Yeah hard to admin but its true. For us shadetree, weekend guys, most of the time they work rather well. Not saying of course that I dont have some high end stuff too. But if you're not depending on making a living with tools, the other tool types are a good option. IMO of course
Yes of course the tool truck has the specialty tools and certain tools on the the truck we need but jumping in the game nowadays we have a options of not getting in dept
Snap on made sense when way back when I worked in a shop, the shop bought the tools and they were shared amongst the techs. That way they got more use and you got more value out of them. The snap on guy would inventory those tools and replace any lost or broken. Plus, being owned by the shop, they were a tax deduction for owner. This whole thing where every tech has to have his own massive tool box is only a couple decades old and is such a waste. I’d guess it was pushed by the tool industry. I can’t fathom owning a shop and not having tools and relying on any tech to bring them to you. You basically just own a building with a lift at that point.
This video made me subscribe. My Dad is an instructor and I’ve been telling him for YEARS that he needs to encourage his students to look at these other brands instead of going into extreme debt with these tool trucks. I really hope your videos can convince just ONE mechanic getting into this trade that they don’t need that $700 set of wrenches. I’m still trying to work on my Dad.
I'd rather have $700 worth of tools I can pick up at Harbor Freight than just one set of wrenches. $700 worth of Harbor Freight tools would be half a tool box full. You could have wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, etc. Down the road when you have a full set of tools you can buy expensive tools here and there. Snap-on is always going to have speciality tools too.
I have Snap On hand tools, since the 1970’s. They are definitely the go to tools, however when you are starting out, or just can’t afford them, buy check best tools you can afford. Later on, if you want Snap On or your preferred tool, buy it. But you can’t work without tools.
I would agree with the sentiment too even though I am not an auto technician. I am actually a mountain Road and BMX bike mechanic. It’s the same deal. I remember when I first started working on bikes I used a lot of the wrenches that my dad already had granted they were not snap on or Craftsman they were Duracraft, but they worked and as time went on and as I made more money, then I went for something little more expensive like Park Tool. So yeah, it makes a lot of sense. You know if you’re gonna invest in tools, see if you have something that you can start out with already or find something that’s cheap to start with. It’s the same way when I had to get a repair stand. I started out with a $30 repair stand and it worked for a year or two then eventually I moved up and I got a little bit more expensive repair stand mean you can’t work without tools and you especially can’t work without tools.
It's nice to get the perspective from somebody who actually turns wrenches for a living - reliable information without the hype. Thanks. BTW, forty years ago, HF wrenches were crap, the tolerances were really bad. They have come along way in forty years as long as you don't buy from their Pittsburg line.
@@shidddnot necessarily true. I have some Pittsburgh tools I am fine with .. I have had a few snapon tools I haven't been happy with. As a professional not in Auto I have some tool failures Snap On refused to honor warranty on. Many people besides automotive techs use tools.
Look forward to it man, testing in perfect lab like setting is good in all, because data is data. But it's all somewhat worthless without practical use and experience like this. When we use tools, it's not always the ones at the top of our ranking for one reason or another. No one channel is the final word in anything, especially us
There’s also comparison when it comes to “how simple can a tool get” before the pricing is simply for the name. My work uses Milwaukee M12 Gen 1 literally only for running bolts in and out. Torque them all by hand to “good ‘n tight” torque specs. Mostly cause impacts can’t tell if a bolt is truly bottomed out or not. We use Tekton extended allen sockets. And Crescent branded toolkits. Includes screw drivers, Allen wrenches sockets, and standard wrenches. 1/4-1/2 drive. Currently working on my Hercules collection after my dad’s been a Dewalt guy. Most used tool I ever saw him use was his Miter saw. Plug in, lights flickered every time it turned on, etc. have had it for over 20 years, and it’s still running strong.
I am older than you and started wrenching in the 50's. I was a jet mechanic in the USAF on F-4, A-7 and F-16 fighters for 14 years. I also worked at mines as a heavy mechanic. I thought the same as you. I recently started inventorying my tools and stopped at a few hundred thousand. (I have two shops) I have a lot of Snap On, Proto etc. I started buying Harbor freight about 5 years ago. I have found them mostly the same quality as snap on type and I tell young mechanics starting to start with Harbor Freight and if they want to get others later do so. The reputation they had is gone and they sell lifetime warranted tools now. I have 6 Snap On and Craftsman "taco wagons" and recently tried out the HF big boxes and found them really good.
Slinging tools for 50 years, I had Craftsman forever. You are correct that Snap On was the go-to when things got tough in the early days. Now, there are several brands that are similar in quality and work very well and are in my toolboxes. Thanks again for the insight.
@Jordendog I have some early Craftman sockets from the early 70's and I absolutely love them. However Craftsman in later years ther sockets went to hell. I had and employee come in one day and I was doing a frt. brake job. He was standing there showing me his new sockets and I needed a different socket so I ask to use one of his. Standard ratchet. I put it on there and put some pressure on it and it broke in two pieces. I almost broke my damn hand. I was so disappointed in the loss of quality. I had many others say the same thing. They really went down hill from the earlier sockets. I have always used Snap On wrenches only because they were always sleeker than Craftman.
Snap-on is sometimes marginally better. Say 10%. But you're going to pay 10 times for that 10%. That's a bitter pill to swallow. Does anyone really need to push things to the edge? I question the mechanical aptitude of those that do.
Just want to say I really appreciate your videos. I retired in 2022 after 42 years as a tech and Shop Foreman at a multi-franchise dealership. I tried to support Snap-On/Mac/Matco. I also have realized that quality choices are there at several price points. I would love to see some videos focused on recommended tools etc. for the beginning tech. Also maybe a few about basic repair processes and diagnostic techniques. I mentored multiple new techs, and certainly getting them started on the right foot and instilling that logical/critical thinking process is SO important. If you don't know how it works, then fixing it is a guessing game. I still have that desire to learn more, and tried to foster that in others. I was fortunate enough to succeed and got rewarded by competing in NISTEC with Nissan in 1997, and again with Infiniti in 1999. Served on the ASE Board of Governors for a term. Master or Gold Tech with Nissan/Infiniti/Mercedes/Porsche/Rolls-Royce. Trained in Maserati/Alfa-Romeo/Land Rover as well. All that, and 6 years at an independent import shop too. What you are doing with your videos is fantastic. Keep giving it your all, and broaden it a bit. Lastly, check out Martin Loren's HScope products, inexpensive way to get into oscilloscopes. Look up "the GADGETS playlist" on UA-cam for more.....
I have a mix of the following in my box... Snap on, Mac, Cornwell, Matco, USA Craftsman, SK, Proto, Armstrong, Duralast, Tekton, Carlyle, Lisle, Evercraft, Allen, Apex, Husky, Kobalt, Milwaukee, Stanley, DeWalt, Harbor Freight, Cheap Chinese no names and more. They all have their place in helping me do the job.
Sounds like my tool collection. I'd add in some ancient Plomb tools I also have. My potpourri of higher end tools has come from garage and estate sales and even Goodwill. A few specialty ones came from eBay, back when shipping was cheaper.
I've been pulling wrenches since my preteens. Birthday and Christmas I asked for tools. Since we were poor, I asked for Craftsman because they were affordable, American made, and lifetime warranty. I still have most of my original wrench set. That being said when I went to work for an oilfield service company at 42, starting over from scratch, I told the young guys, hiring on straight out of school, to buy the less expensive tools to start with. Then buy the higher end stuff and pay cash or charge it on a credit card to build credit, but pay off the card every month. I'm 56 now with 16 plus professional certifications. I started on lawn equipment, worked up to 2500+ hp diesels and now back to lawn equipment. Everything is lighter, which my severe arthritis prefers. Thank you for the good video.
You may be able to buy snap-on outside the shop but good luck trying to contact the local truck to warranty a tool. Dude 100% refused to work with me because I wasn't in a shop or had a million $ in tools. So I literally sold ALL of my snap-on stuff and bought all Harbor Freight. I can get a tool replaced that day with no problems at all.
I usually don't break tools and when I do it's totally my fault. So I really don't care about warranties. I just eat it and buy another tool. Usually a better tool. Although you're not going to find better than Snap-on. Then maybe I need the right tool?
I retired in 2020 after 43 years at an aerospace company. I knew I would be spending lots more time at home, so I decided to treat myself to a new top and bottom toolbox to replace my tired, mid-level, craftsman boxes. I compared craftsman, husky, cobalt, and then was told about US General at Harbor freight. The Harbor freight toolbox set was the clear winner. Great quality and free drawer liners. Not a single regret. Handy trays are also available which fit perfectly inside the drawers for smaller items.
