Starting a mechanic shop requires more than just finances. In this type of industry, you have to be familiar not just with common automotive issues but also with the tools and equipment. There are so many guides you will find on the internet nowadays but here are the necessities that will strengthen the foundation of your business:
Air Compressor
There are many types of air compressors. If you’re planning on opening an auto shop that can accommodate at least two vehicles at a time, then it’s best to purchase the industrial-sized machine. Though air compressors are only used about 15% of the time, it is still best to buy heavy-duty ones between the range of 60 to 120 gallons.
There are many types of air compressors. If you’re planning on opening an auto shop that can accommodate at least two vehicles at a time, then it’s best to purchase the industrial-sized machine. Though air compressors are only used about 15% of the time, it is still best to buy heavy-duty ones between the range of 60 to 120 gallons.
Oil Drain Cady
A drain bucket is an essential component in every repair shop since of your basic services is to change the oil. This is where you will store or transfer all the used oil from the car. Most drain pans are quite similar to each other they only differ in their storage capacity.
One of the most basic types of oil drain caddie is leakproof and can hold up to 16 quarts of oil. However, this is a small one and can only be used for a four-cylinder engine. If you’re going to work with a V8, then you will need a bigger bucket that has at least 18- quart capacity.
There are also large drain buckets that are used for commercial purposes. These heavy-duty equipment have more complex features compared to the ones mentioned above. A commercial oil drain tank can is around 45 inches to 73 inches in height and 80-quart capacity.
Pliers
Pliers play an important role because of the many tasks they can help you with. There is a wide range of pliers selection and when buying, always opt to get the full set. You also need to make sure that they’re of high quality and are heavy-duty because cheap alternatives will cause your business more harm than good. The most basic type of pliers are:
- Long Nose Pliers
- Diagonal Cutting Pliers
- Utility Pliers
- Lineman’s or Side Cutting Pliers
- End Cutting Pliers
- Slip Joint Pliers
- Flat Nose Pliers
- 6 cm to 9 cm Pliers
Wrenches
Almost all repair services on cars require wrenches because they are primarily used for turning nuts and bolts. It is a non-negotiable must-have. A majority of wrenches are 5 inches (ca. 13 cm) to 2 feet (0.61 m) long and the longer the handle, the stronger the force it applies on the nut and bolt.
When choosing, it is highly suggested to buy both the standard (inches) and metric (millimeters) set. Quality is also non-negotiable and chrome or alloy type wrenches are the top choices because they can last you for years. Some of the most basic types of wrenches you need are:
- Open End Wrench
- Box End Wrench
- Combination Wrench
- Adjustable Wrench
- Hex-Key Wrench
- Ratcheting Wrench
- Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Basin Wrench
- Strap Wrench
- Allen Wrench
- Craw Foot Wrench
- Impact Wrench
- Lug Wrench
Screw Drivers
Screwdrivers are every mechanic’s toolbox must-have. They are used in the removal and insertion of screws and other types of integral repair. You will notice that there is a wide variation of screwdriver tips that’s why there is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to these tools. Each type has a specific purpose.
The Phillips screwdriver is one of the most common types that you will find. It has cross-shaped tips and is designed for screws that have Phillips heads. Another type is the Star or Torx Screwdriver which has a six-pointed star-shaped tip. It is used to apply maximum torque. Other types of screwdrivers that you will need are:
- Insulated Screwdriver
- Torque Screwdriver
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Tri-Wing Screwdriver
- Pozidrive Screwdriver
- Hex Screwdriver
- Square Screwdriver
- Impact and Electric Screwdriver
- Slotted Screwdriver
Jack and Lift
A Jack is primarily used to lift a car off the ground. It is extremely important not just for your convenience but also for your safety so make sure to invest in a high-quality one. There are two main types of Jacks: the scissor jack and the floor jack that has a lifting range of 11 ¼ inches to 16 inches.
Bear in mind that jack stands, though normally heavy-duty, are not designed to hold a vehicle above ground for long periods. If you are looking for something that can bear the weight of a big car, then you might want to consider investing in a high-quality mobile column car lift. This equipment has the capacity and flexibility to lift any small car or large car that weighs 148,000 lbs.
In the mechanic industry, safety is just as important as the outcome of the repair. By investing in the correct tools and equipment, you will be able to deliver quality service while ensuring your customers’ safety.
