Owning and maintaining a vehicle comes with responsibilities - like regular upkeep and repair. But having the right professional automotive tools and equipment makes the job easier.
Whether you're an auto shop owner outfitting a garage or a DIYer equipping your own workspace, having professional-grade car maintenance tools is essential. From brake lathes and car lifts to power trowels and tire changers, we'll explore the necessary automotive tools and equipment to simplify servicing and repairs.
Let's check under the hood!
Must-Have Professional Automotive Tools & Equipment
A well-equipped garage has a foundation of core automotive tools & equipment:
1. Car Lifts - Car lifts safely raise vehicles to accessible heights for inspections and service. Column-style two-post or four-post lifts are most common. Consider weight capacities, height capabilities, symmetry, and other features. Brands like BendPak manufacture professional-grade lifts that withstand years of shop use.
2. Tire Changers - Quickly mount and dismount tires from rims with a swing-arm or tilt-back tire changer. Look for models with assist arms for stiff sidewalls and run-flats. Robust electric turntables and pneumatic controls simplify operation. Trusted brands like Ranger offer durability and reliability.
3. Wheel Balancers - Balance wheels and tires smoothly with an auto balancer. Electronic balancers provide precision with advanced weight placement guidance and spin displays. Sturdy mounting plates, enclosed mechanisms, and intuitive controls define professional models.
4. Brake Lathes - Resurface brake rotors and drums in-house with a brake lathe. Essential for shops, these specialized machines cleanly cut disc surfaces. Sturdy gear-driven and belt-driven models from trusted brands deliver smooth, even cuts.
Beyond these basics, outfit your shop further:
1. Power Trowels - Power trowels smoothly finish concrete surfaces. Gas-powered walk-behind models like the Bartell Global 36 Inch Power Trowel provide contractors with superb maneuverability for commercial and residential jobs.
2. Air Compressors - High CFM air compressors power pneumatic tools like tire changers. Look for cast iron compressors delivering ample pressure and airflow for shop demands. Brands like Quincy offer reliable performance.
3. Service Jacks - Quickly access undersides with a sturdy aluminum or steel service jack. Low-profile models provide exceptional lift range and portability. Popular picks include heavy-duty hydraulic bottle jacks for axles and rapid lifting.
4. Creepers - Rolling creepers protect technicians inspecting undercarriages. Low-profile casters provide smooth mobility while padded platforms allow getting right under vehicles comfortably. Popular choices are Z-frame and mechanics creepers with wheel locks.
When equipped with these essential professional automotive tools, your shop or garage gains the capabilities and efficiency needed for professional servicing and repairs. Now let's review must-know usage tips...
Proper Usage Tips for Auto Repair Equipment & Tools
Quality car maintenance relies on using automotive tools & equipment properly. Follow these expert tips:
- Two or Four-Post Car Lifts - Before lifting, check that the column spreads match the specs without obstruction. Set swing arm restraints and lock pawls once lifted. Never override pressure valves or lifting capacity.
- Tire Changers - Securely anchor beads in drop center tools when seating. Apply even inward pressure when mounting. Stop at once if rims warp or deform.
- Brake Lathes - Set precise cut depth for rotor type and thickness. Ensure proper adapter cone fitment. Make slow final pass cuts to minimize heat warping.
- Air Compressors - Drain moisture after each use. Replace filters as needed. Use regulators to prevent over-pressurization.
- Service Jacks - Lift only on approved vehicle points, Like under axles or frames. Release pressure before overextending. Use jack stands for undercarriage access.
Proper usage protects both technicians and auto repair equipment from damage while delivering efficient repairs. Let's now review the recommended maintenance.
Ongoing Maintenance Tips
Regular upkeep enables auto tools to deliver reliable service for years. Here are key maintenance tips:
- Car Lifts - Lubricate cables, chains, and sheaves monthly. Check hydraulics and fill levels often. Detail clean columns to prevent corrosion.
- Tire Changers - Lubricate sliding parts and turntables routinely. Inspect mounting heads and replace worn parts. Calibrate annually.
- Brake Lathes – Dress resurfacing cutting tools routinely. Confirm sharpness often, replacing inserts as needed. Clean ways, slides, and covers to prevent buildup.
- Air Compressors - Replace air filters and oil as specified. Inspect belt tensions and pulley alignments. Keep compressor heads clean.
Beyond cleaning and component care, safety inspections also prevent equipment issues before they happen. Now let's explore adding capabilities.
Expanding Capabilities
Great tools are designed to equip shops for growth. Here are popular add-ons to expand your service capabilities:
1. Car Lift Accessories - Multi-level wheel dolly sets multiply storage. Rolling bridge jacks simplify difficult alignments. Stack adapters double capacity. Custom 4,500 lb. air/hydraulic jacks make an invaluable addition.
2. Tire Changer Attachments - Polymer mount/demount heads prevent custom wheel damage. Bead loosener tools ease stubborn tires. Tire inflation systems simplify filling. Tool storage pegs or bins keep essentials handy.
3. Brake Lathe Accessories - Automatic feed systems simplify resurfacing. On-lathe micrometers assist with precise cut settings. Custom adapters widen vehicle fitment. Chip collection bags reduce mess.
The right accessories tailored to your niche amplify your capabilities. Small investments reap exponential rewards in time savings and expanded services - driving profits. But before expanding your shop, first, ensure you select durable automotive equipment designed for longevity and consistent performance.
Invest in Quality from a Trusted Supplier
The heart of every workshop lies in the capabilities, reliability, and longevity of the tools powering it. As an industry leader for over 15 years supplying shops nationwide with premium equipment, Landmark Tools empowers technicians to perform quality work through unrivaled tools tailored to the most demanding automotive jobs.
Discover our lineup of iconic brands, including Ranger, Bendpak, and Bartell, engineered for precision, accuracy, and durability. Our extensive selection features leading car lifts, tire changers, brake lathes, air compressors, and every essential automotive tool to equip your shop fully. All are backed by exceptional service and support you can count on.
The Bottom Line
When tackling professional automotive repairs and service, having quality tools designed expressly for the work makes all the difference in efficiency, safety, and precision. As your premier automotive equipment supplier, Landmark Tools proudly delivers an unparalleled one-stop selection of shop-grade solutions ready to power our next generation of highly skilled technicians.
Discover how our lineup of professional automotive tools can unlock new productivity for your shop. We're happy to help assess your equipment needs and recommend tailored solutions that never compromise on quality. Reach out now online or call 430-888-4217. Equipped for the work ahead!