BottomLineReviews
Well-known member
I just started at a tech school and now get 1/2 off the snap-on truck. What tools are worth spending on the extra on, and what tools can I skimp on?
What tools do you buy snap-on?
- Thread starter BottomLineReviews
- Start date
Lx460
Well-known member
Personally, I don't like to skimp on anything if I can help it. I'm not really sure what you're looking for? What tools to buy from SO and what to get from HF?
I don't buy cheap **** but if I had to choose what to buy quality from SO if on a budget, I'd start with the ratchets. Then maybe screwdrivers, wrenches and sockets.
I don't buy cheap **** but if I had to choose what to buy quality from SO if on a budget, I'd start with the ratchets. Then maybe screwdrivers, wrenches and sockets.
Lx460
Well-known member
Of course you can always buy used for far less than your 1/2 off. They work just as well...
Most of my stuff has been bought used. Unless I need it ASAP or it's something delicate like A/C gauges or electronic stuff, then I'll opt for new.
Most of my stuff has been bought used. Unless I need it ASAP or it's something delicate like A/C gauges or electronic stuff, then I'll opt for new.
IBTL... Lot's of tool truck haters on here.
Are you going into auto or diesel?
- Locking flex ratchets
- SOEXRM series ratcheting wrenches, far better than Gearwench and the like
- Ratcheting screwdriver in the standard and stubby version
- Torx bits for said ratcheting screwdrivers
- A standard #2 philips screwdriver
- Talon grip needle nose and combination pliers
I personally like their combination wrenches but there are others that are good.
Are you going into auto or diesel?
- Locking flex ratchets
- SOEXRM series ratcheting wrenches, far better than Gearwench and the like
- Ratcheting screwdriver in the standard and stubby version
- Torx bits for said ratcheting screwdrivers
- A standard #2 philips screwdriver
- Talon grip needle nose and combination pliers
I personally like their combination wrenches but there are others that are good.
Buckgnarly
Well-known member
Ratchets, FD+ wrenches, bit sockets, are a good start.
xxaler
Well-known member
Buy a good 3/8 and 1/2 ratchet. The rest of the **** on the truck will just be you starting your career in debt. Don't listen to all the elitists who enjoy having a tool mortgage.
I would say things that you have in your hands all day should be the highest quality and most comfortable you can afford. I'm a big fan of their ratchets (old style hard handle on a dual80 is NICE) and ratcheting screwdrivers (also old style hard handle). They just fit my hands well. If you see a future need for flare nut (line) wrenches, I'd recommend SnapOn for those too.
davethorik
Well-known member
It's like anything else, all about personal preference. Some ppl don't care where a tool is made as long as it functions as it should. Some people like tools that feel substantial in the hand and feel like they are quality. Oftentimes spending money on Snap-On tools, for most, an unnecessary expenditure of funds. The cheaper possibly overseas tool may work but you can't brag about them to your buddies. The psychology behind these types of decisions really is interesting.
What sort of tech school are you going to?
With the student discount one thing I noticed is that it is the cheapest way to get a lot of tools that Snap-On re-brands. The BF623 soft face hammer is only $28 which is less than the OEM sells it for. the HSG325 hack saw is cheaper than you can buy the original Bahco at retail. BD325A feeler gauges are only $6, you cant find good feeler gauges made anywhere for that price.
Obviously those aren't going to be items you couldn't live without but its just a good example of how to use your student discount. And don't forget the other brands as well, Snap-On doesn't make the best EVERYTHING and I think the MAC discount is only good for 6 months vs Snap-On and Matco which are good as long as you are in school.
Also: pay attention to the individual warranties for each item. Not everything is lifetime, and if it isn't, then you are better off buying it somewhere else.
With the student discount one thing I noticed is that it is the cheapest way to get a lot of tools that Snap-On re-brands. The BF623 soft face hammer is only $28 which is less than the OEM sells it for. the HSG325 hack saw is cheaper than you can buy the original Bahco at retail. BD325A feeler gauges are only $6, you cant find good feeler gauges made anywhere for that price.
Obviously those aren't going to be items you couldn't live without but its just a good example of how to use your student discount. And don't forget the other brands as well, Snap-On doesn't make the best EVERYTHING and I think the MAC discount is only good for 6 months vs Snap-On and Matco which are good as long as you are in school.
Also: pay attention to the individual warranties for each item. Not everything is lifetime, and if it isn't, then you are better off buying it somewhere else.
