Tag Archive for: mechanic tools

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX Small Angle Grinder

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX 4-1/2 in Small Angle Grinder

Sometimes you get a new tool thinking “this is cool but I don’t really NEED it” That is what I expected out of the Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX 4-1/2 in Small Angle Grinder. Now this battery powered grinder has become one of those things I wish I had years ago.

Disclaimer ~ This post is a paid partnership with The Home Depot. The tools were provided to Humble Mechanic at no charge. Links to products included in this post are affiliate links to The Home Depot. The information listed in product description is either my personal experience, or information provided by tool manufatorer or The Home Depot

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX Small Angle Grinder

This Dewalt Grinder set was the bare tool. Luckily I have a few tools on the Dewalt 20v platform. Already I am a fan because I don’t have to break out the extension cord. On first grab of the tool, it feels well balanced and comfortable in my hand, including good grip size. It also comes with a detachable handle if you need a little more support.

Like all grinders have, or should have, the Dewalt 4-1/2 in Small Angle Grinder has fully adjustable guard. The best part of the guard is adjustable with one hand. Also you don’t have to fiddle around with that clamp like some models have. Just be sure to let the tool stop before moving the guard.

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX Small Angle Grinder

For more in the safety department, the grinder has a built in brake to stop the tool fast. There are also more passive systems like E-Clutch and KickBack Brake. E-Clutch will shut the tool down if the wheel gets pinched. There is also a two stage trigger to prevent accidental action of the tool. Overall that is a great feature, but if you are trying for lower RPM, it can get a little finicky. To be fair, technically the speed is not variable.

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX Small Angle Grinder

I ended up using this grinder way more than I expected. Not only to put the final touches on the MK3 core support I had to trim down for the charger cooler, but I also used it to trim down the oil filter housing to fit around the AC compressor fitting. I also had to trim down the pinion brace on the inside of the transmission. I used the tool as much holding it in my hand, as standing on its battery. That type of flexibility is fantastic.

Pros of the Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX 4-1/2 in Small Angle Grinder

  • Good balance and removable
  • Lots of safety features built in
  • Good selection of battery options
  • Way more flexible than corded models
  • Almost limitless wheel options

Cons of the Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX 4-1/2 in Small Angle Grinder:

  • Trigger not technically variable (it does work a little)
  • If you are not on the Dewalt battery platform, you will need to be
  • More expensive than a corded model

Overall I really like this grinder. For an automotive technician a grinder is not a tool you use every day. But when you need it, you really need it. If you are also running other tools on the Dewalt battery platform, this is a great addition to the tool box.

Dewalt 20-VOLT MAX Small Angle Grinder

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Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill & Impact Driver Combo ~ Review

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill & Impact Driver Combo ~ Review

Today we review Milwaukee M18 Drill and Impact Driver Combo. This drill and impact kit comes with the tools, 2 5ah batteries, a charger for m18 and m12, and a carrying case. The impact tool was my most used tool as an automotive mechanic. Both tools have great power and brushless motors. It also doesn’t hurt that I have a ton of other Milwaukee tools, and this set fits very nicely into the collection. Thanks to Home Depot for providing these tools.

Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Listen to the Show
It is finally here! The audio only version of the Humble Mechanic Podcast. So many of you wanted to listen on the go, in the car, working out, and now you can. While I wait for iTunes, Google approval you can listen to the show here on the blog. Once those approvals come, you will be able to subscribe and download the audio podcasts from your favorite place. 

Important links:

 

Trouble viewing? Watch “Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill & Impact Driver Combo ~ Review” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. Again, if you have any questions, email me Charles(at)humblemechanic(dot)com with Question for Charles in the subject. Also if you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

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Should Auto Mechanics be Required to be Licensed?

In may places auto mechanics or auto technicians are not required to have a license to fix cars. Should we require mechanics to have a license before they can work on cars or trucks? Would forcing mechanics to have a license make things better for mechanics? How is a license different from ASE certification? Today we talk about about mechanic license!

Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Help Support The Show
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Important links:

Trouble viewing? Watch “Should Auto Mechanics be Required to be Licensed?” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. Again, if you have any questions, email me Charles(at)humblemechanic(dot)com with Question for Charles in the subject. Also if you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

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Professional Auto Mechanics Must Buy Their Own Tools?

Professional Auto Mechanics Must Buy Their Own Tools?

Buying Mechanic tools is EXPENSIVE! Did you know that most pro auto mechanics must buy their own tools? Even many beginner mechanics must spend a lot on tools. I spent about $5000 in tools my first year as a mechanic. So should you have to buy your own tools, or should a shop supply tools?

Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Help Support The Show
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Listen to the Show
It is finally here! The audio only version of the Humble Mechanic Podcast. So many of you wanted to listen on the go, in the car, working out, and now you can. While I wait for iTunes, Google approval you can listen to the show here on the blog. Once those approvals come, you will be able to subscribe and download the audio podcasts from your favorite place. 

