- The transmission is one of the most vital parts of an automobile. It takes the power of the motor and transports it to the wheels to set the car in motion. To keep a car in top mechanical condition the transmission needs to be maintained like any other part of the car. This task requires special tools.
- A transmission jack is probably the most critical tool for transmissions. Transmission jacks are expensive to purchase but can be easily rented. They are not used very often so renting one is the most viable option. A transmission jack is much the same as a typical floor jack that is used to raise and lower a car. The main difference is the carriage, which is specially designed to fit the shape of a transmission and hold it securely while being lowered out of the car. One other difference is that they are made lower to the ground to facilitate use in tight spaces. Unlike a typical floor jack, they must be able to fit under a car.
- A good quality set of sockets is essential. Transmission repairs require a wide variety of sockets; transmissions are constructed with bolts of different sizes -- metric and standard -- depending on the make, year and model of the car.
- A shaft seal is a device that securely seals the holes left open once the drive shaft is removed from the transmission. These seals are not a necessity but can stop fluid loss once the drive shaft is removed. Spilled fluid can result in a mess, cost money, and attract kids and pets.
- A variety of open-end and box-end wrenches is a must-have for transmission repairs and many other types of car repairs. Wrenches work hand in hand with sockets because inevitably there will be bolts requiring removal that sockets cannot reach.
- A diagnostic tool plugs into the car's computer hookup and lets you know exactly what's wrong with the car, alleviating guesswork and costly misdiagnosis. These tools have come down in price drastically in recent years. This tool works on cars newer than 1995.
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