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redwrench60
Well-known member
Snap On's core hand tools like wrenches, ratchets, sockets, extensions, screwdrivers, pliers and prybars really are top notch. I'd focus there and look elsewhere for power tools, specialty tools and diagnostic equipment with a few exceptions.
Personal preference here. I don't use their ratchets, sockets, screwdrivers, wrenches and have done fine without issue, and without failed tools. I use their snap ring pliers and their cordless stuff. I don't like their air tools. Some specialty stuff I have is Snap-On. You don't have to spend that much for tools that work when it comes to most of it, many say you do and many do, but it's not really the case, their are lots of other tools out there that will work well too. Now,get ready for the "my tools can kick your tools ***" thing, it's comin'.
d.mcfarland
Well-known member
Maybe we should ask what you can and can't afford?
Got money saved up? Using credit? Looking to just resell? We don't know your situation, only you do.
Got money saved up? Using credit? Looking to just resell? We don't know your situation, only you do.
ritestuff
Well-known member
If you are gonna be wrenching professionally, and using these tools every day. NOTHING out there compares to the Snap on combination wrenches or their ratchets. You can pick and choose brands on most other hand tools, but do it once and do it right, and don't ever look back when it comes to your combo wrenches or ratchets.
purplezr2
Well-known member
What field are you in, Auto vs Diesel vs Ag makes a different in what I would get. Like for Ag I would get the 30/60 Angle wrenches, but there is almost no need for them on Auto.
As for the hater don't pay attention.
As for the hater don't pay attention.
ihateminimumwage
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jan 26, 2012
- Messages
- 3,960
Depends on what you're going to school for.
Snap-On's comfort grip picks can't be beat.
Dual 80 or Roto Ratchets are extremely nice, but not necessary.
Deadblow hammers are fantastic with the student discount.
See if you can use another student's wrenches before investing in your own set (the thin beams cut into my hands when really putting force into them, so I sold mine).
As others have stated, don't get into debt with Snap-On, buy what you can afford, and build your knowledge of what they make and what they slap their name on.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=249851
Also look into signing up with Matco, NAPA, Craftsman and all the other student tool discounts available (as well as Amazon Prime Student). Check out sites like Cripe Distributing and Harry Epstein's for great deals on USA made tools.
Snap-On's comfort grip picks can't be beat.
Dual 80 or Roto Ratchets are extremely nice, but not necessary.
Deadblow hammers are fantastic with the student discount.
See if you can use another student's wrenches before investing in your own set (the thin beams cut into my hands when really putting force into them, so I sold mine).
As others have stated, don't get into debt with Snap-On, buy what you can afford, and build your knowledge of what they make and what they slap their name on.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=249851
Also look into signing up with Matco, NAPA, Craftsman and all the other student tool discounts available (as well as Amazon Prime Student). Check out sites like Cripe Distributing and Harry Epstein's for great deals on USA made tools.
woody 73
Well-known member
I use and like their wrenches but I have heard of people complaining about how the beam has sharp edges and hurts some peoples hands along with being slippery if your hands have any oil them; never had any problems yet.
The ratchets are indeed top notch.
I like the screwdrivers but again some people complain about how hard it is to clean them up.
The ratchets are indeed top notch.
I like the screwdrivers but again some people complain about how hard it is to clean them up.
Dual 80 ratchets, screwdrivers, prybars, wrenches, and extensions. IMO nothing beats their prybars and screwdrivers. Not a fan of flank drive plus, would just get the old school wrenches if I did it again. And the 0 offset double box wrenches. AWESOME!
countryroad82
Well-known member
Here is my list in no particular order.
Ratchets love 'em
Screwdrivers
Picks both short and long
Door panel tools just put a little tape around the fulcrum to avoid scratching paint
Flank Drive + wrenches I rarely use wrenches and normally I use the box end, of the few times I use the open end the FD+ guarantees the sumbitch ain't going to slip
Flare nut wrenches
These are what I would say are absolutely some of the best Snap On products. I have a variety of their other tools sockets, wrenches, extensions, such. But for one starting out I feel my little list is what I would blow my money on with a student discount.