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
My nearly 30 year old snapon box was badly warn, replaced about 7 years ago with us general, no regrets, coworkers asked why not another snapon, I can buy almost 10 usg boxes for the same $$ as 1 snapon, so I did buy a snapon emblem from ebay and put on it to pacify them
@spresc2180 I had the first generation 44" top and bottom. It was a great box but only 14-16" deep. I sold it to a buddy that still uses it. It still looks and functions like new. I'm not exactly sure when I got it. 2011 maybe. I'd love to have the new 72" and the cart that's just drawers. I have the 5 drawer I've been using in a shop for 5-6 years I'd say. The only thing I've done is buy swivel casters to replace the fixed casters. I had the original 5-drawer but it was stolen. I feel like the money to quality ratio makes them the best boxes out there. The truck brands may be nicer but I don't think their price is justified.
I bought my set of 3/8” impact sockets from Capri tools..Snap On was ridiculous!! Those sockets have been great, absolutely no complaints..I agree with you 100%..
This video came at the perfect time because my 11th grade son is in an auto tech program where his schoolday is 1st half at the tech campus and 2nd half back at the high school. I have been trying to explain this to him and how he doesn’t need a $10000 toolbox or get into crazy debt starting out, and start making money first then upgrade. I told him my wife and myself will help him out with tools to start, but when he starts working, the rest is on him. Keep,up,the great videos! 👍🏻
If i can offer some advice to your son , get into one of the building trades , work on cars as a hobby / side hustle . Electrician , Plumber , HVAC all skills you will need to know as an auto mechanic but you will never make anywhere near the amount the building trades do. the amount of money you will spend on tools in your life is staggering , none of the trades come anywhere close to that. If he insists on being a mechanic dont work on passenger cars , go fleet , government or heavy equipment.
@@anthonyiannone7618 Thank you Sir, ironically he has also mentioned the electrician trade as well. I am also trying to point him into a municipality position because of the pension and benefits if he wants to stay with mechanics.
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
I just started as a mobile mechanic. My tools are all HF Pittsburgh that I bought 20 years ago. I've never, ever had one break on me in all my years of wrenching on my vehicles (and beating on them)
I've broken a hex bit. Guess what, 10 minutes in the store and I had a new one! They also replaced a torque wrench that I had dropped to the floor for free as well (my own fault, but wrench was likely no longer in cal). The hex bit I expected, but the torque wrench was an added bonus.
For me, it is a more about rounding a fastener than damaging a tool. But when it comes to tools, the nearest Harbor Freight is over 2,000 miles away from those of us living in Alaska. I'll buy an equivalent from SnapOn/Matco or Amazon when my HF tool fails.
Lol I use to snap a 19mm impact every week like clockwork!! Got sick of running to harbor freight so I picked up a vintage snap on from eBay that lasted a month!! I swapped it on the truck and from then on I got less then 2 weeks from each socket!! Of course I was doing upwards of 100 cars a day!!😅😅 If they aren't breaking,you aren't using them enough!!!
When I was young and single and started my career in Aviation. I bought Snap on tools. After getting married having kids and a mortgage Snap on was out the window. A few years back I got on a snap on truck to trade in a broken light reel and a 1/2 inch ratchet. The guy on the truck would not make good on the lifetime guarantee. It was that moment that I will never by another snap on tool ever again.
I love your videos. They’re done with the patience and passion that a great teacher shows. You really seem to have a desire to not gate keep the automotive repair industry but to assist others and pass on valuable knowledge that you have attained throughout your long career. Very much appreciated sir.
We learn from mistakes. Or we keep making the same mistakes. It sounds to me like you've learned from your mistake. There's nothing wrong with Snap-on. But like they say with gambling, bet with your head, not over it. Every now and again it's nice to get an indulgence. But keep it reasonable.
I couldn’t agree more. When I started 41 years ago we didn’t have many options, and we did not go to trade schools creating debt before you even turned a professional wrench. This video is great advice coming from someone with many years of experience and $$$ invested. Take care everyone and listen to Sherwood. Happy Holidays from Pismo Beach California
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
I’m a diy guy. But Tekton has impressed me greatly. I just changed the upper control arms on my Jeep Liberty CRD and put myself and especially the Tekton 3/8” deep 18mm socket thru pure hell With a six ft pipe for leverage I got it loose and the socket held. Used an old 10mm Craftsman and that snapped and the tekton didn’t. And on another project the 1/4” torque wrench wouldn’t click. Sent them a pick and got new one in 2 days
I'm all for this. I spent 11 years in the Air Force fixing jets. Used Craftsman and Snap-on, each had their own ups and downs. When I got out and started working on my own cars, out of necessity, I had a hard time justifying the cost of Snap-on, and at times, Craftsman too. When I got into utility work, our maintenance shop had a mix of everything, including a lot of Pittsburgh stuff from Harbor Freight. I did a little more digging and determined that wrenching on stuff a couple of times a month or less, the cost and quality are perfect for me. I bought into Pittsburgh, and I still have my old Craftsman socket set, and both can handle most everything I need to do, heck I'm even considering looking at some of the hand tools from Hart over at Walmart. Now, I'm not saying they're the best by any means, but even DIYers can get a pretty decent setup without spending tons of money.
After 45 years as a tech and now coming to the end of my career, I decided to sell all of my Snap On gear while the prices are high and made good money, I replaced them with cheap alternatives, I can honestly say I wish I had done it sooner, there are lots of good alternatives out there that are just as good. In the early days in the UK you only really had Snap On and Britool tools
Where I used to work, they bough high end tools. Then, a HF moved in about 3 miles away and everything changed. A high majority of tools now are from HF. If something breaks, it's just up the street and the prices are WAAAY low. It's a win a around. Also, I live in a rural area and those yellow Daytona car jacks are everywhere! Not everything HF makes for what we need works better, but it's a learning curve on which tools are worth the switch.
This is seriously fantastic. I am an independent tool truck distributor. There are tons of great brands. Sunex, GW, Knipex, VIM, Astro, Lang, Lisle. I sell a 232 piece set of tools lifetime warranty for under $325 on payments to new techs. Wrench sets, allen keys, 1/4" and 3/8" ratchets and sockets shallow and deep metric and standard. Starting techs need more tools. As you mentioned, you can buy the top quality later. Lube and tire techs making $12-15 an hour trying to pay rent and put food in their stomachs do not need $700 wrench sets to start. Great content!
Technology, machining, engineering, and manufacturing has gotten WORLDS better over the years, allowing most all products, not just tools, to become equally as impressive as its competitors.
Finally, someone else with an open mind. You don't need to buy the most expensive tools to make a living. I've worked with young guys that their tool bill was bigger than my mortgage. I had an old timer tell me when I was just getting started, you'll never get rich turning wrenches, and although there are a very small % that have 90+% will not. I'm 63 now and have approx 2 to 3 hundred K in tools and vehicles that run always my home, and property is only worth 150 K And if I go to sell all my tools, I might be lucky to get less than a 1/3 of what I invested in them. My advice is don't waste your $ on the most expensive tools, $ can buy take the difference and put it in your pocket.
Finally a Snap-on fan boy that used his brain 😂. Snap- on is a finance company taking advantage of people. Harbor freight has changed the game forever. They make tackling projects affordable for just about anyone while building a tool collection with a lifetime warranty. Everybody wins!
My coworker's Snap on tools were bought on credit and are now in pawn... My Icon are paid for and at work. Snap on's credit unit and prices are predatory to newer modern techs considering what is available. Gotta be able to stand up to that peer pressure until you can afford it
I am not a “ Professional “ mechanic. My son and I basically buy “ Projects “. Be they car, motorcycle or ATV. Fix and sell. 90% of our too.s are ICON. Can’t beat the warranty. 15 minute drive to the store to swap it out.
110% agree with the thoughts presented in this video. I've been wrenching on cars for 25 years, and have never wanted nor needed high-end Snap-On stuff even though I work at what I consider to be a high level. These days, with global manufacturing being what it is, there are so many great alternatives to Snap-On that cost a fraction as much.
Sounds like a good plan for the channel. In addition to the scientific and other test perspectives, it’s good to have the additional knowledge of how differences affect the mechanic. I enjoy the diagnostics as well since it has been a long time since I was a mechanic, and electronics are infinitely more complex.
I have been in manufacturing my whole life. Owned my own foundry and machine shop. Once upon a time North American made tools were top shelf. The material and labour were sourced locally. That is not the case anymore. Everything is brought in from overseas ( even the supposedly NA made tools. This and as you mentioned, technology and patent expiration has evened the playing field. My company specialized in Zinc and Aluminum castings I can tell you there is a difference between NA alloy and the Russian alloy for example. The spec's met the grade but there was a difference when pouring the metal.
