Tag Archive for: tool review

The Home Depot "Prospective" Tool Round Up

As you all know, I have a deal with The Home Depot. They send me some tools each quarter, I check them out and review the ones that make sense for our community. Last quarter I gave away a bunch of the tools from the Prospective program. This quarter I will be giving away a few more tools. Due to timing of SEMA, and the end of the quarter the giveaway will be delayed. Listed below are all the tools included in Q3 Prospective, and some quick thoughts on each.

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

The Tools:

Husky LED Lights

Husky LED Lights
First up we have a selection of Husky LED lights. If you have been around the community a while, you know I love lighting solutions. These three Husky lights are a great value. The puck light and the clip light retail for $9.97. The headlamp comes in at $14.97. Now I am not the biggest fan of headlamps for automotive use, but I do use them around the house. I also didn’t like working next to the guy that used the headlamp. Every time he’d look my way I got a face full of light. For the price point, and the fact they come with batteries makes these a good buy.

~ Husky Headlamp
~ Husky Puck Light 
~ Husky Clip Light

 

Makita 18v SubCompact 3/8" Impact

Makita 18v SubCompact 3/8″ Impact (giveaway soon)
This is a tool I was excited to test out. One of the first tools I ever reviewed for Humble Mechanic was my Makita drill and impact set. This impact retails for $159.00 for the bare tool. The compact design is very appealing. I will say with a max output of 130 lb. ft. of torque, I really expected more. If you already own tools on this battery platform, it may be a good addition to the toolbox. To me, I think buying a tool with the 1/4″ hex is a better buy. It is more universal that being locked into a 3/8″ drive.

~ Makita 18v SubCompact Impact 
~ Makita 4.0ah Battery and Charger 


Milwaukee M18 Fuel 18v Drill/Impact Set
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 18v Drill/Impact Set (Giveaway soon)
I truly believe that Milwaukee is the one power tool brand that focuses the most on automotive. Between the electric ratchets, hood lights, 1/2″ mid-torque impacts and more, they are crushing it. This drill and impact driver doesn’t disappoint. I have also said several times, the impact driver was my most used tool in the toolbox. I did a full in-depth review on this set ~ Milwaukee M18 Drill and Impact Driver Combo

Milwaukee M18 Drill and Impact Driver Combo

 

 

Ridgid MEGAMax Brushless Power BaseRidgid MEGAmax Brushless 18v Power System
The MEGAmax system is pretty cool. It’s is a power base with interchangeable accessories. My kit came with a really awesome reciprocating saw, a 1/2″ right angle drill, and a 6ah batter with charger. Now I don’t really feel like I am properly qualified to do a review on this product. I can tell you I used the reciprocating saw a lot and it is awesome! The right angle drill worked properly, but didn’t have a tight fit on the base. Also the key for the chuck didn’t stay in the holder. If you are doing rough in work, this may not be an issue. The battery charger has USB ports on it. I really love that feature. One less thing to plug in, I like that

~ Power Base
~ Reciprocating Saw
~ Right Angle Drill
~ Battery

 

Ryobi ONE+ 18v Bolt CuttersRyobi ONE+ 18v Bolt Cutters
As an automotive technician, this is not the tool you really want to have to use. As a homeowner, it’s great. Also as someone how like to test out tools that do cool things, I love it. I used it to redo the closet in my office with adjustable wire shelving. That sure beat digging out my old reciprocating saw and dull blades. I also used it to make some guide pins for holding the core support when putting a VW in service position. I am also proud that I haven’t cut thousands of things in half with it.

Ryobi ONE+ 18v Bolt Cutters
~ Ryobi ONE+ Battery 

 

BLAZE 165 ft. Laser Distance Measurer with Bluetooth and Full Color DisplayBLAZE 165 ft. Laser Distance Measurer with Bluetooth and Full Color Display
This laser measuring tool is one of those things that I will use a lot, but never use all the really awesome features it has. Not only does it measure, and function as a level, but you can pair it to your phone and use it to calculate area and volume. This type of tool does have an automotive application. We used one to make measurements on cars when doing driver assist alignments. I really gave this little guy a workout when rearranging my office, and the shop.

BLAZE 165 ft. Laser Distance Measurer with Bluetooth and Full Color Display

 

 

 


Daredevil High Carbon Steel Standard Spade Bit Set (12-Piece)
Daredevil High Carbon Steel Standard Spade Bit Set (12-Piece)
With each of these tools, I actively look for ways that they can be adapted to the automotive field. Wood drill bits are one that I couldn’t come up with one. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun testing them out. These bits did a great job biting into the wood, and drilling a nice clean hole. Bits like this are typically used during construction to run wiring or conduit. They also make for really neat slow-motion videos.

