Meter suggestions?

[bmxr4life87]

I'm looking for a nice meter for work. Boss is footing the bill and he doesn't mind me buying quality. I'm a pressure washer mechanic who also works on waste oil heaters and aqueous parts washers. Gas engines to 460 3 phase aren't out of the realm of possibilities. Capacitance would be nice but not a deal breaker. I'm thinking the Fluke 117 is what I want but let me hear suggestions please

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Do you ever need to measure current?

If so I would look for a clamp meter instead

I have a Fluke 381 which would be overkill for you but any of the lower models would work well

 

[bmxr4life87]

From time to time yes we are expected to measure current on up to 20 hp motors

 

[TractorJeff]

Boss is buying? I would have said FLUKE 87 series but Wylie is right in your case a good Clamp-On with a set of voltage leads would be a good idea!

 

[wyliesdiesels]

a combination of meters may be a good idea here too.

a T5-1000 (or T6-1000) for quick measurements and dont have to worry about it being thrown around too much since theyre inexpensive and also get a higher end clamp meter for higher amp readings and measurements.

Keep in mind on clamp meters, if you will be needing to measure in-rush current for such things as motors, you will need a meter that has the specific circuitry that can do so. Not all clamp meters can measure in-rush current. The Fluke 374 is one example of a meter that can measure in-rush current

 

[Terry D]

The T5- 1000 is a good rugged meter. I have had one in my tool bag for years. I also have a Fluke 87 and a fluke clamp meter. What size capacitors are you needing to check. A stand alone capacitor tester might be best.