Well said sir. I have told many beginners to only buy what they need to get by. I have always offered to mentor and let them borrow tools until they start making money and can afford to buy some more. I have a big mixture of name brand tool truck to cheap stuff. It all makes me money. It’s all how quick I can get the job done and done correctly that makes me money. People need to quit ruining these new technicians by putting them in massive debt.
yall are awesome! cant wait to see the tool reviews as well as more diagnostic videos. Ive learned so much already and cant wait to see whats next. cheers.
Koken tools have been winning me over lately. Definitely quality and ingenuity in their tools. VIM too has some great tools too. I’m like you, I have a ton of professional tools now. But started with craftsman which I still have and are now in my house tool box.
I've been trying to tell people that this day and age where in has all manufacturing processes at an all time high. These other companies can produce a product that's damb near just as good as tool truck quality for pennies on the dollar. Thanks for the great information bc I'm a snap on fan boy myself and have spent nearly $85,000 on their products but recently I've been buying Icon and some other stuff from the internet, and I'm glad I'm not the only one to have this change of heart. Thanks bro
Times change. Made in Taiwan doesn't mean chrome plated bubble gum anymore. They've finally figured out how to alloy and heat treat steel over there. Now are they as good at it as Snap-on? Not quite, but almost.
In the absence of wisdom to the contrary, or a massive financial windfall, the best advice I saw a few years back from an advanced auto mechanic was to buy first tools cheaper (not the gas station or drug store) and when a tool breaks for the 3rd time, you know it's being used enough now it's time to "invest" in a better tool for that application. If we could measure the amount of "tool debt" new techs/mechanics go into against how many do not stay in the profession, it would be a disappointing indictment on the industry for not giving better advice to beginners. Kudos for many excellent videos, but this is your best! Thank you and look forward to the journey you'll be sharing.
I started working on my own vehicles with a Stanley wrench set 15 years ago. It's still the only complete tool set I have from 15 years ago for good reason, they served their purpose and remain functional and valued. I stepped foot on a snap on truck to get the deal of the day once and was told I needed a garden hose nozzle with "a great purchase" on the handle and a lifetime guarantee for only $150! Snap on can be a badge of pride for some, along with a bag and a half of debt for most.
I feel good stepping on a Snap on tool truck knowing that its still made in USA. I am referring to the wrenches,ratchets and sockets...Good quality and the brand is respected worldwide!
I have been using 1/2 drive Pittsburgh Pro impact sockets for over 2 years as an industrial mechanic/millwright and they have never let me down. Still have all of them from the original set.
15 годин тому
I’m similar to you in experience and age. My tools are very similar to yours. I have so many snap on tools it took me thirty years to get them all. But if you’re starting out there is no need to go right to the tool truck. It actually is amazing how much better choices are out there by comparison to 30 years ago.
Your honest take and approach to all of this is refreshing. I know you get a lot of hate from the Kool-Aid drinkers, but you're 100% correct when you say there are numerous options these days that didn't exist 20+ years ago. The next big change, already happening, is dealerships buying a basic set of tools for new technicians. Let's get on a Teams call and I'll share some incredible examples and their impact.
I started my career in 1985. I was the mechanic that didn't hide from the tool truck when it turned into the lot because I never carried a balance. If I could not make a cash purchase, I didn't buy. I bought in 1986 a set of Chinese made offset 12 point metric wrenches, (10 through 22mm, skipping 16 and 21 mm) for about $20 with the FUKUNG brand. They have been excellent. I have looked for the brand hoping to find different tools from them, never saw them offered again. A GEDORE wrench once fractured on me, so they sit on the bench waiting to be called if I need them.
Great video. I'm just a DIY'er but have been working on vehicles for over 40 years and have amassed a large number of tools over the years and in a lot of different brands. In my early days almost everything I bought was Craftsman and I still have most of these tools today. In the mid 90's I was watching an informercial on TV about a tool kit called Metrinch. They showed it being used with an impact gun and the sockets and wrenches worked on the flat sides of the bolts instead of on the points. Each socket and wrench also worked on both SAE and Metric. I was interested and bought the 48-piece set. This tool set ended up being the one I have used probably 95% of the time since then. Over the years I have only broke one socket and the original ratchet is still going strong. They also have a lifetime warranty. I also later bought the 76-piece set but still use my original set the most. They are still in business, but you don't hear anything about them these days. The only Snap-On stuff I own is some of their pliers and a few specialty tools and most of that was bought on Ebay.
Thanks for your honest opinion. Your amazon brake caliper hooks and the Kroil Oil are both the same link - brake caliper hooks. My family has been using Kroil Oil for the most part of 70 plus years. My dad used it, back then (and I believe now), it's still the best canned penetrant.
Glad you’re taking care of the techs just getting into the business with your hard earned advise. How about a video on what route you’d advise a young person thinking of this profession to take to prepare themselves to get into the door at a shop that’ll help them to develop.
Love your channel/FB page. Stumbled on it one day and have been a viewer since. I’m a DIY guy, fiddle with my old Grand Marquis. Would I like to have “top end” tools? Sure. Do I “need” them, probably not. Just need a quality set of sockets, hand tools, wrenches, etc. keep up the great content.
Love the content gentleman. You should do a buyers guide on sockets and wrenches ranging from the best budget set to the best mid range set and then the best high-end set from your experience
Thanks for bringing up the subject of tools as young techs need to understand the pros and cons. I started my dealership technician journey in 1977 and chose a minimal Craftsman starter set. I soon found out that Craftsman durability wasn't there for me and didn't like going to Sears on my time off for getting warranty replacements. The only other option then for quality tools was to buy from the tool trucks. Obviously Snap On and Mac, and kind of an obscure brand called Vulcan, then a division of TRW. Many weeks I wrote multiple checks to the tool trucks, that was just part of the job. I always felt that top of the line tools were required to feed my family and never regretted my investment in tools. In 1999 I was offered a job in telecommunications, I passed the entrance exam due to the electronics training I recieved from GM. I decided to keep all the tools I had, seemed like there was not much of a market for used tools and still use them. A young person starting out now has more choices in what brand of tools to use. Thanks for giving them advice.
Snap-On has an Icon nipping at the heals! I started in 1982 with Craftsman tools. I bought all of the "Big Boy" tools that I used the most for the fact they came calling once a week to replace or repair vs going to Sears on my day off. Thanks for all of your great videos Sherwood.
Well said. There was a time that Snap On was the best of the best. But in the past 32 years I’ve been in the field the tool world has changed. Today’s techs have so many quality choices. I wouldn’t have anywhere near the amount of Snap On tools as I do if I had the options today’s guys have when I started out.
This is a huge mindset change. For the last nine years, we have been pushing dealerships and independent shops to purchase the "starter" set for these new techs. Our idea is getting traction. Lithia Auto Group, MileOne, Turner, and dozens of others are now using our sets to get folks started off on the right foot, keeping them off the truck and out of debt while they get started in their careers.
My parents bought me a set of Craftsman tools for Christmas when I was 12 years old. Now at 70 I still use those same tools. Those classic wrenches have turned every nut and bolt I ever put them on. I still prefer the acetate handle screw drivers to modern rubber. To each their own.
I am 75, I've been working on cars (DIY) since I was a teenager helping my dad. Between wife and self, we have 4 old cars (1947-1997), most of the work I do myself. Many of my tools are only used a few times a year so basically I need what is necessary to get the job done. Sometimes I buy a tool for a specific job--one of the rear brake drums on the 47 Jeep was really tightly stuck on the tapered shaft, and I wound up buying a drum puller from the Walmart website.
Many thanks for all the great insights. What may also be useful esp to the younger wrenchers, is which 10,20,30 whatever the number is tools are a must have. This would avoid unnecessary expenditure. Many thanks.
Thank you for your transparency! I have always been of the thought to spend the money on quality and make sure you have the right tool for the job, but now if it's a tool I am not using every day, I will settle for good enough if the price is that drastic. Grocery bills are out of control, less money to spend on tools! ;) I love the real shop approach instead of a heavy scientific approach.
I’m not a mechanic. Enjoy your channel and learning / trying some DIY projects now. However the conversation makes me think of college education too. Young people are getting into serious debt going to private colleges. While a community college will many times provide a great education too and no debt if this is their path. All comes down to what the young person does with their education. Seems the same holds true here. Don’t go into high debt with the snap on brand when many options exist now for great young mechanics. As an aside I think many more young people should choose a trade over college nowadays. Can’t outsource their trade!
Thank you for being honest. Snap on should be ashamed of how they, often in collusion with feckless instructors, placed extreme pressure on new techs to burden themselves with enormous debt at the very beginning of their careers.
