To succeed as a mechanic in today’s car-oriented society, you need more than a wrench in your hand and pliers on your belt. A successful modern mechanic will take advantage of all the tools and technology at their disposal, especially when it comes to measurements. Accuracy is crucial!
In this article, we’ll outline four top tools all mechanics should include in their toolkit in 2021. Luckily, you can pick up anyone at a trustworthy supplier, for example, RS Components.
1. Protractor
Protractors are a popular sight in primary school Maths classes around Australia. But they also make a great addition to any mechanic’s toolbelt.
A quality protractor will help you quickly determine the right angle to set your mitre saw before you begin cutting. To determine the proper angle, press the legs of your protractor against the two appropriate surfaces and read the angle shown.
2. Tape measure
As technology grows around us, there’s still one traditional tool you should never pass by—the trusty tape measure. These crucial tools feature a flexible length of tape made from thin metal and consistent, linear measurement markings.
Tape measures are popular among mechanics because of their portability and durability. They’re small enough to fit in your pocket but strong enough to withstand heavy use. Because of their mechanical nature, they’re also resistant to dust, dirt, grime, and water damage and do not require electricity.
Many tape measures are also magnetic, helping them attach easily to steel studs.
For most mechanics, an eight-meter tape measure should be suitable for most jobs. We also recommend picking a variety with a reinforced frame, wear-resistant blade, and anti-tear coating for maximum durability.
3. Laser measure
Laser measures are crucial tools for mechanics, architects, and contractors. Using a laser, these tools measure the distance between an object and the laser measure itself. They’re a great option for quickly determining the distance between two points.
Most laser measures can offer accurate, precise measurements up to thirty metres away—although higher-end digital readers can measure distances up to eighty metres!
You can use a laser measure instead of a traditional tape measure, although these tools truly shine when used to measure long distances.
4. Clamp meters
Clamp meters are crucial tools for safely and efficiently measuring current. They’re grab-and-go tools that you can simply pick up and use to take your measurement without needing to turn off a circuit.
Electricians traditionally use clamp meters to measure current in a live wire—although they’re also fantastic tools for automotive repair. They’re not only precise and easy to use, but also versatile—many clamp meters can also take other measurements such as voltage, continuity, and resistance.
Most vehicle electrical systems run on DC power, so it’s best to choose a meter that can measure DC voltage. You can also use these tools to measure continuity and check for breaks in a wire or circuit.
Conclusion
By including these tools in your toolkit, you’ll be ready to tackle any mechanical problem that comes your way. Remember—precision is essential in the automotive field, so keep only the latest and highest quality measurement equipment in your kit.
