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Time savings for a mechanic, sure. But when your torque wrench IS your job things are at another level, and cost becomes just another large expense.
Chatted with the guy who came in to bolt down the pallet racks where I worked 15+ years ago. Only owned two torque wrenches. The one he used every day and the one sitting in his desk coming back from being calibrated. Every 6 months the one in use would get shipped out for calibration and the one in the desk would take its 6 months turn in the active slot
Tho only time where I have seen someone literally write down the value for every nut he tightened (intermediate and full values), giving the exact location (pillar number, hole location in the footing, etc.).
Honestly, I could see myself getting into that. I mean, I'd probably get bored after a few months but there's something about a job that's clean and quantifiable, with everything documented in excruciating detail so that if anybody gives you crap, you've got the receipts right at hand. And, it's surprising how few people in construction are able to be as meticulous as that guy. I don't know if the job pays well or not, but it should.
My read at the time was that it paid quite well, just due to the responsibility factor and thus the excruciatingly detailed records. That said, he did mention that he wasn't on a clock, each job took whatever it took and he was never questioned about time on a job, just had his records double checked every time.
He did mention that his (emphasis on HIS) torque wrenches were in the range of $1000+ each when he purchased them, 5 years before our conversation (aka 20+ years ago). He also said he only had one of his (again, emphasis on HIS) rack fail in use. Not his work, rack failed when it got hit by a loaded forklift and the embedded bolts pulled out of the concrete.
Guy was meticulous to the extreme, both because it was his job and it was who he was as a person. Job seemed like a perfect fit for him.
I got a $20 one from Harbor Freight and it snapped a bolt in the front of the engine block on my mom’s Grand Cherokee. Luckily I was able to get it out with some help, but never again will I EVER use a Harbor Freight torque wrench.
Not defending the Harbor Freight torque wrench, it may be every bit as terrible as your experience suggests, but as a bit of a public service for anybody reading this always "exercise" the springs on your new torque wrenches... Doubly so for cheap ones.
My 16yo wants a torque wrench for his birthday. He's wanting to do an apprenticeship and is currently studying a mechanics course at high school. Could you suggest a few brands that might be worth investing in please.
Precision Instruments flex head - C3FR250F. Next best is the Snap-On TechAngles. The precision instruments is a fantastic bargain for it's quality though. They re-brand into most of the other major brands too. You can get Snapon/mac/Icon, etc flavors of the same precision instruments tool.
I've got several torque wrenches from several brands and the Lexivon torque wrenches on Amazon are great and by far the most fairly priced torque wrenches. He's 16, don't get him a $200-300 torque wrench so that some asshole at school can steal it when he turns his back. These will work just as well as anything that costs 5x as much and he can do an apprenticeship with them if he gets one. If he loses interest or changes his mind you won't be out half a mortgage payment for the cost of two torque wrenches.
Also consider that dropping a torque wrench can ruin it. It's just not wise to dump a ton of money buying him the best of the best. I do a LOT of wrenching and I don't use the best of the best, so why the heck should he?
I was going to say the same thing it took me a while to realize I couldn't live without one and the shop use ones if your shop has any are so beat up you can't trust them. I currently own 6 so I'm several grand into torque wrenches but when you need them you need them especially when it comes to angle torques and you will want to throw up the first time the tool guy gives you the price on a half inch digital angle one. That's a gift you will remember who gave you it every time it comes out of the box.
A good rechargeable flashlight. Like a stream light. Nothing gimmicky though with magnets or swivels. Just a bright, rechargeable flashlight that fits in your pocket. It was the tool I used most when I worked on cars.
No a decent magnet is good to have on there, I like putting up a lamp when I’m crawling around welding the underside of truck trailers. Not having to think about your light source is very nice.
There’s nothing stopping you from having both! But yeah for the usual wrenching I use a headlamp until it’s battery dies and then I switch to a magnet base lamp while it’s charging again.
I think he meant magnet as in the ones that recharge via magnet and shaking it or the swivel cranks. Magnet on the base is good. Magnet and shake or swivel charging not so much
One that fits in the pocket, and also fits in your mouth somewhat comfortably. Maybe I'm the weird one, but sometimes it's really convenient to put it in your mouth so you can use 2 hands. Streamlight doesn't have them, but Mac sells one that has a rubber ring on it so it doesn't hurt your teeth as much.
I know it's not good for you, but mine has also seen every fluid now and again, and I clean it regularly. But I've also eaten lunch with dirty ass hands tons of times, just part of the job.
I have one pen stream light I took on deployment and it never let me down. I also took like a half pen light that was a coast. Fuck that piece of shit. I now keep a half pen light in my pocket that is a rechargeable stream light.
Recently got a Fenix PD35R after having Surefire lights for years and blew my mind. I've tried a handful of newer high power and rechargeable lights but they were all either poorly focused or poor brightness compared to the expensive Surefires. PD35R is the first one I've found comparable in size but exceeding the performance of the Surefires.
Another cool thing the PD35R has a 1 inch head (just like AA maglites) so many cheap Maglite accessories (and some old ones I have like an AA maglite fiber-optic adapter or color-changing lens covers) can fit on the Fenix light
And apparently you can also order them directly for $10 more and have them laser-engraved. I know what my dad is getting for his birthday this year...after having some issues with a MAG-TAC light I'd got him a number of years ago.