I started in the business in 1976, and the options were Snap On,Max, S&k.,and Sears Craftsman. Back then, Matco had a reputation of being inferior.Thats not the case, anymore. I’ve owned mostly Snap On though. I enjoy your channel, thanks for the video!
Totally agree with you my friend 35 years in the business I say strap on tools have lost the glory, so as the garbage scanners which I own one just to say I have the latest and greatest, any way I can talk about it for days, I a young mechanic likes snap on tools buy them used from retired mechanics….. good luck!
Have you done a video on doing a relative compression test with your oscilloscope? I find this test is a quick way to check possible mechanical issues without having to pull a compression test one cylinder at a time. Keep up the great videos, really love em. Very informative.
Love the channel guys your honesty integrity and down to earth approach is just awesome you guys and Eric os channel are by far my favorite keep up the great work mate 👍🇭🇲🦘
After 20 plus years of buying tools off of the tool trucks, my mind is also changed. There are some really good tools out there now that are so close in performance that I personally can't justify the cost of snap on and the others anymore. Certain things here and there, sure. But basic tools that make up the bulk of your box don't need to as expensive as they use to be for professional tools. I know I'm not alone in this feeling so I hope the big names are taking note or their dominating days are over.
I'm from corporate America, manufacturing sector. What you described is called perceived value. If we make a product but sell it as a generic brand and a name brand most people will purchase the name brand. Example, Walmart brand of quart storage bags is actually manufactured by Glad. How do I know? I work for Clorox and we own Glad. Always remember the words perceived value.
Some tire plants make tires for different companies with the same mold but each company uses different compounds and essentially a different tire. So Sam's ware can be 1/2 thickness but still doable
For me, Harbor Freight is filling the void Sears left. It appears the new Craftsman tools are not so bad, and the HF stuff is getting better and you can walk in like you did Sears and get a replacement.
My dad always said, "If you want to know the way to the top of the mountain, ask the guy who climbs it every day." And while I'm waxing philosophical... I believe that we learn more from mistakes than we do from success.
9:09 - For what it’s worth and in support of your argument, I used a mismatched set of tools, pieced together literally as I’d get jobs and found the need for them. It’s only now in my mid 30’s that I’m reinvesting in stuff that I’ve always wanted like some snap on and MAC 🎉
Ìm liking the new format! How about a review on the snap-on scanners vs something like topdon, autel, launch scanners ?? I think a video like that would bring in a lot of views. Although your snap-on dealer may get a little upset 😅
Now that is a great help to understand the differences between the oem, snap on and the Amazon bunch. I know that oem software is not available to diy, but showing the differences in specific areas of the software. Great challenge
This is spot on. Snap On makes some fantastic tools. For me, I am 75% Icon, 10% GearWrench, and a mix of Matco, Mac, SnapOn where they excel. Icon toolboxes suck. If they make 30"-deep boxes with drawers that work in a 30 degree F shop, I'm all in. For now I am on a spending orgy, buying Icon tools, power tools, spare parts, and anything else I can anticipate/afford before the tariffs hit.
As a DIY'er Icon and Tekton have been a godsent TBH - Just bought the icon ball joint set. More money than I wanted to spend, but saved so much time and effort when I just rebuilt my BMW e46 rear end. Got the old bushings/ ball joints out and new ones in so easily. Before that was really struggling the last time I did this on my other car! Love the tekton socket sets - my old crafstman just sit in the drawer now!. Only time they get used is trips to pick-n-pull. Also like the Milwakee socket sets - picked up the 1/4 and 3/8 sets for my son to start wrenching on his car from the HD black friday sales. I like the option they have on the sockets to be able to turn it with a wrench. Time is money for a pro - but for me as a diy'er, a tool that gives me the easy button pays for itself there and then!
I sure would like for you to expand your shop to Pennsylvania as I like to do business with people that have integrity! Keep you the great work... I haven't turned wrenches in weeks long time, when I did Snap-On was the best choice, now as you are finding out, industry has caught up with them at a much more competitive cost.
Years ago I inspected my open ends of my combination wrenches to see how much clearance there was. I used Gauge Blocks from my machine shop days. I have Snap on , Mac, JH Williams and Craftsman. The JH Williams had less clearance than the others. So they fit tighter on the fasteners.
You are 100% correct. For the people that can't handle the truth, tough !! They are just upset that they spent 400% more on a tool that a company over inflated the price on. PERIOD !!!!!
I started out in 88 and when at Toyota in the 90's, Snap On was the only one that wouldn't round off those sheety bolts Toyota used. Them and Matco were the only ones that made a decent big sized tool box. I sure was glad when the other off brand companies improved even though I already had Snap On and Matco stuff. That's the way I would go now. Especially tool boxes.
The ratchets are actually good I use them every day and have snap on for the last 30 years . I'm building a tool set all from harbor freight and have been using them and nothing but them for the last 3 months as a professional and killing it !! I wish we had these options 30 yrs ago !
Great video and it's awesome to witness your thought process change in regards to tool purchasing. I own 4 icon wrench sets (flex ratcheting mm, stubby mm, stubby sae, and the anti slip mm-couldn't pass up the deal). I also own 4 icon ratchets 3 of which I use daily as bus mechanic. The three that I mainly use are the Long reach flex head, standard flex head, and standard fixed head (all 3/8 dr). I have the 3/8 drive stubby but I rarley use it. I'm not sure what issues other people are experiencing but mine have held up. No binding, no slipping/skipping, back drag isnt anything to write home about but it's not bad.
There's better alternatives to ICON for the same price or less. Tekton springs to mind - they're a dedicated tool company , they source their tools from Taiwan as well as manufacturing some tools in the U.S. On top of that, they have an amazing warranty.
I'll definitely check Tekton out, but what I love about ICON is that it's so easy to replace a broken/worn tool. HF are everywhere, no receipt required, walk in and walk out with the replacement tool.
Our bread and butter tools back in the early 60s were Proto with a dusting of New Britain. Mac Tools truck showed up about 10 years later in our small neck of the woods.
While taking auto shop in high school in the mid-80s I started buying Sears Craftsman tools. I would wait until screwdriver, wrench, and socket sets went on sale. All of the hand tools were made in USA back then. Even as a DIY, I was proud of my Craftsman tools and I still am. I'm sad that today's younger generation does not have a chance to buy American-made tools at a reasonable price.
Mechanic/shop owner for over 30 years. I started poor with rusty handmedown tools and bought tools as I could afford them. I think it makes you better at decision making. A lot of being fast and efficient at this job is knowing what combination of tools will get the particular bolt/nut off and on the fastest. Sounds easy but I’ve watched guys struggle with that so many times. End of the day, a good mechanic can get the job done with any brand tool.
To be truthful harbor freight icon tools have been a blessing indisguised for a lot of people nowadays
Yeah hard to admin but its true. For us shadetree, weekend guys, most of the time they work rather well. Not saying of course that I dont have some high end stuff too. But if you're not depending on making a living with tools, the other tool types are a good option. IMO of course
Yes of course the tool truck has the specialty tools and certain tools on the the truck we need but jumping in the game nowadays we have a options of not getting in dept
Snap on made sense when way back when I worked in a shop, the shop bought the tools and they were shared amongst the techs. That way they got more use and you got more value out of them. The snap on guy would inventory those tools and replace any lost or broken. Plus, being owned by the shop, they were a tax deduction for owner. This whole thing where every tech has to have his own massive tool box is only a couple decades old and is such a waste. I’d guess it was pushed by the tool industry. I can’t fathom owning a shop and not having tools and relying on any tech to bring them to you. You basically just own a building with a lift at that point.
As long as you remain unbiased, I will watch. Your direct sincerity goes a long way. Appreciate the feedback.
This video made me subscribe. My Dad is an instructor and I’ve been telling him for YEARS that he needs to encourage his students to look at these other brands instead of going into extreme debt with these tool trucks. I really hope your videos can convince just ONE mechanic getting into this trade that they don’t need that $700 set of wrenches. I’m still trying to work on my Dad.
I'd rather have $700 worth of tools I can pick up at Harbor Freight than just one set of wrenches. $700 worth of Harbor Freight tools would be half a tool box full. You could have wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, etc. Down the road when you have a full set of tools you can buy expensive tools here and there. Snap-on is always going to have speciality tools too.
I have Snap On hand tools, since the 1970’s. They are definitely the go to tools, however when you are starting out, or just can’t afford them, buy check best tools you can afford. Later on, if you want Snap On or your preferred tool, buy it. But you can’t work without tools.