Ratchets love 'em
Screwdrivers
Picks both short and long
Door panel tools just put a little tape around the fulcrum to avoid scratching paint
Flank Drive + wrenches I rarely use wrenches and normally I use the box end, of the few times I use the open end the FD+ guarantees the sumbitch ain't going to slip
Flare nut wrenches
These are what I would say are absolutely some of the best Snap On products. I have a variety of their other tools sockets, wrenches, extensions, such. But for one starting out I feel my little list is what I would blow my money on with a student discount.
trackwelder
Well-known member
If you like having nice things by all means get some Snap On. I have tons of Snap on and it has served me very well. I like to have the absolute best in tools, equipment, guns, knives etc. My house and clothes are worth less than my tools and equipment and I like it that way.
ssdave
Banned
I'm presuming in my answer that you're looking at automotive trades.
I have a wide range of tool brands, acquired over the years a piece at a time for the most part, and for next to nothing. Some are Snap-on, most are Proto, some Mac, Matco, Williams, SK, Indestro and a few old Craftsman. Very few others mixed in, although I've had my choice from dozens or even hundreds of tool boxes I've parted out over the years.
The only tools I pay retail for are Snap-on. That is for the stuff I haven't been able to get used, where I need the best. The things I have found are worth the money are:
Hard Handle Screwdrivers - they work better than any brand I have owned, bar none.
Ratcheting Screwdriver - Again, I think these are the best available.
1/4" drive sockets - They have held up better than any others I own. They do the work of a 3/8" set.
Pliers and diagonal cutters - selectively here, when you need the best. They are about the same to slightly better quality than Klein and Knipex, which are my next choices.
Torx and Hex Sockets - they hold up better than any others, except maybe Proto.
I'd look for bargains on used tools. That will always be the best quality for the money you can get. If you get a great bargain on mixed sets or stuff not quite as nice as you would like, live with it and upgrade later. There is so much high quality US made SAE size stuff out there that you can pick up for 5% of retail that it makes no sense to pay snap-on prices, even with student discount. Buy used Proto, Wright, Indestro, Dura-chrome, Williams, SK, Armstrong or lesser known brands like Fleet, Mustang, Challenger, etc for next to nothing and use them until you have cash to pay for a prestige set, if you decide that is something you need.
If you can find used Snap-on screwdrivers for 1/4 of retail, buy them used. If not, the student discount will make them affordable enough to buy new. Not a huge set, but a basic set of #1 and #2 phillips, 3 or 4 flat sizes, a couple of short and minitature phillips and flat, and a ratcheting driver. With the lifetime warranty, that you will use to get new blades occasionally, they are really quite affordable in the long run, and they work better than any others.
I'd buy a 1/4" drive ratchet, hard handle, that you like, and a basic set of short metric sockets. You can add SAE and deeps later as you need them.
I'd consider buying a 3/8" set of metric sockets, but buy a good used ratchet cheap. There's plenty of them out there. I'd buy a less expensive set of 1/2" drive sockets as you won't use them as much, and again, buy used ratchet. I'd look at SK, Proto, and Indestro ratchets, and avoid Craftsman. SK ratchets are the best buy for the money on the used market, often less than $10 buys you a good 3/8" or 1/2". (I'm presuming auto mechanics here, if you're going industrial or Diesel automotive, the 1/2" drive will be your primary, in SAE instead of the 1/4" drive).
I like the Snap-on combination wrenches, but don't know if they're worth the premium. I like my Proto also, and maybe prefer some of my Mac to the S.O. I think much of the better SK and Armstrong and Wright compare well. I'd try each and see which you like, and buy the ones you prefer. Again, you can buy used now and upgrade later.
The things I'd use the student discount for is stuff that will make you money, that you can't find readily used. I'd not go into debt for anything that i absolutely didn't need; and I'd continue that philosophy when I got out of school and started working. Buy what makes you money, and pay cash if you can. Don't buy much in the way of electronics when you're in school, use the school stuff and buy what you need when you start work. Electronics depreciates very quickly, as it becomes obsolete. The only thing electronic I would buy is a good multi-meter, and I'd buy a Fluke, or if you want to save money, a cheap clone of a Fluke. I'd also buy an inexpensive code reader, in the under $200 range. That will make you money on the side helping friends out for a few $, saves them paying $100 to a shop to read codes and helps you pay for the scanner.
Good Luck!
dave
I have a wide range of tool brands, acquired over the years a piece at a time for the most part, and for next to nothing. Some are Snap-on, most are Proto, some Mac, Matco, Williams, SK, Indestro and a few old Craftsman. Very few others mixed in, although I've had my choice from dozens or even hundreds of tool boxes I've parted out over the years.