Daredevil High Carbon Steel Standard Spade Bit Set (12-Piece)

 

 

 

10-Compartment Deep Pro Small Parts Organizer10-Compartment Deep Pro Small/Deep Parts Organizer
Parts organizers are not new technology. But staying organized as a mechanic is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. These organizers level up a little because they lock together. This allows to you stack multiple cases together. This type of portable storage is not used a ton in the shop setting. This is more of a mobile thing. Think about plumbers, electricians, mobile techs as the main users of this storage.

I like these organizers from Dewalt. The one thing I would like to change is the ability to latch them together and still be able to have them stand up. The small organizer latches to the larger one in the middle. This prevents the assembly from standing up.

10-Compartment Deep Pro Deep Parts Organizer
10-Compartment Deep Pro Small Parts Organizer

 

 

 

Dewalt 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion 21-Degree Cordless Framing NailerDewalt 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer
Like the wood drill bits, a framing nail gun is not the first thing that comes to mind when talking about fixing cars. And this is the first time I have ever used a framing nail gun. I do have a good amount of experience with doing trim work, and using a trim nail gun. I can’t really say if this is a great nail gun or not. But I do think is points to something the automotive industry is seeing. An extreme reduction in pneumatic tools. With battery technology being so good, and getting better all the time, battery tools are quickly replacing pneumatic. Yes the price point of this tool is more than a pneumatic tool. But think about not having to lug an air compressor around to use it. In a shop environment this is not as big of a concern. Other than a few small situations and a couple of tools, battery has become my go to.

Dewalt 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer

 

Diablo Reciprocating Saw BladesDiablo Reciprocating Saw Blades
These saw blades paired up with the Ridgid reciprocating saw. The steel and the demo blades were used for taking a few stock type photos. And the delivered on what they promised. I did put the pruning blade to work for real. In spring we lost a tree due to late frost. My wife was nice enough not to give me a hard time about leaving it up. AKA, I just didn’t get around to it. But that allowed me to test drive this blade for actual pruning. As you might imagine it cut through the tree like a knife though butter

~ Demo Demon Blade
~ Pruning Blade
~ Steel Demon

 

Multi-Max 5 Amp Variable Speed Corded Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit with 28 AccessoriesMulti-Max 5 Amp Variable Speed Corded Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit with 28 Accessories
I have owned a good amount of Dremel brand tools over the years. I have also owned one of this type of tool before. It was when the first really hit the consumer market. I forget the brand, but I do remember that old tool being JUNK! You couldn’t use it for more than a minute before the body got so hot, you couldn’t hold it. This little guy on the other hand was great. Super easy to change the heads, plenty of options for accessories, and adjustable speed.

~ Multi-Max 5 Amp Variable Speed Corded Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit with 28 Accessories
~ Dremel Universal Wood, Metal, and Drywall kit 
~ Dremel Cutting Accessory kit for Wood, Metal, and Drywall kit 

 

 

 

Well that is a wrap. Lots of great tools this quarter. If you noticed I have (giveaway soon) next to a few tools. Once we are on the other side of SEMA, I will do a giveaway similar to the last round. Be sure to sign up for email updates for the tool giveaway. If you don’t already follow me on social, not is your chance. 🙂

Humble Mechanic automotive Podcast

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

Dewalt 20v MAX Impact Driver and Drill Combo ~ Review and Demo

Dewalt 20v MAX Impact Driver and Drill Combo

Having a good impact driver is vital when working on cars. Many people don’t see this as a mechanic’s tool, but it was my most used tool at the dealer. Today we are looking at the Dewalt 20v MAX Impact Driver and Drill Combo. The kit includes the impact driver DCF887, a drill DCD796, a charger, and a carrying bag. As you guys know I partnered up with Home Depot, I think they liked “Home Depot Motorsports, to bring some cool stuff your way.

In addition to that, I will be giving away most of the tools that they send once the round is over. Dewalt tools always have a place in my heart because that was the first impact tool I bought in 2005 I think. Thanks again to Home Depot for sponsoring this video.