I would agree with the sentiment too even though I am not an auto technician. I am actually a mountain Road and BMX bike mechanic. It’s the same deal. I remember when I first started working on bikes I used a lot of the wrenches that my dad already had granted they were not snap on or Craftsman they were Duracraft, but they worked and as time went on and as I made more money, then I went for something little more expensive like Park Tool. So yeah, it makes a lot of sense. You know if you’re gonna invest in tools, see if you have something that you can start out with already or find something that’s cheap to start with. It’s the same way when I had to get a repair stand. I started out with a $30 repair stand and it worked for a year or two then eventually I moved up and I got a little bit more expensive repair stand mean you can’t work without tools and you especially can’t work without tools.
It's nice to get the perspective from somebody who actually turns wrenches for a living - reliable information without the hype. Thanks. BTW, forty years ago, HF wrenches were crap, the tolerances were really bad. They have come along way in forty years as long as you don't buy from their Pittsburg line.
The tool DOES NOT make the Mechanic. Not Snap-On, not Harbor Freight. Sometimes a tool that is "good enough" is the one to chose.
Agreed! Thanks for watching!
except Pittsburgh all they do is round bolts and slip
Yes, and it’s knowing how to use tools with your hands and solving problems and working around them with what you have and can afford
@@shidddSo they are the best when you need rounder bolts. 😝
@@shidddnot necessarily true. I have some Pittsburgh tools I am fine with .. I have had a few snapon tools I haven't been happy with. As a professional not in Auto I have some tool failures Snap On refused to honor warranty on.
Many people besides automotive techs use tools.
Look forward to it man, testing in perfect lab like setting is good in all, because data is data. But it's all somewhat worthless without practical use and experience like this. When we use tools, it's not always the ones at the top of our ranking for one reason or another. No one channel is the final word in anything, especially us
Well stated.
There’s also comparison when it comes to “how simple can a tool get” before the pricing is simply for the name. My work uses Milwaukee M12 Gen 1 literally only for running bolts in and out. Torque them all by hand to “good ‘n tight” torque specs. Mostly cause impacts can’t tell if a bolt is truly bottomed out or not. We use Tekton extended allen sockets. And Crescent branded toolkits. Includes screw drivers, Allen wrenches sockets, and standard wrenches. 1/4-1/2 drive. Currently working on my Hercules collection after my dad’s been a Dewalt guy. Most used tool I ever saw him use was his Miter saw. Plug in, lights flickered every time it turned on, etc. have had it for over 20 years, and it’s still running strong.
I am older than you and started wrenching in the 50's. I was a jet mechanic in the USAF on F-4, A-7 and F-16 fighters for 14 years. I also worked at mines as a heavy mechanic. I thought the same as you. I recently started inventorying my tools and stopped at a few hundred thousand. (I have two shops) I have a lot of Snap On, Proto etc. I started buying Harbor freight about 5 years ago. I have found them mostly the same quality as snap on type and I tell young mechanics starting to start with Harbor Freight and if they want to get others later do so. The reputation they had is gone and they sell lifetime warranted tools now. I have 6 Snap On and Craftsman "taco wagons" and recently tried out the HF big boxes and found them really good.
Slinging tools for 50 years, I had Craftsman forever. You are correct that Snap On was the go-to when things got tough in the early days. Now, there are several brands that are similar in quality and work very well and are in my toolboxes. Thanks again for the insight.
@Jordendog I have some early Craftman sockets from the early 70's and I absolutely love them. However Craftsman in later years ther sockets went to hell. I had and employee come in one day and I was doing a frt. brake job. He was standing there showing me his new sockets and I needed a different socket so I ask to use one of his. Standard ratchet. I put it on there and put some pressure on it and it broke in two pieces. I almost broke my damn hand. I was so disappointed in the loss of quality. I had many others say the same thing. They really went down hill from the earlier sockets. I have always used Snap On wrenches only because they were always sleeker than Craftman.
Snap-on is sometimes marginally better. Say 10%. But you're going to pay 10 times for that 10%. That's a bitter pill to swallow. Does anyone really need to push things to the edge? I question the mechanical aptitude of those that do.
@1pcfred Well stated.💯
Just want to say I really appreciate your videos. I retired in 2022 after 42 years as a tech and Shop Foreman at a multi-franchise dealership. I tried to support Snap-On/Mac/Matco. I also have realized that quality choices are there at several price points. I would love to see some videos focused on recommended tools etc. for the beginning tech. Also maybe a few about basic repair processes and diagnostic techniques. I mentored multiple new techs, and certainly getting them started on the right foot and instilling that logical/critical thinking process is SO important. If you don't know how it works, then fixing it is a guessing game. I still have that desire to learn more, and tried to foster that in others. I was fortunate enough to succeed and got rewarded by competing in NISTEC with Nissan in 1997, and again with Infiniti in 1999. Served on the ASE Board of Governors for a term. Master or Gold Tech with Nissan/Infiniti/Mercedes/Porsche/Rolls-Royce. Trained in Maserati/Alfa-Romeo/Land Rover as well. All that, and 6 years at an independent import shop too. What you are doing with your videos is fantastic. Keep giving it your all, and broaden it a bit. Lastly, check out Martin Loren's HScope products, inexpensive way to get into oscilloscopes. Look up "the GADGETS playlist" on UA-cam for more.....
I have a mix of the following in my box... Snap on, Mac, Cornwell, Matco, USA Craftsman, SK, Proto, Armstrong, Duralast, Tekton, Carlyle, Lisle, Evercraft, Allen, Apex, Husky, Kobalt, Milwaukee, Stanley, DeWalt, Harbor Freight, Cheap Chinese no names and more.
They all have their place in helping me do the job.
Sounds like my tool collection. I'd add in some ancient Plomb tools I also have. My potpourri of higher end tools has come from garage and estate sales and even Goodwill. A few specialty ones came from eBay, back when shipping was cheaper.
I've been pulling wrenches since my preteens. Birthday and Christmas I asked for tools. Since we were poor, I asked for Craftsman because they were affordable, American made, and lifetime warranty. I still have most of my original wrench set. That being said when I went to work for an oilfield service company at 42, starting over from scratch, I told the young guys, hiring on straight out of school, to buy the less expensive tools to start with. Then buy the higher end stuff and pay cash or charge it on a credit card to build credit, but pay off the card every month. I'm 56 now with 16 plus professional certifications. I started on lawn equipment, worked up to 2500+ hp diesels and now back to lawn equipment. Everything is lighter, which my severe arthritis prefers. Thank you for the good video.
You may be able to buy snap-on outside the shop but good luck trying to contact the local truck to warranty a tool.
Dude 100% refused to work with me because I wasn't in a shop or had a million $ in tools.
So I literally sold ALL of my snap-on stuff and bought all Harbor Freight.
I can get a tool replaced that day with no problems at all.
I usually don't break tools and when I do it's totally my fault. So I really don't care about warranties. I just eat it and buy another tool. Usually a better tool. Although you're not going to find better than Snap-on. Then maybe I need the right tool?
This is why you readily keep on hand your purchase receipts OR call them directly!
@@1pcfred snap on isnt always the best... dont be fooled!
I retired in 2020 after 43 years at an aerospace company. I knew I would be spending lots more time at home, so I decided to treat myself to a new top and bottom toolbox to replace my tired, mid-level, craftsman boxes. I compared craftsman, husky, cobalt, and then was told about US General at Harbor freight. The Harbor freight toolbox set was the clear winner. Great quality and free drawer liners. Not a single regret. Handy trays are also available which fit perfectly inside the drawers for smaller items.
My current box is matco. My next box will be us general. Husky boxes are junk. Truck boxes are great but insanely priced.
I too am very happy with my Harbor Freight U.S. General toolbox.
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
My nearly 30 year old snapon box was badly warn, replaced about 7 years ago with us general, no regrets, coworkers asked why not another snapon, I can buy almost 10 usg boxes for the same $$ as 1 snapon, so I did buy a snapon emblem from ebay and put on it to pacify them
@spresc2180 I had the first generation 44" top and bottom. It was a great box but only 14-16" deep. I sold it to a buddy that still uses it. It still looks and functions like new. I'm not exactly sure when I got it. 2011 maybe. I'd love to have the new 72" and the cart that's just drawers. I have the 5 drawer I've been using in a shop for 5-6 years I'd say. The only thing I've done is buy swivel casters to replace the fixed casters. I had the original 5-drawer but it was stolen. I feel like the money to quality ratio makes them the best boxes out there. The truck brands may be nicer but I don't think their price is justified.
I bought my set of 3/8” impact sockets from Capri tools..Snap On was ridiculous!! Those sockets have been great, absolutely no complaints..I agree with you 100%..