The only tools I pay retail for are Snap-on. That is for the stuff I haven't been able to get used, where I need the best. The things I have found are worth the money are:
Hard Handle Screwdrivers - they work better than any brand I have owned, bar none.
Ratcheting Screwdriver - Again, I think these are the best available.
1/4" drive sockets - They have held up better than any others I own. They do the work of a 3/8" set.
Pliers and diagonal cutters - selectively here, when you need the best. They are about the same to slightly better quality than Klein and Knipex, which are my next choices.
Torx and Hex Sockets - they hold up better than any others, except maybe Proto.
I'd look for bargains on used tools. That will always be the best quality for the money you can get. If you get a great bargain on mixed sets or stuff not quite as nice as you would like, live with it and upgrade later. There is so much high quality US made SAE size stuff out there that you can pick up for 5% of retail that it makes no sense to pay snap-on prices, even with student discount. Buy used Proto, Wright, Indestro, Dura-chrome, Williams, SK, Armstrong or lesser known brands like Fleet, Mustang, Challenger, etc for next to nothing and use them until you have cash to pay for a prestige set, if you decide that is something you need.
If you can find used Snap-on screwdrivers for 1/4 of retail, buy them used. If not, the student discount will make them affordable enough to buy new. Not a huge set, but a basic set of #1 and #2 phillips, 3 or 4 flat sizes, a couple of short and minitature phillips and flat, and a ratcheting driver. With the lifetime warranty, that you will use to get new blades occasionally, they are really quite affordable in the long run, and they work better than any others.
I'd buy a 1/4" drive ratchet, hard handle, that you like, and a basic set of short metric sockets. You can add SAE and deeps later as you need them.
I'd consider buying a 3/8" set of metric sockets, but buy a good used ratchet cheap. There's plenty of them out there. I'd buy a less expensive set of 1/2" drive sockets as you won't use them as much, and again, buy used ratchet. I'd look at SK, Proto, and Indestro ratchets, and avoid Craftsman. SK ratchets are the best buy for the money on the used market, often less than $10 buys you a good 3/8" or 1/2". (I'm presuming auto mechanics here, if you're going industrial or Diesel automotive, the 1/2" drive will be your primary, in SAE instead of the 1/4" drive).
I like the Snap-on combination wrenches, but don't know if they're worth the premium. I like my Proto also, and maybe prefer some of my Mac to the S.O. I think much of the better SK and Armstrong and Wright compare well. I'd try each and see which you like, and buy the ones you prefer. Again, you can buy used now and upgrade later.
The things I'd use the student discount for is stuff that will make you money, that you can't find readily used. I'd not go into debt for anything that i absolutely didn't need; and I'd continue that philosophy when I got out of school and started working. Buy what makes you money, and pay cash if you can. Don't buy much in the way of electronics when you're in school, use the school stuff and buy what you need when you start work. Electronics depreciates very quickly, as it becomes obsolete. The only thing electronic I would buy is a good multi-meter, and I'd buy a Fluke, or if you want to save money, a cheap clone of a Fluke. I'd also buy an inexpensive code reader, in the under $200 range. That will make you money on the side helping friends out for a few $, saves them paying $100 to a shop to read codes and helps you pay for the scanner.
Good Luck!
dave
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crewchief888
Well-known member
hex and torx bits
3/8" dr openend crowsfeet
flare nut line wrenches
flarenut crowsfeet
^^^^ only if you need them.....
i tend to buy singles,(on as as needed basis), of the 3 tools i've mentioned above, over the years i accumulated a fair amount of them.
no one brand of tool has the best of everything.
if you take a look in an "old timers" box you find a wide variety of tool brands, not all of them came off a tool truck...
3/8" dr openend crowsfeet
flare nut line wrenches
flarenut crowsfeet
^^^^ only if you need them.....
i tend to buy singles,(on as as needed basis), of the 3 tools i've mentioned above, over the years i accumulated a fair amount of them.
no one brand of tool has the best of everything.
if you take a look in an "old timers" box you find a wide variety of tool brands, not all of them came off a tool truck...
kiatech
Well-known member
Picks both big and small for ease of warranty.
maybe it would be helpful for me to say what i think you SHOULDN'T buy from the SO truck:
1) I question ratchets. Yes, SO make nice ratchets. But you can find second hand SO ratchets for half or less fairly regularly. At least, start with the long ratchets, SHLF80A, FLL80, FLFHD80, TLL72, and TLFHD72. Don't buy the std length. You may find you prefer the composite HF ratchet, or an old school round head for installation work. Or a round head swivel.