Important links:

Trouble viewing? Watch “Professional Auto Mechanics Must Buy Their Own Tools?” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. Again, if you have any questions, email me Charles(at)humblemechanic(dot)com with Question for Charles in the subject. Also if you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

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Tool Giveaway with The Home Depot

Tool Giveaway with The Home Depot

Free Tools?

Who doesn’t love free tools? Earlier this year I started a deal with The Home Depot (Home Depot MotorSports). They send me a few tools once a quarter, and I check them out and review them what makes sense for Humble Mechanic. One of the main reasons I did this deal was to hook you guys up. I spent the last 15 plus years collecting tools for fixing cars, and for working around the house. Needless to say, I have a lot of tools. This deal with Home Depot gives me the chance to check out some stuff, and then give it away.

Disclaimer ~ This post is a paid partnership with The Home Depot. The tools were provided to Humble Mechanic at no charge. Links to products included in this post are affiliate links to The Home Depot. The information listed in product description is either my personal experience, or information provided by tool manufatorer or The Home Depot

For this quarter I am giving away (scroll down for full descriptions on each):

How To Play

I want to make this as easy as possible for all of us. Here is what you need to do:

  • Make a comment on this blog post saying which tool you’d like
    • When you make the comment, USE A GOOD EMAIL ADDRESS!
  • Share this post ~ Humble Mechanic Tool Giveaway ~ We will use the honor system, I trust ya
  • On Friday 7/27/18 I will pick the winners at random and make a post
  • If you are in the United States, I will personally pay the shipping
  • If you are outside the US, I will ask that you pay the shipping
    • I know this sucks, but it’s this way or make it USA only
  • I will email each of the winners, you will have until 8/3/18 to respond back or I will pick another winner
  • If you win, I would love to have you post a picture when you get it
    • Tagging @HumbleMechanic and @homedepot

The Tools:

Here is more about the tools for this giveaway including links to The Home Depot

Husky Screwdriver Set (15 piece)

Husky Screwdriver Set (15 piece)

I bought this set of screwdrivers a while back. They have held up really well. They are strong, chemical resistant, and have a lifetime warranty. The set includes 8 flat blade, and 7 Phillips head screwdrivers and retails for $29.97 plus tax. There may or may not be a VW running around with a shift knob made from a handle of one of these screwdrivers. The package was opened to take photos.

Ridgid Brushless 18v Drywall Screwgun Kit 

Ridgid Brushless 18v Drywall Screwgun Kit 

As a mechanic I don’t really think I am qualified to properly review this tool. Doing drywall work is something I have done before. Today I am happy to pay someone else to do this stuff. This tool does allow Push-to-Drive for less noise and more run time. It also includes the collated attachment, 2 batteries, a charger, and a carry bag. I really do wish I had a use for this tool. The packaging was opened for photos

 

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Compact Inflator 

Milwaukee M12 Cordless Compact Inflator

I am going to be blunt here, the only reason I am giving this away is because I have one. And even with that I kinda want to keep it. This inflator is awesome! I use it all the time around the house. I toss it in the R32 for road trips. I also bring it to autoX events to set tires properly. It comes with attachments to inflate sports balls, and my kid’s giant beach ball. This one comes with 1 M12 battery. If you are not using the M12 platform you will need a charger. This tools was opened for pictures and used 2 times. The battery is not opened

Makita Sub-Compact Brushless Recipro Saw (tool only)

Makita Sub-Compact Brushless Recipro Saw (tool only)

This is a tool will probably come in handy. It’s small, about 12.5″ in length so it fits in spaces the full sized recip saws will not. It works on the Makita LXT 18v battery. So if you are a Makita tool user you are gold. The saw will do 0-3000 strokes per minute with a stroke length of 13/16. This is the tool only so you will need to have your own battery and charger. Again, perfect if you already use Makita tools. This one is brand new in the box.

This post is in partnership with The Home Depot. The tools were provided to Humble Mechanic at no charge. Links to products included in this post are affiliate links to The Home Depot.

Rules

  1. This giveaway is for Humble Mechanic subscribers and is free to enter, no purchase of any kind necessary (1 entree per subscriber)
  2. You must be 18 years or older
  3. If outside the US, winner will be responsible for shipping and handling
  4. The giveaway starts when this blog is posted and closes 7/27/18 with a comment on the blog post
  5. This giveaway complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations including U.S. sanctions.
  6.  Any personal data (address, email, name, etc) will be kept private and be used for Humble Mechanic and this contest to contact the winners and for a possible future Humble Mechanic  email list (you may unsubscribe at any time).
  7. There will be 1 winner per tool
  8. The winner will be chosen at random
  9. Winners will be contacted via email
  10. If a winner does not respond to their email by 8/3/18 a new winner will be picked
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5 MORE Odd Things Mechanics Use To Fix Cars

It may come as a surprise, but not all the tools mechanics use to fix cars come from the tool truck. Often both professional mechanics and DIYer have to be resourceful to fix cars. Today we look at 5 MORE odd things that mechanics use to fix cars. This video is a follow up I did to a video a few years ago. One of the cool things about that video is the comments. There were some great suggestions made. A few that I have adopted as well. I highly recommend you spend a few minutes and check them out. You can see the video and comments at “5 Odd Things Mechanics Use To Fix Cars”