This video came at the perfect time because my 11th grade son is in an auto tech program where his schoolday is 1st half at the tech campus and 2nd half back at the high school. I have been trying to explain this to him and how he doesn’t need a $10000 toolbox or get into crazy debt starting out, and start making money first then upgrade. I told him my wife and myself will help him out with tools to start, but when he starts working, the rest is on him. Keep,up,the great videos! 👍🏻
If i can offer some advice to your son , get into one of the building trades , work on cars as a hobby / side hustle . Electrician , Plumber , HVAC all skills you will need to know as an auto mechanic but you will never make anywhere near the amount the building trades do. the amount of money you will spend on tools in your life is staggering , none of the trades come anywhere close to that. If he insists on being a mechanic dont work on passenger cars , go fleet , government or heavy equipment.
@@anthonyiannone7618
Thank you Sir, ironically he has also mentioned the electrician trade as well. I am also trying to point him into a municipality position because of the pension and benefits if he wants to stay with mechanics.
This guy's advice is 100%. I'm 20 years in I wish I would have listened.
@@anthonyiannone7618 You are giving good advise. Snap On debt is the same thing as student loans to a young mechanic
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
I'll start out by shamelessly admitting I'm a Snap On fan boy. I love the honesty out of curiosity. You've earned my sub.
No shame in that! Have always been as well. Looks like we are gonna learn together! Appreciate the sub! 👍
I just started as a mobile mechanic. My tools are all HF Pittsburgh that I bought 20 years ago. I've never, ever had one break on me in all my years of wrenching on my vehicles (and beating on them)
I've broken a hex bit. Guess what, 10 minutes in the store and I had a new one! They also replaced a torque wrench that I had dropped to the floor for free as well (my own fault, but wrench was likely no longer in cal). The hex bit I expected, but the torque wrench was an added bonus.
For me, it is a more about rounding a fastener than damaging a tool. But when it comes to tools, the nearest Harbor Freight is over 2,000 miles away from those of us living in Alaska. I'll buy an equivalent from SnapOn/Matco or Amazon when my HF tool fails.
Sorry, I love most of my harbor freight stuff
Lol I use to snap a 19mm impact every week like clockwork!! Got sick of running to harbor freight so I picked up a vintage snap on from eBay that lasted a month!!
I swapped it on the truck and from then on I got less then 2 weeks from each socket!!
Of course I was doing upwards of 100 cars a day!!😅😅
If they aren't breaking,you aren't using them enough!!!
@@solidsnake6405100 cars a day🤨 must be do tire changes all day , even if so thats hard to believe . 🧢
When I was young and single and started my career in Aviation. I bought Snap on tools. After getting married having kids and a mortgage Snap on was out the window. A few years back I got on a snap on truck to trade in a broken light reel and a 1/2 inch ratchet. The guy on the truck would not make good on the lifetime guarantee. It was that moment that I will never by another snap on tool ever again.
I have heard of that before Snap On tool warranty is hit or miss Depending on how the Tool Truck Guy or Gal is some are very giving and some are not
I love your videos. They’re done with the patience and passion that a great teacher shows. You really seem to have a desire to not gate keep the automotive repair industry but to assist others and pass on valuable knowledge that you have attained throughout your long career. Very much appreciated sir.
i remember my initial loan from snap-on. I spent about 3k on a wrench set a few socket sets and a impact gun. It was a huge mistake.
We learn from mistakes. Or we keep making the same mistakes. It sounds to me like you've learned from your mistake. There's nothing wrong with Snap-on. But like they say with gambling, bet with your head, not over it. Every now and again it's nice to get an indulgence. But keep it reasonable.
I couldn’t agree more. When I started 41 years ago we didn’t have many options, and we did not go to trade schools creating debt before you even turned a professional wrench. This video is great advice coming from someone with many years of experience and $$$ invested. Take care everyone and listen to Sherwood. Happy Holidays from Pismo Beach California
Hello to everyone from the Republic of Estonia! I also have many personal tools. China, Taiwan. I read from your comments that a mechanic in the USA, UK, and CANADA must have a personal collection of tools to do the work. In Estonia, we have everything from the employer, even though Estonia is a poor country, none a mechanic working in a company to buy wrenches for himself. Why does a worker in a rich country have to buy wrenches for himself.
I’m a diy guy. But Tekton has impressed me greatly. I just changed the upper control arms on my Jeep Liberty CRD and put myself and especially the Tekton 3/8” deep 18mm socket thru pure hell With a six ft pipe for leverage I got it loose and the socket held. Used an old 10mm Craftsman and that snapped and the tekton didn’t. And on another project the 1/4” torque wrench wouldn’t click. Sent them a pick and got new one in 2 days
I'm all for this. I spent 11 years in the Air Force fixing jets. Used Craftsman and Snap-on, each had their own ups and downs. When I got out and started working on my own cars, out of necessity, I had a hard time justifying the cost of Snap-on, and at times, Craftsman too. When I got into utility work, our maintenance shop had a mix of everything, including a lot of Pittsburgh stuff from Harbor Freight. I did a little more digging and determined that wrenching on stuff a couple of times a month or less, the cost and quality are perfect for me. I bought into Pittsburgh, and I still have my old Craftsman socket set, and both can handle most everything I need to do, heck I'm even considering looking at some of the hand tools from Hart over at Walmart. Now, I'm not saying they're the best by any means, but even DIYers can get a pretty decent setup without spending tons of money.
I love the “Open Mind” mentality. So refreshing.
After 45 years as a tech and now coming to the end of my career, I decided to sell all of my Snap On gear while the prices are high and made good money, I replaced them with cheap alternatives, I can honestly say I wish I had done it sooner, there are lots of good alternatives out there that are just as good. In the early days in the UK you only really had Snap On and Britool tools
I mainly buy Facom now I've left the UK.....got a fair bit of broken Snap on tools can't easily warranty until go to Brexitsan next...
Where I used to work, they bough high end tools. Then, a HF moved in about 3 miles away and everything changed. A high majority of tools now are from HF. If something breaks, it's just up the street and the prices are WAAAY low. It's a win a around. Also, I live in a rural area and those yellow Daytona car jacks are everywhere! Not everything HF makes for what we need works better, but it's a learning curve on which tools are worth the switch.
This is seriously fantastic. I am an independent tool truck distributor. There are tons of great brands. Sunex, GW, Knipex, VIM, Astro, Lang, Lisle. I sell a 232 piece set of tools lifetime warranty for under $325 on payments to new techs. Wrench sets, allen keys, 1/4" and 3/8" ratchets and sockets shallow and deep metric and standard. Starting techs need more tools. As you mentioned, you can buy the top quality later. Lube and tire techs making $12-15 an hour trying to pay rent and put food in their stomachs do not need $700 wrench sets to start. Great content!
The barrier to entry in a field where you are required to buy your own tools is getting lower everyday. And I love it.
Snap on can quickly become Strap- On if you greased enough 😂
Technology, machining, engineering, and manufacturing has gotten WORLDS better over the years, allowing most all products, not just tools, to become equally as impressive as its competitors.
Finally, someone else with an open mind. You don't need to buy the most expensive tools to make a living. I've worked with young guys that their tool bill was bigger than my mortgage. I had an old timer tell me when I was just getting started, you'll never get rich turning wrenches, and although there are a very small % that have 90+% will not. I'm 63 now and have approx 2 to 3 hundred K in tools and vehicles that run always my home, and property is only worth 150 K
And if I go to sell all my tools, I might be lucky to get less than a 1/3 of what I invested in them. My advice is don't waste your $ on the most expensive tools, $ can buy take the difference and put it in your pocket.
Finally a Snap-on fan boy that used his brain 😂. Snap- on is a finance company taking advantage of people. Harbor freight has changed the game forever. They make tackling projects affordable for just about anyone while building a tool collection with a lifetime warranty. Everybody wins!
My coworker's Snap on tools were bought on credit and are now in pawn... My Icon are paid for and at work. Snap on's credit unit and prices are predatory to newer modern techs considering what is available. Gotta be able to stand up to that peer pressure until you can afford it
I am not a “ Professional “ mechanic. My son and I basically buy “ Projects “. Be they car, motorcycle or ATV. Fix and sell. 90% of our too.s are ICON. Can’t beat the warranty. 15 minute drive to the store to swap it out.
110% agree with the thoughts presented in this video. I've been wrenching on cars for 25 years, and have never wanted nor needed high-end Snap-On stuff even though I work at what I consider to be a high level. These days, with global manufacturing being what it is, there are so many great alternatives to Snap-On that cost a fraction as much.
As an amateur weekend warrior DIY mechanic, Harbor Freight is a blessing and have never failed me.
Sounds like a good plan for the channel. In addition to the scientific and other test perspectives, it’s good to have the additional knowledge of how differences affect the mechanic. I enjoy the diagnostics as well since it has been a long time since I was a mechanic, and electronics are infinitely more complex.
Good information for DYI mechanics, thank you for your objective feedback on tools.