2) Skip the SO Power tools. Go milwaukee
3) Skip Snap On impacts- both these and the power tools are nice, but more luxury items than necessities. Get Grey Pneumatic or some such.
4) Punches, Pry bars, ball peen hammers- get these all from Sears or HF. I'd look for used Starrett punches before I'd pay $100 for SO (or whatever they cost). Ditto for chisels, hack saws, the quik cutter is kinda silly if you ask me.
5) Files- don't buy those from SO.
6) Vise grips
All this stuff is really nice from Snap On. And with the 50% it is all attractively priced. And I get the advantage of the warranty. But SO seeks to be a one stop shop. And you just don't always need it to be.
A couple unsung Snap On stars:
1) Pliers- especially their needle nose and duckbills. I love the old 47ACP slip joint pliers. SO Pliers are VERY high quality.
2) Instinct screwdrivers. Guys here ran these down when they were new. I think they are the best handles on the market hands down
3) Soft grip ratchet screwdrivers- I prefer the stubby.
4) XDHR "hi performance wrenches" don't get the attention they deserve. They are awesome.
5) SO Bit sockets are generally highly thought of. Just a reminder to get swivel torx, stubby torx, and the gold regular models. When you need a good torx bit socket, there is no substitute.
6) Pocket LED lights - I have both the Blue Point and the new Snap On model. They are both pretty awesome and better than all others I have tried.
1) I question ratchets. Yes, SO make nice ratchets. But you can find second hand SO ratchets for half or less fairly regularly. At least, start with the long ratchets, SHLF80A, FLL80, FLFHD80, TLL72, and TLFHD72. Don't buy the std length. You may find you prefer the composite HF ratchet, or an old school round head for installation work. Or a round head swivel.
2) Skip the SO Power tools. Go milwaukee
3) Skip Snap On impacts- both these and the power tools are nice, but more luxury items than necessities. Get Grey Pneumatic or some such.
4) Punches, Pry bars, ball peen hammers- get these all from Sears or HF. I'd look for used Starrett punches before I'd pay $100 for SO (or whatever they cost). Ditto for chisels, hack saws, the quik cutter is kinda silly if you ask me.
5) Files- don't buy those from SO.
6) Vise grips
All this stuff is really nice from Snap On. And with the 50% it is all attractively priced. And I get the advantage of the warranty. But SO seeks to be a one stop shop. And you just don't always need it to be.
A couple unsung Snap On stars:
1) Pliers- especially their needle nose and duckbills. I love the old 47ACP slip joint pliers. SO Pliers are VERY high quality.
2) Instinct screwdrivers. Guys here ran these down when they were new. I think they are the best handles on the market hands down
3) Soft grip ratchet screwdrivers- I prefer the stubby.
4) XDHR "hi performance wrenches" don't get the attention they deserve. They are awesome.
5) SO Bit sockets are generally highly thought of. Just a reminder to get swivel torx, stubby torx, and the gold regular models. When you need a good torx bit socket, there is no substitute.
6) Pocket LED lights - I have both the Blue Point and the new Snap On model. They are both pretty awesome and better than all others I have tried.
Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
As others have pointed out, Snap on Flare nut or line wrenches are the best out there. I would recommend getting the combination version in metric along with flare crowfeet. (depending on which filed you're going into. I also prefer their gold colored heavy duty torx bit sockets.
I am not a fan of the instinct handle but, if you can get the older snap on hard handled screwdrivers, I would.
Good luck with your future endeavors!!!
I am not a fan of the instinct handle but, if you can get the older snap on hard handled screwdrivers, I would.
Good luck with your future endeavors!!!
Heavy Metal Doctor
Well-known member
Chrome, pretty much anything SO makes in chrome, would be my suggestion -- at such a discount, I'd go for wrenches first and then drive tools and some of the socket sets.
If you going Ag or equipment work, then get every possible style wrench you can up as big as you can reasonably afford.
Don't go in over you head on debt, but get what you know you will need.
Personally, I never found anything I needed WHEN I needed it on used / auction sales and always ended up buying new right off the tool truck.
If you going Ag or equipment work, then get every possible style wrench you can up as big as you can reasonably afford.
Don't go in over you head on debt, but get what you know you will need.