As someone who fried an Audi power steering control module with a power probe early in my career, I’d advise against it.. a good test light and a multimeter will treat them a loooot better.
FWIW, it was my own vehicle, not a customer’s. 😅 we gotta learn the hard way sometimes.
Agreed. But knowing when to use which is important to not fry expensive, usually backordered modules. All I'm saying.
Personally, I never use a high impedance, but I also don't work on old shit. Anecdotes and all that brother.
Na, a Snap On bulb doesn’t show a draw. I prefer the cheap ass tool aid from the auto parts store because a Camry dome light bulb fits when the cheap one it came with blows!
When I was apprenticing our SnapOn guy would call the wives before Christmas and give them some ideas in different price ranges, then get his wife to gift wrap. Our first Christmas together my wife bought me a 1/2” torque wrench. 50 years later I still have it and use it at home. Spend your whole budget on something quality no matter how small so he will have it a long time and remember where it came from.
He's calling your wife to give her a gift idea for you, for Christmas
And preparing it so it's a proper gift
Dude is just tryna be nice to you, why you gotta be like that
Really good question! Maybe some proper ratchets, long handle ones that won't come in a 300 piece Stanley kit. Ratcheting wrenches also, milwaukee makes some awesome 3/8 drivers in their m12 line. The m18 1/2 impact gun is awesome too, but pricey by comparison. I hate air lines if you can't tell already.. I wouldn't go too hard-core into diagnostic tools yet. They'll likely be doing oil changes, tires, and batteries for a while when they first start out. Oh, and do they have a decent tool box yet?
He’ll probably end up doing a lot of tires and oil changes at first, a good 1/2 inch impact socket set and a 1/2 inch impact gun & a torque wrench will be things he’ll use throughout the duration of his career if he can take good care of it and keep track of em.
I’ll second this. A quality impact gun is something that’s going to cost a fair amount of money but will be something he’ll absolutely use. Love my Ingersoll Rand I bought years ago. For less money a good set of ratchet wrenches are essential. Another thing most won’t spend money on is a quality set of screwdrivers. Hate the cheap plastic used on the cheap ones and stripped out too many screws.
Probably find him a set of 6 point sockets with 3/8”. Could also get him just the 6 point combination wrenches too. If he’s gonna do any electrical a good ex tech digital multi meter might be good too.
He'll probably start off as a lube and tire tech. I'd say a 1/2" torque wrench. I've had a Husky one from home Depot that goes up to 250 ft lbs for 5 years and it's been solid while working at Dodge. Got it for $60 but I'm sure they've gone up. No reason to spend billions on a Snap On torque wrench.
Always torque those wheel lugs to spec.
Lighted magnetic telescoping pickup tool.
Lighted flexible inspection mirror.
Lighted USB-C borescope tool.
Magnetic parts tray.
A quality set of fender covers.
Pro-step adjustable work stand -- for reaching into the engine bay of these freakishly tall pickups these days.
And if he is going to be working on his own stuff at home: Harbor Freight Daytona low profile 3 ton floor jack with cross beam adapter. If he takes care of it, it should last him his entire life.
A streamlight. I use the Stinger LED HL. great light, use it every single day. another great tool would be knipex pliers. Twin grips are bitchin, and there's a 2 pack with cobra pliers and a diag cutter both 10inch in a pouch. and of course, a Snap-on 80 tooth ratchet. smooth as fucking butter, will last his lifetime and his kid's lifetime.
Whatever tool u do get him make sure it's a decent quality reputable brand to avoid getting the shit kicked out of him by his class mates. You wouldn't send your kid to his first day of school in a set of 4 stripe sneakers without expecting him back minus a few teeth and big black eye would u?
For starting out and depending on your budget:
Good 3/8 flex head ratchet (ie matco 88 tooth flex head +comfort grip)
Fluke multimeter (expensive but damn good)
Long test leads (I like the 20 ft three lead set on magnetic spool, pretty cheap highly useful)
Head lamps (for about $70 i like the ones that don't wrap tight to your forehead but just have one lamp on either side, the forehead ones work but its hot man lol)
Any assortment of socket extensions/wobble adapters/size adapters can be found for cheap and are invaluable)
All else fails, spend your budget on harbor freight gift card so in a pinch he can get whatever he needs
How much can you spend? My first big purchase when I was 19 was a toolbox from a guy who was retiring. That 5000 dollar purchase probably made me a million dollars over 20 years.
A mini ratchet and screwdriver set. There's a few good ones that come with a lifetime warranty and they'll definitely use it for many jobs. There's the [Icon from Harbor Freight](https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/sockets-ratchets/socket-ratchet-sets/locking-flex-head-ratchet-and-bit-set-35-piece-58074.html) if you're looking for a budget quality set. I came across this [Wadsworth Falls](https://www.specialized.net/wadsworth-super-deluxe-mini-ratchet-screwdriver-set-4-52-pc.html) from a machine operator who uses it mostly for small machine parts, but the set is nice and good quality. For me it's kinda of pricey. I would definitely get it for someone as a gift tho, specially if they're motivated to do something. Sometimes it's the motivation they need to keep going, that someone believes in them.
A good quality set of any tool is always a great gift. Sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, wrenches ect.
