A few questions about tools for an entry tech...
I'm starting as an entry level tech in a few weeks, I just want to make sure I have all my basic tools. I've got a question about a couple though:
I've yet to ever run into needing a crow's foot for a job. Is this a tool that I should invest in though? Or will I probably not ever run into needing them? Also do any of you use an air hammer with a tie rod end separator? Or just a good ol pickle fork?
Here's a list of my tools. Let me know if I'm missing anything:
SAE & Metric Wrenches & Sockets, Allen & Torx
Breaker bar, assorted ratchets, and extensions. 1/4 3/8 1/2
1/2" Torque wrench
torque bars
pliers & vice grips
Prybars
Measuring Tape
Micrometer
Dial indicator
Multimeter
screwdrivers and 2.5' phillips and flat head
dead blow
3lb sledge
impact wrench
die grinder
air hammer
Ball joint press
pitman arm puller
I may have missed a few things, does anyone notice anything big missing that I'd need doing a lot of front end work?
Your journey is just beginning, tool-wise, Rusty. The bane of my existence as a professional tech has been the costs and numbers of ever-changing tool requirements over the years. Changes in vehicle design and fastener configurations will ensure a steady need for you to tithe a percentage of every week's paycheck to your box. When I met my CPA wife (20-some years ago) she was flabbergasted at my tool budget.
Will you be staying on the alignment rack, or moving to something different in the forseeable future? Steering/suspension systems and wheel alignments are constantly becoming more and more technologically sophisticated, as are all the rest of the automotive repair trade areas. Along with those technological advances will always come a need for specialty tools, in addition to the basic hand tools you've mentioned. Tool requirements for different areas of auto repair expertise will change as you go.
As to what tools you already have and what you may need...my personal mantra has always been that if I have to borrow a tool twice...I buy it the third time. I have some tools in my box that I haven't used in years, but just as soon as I let them go (or misplace them), I'll need 'em. lol Different shops have different ideas about who buys what tools, as well. I tend to buy all my own stuff, even expensive diagnostic equipment. That way I don't have to wait for someone else to get done with the tool; plus it gives me bitchin' rights, and I don't have to loan 'em out if I don't want to. :toothy10:
Sounds like you have a decent start. I'd also get myself a 1/4 drive and 3/8 drive torque wrench. Torque everything!
Your most valuable tool, however, will be your brain. Train constantly. Get yourself some trade mags coming...many of them are free. Go to classes every chance you get. Do your best to stay on top of the ever changing world you are about to immerse yourself in. If you're not already a member...join iATN (International Automotive Technician's Network)
http://www.iatn.net/ as an individual sponsor, if your shop doesn't have such an account there. Dues are $35.00/quarter, I believe. I'd have to ask my wife, who actually pays the bills. :) It's money well spent, imo. I go there frequently, myself.
There's a wealth of information there, and the best of the best in our industry have all sorts of helpful information, including tips on all areas of the trade. There's even a tool specific forum. Seriously, check it out. As a sponsoring member, you'll have access to many areas which can help tremendously. For example, I copied this from the Knowledge Base (an iATN premium subscriber feature) tab:
FIX Database TechHelp requests, updates, and fixes, searchable by year, make, model, system, symptom, and more. 219,711
1,322,867Records
Replies
Forum Archives iATN web forum discussions, searchable by keyword, author name, and more. 1,522,274Records
Waveform Library File library of waveforms, scandata, component photos, documents, videos, etc., searchable by year, make, model, condition, and more.
25,871Files
Welcome, Rusty, to one of the most personally rewarding and equally frustrating professions you will find out there. I can guarantee this; if you stick with it, you'll never be bored! You may want to pull your hair out from time to time...but you'll never be bored!
And yes...you will most likely eventually need crow's feet. Metric and SAE. And LOTS of other tools you've not mentioned. 8)
Always do the job right, and Good Luck! If you have specific questions about the industry, please don't hesitate to ask...maybe I can help.