need help with working more efficiently...

[mypov]

I have taken a new job at a truck shop. We work in a large shop where we cannot move the larger tool chests around. My chest is slightly too big for manoeuvring and am having trouble keeping tools straight, organized, and this leads to longer times for getting things done.

Some guys have service carts...... My biggest problem is I am taking my tools out of my box to the job, at which ever bay... but then sometimes I forget a socket, or think I have the socket there already and it's not. . . resulting in like 2 - 4 unnecessary trips to my tool box - sometimes all the way across a large shop.

What have you all learned in the most efficient set up for working in large shops where you cannot have your box beside you. Or what is the best way to set up a service cart?

thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

 

[archirelic]

Check out the tool cart thread. In it you'll see a myriad of ways people have organized their carts for their use.

 

[98ssuck]

Just keep track of what tools you need to do every job. Eventually you will know exactly what tools you need to do a certain job. Until then keep the most common tools in a cart.

 

[Farmall 1066]

Good points. Efficiency come from familiarity with the product and type of repair.
Keep learning and you will get the hang of it.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Definitely get a service cart. If you're just starting out at the new job, it's worth it to just grab a HF cart on the cheap. I modified my 4 drawer a bit, and most folks mistake it for the near matching Blue Point cart.

Finally got some pics of mine.

Still need to get my other set of Kobalt trays from my buddy for the impacts so I can cram my 1/2" Metric set and my 1/4" impact stuff. Electric impact is out on warranty, and Snap-On & Williams Combo wrenches are home since we had a thief in the shop not long ago.

With all the mods so far, I still have under $200 into the cart (HF cart, Sunex shelf and lock box, Blue Point lock and handle). Worth every penny.

 

[devilsnight]

I found the best way was to down size. Got rid of all the excess "stuff" I collected, the bargains, duplicates, backup air tools just incase. I bought a large roll cart 40 wide 20 deep. It can fit through tight spots and still carry everything i need. Call me a minamalist i guess, i just don't see the point anymore of having the monster box full of every tool ever made. Plus you have a good excuse not to buy anything when the tool truck rolls in

 

[CWP1616L]

What you need is a smaller box with some casters that roll real smooth like Colson Performa casters. Kennedy 3900MP with Performa casters.

 

[MattPersman]

You need a cart that is your main work box. After a week or so you will know what you will want in the cart full time.

 

[jsaw]

I found the best way was to down size. Got rid of all the excess "stuff" I collected, the bargains, duplicates, backup air tools just incase. I bought a large roll cart 40 wide 20 deep. It can fit through tight spots and still carry everything i need. Call me a minamalist i guess, i just don't see the point anymore of having the monster box full of every tool ever made. Plus you have a good excuse not to buy anything when the tool truck rolls in

Good points, when setting up a tool cart, don't keep told that you never use. Only keep tools that you use a lot on the cart