Help Support The Show Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below. Join me as I take you questions on:

Join me today as we discuss:


Trouble viewing, watch “5 MORE Odd Things Mechanics Use To Fix Cars” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. Again, if you have a question for a show, email me Charles(at)humblemechanic(dot)com with Question for Charles in the subject. Also if you have an idea for a show you can email me, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

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Making And Modifying Custom Tools

At some point every mechanic, will need a custom tool. Whether you are a master technician or an automotive DIYer the perfect tool does not always exist. So we have to either make a tool, or modify an existing tool to fix our car repair needs. Maybe the tool we need is just too expensive. Maybe it doesn’t exist, or maybe you have to be a dealership to get the tool. Whatever the reason, having to make or modify tools is extremely common.

Ever wonder what type of tools I own? Check out:Custom mechanic tools

Join me today as we discus:

  • Why anyone may need a modified tool
  • Custom Power Probe tip
  • Socket modification
  • Custom VW AirBag tool
  • Custom VW wiring repair tools
  • Locking extension modifications
  • Making custom jumper wires
  • Buy bulk alligator clips. 
  • and more


Trouble viewing? Watch “Making And Modifying Custom Tools” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. If you have an idea for a show you can email me, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

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Tag Archive for: mechanic tools

Do Expensive Tools Make You a Great Mechanic?

Do Expensive Tools Make You a Great Mechanic?

Humble Mechanic Podcast
Humble Mechanic Podcast
Do Expensive Tools Make You a Great Mechanic?
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Does buying expensive mechanic tools make you a great mechanic? It’s a tool debate I see all the time. While better tools might help make the job easier, they probably don’t make you a better mechanic. To me it’s more about having the right tool for the job, and the tool that works best for YOU. That means more than the name on it, or how much the mechanic tool costs. #humblemechanic

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Do you shop on Amazon?
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Help Support The Show
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Important links:

Thanks for tuning in to the automotive podcast. I am really excited about the response. If you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form! Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast Don’t forget to follow me at:

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Professional Auto Mechanics Must Buy Their Own Tools?

Humble Mechanic Podcast
Humble Mechanic Podcast
Professional Auto Mechanics Must Buy Their Own Tools?
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Buying Mechanic tools is EXPENSIVE! Did you know that most pro auto mechanics must buy their own tools? Even many beginner mechanics must spend a lot on tools. I spent about $5000 in tools my first year as a mechanic. So should you have to buy your own tools, or should a shop supply tools?
Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Do you shop on Amazon?
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Help Support The Show
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Important links:

Thanks for tuning in to the automotive podcast. I am really excited about the response. If you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form! Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast Don’t forget to follow me at:

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How to Buy Tools as a Gift ~ Audio Podcast Episode 15

How to Buy Tools as a Gift ~ Audio Podcast Episode 15

Humble Mechanic Podcast
Humble Mechanic Podcast
How to Buy Tools as a Gift ~ Audio Podcast Episode 15
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Buying tools can be a very personal choice. I realize how dumb that sounds, but it’s true. I am someone that has spent a lot of time researching tools. In addition to that time doing research, I have spent a TON of money on tools. So today’s show it really built on how to buy tools for anyone from the auto enthusiast, to the DIY homeowner. Also remember that gift cards are always awesome, but are not really personal. This may even hope you pick up some tools for yourself.

After talking about Prepping a car for winter yesterday, I have the holiday season on the brain. Now, this is NOT a holiday show, but I thought it would be a great time to talk about buying tools as a gift. So today on the automotive podcast, we are talking about things to consider when buying tools as gifts. I am also working on a guide to buying tools this holiday season. That will be coming out next week. I assure you, there will be awesome deals.

 

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

Become A CrewMember
If you like this show. If you get value out of the videos and content that I put out, consider supporting the show by becoming a CrewMember. You will get discounts you can’t get anywhere else, exclusive videos from me, and VW/Audi training manuals. Between the discounts and the training manuals, the CrewMembership can easily pay for itself. Become a CrewMember today

Do you shop on Amazon?
Many of you have asked about supporting the show. For that I thank you. For now, the best things you can do are SHARE THE SHOW, and shop with my links on Amazon. You will not spend any more money that you would normally. Here is the Amazon link ~ Humble Mechanic on Amazon or you can check out some recommended tools I have listed below.

Important links:

Auto Mechainc's Tool Box

On today’s automotive podcast we talk about:

  • Thinking about who we are buying tools for
    • Car person
    • The Pro
    • The Woodworker
    • Electronics person
    • DIY homeowner
  • How to find the perfect tool
  • Buy nice or buy twice
  • Tool count does not equal value
  • What tools to aviod
  • Flames do not equal quality
  • Slam dunk gift ideas (I don’t mean basketball)
  • Less glamorous, but awesome tool ideas
  • MT Knives sharpening video

Thanks for tuning in to the automotive podcast. I am really excited about the response. If you have an idea for a show, contact me via email, or use the contact me form!

Don’t forget to follow me at:

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

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