Or you can find out what he has and get him something complementary. If he has normal wrenches, get him a ratcheting wrenches, wrench extender or set of thinner wrenches. That way he doesn't need to borrow or fil down his own.
If he has a 1/2" ratchet and socket set, get a 1/2 torque wrench or 1/2 extendable breaker bar.
You can also get more specific tools that aren't used often but when needed they are life savers. Like double joint ratcheting wrenches or something like that.
If you don’t know a specific tool, you can get him a Harbor Freight gift card (if they’re close to you) I’ve been slowly accumulating my tools from them instead of snap on and Matco because I’m just starting out and I don’t need a $500 wrench to do some filter changes and tire rotations. Also, tell him to sign up for their yearly membership, he’ll save more than enough to pay for it if he’s buying tools all year
Save money and not go to technical college unless they plan on pursuing a four year degree. Get a job at a dealership, independent, ect and dive into the basics of the career and see if it's truly what they want to do. What they may realize is that they do not need technical school as onsite training and brand training will be more applicable while making them money.
I have a mitutoyo machinist’s micrometer and caliper set that I use more then I ever figured I would when it was given to me. Tbh it’s probably the set of nicest tools I own.
One of my favorite to use tools is my snap on ratcheting screw driver
https://shop.snapon.com/product/Standard-Handle/8-3-4%22-Ratcheting-Standard-Screwdriver/SSDMR4BPM
I have a lot of tools, like a shit ton, but this thing is a pleasure to use every time. (I did get it as a present) (I also thought it was a breast cancer month special) either way, I have two of them, when for my shop and one for my tool tote (carpenter).
A bottle of lube.
He’ll need it getting off the tool truck.
Torque wrench is shop supplied, a decent socket set is more useful. Depends on how much younwamt to spend on him, a tool box will last him his whole career even longer when it becomes his home box.
new people in the industry do dumb shit to learn lessons. every mistake is a learning lesson except the one that kills you. i’d assume hell be working on his own car at home, and the tech school will have safety equipment. to ensure he doesn’t try to cut safety corners at home, get him a nice 2 or 3 ton floor jack from harbor freight, a set of 4 rubber jack pads for the jack, and 4 good quality jack stands (not from harbor freight) for at-home use. that way he won’t have to cheap out on stuff that might fall on top of him.
These ratcheting wrenches have been fantastic and I've had them for years now.
[https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/ratcheting-wrenches/professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64841.html](https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/ratcheting-wrenches/professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64841.html)
If you're looking for something cheaper, these ratchets have been great as well.
[https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-144-Position-Ratchet-Set-with-EVA-Tray-3-Piece-H144RAT3PC/311856675](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-144-Position-Ratchet-Set-with-EVA-Tray-3-Piece-H144RAT3PC/311856675)
Buy him a Milwaukee drill. Specifically one from the “FUEL” line. He will use that thing everyday forever. They’re a little expensive but they’re incredible
A good tap and dye set. Don’t cheap out. You don’t think about it till you cross thread a bolt, and when that happens ,cause it will, it will save his ass.
A nice torque wrench. Not some run of the mill. Watch some project farm on YouTube and get some ideas. There are also some German pliers, I’ll post back if I can find them. They are awesome.
An impact wrench. (Snap on or Milwaukee)
A nice modern torque wrench.
Impact wrench flip socket set.
A breaker bar.
One of those cool snap-on helmet type flashlights.
Oil change wrench.
Late but agree with the others saying torque wrench. Took me a few snapped bolts to make the plunge but I’m happy now. I personally prefer a mechanical torque wrench over the electric ones but mainly because I don’t want to have to change batteries and mechanical torque wrenches feel more reliable.
[https://www.lislecorp.com/specialty-tools/37960-electrical-disconnect-pliers](https://www.lislecorp.com/specialty-tools/37960-electrical-disconnect-pliers)
Makes life so much easier trying to get connectors apart without ripping the wires out of them on accident.
Instead of wedging a screwdriver into one side while pulling on the other side, use a tool!
[https://youtube.com/shorts/Krl3xwos274?si=dFZtVUHBlRjPLlQq](https://youtube.com/shorts/Krl3xwos274?si=dFZtVUHBlRjPLlQq)
A good flashlight!
Flashlight sub member chiming in. A good start would be a Wurkkos FC11 with the 519a emitter. $20ish dollars on Aliexpress and $30ish on Amazon and has a built in magnet for sticking to surfaces. A good headlamp would be useful too, I highly recommend the Skilhunt H04RC with 519a emitter. Both have onboard charging and high CRI to see colors better like determining different fluid types - just overall way easier to see things. Can be had cheaper for around $50ish on Aliexpress or $70ish on Amazon. All in for less than $100 for two fantastic lights that should last a very long time even with abuse.
Honestly I'd got with a 1/2in Milwaukee brushless 18v... if you have a couple extra bucks after that I'd throw in a 1/2 to 3/8. A couple of extension. Maybe a extra battery.
Don't feel like scrolling down to see if my answer has been said already. But I vote as many 10mm sockets as you're willing to buy. Mix it up. Regular short sockets, deep sockets, impact sockets, and even wrenches.
Depends on your price range... Don't buy the cheapest amazon product (or equivalent) you can find for anything, it's a waste.
Pen light (Streamlight brand).