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 “Dewalt 20v MAX Impact Driver and Drill Combo ~ Review and Demo” 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

SK Tool Review ~ DT120 1/4" Drive Ratchet

SK Tool Review ~ DT120 1/4" Drive Ratchet

Today we review the SK Tools 1/4″ DT120 ratcheting wrench. This 1/4″ drive ratchet is designed to have a high tooth count for low swing, but also be strong. As a VW technician 1/4″ drive ratchets were one of my main go to tools. This 1/4″ ratchet mechanism can also be dropped into any SK Tools 1/4″ drive ratchet. There are things I think are really cool about this ratchet, and 2 things I might change if I designed it. Thank you to SK tools for providing me the ratchet for review.

Its important to remember that tools can be very personal. Just because I don’t like something, doesn’t make it a bad product. On the flip side, I may love a feature that you hate. My main goal with reviews like this is to bring products you guys that you may not know about. Then to talk about the product and give my honest opinion. As always if you have a tool you would like to see reviews, use the contact me form and let me know.

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 “SK Tool Review ~ DT120 1/4″ Drive Ratchet” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below.  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:


Blue-Point HCP9 Hose Clamp Pliers ~ Review

After a long break from tool reviews, I am back in action. These are the Blue-Point HCP9 Heater Hose Clamp Pliers. I have been through many pairs of hose clamp pliers over the years. Most of them are average. These heater hose pliers are the best I have found. I know that spring clamps, or Corbin clamps can be removed with basic pliers. But having these in your tool box will make life much easier.

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 from the show


Trouble viewing? Watch “Blue-Point HCP9 Hose Clamp Pliers ~ Review” on YouTube.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. Again, if you have a tool you would like reviewed, email me Charles(at)humblemechanic(dot)com with Tool Review 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:

I-view headlamp review

I-view headlamp reviewAs you guys know, I LOVE flashlights. Headlamps have always been one of those tools I love the idea of. Heck even my dentist uses a headlamp. Today we are going to be checking out the I-View Headlamp from SCANGRIP.

There are always a lot of things to consider when reviewing a light. But when reviewing a headlamp we add an additional element. That element is comfort. While wearing a headlamp remaining comfortable is very important. Not just in the forehead but in the back strap as well.

Join me today as we review:

  • What is in the box?
  • About the I-View
    ~2w Cob LED
    ~2 brightness settings
    ~Low ~ 80l 6hr run time
    ~High ~ 160l 3hr run time
    ~4hr charge time
  • Comfort of theI-View
  • Construction of the I-View
  • I-View Demo
  • I-View Pros
  • I-View Cons
  • Buy the I-View
  • and more

Trouble viewing? Watch “SCANGRIP I-VIEW Headlamp ~ REVIEW” on YouTube.

More on the ScanGrip I-View
The I-View comes with a wall charger, and a proprietary charging cable. The good thing is, the other end is Usb. That will allow you to use your own wall or 12v outlet to charge your light.
I-view headlamp review

Pros

  • Wide light beam
  • 2 brightness settings
  • Very durable
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Run on lithium

Cons

  • Light feedback when using handsfree mode
  • Proprietary charging plug.

As always I love to hear your thoughts. Please post them in the comments section below. If there is a tool you would like to see reviewed, or you have an idea for a show you can email me, or use the contact me form! Don’t forget to follow me at:

Autel MV400 ReviewIt is Thursday, so that means it is tool review time. I will be reviewing the Autel MV400 Digital Inspection Videoscope, or as I call it, borescope. I have been looking for a good alternative to buying a really expensive borescope from the tool truck guys. I purchased this borescope for 3 main reasons:

  • Inspecting engine internals
  • Inspecting behind dashes and in air ducting
  • Looking for carbon buildup on direct injection engines

There  are a bunch of other uses for a camera like this. It is also nice because this borescope, videoscope, will record video and pictures on to a micro SD card. I used that feature to record the video you see in the demo. There are some things that I really like about this camera, and some things that make it just an okay borescope. I will say for the price $145.70 on Amazon, it is a good deal.

Join me today as we scope out this borescope:

  • Why I bought a borescope videoscope
  • What is in the box
  • Features
  • 4 LED lights
  • Good things about this borescope videoscope
  • Where this borescope videoscope is not good
  • Borescope/videoscope demo
  • Final thoughts
  • Buy the Autel MV400
  • and more

Trouble viewing? Watch “Autel MV400 Video Scope Review and Demo~ Video” on YouTube.

If you have a tool or product you would like for me to review, use the contact me form. Or email me Charles(at)HumbleMechanic(dot)com, and put TOOL REVIEW in the subject.

Don’t forget to follow me at:Autel MV400 Review