What tools need to be invented?

[jives]

Okay, ambiguous topic, but let's hear what are one or two tools that you think need to be invented or modified as solutions, or better solutions, to a tool or repair problem? Or "tool-related" solution. And no humorous tools to fix the spouse. . .

Example (with the understanding that something along these lines may have already been invented):

A precise and cheap way to locate car leak locations. (or perhaps any plumbing leak)

A better way to release rust frozen parts (nuts/bolts mainly). . . beyond Kroil soaks, heat, and bolt-snapping impact wrenches.

 

[xela456]

The bendy cutting torch

 

[Bigblockyeti]

A high torque, low deflection flexible extension, in 1/4" 3/8" and 1/2"

 

[joshmodelskidoo]

M12 high torque 1/2in impact wrench or an adapter to run 2 m12 batteries for an m18 tool

 

[jgromada]

The issue with leak detection is a good one, but there are ways to deal with them. For instance with fuel and vacuum lines can use a smoke machine to help identify leak locations. These smoke machines tend to be pricey and the associated work to resolve a related problem mean that it is usually a professional mechanic that undertakes this effort.

There are ways to help identify fluid leaks (oil & coolant) with the addition of florescence dyes and a ultraviolet lights and this is relatively cheap and available.

There is always new tools being developed for specific tasks, a lot of those are really homemade but effectively solve a particular problem. a good example of those might be a tool to hold the flywheel while the crank bolt is removed on a Subaru for example or removal of the ball joints on a Subaru.

Necessity is the mother of invention so yes new tools are going to be developed all the time. Forums for a particular car type are a good source for a lot of these.

Likewise as a homeowner there are lots of little tips and tricks involving tools that can help out here as well.

 

[AffableCurmudgeon]

Cordless tool batteries that don't wear out and need replaced every 3 to 4 years. Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands.

 

[Sevenhills1952]

Cordless tool batteries that don't wear out and need replaced every 3 to 4 years. Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands.

"Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands."
Thank you.
AA,AAA,C,D batteries are standard, but cordless batteries are proprietary.
I have repaired them, taking them apart replacing just the bad batteries.
Shame they aren't standard though.

Sent from my SM-S320VL using Tapatalk

 

[Bigblockyeti]

Cordless tool batteries that don't wear out and need replaced every 3 to 4 years. Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands.

Adapters are out there but usually made as potentially sketchy 3D printed models sold on Ebay.

 

[Downwindtracker 2]

They may be made, but they weren't sold at very long specialty tool isle . I didn't find them on line either. Spring expanders for 08 Ram HD parking brakes. I ended up making some .

 

[joe_pinehill1]

A low cost tool to remove wheel hub bearing assemblies. I know the ADT tool is on the market, but I thinking about how to design a tool that can use lugs and threads of a hub to react against the knuckle or a bracket inboard of the knuckle to remove. If only manufacturers would add a couple extra threaded holes to a hub similiar but larger size to the 8mm threaded holes on a brake disc.

 

[jgromada]

Cordless tool batteries that don't wear out and need replaced every 3 to 4 years. Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands.

You will never see standardization among the big tool manufacturers, there is just too much profit to be made from the battery side of things.

 

[Ilikeike]

A drop light that stays the way I want it to when I set it down, seems like it always rolls the opposite way,like last night laying in a small trunk wiring a stereo.

 

[unslow1]

Aluminum magnet. Don't say it can't be done. The world is full of things that were at one time claimed to be impossible.

 

[Rabid Badger]

Cordless tool batteries that don't wear out and need replaced every 3 to 4 years. Adapters that allow you to use one set of batteries with multiple tool brands.

Pull them off the charger when the 80% light turns on and they'll last damn near forever.

 

[vavet]

10mm sockets - no one has any.

 

[jblnut]

Toolboxes that find all the tools I've stolen from them and put them back where they're supposed to be when I'm done with them.

 

[CGarage]

They have RFID tagging for tools and tool boxes nowadays. Primarily used in aviation for FOD control requirements.

 

[plinker]

A super compact electric ratchet that is sized similar to an air ratchet and runs off a 9v or similar size battery.

 

[XJSuperman]

I am in serious need of a brass magnet.

I wouldn't mind a ziptie that has a non-lethal end on it after being cut/trimmed.

 

[Honest Bob]

The issue with leak detection is a good one, but there are ways to deal with them. For instance with fuel and vacuum lines can use a smoke machine to help identify leak locations. These smoke machines tend to be pricey and the associated work to resolve a related problem mean that it is usually a professional mechanic that undertakes this effort.

There are ways to help identify fluid leaks (oil & coolant) with the addition of florescence dyes and a ultraviolet lights and this is relatively cheap and available.

There is always new tools being developed for specific tasks, a lot of those are really homemade but effectively solve a particular problem. a good example of those might be a tool to hold the flywheel while the crank bolt is removed on a Subaru for example or removal of the ball joints on a Subaru.