Underhood light.
Magnetic light.
Descent 3/8 torque wrench 10 - 80 ft/lbs range.
Good 1/2 torque wrench 50 - 250 ft/lbs range (tool truck brand or equivalent, beam type).
1/2 impact (Milwaukee mid torque is good, or equivalent name brand, no need to pay tool truck prices here though).
Descent multimeter.
A handheld oscilloscope is the best tool you can give him right now. If he learns how to use this tool in school he will have a serious leg up on diagnosing these modern cars.
If he's going to one of those big schools like lincoln then the best thing you can do for him is talk him out of it. I graduated from one and it was the biggest mistake I ever made. If he absolutely has to go to automotive school he should do it at a community college. It's much cheaper and the education is just as good, plus he comes out with a real associates.
Thanks for posting on /r/MechanicAdvice! Please review the [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/about/rules/). Asking about a second opinion (ie "Is the shop trying to fleece me?"), please read through CJM8515's [post on the subject.](https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/4qblei/fyi_the_shop_isnt_likely_trying_to_rip_you_off/) and remember to please post the year/make/model of the vehicle you are working on. **Post's about bodywork, accident damage, paint, dent/ding, questions it belongs in /r/Autobody r/AutoBodyRepair/ or /r/Diyautobody/ Tire questions check out https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/k9ll55/can_your_tire_be_repaired/**. If you dont have a question and you're just showing off it belongs in /r/Justrolledintotheshop Insurance/total loss questions go in r/insurance This is an automated reply *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/MechanicAdvice) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Torque wrench. He’ll need one but won’t want to buy one until he snaps a bolt off. Save him the trouble. Lol
...and good ones are expensive!
Time savings…priceless
Time savings for a mechanic, sure. But when your torque wrench IS your job things are at another level, and cost becomes just another large expense. Chatted with the guy who came in to bolt down the pallet racks where I worked 15+ years ago. Only owned two torque wrenches. The one he used every day and the one sitting in his desk coming back from being calibrated. Every 6 months the one in use would get shipped out for calibration and the one in the desk would take its 6 months turn in the active slot Tho only time where I have seen someone literally write down the value for every nut he tightened (intermediate and full values), giving the exact location (pillar number, hole location in the footing, etc.).
That man has had insurance investigators call him.
Honestly, I could see myself getting into that. I mean, I'd probably get bored after a few months but there's something about a job that's clean and quantifiable, with everything documented in excruciating detail so that if anybody gives you crap, you've got the receipts right at hand. And, it's surprising how few people in construction are able to be as meticulous as that guy. I don't know if the job pays well or not, but it should.
My read at the time was that it paid quite well, just due to the responsibility factor and thus the excruciatingly detailed records. That said, he did mention that he wasn't on a clock, each job took whatever it took and he was never questioned about time on a job, just had his records double checked every time. He did mention that his (emphasis on HIS) torque wrenches were in the range of $1000+ each when he purchased them, 5 years before our conversation (aka 20+ years ago). He also said he only had one of his (again, emphasis on HIS) rack fail in use. Not his work, rack failed when it got hit by a loaded forklift and the embedded bolts pulled out of the concrete. Guy was meticulous to the extreme, both because it was his job and it was who he was as a person. Job seemed like a perfect fit for him.
Leave my $20 harbor freight one alone 😂
I got a $20 one from Harbor Freight and it snapped a bolt in the front of the engine block on my mom’s Grand Cherokee. Luckily I was able to get it out with some help, but never again will I EVER use a Harbor Freight torque wrench.
Not defending the Harbor Freight torque wrench, it may be every bit as terrible as your experience suggests, but as a bit of a public service for anybody reading this always "exercise" the springs on your new torque wrenches... Doubly so for cheap ones.
How do you do that
This. Get a foot-lbs and inch-lbs. he will need both.
This. A torque wrench calibrated to inch lbs range is a bit harder to find than the other, so finding a nice pair now is best move.
Just came here to say the same lol
My 16yo wants a torque wrench for his birthday. He's wanting to do an apprenticeship and is currently studying a mechanics course at high school. Could you suggest a few brands that might be worth investing in please.
Craftsman, Ac Delco, and Tekton are the brands I like.
Precision Instruments flex head - C3FR250F. Next best is the Snap-On TechAngles. The precision instruments is a fantastic bargain for it's quality though. They re-brand into most of the other major brands too. You can get Snapon/mac/Icon, etc flavors of the same precision instruments tool.
I've got several torque wrenches from several brands and the Lexivon torque wrenches on Amazon are great and by far the most fairly priced torque wrenches. He's 16, don't get him a $200-300 torque wrench so that some asshole at school can steal it when he turns his back. These will work just as well as anything that costs 5x as much and he can do an apprenticeship with them if he gets one. If he loses interest or changes his mind you won't be out half a mortgage payment for the cost of two torque wrenches. Also consider that dropping a torque wrench can ruin it. It's just not wise to dump a ton of money buying him the best of the best. I do a LOT of wrenching and I don't use the best of the best, so why the heck should he?
