Basic Tools for the DIY Auto Mechanic
Basic automobile repair like major automobile repair requires mechanical skill. Just knowing what socket fits this or what screw driver fits that is helpful. There are many different tools on the market, and each one has its purpose. There are some basic tools though that any beginner should have.
Here is a list of tools that will prove invaluable to the beginner and can be used for most basic repairs:
Number 1: A Chilton's or comparable manual to automobile repair preferably for the make and model of the vehicle that you own. This will break any job down and make it simple to do for anyone. The manual will give easy to follow steps and also specific tools needed.
Number 2: A basic socket set with both standard and metric sockets. This should be all you need for small jobs one can purchase a better set or each additional socket as needed.
Number 3: A good set of screwdrivers Standard, Phillips, star, hex and nut drivers. These will take care of almost all small screws and nuts that need to be removed for most any job.
Number 4: Flashlights and a good quality drop light can be a beginner's best friend. These will prove invaluable especially when trying to see in a dark place. Many times the lighting is poor in one spot or another when doing certain jobs. Extra lighting makes the job easier and clearer.
Number 5: Assorted pliers like needle nose, standard pliers, Channel Lock pliers, and vise grips. These will do certain jobs that a socket wrench may not be able to do like removing a worn bolt.
Number 6: No beginning mechanics tool set is complete without a set of wrenches; these should be both metric and standard as well. One does not have to purchase every wrench on the market just a basic set to get started which may cost thirty dollars or less. Also owning a good crescent wrench or adjustable wrench, or air impact wrench and oil filter wrench are also essential.
Number 7: A small air compressor, jumper cables or battery charger will prove to be valuable for the beginner as well.
These are some of the most basic tools anyone needs when working on an automobile. Other tools can be added as needed or as one's skills grow. There is no substitute for doing the job yourself; it builds confidence and personal satisfaction.
Here is a list of tools that will prove invaluable to the beginner and can be used for most basic repairs:
Number 1: A Chilton's or comparable manual to automobile repair preferably for the make and model of the vehicle that you own. This will break any job down and make it simple to do for anyone. The manual will give easy to follow steps and also specific tools needed.
Number 2: A basic socket set with both standard and metric sockets. This should be all you need for small jobs one can purchase a better set or each additional socket as needed.
Number 3: A good set of screwdrivers Standard, Phillips, star, hex and nut drivers. These will take care of almost all small screws and nuts that need to be removed for most any job.
Number 4: Flashlights and a good quality drop light can be a beginner's best friend. These will prove invaluable especially when trying to see in a dark place. Many times the lighting is poor in one spot or another when doing certain jobs. Extra lighting makes the job easier and clearer.
Number 5: Assorted pliers like needle nose, standard pliers, Channel Lock pliers, and vise grips. These will do certain jobs that a socket wrench may not be able to do like removing a worn bolt.
Number 6: No beginning mechanics tool set is complete without a set of wrenches; these should be both metric and standard as well. One does not have to purchase every wrench on the market just a basic set to get started which may cost thirty dollars or less. Also owning a good crescent wrench or adjustable wrench, or air impact wrench and oil filter wrench are also essential.
Number 7: A small air compressor, jumper cables or battery charger will prove to be valuable for the beginner as well.
These are some of the most basic tools anyone needs when working on an automobile. Other tools can be added as needed or as one's skills grow. There is no substitute for doing the job yourself; it builds confidence and personal satisfaction.