Personally, I never found anything I needed WHEN I needed it on used / auction sales and always ended up buying new right off the tool truck.
shoggoth80
Well-known member
Ratchets. I really like their roto-head ratchets. I got hooked on these a couple of years ago. An older mechanic that I pseudo mentored under had the longer handled roto-head with comfort handle. I got the newer version of it, and the 1/4" drive version. I love 'em. Got a Bahco 3/8" drive... pretty much a dual 80, with black and orange squishy grip. Light, pretty tough, and feels good to use.
Wrenches. I have limited Snappy wrenches in my box. Got a lot of Cman and Proto industrial stuff. The handful of Snappy wrenches are nice. I've got a 9/16" flare wrench that I use ALL the time. Is good stuff. Also, I have Astro Pneumatic flex end line wrenches... they aren't an expensive set, and are great. I don't use them all the time... but when I need one, that flex head makes all the difference.
Pry bars... some of the nicer pry bars I've borrowed have been Snappies. Get ones with striking caps... if you are working automotive, these are about the shiznit for popping out CV axles.
The picks are good too. Got a set of mini picks that do their jobs well. Don't put them in your fingertips, they hurt.
I can't say that I have a huge opinion on their air tools. They sound whiz-bang... but most of my air stuff is IR. Got a Blue Point butterfly... does pretty dedicated service. I'll take lower RPM and serious grunt over speed.
The screwdrivers are nice, but there are lots of nice drivers out there.
Impact sockets. There is nothing wrong with them. Others have suggested Grey Pneumatic, or Sunex. These are good brands that will save you money. May I also say Armstrong? I've got predominantly Armstrong impacts in 1/2" at home. Can be had for a few bucks a pop if you look around. Run a lot of SK at work. The 3/8" impacts I have at work are Snappy. They're all pretty darned tough.
Wrenches. I have limited Snappy wrenches in my box. Got a lot of Cman and Proto industrial stuff. The handful of Snappy wrenches are nice. I've got a 9/16" flare wrench that I use ALL the time. Is good stuff. Also, I have Astro Pneumatic flex end line wrenches... they aren't an expensive set, and are great. I don't use them all the time... but when I need one, that flex head makes all the difference.
Pry bars... some of the nicer pry bars I've borrowed have been Snappies. Get ones with striking caps... if you are working automotive, these are about the shiznit for popping out CV axles.
The picks are good too. Got a set of mini picks that do their jobs well. Don't put them in your fingertips, they hurt.
I can't say that I have a huge opinion on their air tools. They sound whiz-bang... but most of my air stuff is IR. Got a Blue Point butterfly... does pretty dedicated service. I'll take lower RPM and serious grunt over speed.
The screwdrivers are nice, but there are lots of nice drivers out there.
Impact sockets. There is nothing wrong with them. Others have suggested Grey Pneumatic, or Sunex. These are good brands that will save you money. May I also say Armstrong? I've got predominantly Armstrong impacts in 1/2" at home. Can be had for a few bucks a pop if you look around. Run a lot of SK at work. The 3/8" impacts I have at work are Snappy. They're all pretty darned tough.
BDT/NWMN
Well-known member
What classes are you taking?????????????????????????????????????????
it does make a difference
Kirbot
Well-known member
I don't have any snapon anymore, but if I had to pick something, it would be torx bits.
CutterFarms
Well-known member
At that discount I would try to get as much as I could afford. Personal I would start with wrenches, line wrenches, ratchets, screwdrivers, striking prybars and pics. I would try to get things like dead blow hammer cheaper and look for Peterson visegrips used usually find channel locks at flea markets for under 10.00.
Finky198
Well-known member
Ratchets dual 80 get the bigger / specialty ones that are harder to find on ebay
Ratcheting screw drivers all three sizes A+++
Line wrenches A+++
Striking Pry Bars they are very tough
Hammer the Ball pien dead blows
If you can get a ball joint press for half price than Do It
Pitman arm puller is really nice
Its get late and my brain is ...
Ratcheting screw drivers all three sizes A+++
Line wrenches A+++
Striking Pry Bars they are very tough
Hammer the Ball pien dead blows
If you can get a ball joint press for half price than Do It
Pitman arm puller is really nice
Its get late and my brain is ...
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Badasssapper67
Well-known member
Pry bars, Snappy has the best metal or metal treating in my opinion. If anyone has ever found a better or equal brand of pry bars let us know.
Cold chisels.
Roll pin punches.