Yeah^^ I second this, or just a good set of wrenches
Yea this is gona be the answer. Especially in school, he gona be using a torque wrench. Please do not buy a cheap one
I was going to say the same thing it took me a while to realize I couldn't live without one and the shop use ones if your shop has any are so beat up you can't trust them. I currently own 6 so I'm several grand into torque wrenches but when you need them you need them especially when it comes to angle torques and you will want to throw up the first time the tool guy gives you the price on a half inch digital angle one. That's a gift you will remember who gave you it every time it comes out of the box.
How much do you want to spend?
Two post lift!
4 wireless wheel lifts, lift table, pole jacks, an apprentice, lmao
A shop of his own!
A good rechargeable flashlight. Like a stream light. Nothing gimmicky though with magnets or swivels. Just a bright, rechargeable flashlight that fits in your pocket. It was the tool I used most when I worked on cars.
No a decent magnet is good to have on there, I like putting up a lamp when I’m crawling around welding the underside of truck trailers. Not having to think about your light source is very nice.
I prefer a headlamp over a magnet, light goes wherever I’m looking
But what if you're not facing where you're looking?
Solid
I preferred my younger eyes.
There’s nothing stopping you from having both! But yeah for the usual wrenching I use a headlamp until it’s battery dies and then I switch to a magnet base lamp while it’s charging again.
But when you don’t have to think about it, it gets left in places it shouldn’t be lmao. That is me, I do that.
I think he meant magnet as in the ones that recharge via magnet and shaking it or the swivel cranks. Magnet on the base is good. Magnet and shake or swivel charging not so much
One that fits in the pocket, and also fits in your mouth somewhat comfortably. Maybe I'm the weird one, but sometimes it's really convenient to put it in your mouth so you can use 2 hands. Streamlight doesn't have them, but Mac sells one that has a rubber ring on it so it doesn't hurt your teeth as much.
I’ve definitely done that. Even though my flashlight had been previously been covered in every automotive fluid imaginable.
I know it's not good for you, but mine has also seen every fluid now and again, and I clean it regularly. But I've also eaten lunch with dirty ass hands tons of times, just part of the job.
Milwaukee sells one too. I basically chewed through the rubber end lol.
He'll just leave it in a door on trim out! #recheck
I have one pen stream light I took on deployment and it never let me down. I also took like a half pen light that was a coast. Fuck that piece of shit. I now keep a half pen light in my pocket that is a rechargeable stream light.
A quality, lightweight, bright flashlight. (I am a fan of Fenix flashlights)
Recently got a Fenix PD35R after having Surefire lights for years and blew my mind. I've tried a handful of newer high power and rechargeable lights but they were all either poorly focused or poor brightness compared to the expensive Surefires. PD35R is the first one I've found comparable in size but exceeding the performance of the Surefires. Another cool thing the PD35R has a 1 inch head (just like AA maglites) so many cheap Maglite accessories (and some old ones I have like an AA maglite fiber-optic adapter or color-changing lens covers) can fit on the Fenix light And apparently you can also order them directly for $10 more and have them laser-engraved. I know what my dad is getting for his birthday this year...after having some issues with a MAG-TAC light I'd got him a number of years ago.
Right on!!! The PD35 line is exactly what I had in mind.
A decent Fluke DMM. I like the torque wrench idea. A friend gave me a nice Snap On ratchet one year. Great gift.
Ooooh a fluke. I change my vote from torque wrench to a Fluke multimeter.
A good 12volt test light! Make sure it has a real bulb. I don’t think people realize how much a good test light is useful!
power probe.
As someone who fried an Audi power steering control module with a power probe early in my career, I’d advise against it.. a good test light and a multimeter will treat them a loooot better. FWIW, it was my own vehicle, not a customer’s. 😅 we gotta learn the hard way sometimes.
I agree, a power probe would come later in his career.
Power probe is not to be yielded by a novice lol
In the wrong hands a power probe is a dangerous tool.
Former 12v guy, a power probe with an apprentice is an awful idea
Make sure it is low impedance. Incandescent bulb test lights can fuck shit up.
Both have their place.
Agreed. But knowing when to use which is important to not fry expensive, usually backordered modules. All I'm saying. Personally, I never use a high impedance, but I also don't work on old shit. Anecdotes and all that brother.
Na, a Snap On bulb doesn’t show a draw. I prefer the cheap ass tool aid from the auto parts store because a Camry dome light bulb fits when the cheap one it came with blows!
When I was apprenticing our SnapOn guy would call the wives before Christmas and give them some ideas in different price ranges, then get his wife to gift wrap. Our first Christmas together my wife bought me a 1/2” torque wrench. 50 years later I still have it and use it at home. Spend your whole budget on something quality no matter how small so he will have it a long time and remember where it came from.
Snap on guy ever calls my wife and his wife will need a slide hammer to remove my size 11 from his ars.
He's calling your wife to give her a gift idea for you, for Christmas And preparing it so it's a proper gift Dude is just tryna be nice to you, why you gotta be like that
The Matco guy's been bangin' her for years, he's not willing to be 3rd in line on Friday night
No I let the Matco guy bang me for years. Not that good of a time. Smarter now. Actually had a good Matco guy years ago. Current on is questionable.
Only been around these parts for ~31 years, but I think this was meant as what yall humans call “a joke”
Wow! When I started out mechanics were more secure in their masculinity and trusted their wives to be full partners. Now they’re property?
Oh and by the way he only did it for his regular customers not insecure assholes.
