- An automotive jack is a mechanical device used to lift a car or truck so work can be performed underneath the vehicle. Mechanics generally use a hydraulic floor jack, which is more powerful than the smaller jacks most drivers have in their car trunks.
- Box wrenches feature a closed ring on their heads. A mechanic fits this properly-sized ring over a nut or bolt on the vehicle and twists. The closed ring is able to apply torque on all sides of the nut or bolt as the mechanic turns. Ratcheting box wrenches feature a reversing action, allowing the mechanic to get the job done even faster. Open-ended wrenches have heads with U-shaped openings, unlike the box wrenches. Combination wrenches combine the two types of wrenches, and feature a box-head wrench on one end and a open-end wrench on the other end. Adjustable wrenches are also vital.
- A quality array of sockets of various sizes is essential for a mechanic to remove nuts, bolts and spark plugs. These sockets typically range from from 1/4-inch up to 1 inch in size. A ratchet, along with a set of extenders to get to hard-to-reach bolts, is also essential.
- An assortment of pliers is essential for mechanics to successfully perform various jobs. Specialty pliers are hose clamp pliers that are made to reach hose clamps in otherwise hard to access places. Other valuable pliers include groove joint pliers, which have right-angle teeth, allowing the mechanic to maintain a grip from all directions. Long nose pliers also assist with gaining access to items in tough-to-reach spots. Combination, or linesman pliers, are multifunctional pliers used to grip, twist, and cut small cables and wires.
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