Necessity is the mother of invention so yes new tools are going to be developed all the time. Forums for a particular car type are a good source for a lot of these.

Likewise as a homeowner there are lots of little tips and tricks involving tools that can help out here as well.

Affordable smoke machine. Works pretty well!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/EVAP-Smoke...242479&hash=item35f18eee19:g:PXUAAOSw4HVWCcHJ

Subaru crank pulley tool.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XT6Q54Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[richfinn]

It's really hard to make any money out of inventing tools

Whatever problems you do solve with your ideas, save it for yourself and market the repair service (not the tool) to Joe Public and charge accordingly

 

[FSrepair&fabrication]

I would like to see a battery (I know it’s contradictory) air hammer. Maybe then it would be a Cordless hammer? That would make me be a little more friendly towards the cordless stuff.

 

[drokihazan]

Aluminum magnet. Don't say it can't be done. The world is full of things that were at one time claimed to be impossible.

As a metallurgist... sometimes you can’t parrot that line. Sorry. Most aluminum is pretty dirty and full of second phase particles like AlFeSis that have some really limited magnetic properties but you’re just not going to stick a magnet to aluminum. It’s not about somebody not being creative enough to invent a new solution to the problem.

 

[Leaflessshadetree]

I wouldn't mind a ziptie that has a non-lethal end on it after being cut/trimmed.

If using side cutters or nippers cut through the width rather than through the thickness. Sorry but that's the best description I have.
It also works if using a knife.

 

[DieselSaves]

One small thing I’d like to see is a shorter than standard 1/4 hex to 1/4 square socket drive adapter. In my mind I can see just such a thing an an older Snap On ad but my dealer can’t find it. Not a big deal really but with the stubby Milwaukee impact driver I use for 1/4 sockets, every bit helps.

 

[Jlbc212]

Paper vehicle service manuals.

 

[toplessHO]

All in it was less than $50 in parts

 

[Ton ton]

30 mm. 3/4" drive sockets in a deep set. Or a complete set of metric 3/4" drive sockets.

 

[isb cornbinder]

I have two sizes of zip-tie cutters.
They are made by PANDUIT. At well over $100 each they are not for everyone. They work really well as does everything from PANDUIT.

 

[hawkerxj]

If using side cutters or nippers cut through the width rather than through the thickness. Sorry but that's the best description I have.
It also works if using a knife.

Or use flush cutters instead of side cutters.

 

[tomalophicon]

I wouldn't mind a ziptie that has a non-lethal end on it after being cut/trimmed.

There's already multiple tools for that, including a toenail clipper!

 

[leg17]

I have two sizes of zip-tie cutters.
They are made by PANDUIT. At well over $100 each they are not for everyone. They work really well as does everything from PANDUIT.

AGREED.
I used to work there in the R&D shop.
(A loooooong time ago.)

 

[Lassen Forge]

I was thinking a 1/2" high output impact on a cable like a dremel tool....

 

[Mr_fixit]

Aluminum magnet. Don't say it can't be done. The world is full of things that were at one time claimed to be impossible.

They already move aluminum & other non magnetic metals with magnets. The magnets need to be moving.

Look up lenz effect. My kid was going to do a science fair project years ago using this.
or brass or copper, etc.

 

[tjmonsen5]

I am in serious need of a brass magnet.

I wouldn't mind a ziptie that has a non-lethal end on it after being cut/trimmed.

you simply need a pair of flush cuts.

 

[atnfromatl]

I would really like to see a tool from Dewalt or Milwaukee where I could jump start a vehicle with their larger 18 volt batteries. I know it could be done as is, but I would prefer some real engineering behind it.

 

[tjmonsen5]

One small thing I’d like to see is a shorter than standard 1/4 hex to 1/4 square socket drive adapter. In my mind I can see just such a thing an an older Snap On ad but my dealer can’t find it. Not a big deal really but with the stubby Milwaukee impact driver I use for 1/4 sockets, every bit helps.

snapon CRD8B. it doesnt lock into the screwgun though, too short for engagement. has a rubber o ring on the screwgun end to try to help hold it in. maybe 1 inch total length.

 

[yhprum]

10 mm sockets that return home.

 

[DieselSaves]

snapon CRD8B. it doesnt lock into the screwgun though, too short for engagement. has a rubber o ring on the screwgun end to try to help hold it in. maybe 1 inch total length.

That must be what I remember. Any experience with one? Will it hold up to impact use?

 

[XJSuperman]

Wow, didn't expect feedback on my comment earlier. I don't know fellas, I've cut zipties with everything except the fancy Panduit tool mentioned. It doesn't matter what type of pliers or snips used, if you believe that works I have some ocean-front property in Iowa Id like to sell you. My comment was for something less sharp, meaning when I drag the back of my hand over it I don't look like I've been mauled by a bobcat. The Panduit units may work great, but inventing a ziptie that inherently was dull when cut would eliminate the need for specialized cutters to solve an annoying first world problem.