49. Fast Tire Changes With an Electric Impact Wrench
In less time than it takes your air compressor to pump up to full pressure, you could remove the lug nuts from two wheels using an electric impact wrench. Sure, the electric models don’t pack the same torque as an air-powered wrench, but you don’t need that much torque just to remove lug nuts. If all you’re doing is tire rotation and an occasional heavy-duty repair, an electric impact wrench is just the ticket (one choice is the DEWALT DW292 1/2-Inch 345-ft.-lb. Impact Wrench, available at home centers or amazon.com). Just make sure you use a hand-held torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts.
50. Save Your Back and Knees With a Rolling Seat
A rolling creeper seat doesn’t need much explanation. You sit on it. You store tools and parts under it. And you roll around to reach the tools and parts you forgot. Find creeper seats at any auto parts store, home center or online tool site. The model shown here is the Sunex 8507 Creeper Seat. A unit with a pneumatic lift and a contoured seat (for you Ferrari owners) could set you back a little more.
51. Diagnose With a Stethoscope
Got a knocking, ticking or humming sound and don’t know where it’s coming from? Pinpoint the problem with an automotive stethoscope (one example is the Lisle 52500 Mechanic’s Stethoscope). Just touch the probe to the most likely suspects and the culprit will stand out like a sore thumb. Pick up a stethoscope at any auto parts store.
52. Chemicals to Keep on Hand
If you’re going to do repair work, you simply have to keep some basic lubricants and special chemicals on hand. Here’s what every shop should have.
- Lithium grease for latches and hinges
- Brake cleaner for removing oil and grease from metal parts
- Rust penetrant for removing rusted fasteners
- Dry lubricant for lubricating metal to metal, and metal to plastic or rubber
- Electronic parts cleaner for dissolving corrosion on electrical connectors
- Anti-seize lubricant to prevent nuts and bolts from seizing in place
- Dielectric grease to repel water in electrical connections and prevent corrosion
- Silicone spray to lubricate windows and weather stripping.