Tool questions from a collision student

[ABRM]

Hey everyone, I am starting school next week for Auto collision tech and had some questions about tools. I will qualify for snap on student discount (they come to the school) but don't exactly have a ton of money to get ALL Snap On.

I have been researching the different professional tool brands such as Mac, Matco, Cornwell, and trying to get an idea of total amount I will need to get a good start. Id like to stay away from Craftsman and Harbor Freight as much as possible.

I was hoping some collision guys could help me out in getting an idea of things I will need and should start collecting as I will finish in 9 months. Also was wondering about SK brand. I have seen that sockets and wrenches are MUCH cheaper than the snap on/matco/macs. Are they on the same line as Craftsman? Anyways, hopefully I can get some help and suggestions. Thanks

 

[b7labelle]

Nothing wrong with starting our with cheaper tools like cm then slowly upgrading..

 

[JoeOef]

I used SK in the military and liked them. The ones I used were noticeably higher quality then CM tools. From what I understand, and I'm sure if I'm wrong, someone will come in anc correct me, SK went bankrupt or out of business, was purchased, and is being made again, possibly at a new factory. I've heard varying things about the warranty, from them being absolutely terrific to refusing to cover new purchases. I've heard they won't cover tools made by the old SK, but I have no idea as to the accuracy of that statement. I am in a position simialar to yours as was planning on buying SK, but ended up ordering CM industrial stuff with the intention of upgrading the heavily used tools over time, thanks to knowledge gained here.

 

[Zeke]

You're going to need more specialty tools than general mechanic's tools. I'm sure you'll need some pneumatic tools and at least one cordless drill with a bunch of bits. I'd buy what you can afford responsibly.

Keep an eye on CL because there are shops going out of business all the time. And bodymen that are leaving the trade.

But when you buy that hammer, get a Martin.

 

[Hanen42]

Use that discount to get you a Snap On DA sander...well worth it.

 

[oneandgone]

Mechanics have to buy mechanics tools, painters have to buy painters tools, and bodymen have to buy body tools, mechanics tools, and painters tools. Therefore I suggest you become a painter and not a bodyman. Then you only need a DA and a couple Sata guns. You'll make more money with less expense. Then if you want to buy other tools to work on your own thing you can at your own pace.

That said, if you're dead set on being a bodyman I prefer the Snap On hammers, Hutchings DAs and the CP714 airhammer. Nothing runs smoother than a Hutchins and no air hammer feathers like the CP. Spend the extra cash on those and you'll thank yourself in 20 years when they still run like champs. Hell, I bought my Hutchins used about 18 years ago and it still runs like new.

 

[oneandgone]

Also, do not buy the PH50. It's like an on off switch and is without a doubt the loudest ******* air hammer on the planet.

 

[Hammer1963]

I prefer Snap-on body hammers, but I also have a fair compliment of Martin produced hammers as well. They will run you 1/2 to 1/3 the cost and will work quite well.

I can't stress enough, that a good 6" DA will help you out tremendously. Don't skimp on the pad and a 3/16" orbit will be your best choice. I actually use the 3" DA more than the 6". Can't seem to live without it.

Good flat blocks are most important. For the money, try Dura block and use good flat paint stirring sticks cut to various lengths for smaller areas.

If you are going to purchase a cut-off tool, a wise investment is a reversible unit. I've had many and the Matco reversible is smooth and powerful.

It will all come down to a matter of choice, preference, availability and cost.

Try to live by one simple rule and you will do well. Never quit learning, make every job better than the last, take pride in your work and there is no such thing as perfect

PM me if you have any questions

 

[PWC Repair]

I agree with the above statements. You will need more body related specialty tools than anything. A friend of mine owns his own body shop in town and does work for a few car lots. He has 2 full time and a part time employee. As far as hand tools he has mostly cheap Harbor freight type stuff and not very much of it. I could probably fit all his hand tools combined into my top box and have room leftover. BUT... he does have misc pullers, stud gun, window tools, spot welder, and spot driller, variable speed buffer, etc., that I don't have and would rarely use. I suggest starting out with mid quality mechanics tools like Kobalt, or Husky (I'll take either over Crapsman), and spending some coin on quality tools specific to your profession.