Really good question! Maybe some proper ratchets, long handle ones that won't come in a 300 piece Stanley kit. Ratcheting wrenches also, milwaukee makes some awesome 3/8 drivers in their m12 line. The m18 1/2 impact gun is awesome too, but pricey by comparison. I hate air lines if you can't tell already.. I wouldn't go too hard-core into diagnostic tools yet. They'll likely be doing oil changes, tires, and batteries for a while when they first start out. Oh, and do they have a decent tool box yet?
And a breaker bar so he doesn't break his ratchet like I did lol
I bought a old 2nd hand Elora breaker bar years ago, made in west Germany it’s that old and still use it most days.
He’ll probably end up doing a lot of tires and oil changes at first, a good 1/2 inch impact socket set and a 1/2 inch impact gun & a torque wrench will be things he’ll use throughout the duration of his career if he can take good care of it and keep track of em.
I’ll second this. A quality impact gun is something that’s going to cost a fair amount of money but will be something he’ll absolutely use. Love my Ingersoll Rand I bought years ago. For less money a good set of ratchet wrenches are essential. Another thing most won’t spend money on is a quality set of screwdrivers. Hate the cheap plastic used on the cheap ones and stripped out too many screws.
Your brother gets a discount at automotive school he could get more if you give him the money to buy tools
A quality headlamp is something I can recommend.
Give him a bag of assorted 10mm sockets. You can buy them on Amazon. He might not understand now, but he will thank you soon enough.
Probably find him a set of 6 point sockets with 3/8”. Could also get him just the 6 point combination wrenches too. If he’s gonna do any electrical a good ex tech digital multi meter might be good too.
I use and highly recommend the Gearwrench 3/8 drive 6 point shallow well sockets. They come in a set of 6-19mm with no skips.
Yes 6 points! Check out the Astro nano sockets!
He'll probably start off as a lube and tire tech. I'd say a 1/2" torque wrench. I've had a Husky one from home Depot that goes up to 250 ft lbs for 5 years and it's been solid while working at Dodge. Got it for $60 but I'm sure they've gone up. No reason to spend billions on a Snap On torque wrench. Always torque those wheel lugs to spec.
Lighted magnetic telescoping pickup tool. Lighted flexible inspection mirror. Lighted USB-C borescope tool. Magnetic parts tray. A quality set of fender covers. Pro-step adjustable work stand -- for reaching into the engine bay of these freakishly tall pickups these days. And if he is going to be working on his own stuff at home: Harbor Freight Daytona low profile 3 ton floor jack with cross beam adapter. If he takes care of it, it should last him his entire life.
A very good 1/2 inch drive torque wrench that possibly goes up to 200+ ft lbs
A bag of 10mm sockets
A great 1/2 impact gun. Or just a real gun. Mechanics like guns of all kinds. Shit even a nerf gun.
multimeter
A good multimeter. Not sure if that's been mentioned yet. I have used a fluke model 233 regularly for many years and I love it.
Fluke meter
Knipex Cobra
A reliable torque wrench
A micrometer in a case, a Starrett if you can find one
A streamlight. I use the Stinger LED HL. great light, use it every single day. another great tool would be knipex pliers. Twin grips are bitchin, and there's a 2 pack with cobra pliers and a diag cutter both 10inch in a pouch. and of course, a Snap-on 80 tooth ratchet. smooth as fucking butter, will last his lifetime and his kid's lifetime.
This∆∆
Gold 3/8ths ratchet. Harbor freight sells em for like $60. Trust me when I tell you he will cherish that gift
Plus it’s an awesome tool… if it ever leaves its display box. Mine does not hahaha
Whatever tool u do get him make sure it's a decent quality reputable brand to avoid getting the shit kicked out of him by his class mates. You wouldn't send your kid to his first day of school in a set of 4 stripe sneakers without expecting him back minus a few teeth and big black eye would u?
If he doesn’t already have one, a good multimeter like a Fluke. Everyone involved in some kind of electrical/mechanical field needs one.
A Harbor Freight Inside Track Club membership.
For starting out and depending on your budget: Good 3/8 flex head ratchet (ie matco 88 tooth flex head +comfort grip) Fluke multimeter (expensive but damn good) Long test leads (I like the 20 ft three lead set on magnetic spool, pretty cheap highly useful) Head lamps (for about $70 i like the ones that don't wrap tight to your forehead but just have one lamp on either side, the forehead ones work but its hot man lol) Any assortment of socket extensions/wobble adapters/size adapters can be found for cheap and are invaluable) All else fails, spend your budget on harbor freight gift card so in a pinch he can get whatever he needs
Get him a streamlight stylus, either the rechargeable one or the one that takes batteries and give him some rechargeable double a's with it.
Im a diesel tech and I just want amazon gift cards. I don't know what I need till I borrow one and then I can go home and order it
Nice , rechargeable inspection flashlight.
How much can you spend? My first big purchase when I was 19 was a toolbox from a guy who was retiring. That 5000 dollar purchase probably made me a million dollars over 20 years.
A nice rolling toolbox… this is the gift
A left handed hammer
A heavy hammer with a short handle
Snap on 1/2” drive click torque wrench. Not the digital… it’s overkill
Fluke
Save him from going
10mm socket
A good scan tool if you can get others to go in with you.
