Automotive

Master Mechanic Jerry Henderson provides 'how to' for simple automotive repair and maintenance as well as a basic tools list for those who want to gain some independence in basic automotive maintenance, or even those interested in basic automotive repair.

Jerry says ‘Buy tools that fit your budget'.

I recommend Craftsman brand tools over any other brand for two reasons.

First ,the tools are very durable and hold up under professional use for years.

Second, if the tool eventually breaks, then Craftsman tools have an excellent warranty. You just go to the store, and they will warranty the tool.

This is very important to a professional mechanic. I have used more expensive tools, but they don’t seem to last longer, and getting the warranty is usually impossible.

These are the tools recommended by Jerry Henderson.

Jerry is an ASE Certified Master Mechanic and has been in vehicle repair for forty years.

Jerry’s tip for buying tools:

# 1. If you are good at keeping up with tools, then go ahead and buy the professional grade tools if you can afford them. If you tend to lose things, then go with a cheaper set. Either way, Craftsman is your best bet for automotive tools.

# 2. Don’t break the bank. Spend what you can afford. The tools will still be there next payday. You don’t have to have everything at once. A good rule of thumbs is to buy tools on an as needed basis.

Basic tools suggestions

Screw driver set ( Craftsman 8 piece professional screw driver set - )

Pliers (Craftsman professional 5 piece pliers set )

¼ inch socket set

3/8 inches socket set

½ inch socket set – including ratchets

All 3 sizes are found in this 82 piece Craftsman set http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00935741000P?keyword=craftsman+socket+set

Wrenches - ratchet wrenches are great, and this is a great price including personalization! http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00944073000P?keyword=craftsman+socket+set

Impact screwdriver - super cool – you whack the screwdriver with a hammer and the screw goes in. Lisle IMPACT DRIVER SET 3/8IN. WITH BITS http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00915232000P?keyword=impact+screwdriver

Socket extentions for all socket sets – various lengths

This is a great Craftsman set including sockets and extenders

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00942283000P?keyword=craftsman+socket+extensions

Hacksaw – with extra blades This is a high quality hacksaw http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00936144000P?vName=Tools&keyword=craftsman+hacksaw

Pry bar This pry bar has a rolling head – easier to work with. http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00971327000P?keyword=pry+bar

Intermediate to advanced

3/8ths air ratchet - Ingersol Rand brand http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00918821000P?keyword=3/8+air+wratchet

½ in air ratchet - http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00918819000P?keyword=1/2+inch+air+ratchet

WARNING – do not buy cheap air tools. They may break while in use and harm your hands.

Air compressor - this Craftsman air compressor is adequate for home use. http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_009C0422000B?keyword=air+compressor

Sparkplug socket good 6 pt. flex spark plug socket http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00943322000P?vName=Tools&keyword=craftsman+spark+plug+socket

Torque wrenches – 3/8 and ½ inch Craftsman Professional Torque Wrench, 3/8 in. Drive 15 to 75 ft./lbs http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00934883000P?keyword=craftsman+torque+wrench

Brake pliers or spoon http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00999343000P?keyword=brake+pliers

Woodworking – basic tools

Claw hammer 20 0z Craftsman http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00999343000P?keyword=brake+pliers

Handsaw Craftsman 24 in. Fine 12 Pt. Carpenter Handsaw with Soft Grip Handle

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00936266000P?keyword=craftsman+handsaw

Framing square Craftsman 16 x 24 in. Aluminum Square http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00939615000P?vName=Tools&keyword=craftsman+framing+square

Level - http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00939812000P?keyword=24+inch+level

Measuring tape - http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00937392000P?keyword=craftsman+measuring+tape

Pry bar http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00911127000P?keyword=crow+bar

Circular saw Craftsman 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw with LaserTrac™ and 5 Bonus Blades http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00979570000P?keyword=craftsman+circle+saw

Ask Barbara Henderson

Automotive

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