Cold chisels.
Roll pin punches.
import extermination
Active member
If your doing it on a budget... One good SO striking pry bar (go with a longer one). 3/8 and 1/2 extra long ratchets. Screwdriver set. small pick set. Everything else buy cheap and replace with better as they fail. You will find quickly as you work in the trade, which tools that you need better quality. Example, For the last six years i have never understood why guys would bother with SO wrenches, until i moved to a shop that had an alignment rack. My mastercraft maximum wrenches had too much flex. So i waited till my rep had a good deal and bought a set of SO.
Wamsutta
Well-known member
Snap-on 1/4 drive swivel sockets. Buy them now for $20 a piece or buy them later for $40 a piece.
hautpot
Well-known member
Flare spanners
4 angle spanners
Hi-performance spanners
Dual 80 ratchet
Pliers
cutters
Diagnostics (when you specialize in this)
Flank Drive Plus Adjustable Spanner
4 angle spanners
Hi-performance spanners
Dual 80 ratchet
Pliers
cutters
Diagnostics (when you specialize in this)
Flank Drive Plus Adjustable Spanner
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If I was relatively broke and in school I would explore the possibility - to buy all I am allowed from Snap On 50% off, basically the most popular items and then put them on Ebay and offer international shipping to get top price for them. And then use the profit to get cheap/decent tool set to get me through school and into the job market. Plenty of ideas in this regard right here on GJ.
Later when you have confirmed you want to swing wrenches for a living and when money is better you can buy what you want or need. Plenty of time for that. Remember there are countries out there where all repairs are done without a single tool from the U.S truck brands.
Later when you have confirmed you want to swing wrenches for a living and when money is better you can buy what you want or need. Plenty of time for that. Remember there are countries out there where all repairs are done without a single tool from the U.S truck brands.
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willyswonka
Member
I agree with pretty much everyone on the screwdrivers/bit sockets. Especially torx. The matco ones really do strip out more often for some reason. If you ever use a manual impact driver, again, for whatever reason, the Snap On has more breakaway torque than a craftsman or a matco that look exactly the same. I only know because at my last shop we all had one, but we all had different brands. Flare nut wrenches and crow foot wrenches (if you'll use them). And pliers. Specifically pistol grip pliers. If I could only own one snap on tool it would be these https://store.snapon.com/Special-Purpose-Pliers-Gripping-Pistol-Grip-9-3-4--P636971.aspx Most underrated tool snap on makes. Most truck guys don't even stock them.
Here is where I differ from popular opinion. Matco 88 ratchets are better. The heads are significantly thinner and it really does make a difference. I also prefer the locking mechanism on Matco flex heads, but that might just be me. Flank drive plus wrenches are great, but for ratcheting box end I prefer the Matco spline drive.
Here is where I differ from popular opinion. Matco 88 ratchets are better. The heads are significantly thinner and it really does make a difference. I also prefer the locking mechanism on Matco flex heads, but that might just be me. Flank drive plus wrenches are great, but for ratcheting box end I prefer the Matco spline drive.
Mikerodrig27
Well-known member
- Joined
- Oct 22, 2014
- Messages
- 171
I was writing a post describing how I like the Flank drive combos that they make and was going to suggest you to get an extensive set 8-36mm 3/8- 1 5/8" set but then I saw the price for the two sets is $3k+
I have since revised my opinion and suggest that you buy nothing from that company. Their prices are too high for the pay range of todays mechanics. Unless you work for a company where you're getting paid $30+ an hour and making 50+ flag hours a week, it would be hard to own snapon tools and still retire with a half decent savings...
There are a ton of other companies making a hard commitment towards quality tools at way lower prices ranges than that turd of a company... I suggest you give them a try. From one hard working tech to the next. This may be an ill mannered post but I can't think of anything that warrants such gross pricing.
I have since revised my opinion and suggest that you buy nothing from that company. Their prices are too high for the pay range of todays mechanics. Unless you work for a company where you're getting paid $30+ an hour and making 50+ flag hours a week, it would be hard to own snapon tools and still retire with a half decent savings...
There are a ton of other companies making a hard commitment towards quality tools at way lower prices ranges than that turd of a company... I suggest you give them a try. From one hard working tech to the next. This may be an ill mannered post but I can't think of anything that warrants such gross pricing.
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thegroundpounder99
Well-known member
Ratchets, sockets, extensions and wrenches is where I'd start.
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