I have been in manufacturing my whole life. Owned my own foundry and machine shop. Once upon a time North American made tools were top shelf. The material and labour were sourced locally. That is not the case anymore. Everything is brought in from overseas ( even the supposedly NA made tools. This and as you mentioned, technology and patent expiration has evened the playing field. My company specialized in Zinc and Aluminum castings I can tell you there is a difference between NA alloy and the Russian alloy for example. The spec's met the grade but there was a difference when pouring the metal.
We have to put this country back on top. Bring once upon a time back again. Put on the red hat even.
If it isn’t ’drop forged chrome vanadium’, I won’t use it.
Well said sir.
I have told many beginners to only buy what they need to get by. I have always offered to mentor and let them borrow tools until they start making money and can afford to buy some more. I have a big mixture of name brand tool truck to cheap stuff. It all makes me money. It’s all how quick I can get the job done and done correctly that makes me money.
People need to quit ruining these new technicians by putting them in massive debt.
yall are awesome! cant wait to see the tool reviews as well as more diagnostic videos. Ive learned so much already and cant wait to see whats next. cheers.
Koken tools have been winning me over lately. Definitely quality and ingenuity in their tools. VIM too has some great tools too.
I’m like you, I have a ton of professional tools now. But started with craftsman which I still have and are now in my house tool box.
I've been trying to tell people that this day and age where in has all manufacturing processes at an all time high. These other companies can produce a product that's damb near just as good as tool truck quality for pennies on the dollar. Thanks for the great information bc I'm a snap on fan boy myself and have spent nearly $85,000 on their products but recently I've been buying Icon and some other stuff from the internet, and I'm glad I'm not the only one to have this change of heart. Thanks bro
Times change. Made in Taiwan doesn't mean chrome plated bubble gum anymore. They've finally figured out how to alloy and heat treat steel over there. Now are they as good at it as Snap-on? Not quite, but almost.
In the absence of wisdom to the contrary, or a massive financial windfall, the best advice I saw a few years back from an advanced auto mechanic was to buy first tools cheaper (not the gas station or drug store) and when a tool breaks for the 3rd time, you know it's being used enough now it's time to "invest" in a better tool for that application. If we could measure the amount of "tool debt" new techs/mechanics go into against how many do not stay in the profession, it would be a disappointing indictment on the industry for not giving better advice to beginners. Kudos for many excellent videos, but this is your best! Thank you and look forward to the journey you'll be sharing.
The voice of reason speaking right there
I started working on my own vehicles with a Stanley wrench set 15 years ago. It's still the only complete tool set I have from 15 years ago for good reason, they served their purpose and remain functional and valued. I stepped foot on a snap on truck to get the deal of the day once and was told I needed a garden hose nozzle with "a great purchase" on the handle and a lifetime guarantee for only $150! Snap on can be a badge of pride for some, along with a bag and a half of debt for most.
I enjoy your videos well before the snap on post blew up. Just having a well rounded individual person that's honest on UA-cam is awesome
Unbiased w no ego these guys make great videos, thanks Sherwood and company.
I feel good stepping on a Snap on tool truck knowing that its still made in USA. I am referring to the wrenches,ratchets and sockets...Good quality and the brand is respected worldwide!
I have been using 1/2 drive Pittsburgh Pro impact sockets for over 2 years as an industrial mechanic/millwright and they have never let me down. Still have all of them from the original set.
I’m similar to you in experience and age. My tools are very similar to yours. I have so many snap on tools it took me thirty years to get them all. But if you’re starting out there is no need to go right to the tool truck. It actually is amazing how much better choices are out there by comparison to 30 years ago.
Your honest take and approach to all of this is refreshing. I know you get a lot of hate from the Kool-Aid drinkers, but you're 100% correct when you say there are numerous options these days that didn't exist 20+ years ago. The next big change, already happening, is dealerships buying a basic set of tools for new technicians. Let's get on a Teams call and I'll share some incredible examples and their impact.
I started my career in 1985. I was the mechanic that didn't hide from the tool truck when it turned into the lot because I never carried a balance. If I could not make a cash purchase, I didn't buy. I bought in 1986 a set of Chinese made offset 12 point metric wrenches, (10 through 22mm, skipping 16 and 21 mm) for about $20 with the FUKUNG brand. They have been excellent. I have looked for the brand hoping to find different tools from them, never saw them offered again. A GEDORE wrench once fractured on me, so they sit on the bench waiting to be called if I need them.
Have some Fukung wrenches..they are great. Offset box wrenches. Very smooth finish.
Great video. I'm just a DIY'er but have been working on vehicles for over 40 years and have amassed a large number of tools over the years and in a lot of different brands. In my early days almost everything I bought was Craftsman and I still have most of these tools today.
In the mid 90's I was watching an informercial on TV about a tool kit called Metrinch. They showed it being used with an impact gun and the sockets and wrenches worked on the flat sides of the bolts instead of on the points. Each socket and wrench also worked on both SAE and Metric. I was interested and bought the 48-piece set. This tool set ended up being the one I have used probably 95% of the time since then. Over the years I have only broke one socket and the original ratchet is still going strong. They also have a lifetime warranty. I also later bought the 76-piece set but still use my original set the most. They are still in business, but you don't hear anything about them these days.
The only Snap-On stuff I own is some of their pliers and a few specialty tools and most of that was bought on Ebay.
Thanks for your honest opinion. Your amazon brake caliper hooks and the Kroil Oil are both the same link - brake caliper hooks.
My family has been using Kroil Oil for the most part of 70 plus years. My dad used it, back then (and I believe now), it's still the best canned penetrant.
Glad you’re taking care of the techs just getting into the business with your hard earned advise. How about a video on what route you’d advise a young person thinking of this profession to take to prepare themselves to get into the door at a shop that’ll help them to develop.
We are planning on doing a video on that topic soon!
Love your channel/FB page. Stumbled on it one day and have been a viewer since. I’m a DIY guy, fiddle with my old Grand Marquis. Would I like to have “top end” tools? Sure. Do I “need” them, probably not. Just need a quality set of sockets, hand tools, wrenches, etc. keep up the great content.
Love the content gentleman.
You should do a buyers guide on sockets and wrenches ranging from the best budget set to the best mid range set and then the best high-end set from your experience
I thoroughly enjoyed watching all the Snap On reps and fans lose their minds when you guys did that test.
Thanks for bringing up the subject of tools as young techs need to understand the pros and cons. I started my dealership technician journey in 1977 and chose a minimal Craftsman starter set. I soon found out that Craftsman durability wasn't there for me and didn't like going to Sears on my time off for getting warranty replacements. The only other option then for quality tools was to buy from the tool trucks. Obviously Snap On and Mac, and kind of an obscure brand called Vulcan, then a division of TRW. Many weeks I wrote multiple checks to the tool trucks, that was just part of the job. I always felt that top of the line tools were required to feed my family and never regretted my investment in tools. In 1999 I was offered a job in telecommunications, I passed the entrance exam due to the electronics training I recieved from GM. I decided to keep all the tools I had, seemed like there was not much of a market for used tools and still use them. A young person starting out now has more choices in what brand of tools to use. Thanks for giving them advice.
Snap-On has an Icon nipping at the heals! I started in 1982 with Craftsman tools. I bought all of the "Big Boy" tools that I used the most for the fact they came calling once a week to replace or repair vs going to Sears on my day off. Thanks for all of your great videos Sherwood.
Well said. There was a time that Snap On was the best of the best. But in the past 32 years I’ve been in the field the tool world has changed. Today’s techs have so many quality choices. I wouldn’t have anywhere near the amount of Snap On tools as I do if I had the options today’s guys have when I started out.
This is a huge mindset change. For the last nine years, we have been pushing dealerships and independent shops to purchase the "starter" set for these new techs. Our idea is getting traction. Lithia Auto Group, MileOne, Turner, and dozens of others are now using our sets to get folks started off on the right foot, keeping them off the truck and out of debt while they get started in their careers.
You're original snap on wrench looks exactly like a set I have. Purchased in the mid 80's. Love your channel content and your plans for upcoming vids.
My parents bought me a set of Craftsman tools for Christmas when I was 12 years old. Now at 70 I still use those same tools. Those classic wrenches have turned every nut and bolt I ever put them on. I still prefer the acetate handle screw drivers to modern rubber. To each their own.
I am 75, I've been working on cars (DIY) since I was a teenager helping my dad. Between wife and self, we have 4 old cars (1947-1997), most of the work I do myself. Many of my tools are only used a few times a year so basically I need what is necessary to get the job done.
Sometimes I buy a tool for a specific job--one of the rear brake drums on the 47 Jeep was really tightly stuck on the tapered shaft, and I wound up buying a drum puller from the Walmart website.
