Multimeter Help

[wendlwacker]

Ok guys I am currently at a stand still in the garage. A multimeter is holding me up. I have some issues on the duck boat that need diagnosing.

I am looking for a homeowner grade multimeter to do general diagnostics. Everything from AC checking voltage on anything up to 220 to DC mainly 12V stuff on boats and vehicles.

I know the first question I am going to get is how much do I want to spend. I am not afraid to spend money on a quality unit but that money could be spent in another place in the tool collection if need be.

I tried using the search function but didn't find anything that met my list really.

Thanks!

 

[zkling]

Another multimeter thread

Fluke 27FM off ebay or the like is going to be the best value meter
Fluke 87 new or used will do everything you need and more, but more $ than the 27fm

 

[nanofrog]

Take a look at the Brymen BM257.

 

[kamesama980]

Flukes ARE sweet but $$

If you just want something good enough, almost anything will work. I have one or 2 $10 cheapies at work for quick readings before I call the responsible department. $50-100 store models usually aren't bad but not on par with a fluke.

 

[Tarheelgarage]

pick up a sears craftsment on sale.

 

[928'er]

pick up a sears craftsment on sale.

....or a freebie from HF (with a $19.99 purchase). Got one in each car and another in the desk. Wouldn't rely on them for anything crucial, but they do work.

 

[Major Ramifications]

I like Flukes. If a new one is too much, try Cash America Pawn.

 

[richfinn]

What features do you want on a meter?

They are all different some are geared for electronics some for mechanics and some for domestic electrics.

Noticed that you work on boats??

Maybe something water resistant to keep salt water out.

Maybe a cheap disposable you don't need to worry about.

Good eyes?? Not me I need the backlight

Butterfingers?? Rubber holster

Work alone?? Min/max recording

Temperature??

Continuity beeper??

There are lots of little things other than price IMO, I never work on mains voltage only automotive so protection isn't too much of an issue for me.

I like my 70 series Fluke apart from no backlight

I do have a lit meter but it's not as easy or as nice to use as the Fluke

 

[ddawg16]

I'm a Fluke guy.....but for what your describing....go to HF and get one of their $10 digitals....it will work just fine for what you want.

I bought my 11 year old son one....I use it all the time....I'm not going to calibrate any medical equipment with it....but it has not made any wrong readings.

 

[u118224]

Here's another option, it has a lot of features. I bought one and am happy with it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JQ4O2U/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[MFolks]

Some advise on using a multimeter:

The best multimeter tutorial

 

[theoldwizard1]

Some advise on using a multimeter:

The best multimeter tutorial

EXCELLENT VIDEO for the "average" homeowner/shade tree mechanic !

Note he started out saying you don't need to spend over $50 and the meter he linked to is currently selling for under $25 !

IMHO, the most important thing for a multimeter is to have a rubber boot. Sooner or later you are going to drop it. With a boot there is a chance it will survive.

Sears usually has some decent meters on sale at Christmas in the $10-$25 range.

 

[Brownsfan]

Everything you will ever need at a great price. I have it and do auto electrical only. It gets my glowing recommendation.
http://m.homedepot.com/p/Klein-Tools-True-RMS-Digital-Multimeter-MM2000/202521275