer just 2KM from my apt,i will check there torrow

 

[83c10submariner]

Also check out gray tools here is one thing that I have from them that's a god sent for tight spaces. http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...3193&group_ID=674993&store=canada&dir=catalog
They have a quarterly flyer that they put out. They have some good stuff at good prices for pros and a pretty good warranty you can search on their website for where to buy. My dad has one of their 1/2" ratchets that he has had for 30 years and works great. That hatchet hasn't changed in 30 years from what they sell today. And check if they have a student program online customer service is great will get back to you within the day.

 

[83c10submariner]

Oops sorry wrong link http://shopgraytools.com/collection...drive-screwdriver-handle-round-head-ratchet-1 here is the right one.

I guess really what I'm saying is check out all your options. Even talk to some of the older guys in the shop and ask their opinion's and check out the products before you buy to see what you like because that is the most important thing.

 

[falcon88]

Oops sorry wrong link http://shopgraytools.com/collection...drive-screwdriver-handle-round-head-ratchet-1 here is the right one.

I guess really what I'm saying is check out all your options. Even talk to some of the older guys in the shop and ask their opinion's and check out the products before you buy to see what you like because that is the most important thing.

 

[falcon88]

Wera screwdrivers,i find a store ,let's check it ,

 

[falcon88]

Wera screwdrivers are the bomb! Love them sooo much. fwiw.
Wrightgrip wrenches, Snappy ratchets and sockets(or SK chrome sockets to me feel and perform same as snappy at 1/3 the price), GP 3/8 impact sockets are very nice and thin although the markings leave somthing to be desired, Knipex plyers.

Falcon, you did the right thing by coming here asking for information. However, you need to realize the internet is your friend and if you learn to use Ebay, as well as Amazon, and the classified section here on this board, you can fill in your tool collection for 1/2 the cost and yes most everything on amazon and ebay I believe ships to Canada! Am I right guys? Still, I'm a sucker for some Snapon and I really really feel their hardline stuff like I said before is in fact, something special. To me at least.

you are right,i just find a store have Wera screwdrivers.they are so good.
i will delete snap-on screwdrivers from my wish lists.
the only bad is ,that store just give discount for wood work student,Damn...
i need talk to my school,wish i can get help there.