Friday, September 27, 2013
Automotive Specialty Repair Tools
The largest cost faced by an auto mechanic is that of tools. Mechanics need many tools for highly specialized applications. These are just a few examples of the types of specialized tools that a mechanic might have in their garage. If a mechanic doesnt have the right tool for a job, he ends up having to refer the customer to a garage that does.
Brake Tools
Working on brake systems requires a number of tools that arent found in the average home garage. Automotive shops will use regular tools like sockets and screwdrivers when working on brakes but they also need tools like a lathe for smoothing rotors. Caliper spreaders, ABS scanning tools and a brake bleeding system are just a few of the tools that a shop will need so that they can fix and change brakes in a car.
Transmission Tools
Working on a transmission requires specialized tools as well. Even a basic automatic transmission fluid change requires a specialized drain plug removal tool. More complex work on a transmission requires more complex tools. A spring compressor holds springs in place so you can work on a transmission without tying up a hand holding a spring. A torque converter gives you the force that you need to loosen transmission bolts. Also, L-type seal pullers are used to remove hard to reach transmission seals.
Manufacturer Specific Tools
Many garages choose to specialize in repairing specific types of cars. This is because there are often tools required to work on proprietary parts that cannot be replaced or repaired with generic tools. This is especially the case in high end automobiles like BMW and Mercedes. For example, different tools are required to set the camshaft timing on different types of BMW engines, meaning that you need more than one tool for completing the same job on different models made by a single company. Having all the tools necessary to do all the jobs on all brands of cars would be very cost prohibitive.
Specialized Computer Tools
Most parts in a modern vehicle are either controlled or monitored by computers. While generic tools exist, manufacturer tools are required for mechanics to be able to truly monitor, re-set or reprogram every aspect of the system that they need to work with. In addition to custom tools from vehicle manufacturers for working with the vehicles computer system, mechanics also require subscriptions to the companys update service that will provide them with all the latest updates and codes.
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