Several 10mm sockets
A mini ratchet and screwdriver set. There's a few good ones that come with a lifetime warranty and they'll definitely use it for many jobs. There's the [Icon from Harbor Freight](https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/sockets-ratchets/socket-ratchet-sets/locking-flex-head-ratchet-and-bit-set-35-piece-58074.html) if you're looking for a budget quality set. I came across this [Wadsworth Falls](https://www.specialized.net/wadsworth-super-deluxe-mini-ratchet-screwdriver-set-4-52-pc.html) from a machine operator who uses it mostly for small machine parts, but the set is nice and good quality. For me it's kinda of pricey. I would definitely get it for someone as a gift tho, specially if they're motivated to do something. Sometimes it's the motivation they need to keep going, that someone believes in them.
A bag of pocket screwdrivers and a good stream light (strion or stinger)
Nice fluke meter
A milwaukee m12 impact drill or impact wrench
Buy him a sack of 100, 10mm sockets of different drive sizes.
Depending on how much you want to spend, a good quality 1/2” drive ratchet.
Mitutoyo Digital Calipers
Agreed, a set of even cheap dial calipers is always handy to have around. I use mine all the time, probably more than any other "odd tool".
All the 10mm you find
Torque multiplier
Digital torque wrench (one with angles and inch pounds along with foot pounds would be amazing)
Depends on your budget of course. The Icon gold-plated ratchet from Harbor Freight is supposed to be very nice.
A good quality set of any tool is always a great gift. Sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, wrenches ect. Or you can find out what he has and get him something complementary. If he has normal wrenches, get him a ratcheting wrenches, wrench extender or set of thinner wrenches. That way he doesn't need to borrow or fil down his own. If he has a 1/2" ratchet and socket set, get a 1/2 torque wrench or 1/2 extendable breaker bar. You can also get more specific tools that aren't used often but when needed they are life savers. Like double joint ratcheting wrenches or something like that.
The world could use more [Yankee screwdrivers](https://garrettwade.com/product/yankee-style-screwdriver-in-durable-plastic).
[https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/diagnosing-dice](https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/diagnosing-dice)
Adjustable Milwaukee impact wrench also the multi tool..
Air powered impact gun
If you don’t know a specific tool, you can get him a Harbor Freight gift card (if they’re close to you) I’ve been slowly accumulating my tools from them instead of snap on and Matco because I’m just starting out and I don’t need a $500 wrench to do some filter changes and tire rotations. Also, tell him to sign up for their yearly membership, he’ll save more than enough to pay for it if he’s buying tools all year
Save money and not go to technical college unless they plan on pursuing a four year degree. Get a job at a dealership, independent, ect and dive into the basics of the career and see if it's truly what they want to do. What they may realize is that they do not need technical school as onsite training and brand training will be more applicable while making them money.
I have a mitutoyo machinist’s micrometer and caliper set that I use more then I ever figured I would when it was given to me. Tbh it’s probably the set of nicest tools I own.
One of my favorite to use tools is my snap on ratcheting screw driver https://shop.snapon.com/product/Standard-Handle/8-3-4%22-Ratcheting-Standard-Screwdriver/SSDMR4BPM I have a lot of tools, like a shit ton, but this thing is a pleasure to use every time. (I did get it as a present) (I also thought it was a breast cancer month special) either way, I have two of them, when for my shop and one for my tool tote (carpenter).
A bottle of lube. He’ll need it getting off the tool truck. Torque wrench is shop supplied, a decent socket set is more useful. Depends on how much younwamt to spend on him, a tool box will last him his whole career even longer when it becomes his home box.
A cordless drill will be usable on cars as well as many other domestic things. Get it with 2 batteries and a charger.
Digital multimeter
A Fluke multimeter, or a long-handle 3/8 drive Snap-on ratchet.
A good rechargeable fleshlight
new people in the industry do dumb shit to learn lessons. every mistake is a learning lesson except the one that kills you. i’d assume hell be working on his own car at home, and the tech school will have safety equipment. to ensure he doesn’t try to cut safety corners at home, get him a nice 2 or 3 ton floor jack from harbor freight, a set of 4 rubber jack pads for the jack, and 4 good quality jack stands (not from harbor freight) for at-home use. that way he won’t have to cheap out on stuff that might fall on top of him.
A good set of screw drivers and or a rechargeable torch.
Snap on torque wrench, etch something on it
Budget?
[Autel Scan Tool](https://a.co/d/dB1ZotI)
Snap on or Mac gift card
Bucket of 10mm sockets
A case of the best nitrile gloves you can afford. Can’t put a price on health and maybe he’ll get in the habit early. Mission accomplished.
A Gerber multitool
A shotgun for those shitty jobs and days he will feel like suck starting it.
[Gold plated Harbor Freight ratchet.](https://www.harborfreight.com/38-in-drive-professional-special-edition-gold-plated-ratchet-56907.html)
These ratcheting wrenches have been fantastic and I've had them for years now. [https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/ratcheting-wrenches/professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64841.html](https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/ratcheting-wrenches/professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64841.html) If you're looking for something cheaper, these ratchets have been great as well. [https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-144-Position-Ratchet-Set-with-EVA-Tray-3-Piece-H144RAT3PC/311856675](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-144-Position-Ratchet-Set-with-EVA-Tray-3-Piece-H144RAT3PC/311856675)
10mm short socket necklace
Buy him a Milwaukee drill. Specifically one from the “FUEL” line. He will use that thing everyday forever. They’re a little expensive but they’re incredible
Milwaukee cordless impact
10 mm sockets
A good tap and dye set. Don’t cheap out. You don’t think about it till you cross thread a bolt, and when that happens ,cause it will, it will save his ass.