Many thanks for all the great insights. What may also be useful esp to the younger wrenchers, is which 10,20,30 whatever the number is tools are a must have. This would avoid unnecessary expenditure. Many thanks.
Thank you for your transparency! I have always been of the thought to spend the money on quality and make sure you have the right tool for the job, but now if it's a tool I am not using every day, I will settle for good enough if the price is that drastic. Grocery bills are out of control, less money to spend on tools! ;) I love the real shop approach instead of a heavy scientific approach.
I’m not a mechanic. Enjoy your channel and learning / trying some DIY projects now. However the conversation makes me think of college education too. Young people are getting into serious debt going to private colleges. While a community college will many times provide a great education too and no debt if this is their path. All comes down to what the young person does with their education. Seems the same holds true here. Don’t go into high debt with the snap on brand when many options exist now for great young mechanics. As an aside I think many more young people should choose a trade over college nowadays. Can’t outsource their trade!
Thank you for being honest. Snap on should be ashamed of how they, often in collusion with feckless instructors, placed extreme pressure on new techs to burden themselves with enormous debt at the very beginning of their careers.
I started in the business in 1976, and the options were Snap On,Max, S&k.,and Sears Craftsman. Back then, Matco had a reputation of being inferior.Thats not the case, anymore.
I’ve owned mostly Snap On though. I enjoy your channel, thanks for the video!
Totally agree with you my friend 35 years in the business I say strap on tools have lost the glory, so as the garbage scanners which I own one just to say I have the latest and greatest, any way I can talk about it for days, I a young mechanic likes snap on tools buy them used from retired mechanics….. good luck!
Have you done a video on doing a relative compression test with your oscilloscope? I find this test is a quick way to check possible mechanical issues without having to pull a compression test one cylinder at a time. Keep up the great videos, really love em. Very informative.
Love the channel guys your honesty integrity and down to earth approach is just awesome you guys and Eric os channel are by far my favorite keep up the great work mate 👍🇭🇲🦘
Really appreciate that man! Thanks for the support!!
After 20 plus years of buying tools off of the tool trucks, my mind is also changed. There are some really good tools out there now that are so close in performance that I personally can't justify the cost of snap on and the others anymore. Certain things here and there, sure. But basic tools that make up the bulk of your box don't need to as expensive as they use to be for professional tools. I know I'm not alone in this feeling so I hope the big names are taking note or their dominating days are over.
Thank you! Looking for honest tool reviews for the beginner in this industry. Thank you very much!
I'm from corporate America, manufacturing sector. What you described is called perceived value. If we make a product but sell it as a generic brand and a name brand most people will purchase the name brand.
Example, Walmart brand of quart storage bags is actually manufactured by Glad. How do I know? I work for Clorox and we own Glad.
Always remember the words perceived value.
Some tire plants make tires for different companies with the same mold but each company uses different compounds and essentially a different tire. So Sam's ware can be 1/2 thickness but still doable
For me, Harbor Freight is filling the void Sears left. It appears the new Craftsman tools are not so bad, and the HF stuff is getting better and you can walk in like you did Sears and get a replacement.
Sounds like its a good time to be a consumer with all the quality choices today.
My dad always said, "If you want to know the way to the top of the mountain, ask the guy who climbs it every day."
And while I'm waxing philosophical...
I believe that we learn more from mistakes than we do from success.
9:09 - For what it’s worth and in support of your argument, I used a mismatched set of tools, pieced together literally as I’d get jobs and found the need for them. It’s only now in my mid 30’s that I’m reinvesting in stuff that I’ve always wanted like some snap on and MAC 🎉
I agree with you. I like koken and Capri tools also.
Ìm liking the new format!
How about a review on the snap-on scanners vs something like topdon, autel, launch scanners ?? I think a video like that would bring in a lot of views.
Although your snap-on dealer may get a little upset 😅
Now that is a great help to understand the differences between the oem, snap on and the Amazon bunch. I know that oem software is not available to diy, but showing the differences in specific areas of the software. Great challenge
This is spot on. Snap On makes some fantastic tools. For me, I am 75% Icon, 10% GearWrench, and a mix of Matco, Mac, SnapOn where they excel. Icon toolboxes suck. If they make 30"-deep boxes with drawers that work in a 30 degree F shop, I'm all in. For now I am on a spending orgy, buying Icon tools, power tools, spare parts, and anything else I can anticipate/afford before the tariffs hit.
As a DIY'er Icon and Tekton have been a godsent TBH - Just bought the icon ball joint set. More money than I wanted to spend, but saved so much time and effort when I just rebuilt my BMW e46 rear end. Got the old bushings/ ball joints out and new ones in so easily. Before that was really struggling the last time I did this on my other car! Love the tekton socket sets - my old crafstman just sit in the drawer now!. Only time they get used is trips to pick-n-pull.
Also like the Milwakee socket sets - picked up the 1/4 and 3/8 sets for my son to start wrenching on his car from the HD black friday sales. I like the option they have on the sockets to be able to turn it with a wrench.
Time is money for a pro - but for me as a diy'er, a tool that gives me the easy button pays for itself there and then!
I sure would like for you to expand your shop to Pennsylvania as I like to do business with people that have integrity!
Keep you the great work... I haven't turned wrenches in weeks long time, when I did Snap-On was the best choice, now as you are finding out, industry has caught up with them at a much more competitive cost.
Years ago I inspected my open ends of my combination wrenches to see how much clearance there was. I used Gauge Blocks from my machine shop days. I have Snap on , Mac, JH Williams and Craftsman. The JH Williams had less clearance than the others. So they fit tighter on the fasteners.
Check out the Craftsman Overdrive line for rounded and rusty fasteners.
You are 100% correct. For the people that can't handle the truth, tough !!
They are just upset that they spent 400% more on a tool that a company over inflated the price on.
PERIOD !!!!!
I started out in 88 and when at Toyota in the 90's, Snap On was the only one that wouldn't round off those sheety bolts Toyota used. Them and Matco were the only ones that made a decent big sized tool box. I sure was glad when the other off brand companies improved even though I already had Snap On and Matco stuff. That's the way I would go now. Especially tool boxes.
Great Video. I have been using Craftsman tools and never rounded off any Fastener on any Vehicle since Vocational School.
The ratchets are actually good I use them every day and have snap on for the last 30 years . I'm building a tool set all from harbor freight and have been using them and nothing but them for the last 3 months as a professional and killing it !! I wish we had these options 30 yrs ago !
Great video and it's awesome to witness your thought process change in regards to tool purchasing. I own 4 icon wrench sets (flex ratcheting mm, stubby mm, stubby sae, and the anti slip mm-couldn't pass up the deal). I also own 4 icon ratchets 3 of which I use daily as bus mechanic. The three that I mainly use are the Long reach flex head, standard flex head, and standard fixed head (all 3/8 dr). I have the 3/8 drive stubby but I rarley use it. I'm not sure what issues other people are experiencing but mine have held up. No binding, no slipping/skipping, back drag isnt anything to write home about but it's not bad.
There's better alternatives to ICON for the same price or less. Tekton springs to mind - they're a dedicated tool company , they source their tools from Taiwan as well as manufacturing some tools in the U.S. On top of that, they have an amazing warranty.
The whole point of the video^^^
Tekton sockets are great
We plan on showcasing a lot of Tekton and other great companies out there. We agree that Tektok is a great option!
@@theroyaltyautoservice love your work! Wish you were all over the country.
I'll definitely check Tekton out, but what I love about ICON is that it's so easy to replace a broken/worn tool. HF are everywhere, no receipt required, walk in and walk out with the replacement tool.
Our bread and butter tools back in the early 60s were Proto with a dusting of New Britain. Mac Tools truck showed up about 10 years later in our small neck of the woods.
Gotta give it up to an old timer who can change his opinion and how to help the next generation.
While taking auto shop in high school in the mid-80s I started buying Sears Craftsman tools. I would wait until screwdriver, wrench, and socket sets went on sale. All of the hand tools were made in USA back then. Even as a DIY, I was proud of my Craftsman tools and I still am. I'm sad that today's younger generation does not have a chance to buy American-made tools at a reasonable price.
I like this video. I like the honesty. Can’t wait for more
The guy that told you that you did it wrong is a landscaper that has very little experience working on cars.
Mechanic/shop owner for over 30 years. I started poor with rusty handmedown tools and bought tools as I could afford them. I think it makes you better at decision making. A lot of being fast and efficient at this job is knowing what combination of tools will get the particular bolt/nut off and on the fastest. Sounds easy but I’ve watched guys struggle with that so many times. End of the day, a good mechanic can get the job done with any brand tool.
Good video. Channel is going in a great direction