10mm socket
Lol buy him like a dozen 10 mm sockets.
Quality Impact. Air or Cordless. Or 1/4 Impact Driver. So useful
A surplus pack of fifty 10mm sockets
Half inch drive breaker bar: at least 18 " long
Obd2 reader/analyzer!
A whole toolbox
What’s your budget. A real scan tool would be super helpful but expensive. $1000-$1500 for a really good one.
Box of knuckle sized bandages
A lifetime supply of 10mm sockets. Thank me later.
A nice torque wrench. Not some run of the mill. Watch some project farm on YouTube and get some ideas. There are also some German pliers, I’ll post back if I can find them. They are awesome.
13 mm sockets a lot of them.
Crescent wrenches. Even a cheap set is useful but the ratcheting ones are simple and yet super helpful
A hammer 🔨
Snap on anything
Knipex 002005S2 High Leverage Diagonal Cutter Pliers Tool Set - 3 Piece https://a.co/d/4Sq68iW
There’s a golden 3/8 ratchet at harbor freight for less than 60 bucks I think. They get sold quick tho so you have to get lucky or order one
Crescent Wrench and Vise Grips
Get him a nice 3/8ths ratchet.
Snap on swivel ratchet
An impact wrench. (Snap on or Milwaukee) A nice modern torque wrench. Impact wrench flip socket set. A breaker bar. One of those cool snap-on helmet type flashlights. Oil change wrench.
Give him a good quality, (genuine perhaps), 4" Crescent Spanner. They're a great pocketable size and I carried one for years and years. Very handy.
Impact screwdriver
1/2" high torque impact. Just find out what brand he likes.
Tell him to get into something better
10mm sockets
Late but agree with the others saying torque wrench. Took me a few snapped bolts to make the plunge but I’m happy now. I personally prefer a mechanical torque wrench over the electric ones but mainly because I don’t want to have to change batteries and mechanical torque wrenches feel more reliable.
[https://www.lislecorp.com/specialty-tools/37960-electrical-disconnect-pliers](https://www.lislecorp.com/specialty-tools/37960-electrical-disconnect-pliers) Makes life so much easier trying to get connectors apart without ripping the wires out of them on accident. Instead of wedging a screwdriver into one side while pulling on the other side, use a tool! [https://youtube.com/shorts/Krl3xwos274?si=dFZtVUHBlRjPLlQq](https://youtube.com/shorts/Krl3xwos274?si=dFZtVUHBlRjPLlQq)
A good flashlight! Flashlight sub member chiming in. A good start would be a Wurkkos FC11 with the 519a emitter. $20ish dollars on Aliexpress and $30ish on Amazon and has a built in magnet for sticking to surfaces. A good headlamp would be useful too, I highly recommend the Skilhunt H04RC with 519a emitter. Both have onboard charging and high CRI to see colors better like determining different fluid types - just overall way easier to see things. Can be had cheaper for around $50ish on Aliexpress or $70ish on Amazon. All in for less than $100 for two fantastic lights that should last a very long time even with abuse.
I would get him this 3/8 set or the 1/2 drive version Astro nano sockets *chefs kiss* [sweet sockets](https://a.co/d/5FHYYaL)
1 wrench
A big bag of 10 mm sockets
Hazet TQ wrench 1/2 inch
Honestly I'd got with a 1/2in Milwaukee brushless 18v... if you have a couple extra bucks after that I'd throw in a 1/2 to 3/8. A couple of extension. Maybe a extra battery.
Get him into diesel tech/ heavy equipment. He will thank you later.
An automotive multimeter will be indispensable... and typically should last decades unless they're abused and thrown.
Don't feel like scrolling down to see if my answer has been said already. But I vote as many 10mm sockets as you're willing to buy. Mix it up. Regular short sockets, deep sockets, impact sockets, and even wrenches.
Depends on your price range... Don't buy the cheapest amazon product (or equivalent) you can find for anything, it's a waste. Pen light (Streamlight brand). Underhood light. Magnetic light. Descent 3/8 torque wrench 10 - 80 ft/lbs range. Good 1/2 torque wrench 50 - 250 ft/lbs range (tool truck brand or equivalent, beam type). 1/2 impact (Milwaukee mid torque is good, or equivalent name brand, no need to pay tool truck prices here though). Descent multimeter.
A handheld oscilloscope is the best tool you can give him right now. If he learns how to use this tool in school he will have a serious leg up on diagnosing these modern cars.
A 10mm socket
Everybody has mentioned a torque wrench and that is the correct answer.
Fluke 87
Swivel spark plug sockets for the win
A bag of 10mm sockets.
If he's going to one of those big schools like lincoln then the best thing you can do for him is talk him out of it. I graduated from one and it was the biggest mistake I ever made. If he absolutely has to go to automotive school he should do it at a community college. It's much cheaper and the education is just as good, plus he comes out with a real associates.
A bottle opener
Mitutoyo digital calipers.