If you want to see some other tool videos with lower budgets, see below : $2500 Tool Box ~ ua-cam.com/video/v1sJsCKAJew/v-deo.htmlsi=_rBRJ5L6fsfCy8VN $1500 Roll Cart Kit ~ ua-cam.com/video/zZ4xrrHZE4A/v-deo.htmlsi=fXPG5YxRl42SJM8d
@@yalantyr25 I started wrenching 2 years ago with an old school USA ball bearing craftsman box and every drawer is stuffed with tons and tons of really nice tools. Same like you, I could have bought a sweet truck for what I got in tools now. Those tools will be with me wherever I go and I’m grateful for the decisions I’ve made to get to this point. I wanted to buy a bigger toolbox now but I’ve learned to organize and it’s not a problem. Now I need to start enjoying some of my money instead of buying tools. I’d like a new Toyota pickup and vacations to Miami.
@@L4ND.SH4RK I bought half my tools from Mac and the other half is used stuff that looks almost brand new. I spent my money on the truck where it really matters.
I've been a tech for 871 years and i approve this message. I cringe any time a new tech gets on a tool truck looking at 8000 dollar tool boxes 400 dollar wrenches ect. Great video! Im definitely adding a mr. Predicto to my box. Thanks!
I agree and all they are doing is oil changes and tire rotations, truck tools are nice if you've got the money for them but not a requirement right off the bat, Adam Savage from mythbusters said something like buy the tool you can afford and when you break that tool it might be time to upgrade. have also heard the stories about new guys getting on the truck and blowing all their money on merch and stuff they don't need but keep on having to borrow wrenches and screwdrivers off other guys
I still cringed whenever my coworkers got on the Snap-On truck, regardless of experience. Most of the dudes I worked with had $1,000+ monthly payments. One of my managers had the Epiq bench and it cost something like 40k after he was done modifying it. It was nice, but not car payment nice.
@thedumbapple2339 moral of the story: when not at work, never carry your work tools. Just enough to fit in a small bag, just enough for small jobs that the family needs help with.
If your looking for neat mobile set I mentioned it in my comment but you should check out govt auctions so I couldn't afford the Snap On one but in military we had mobile tools kits(part of contract had to be US made tools & have enough tools if you happen to break down & not on base it's a field kit)and one I bid on & won was mainly SK & crescent but feel like I got a steal bc it came with 6 drawer weatherproof box. The snap on are the newer versions but for an emergency kit for the truck I feel it's a steal though not a professional mechanic I dabble in it and something that stays in my truck great for emergencies or if somewhere. It might be just me but in past when something breaks the person either doesn't have tools or it's like a fisher price kit lol
I've had my Klein cutters for nearly 20 years, still perfect. I cut nails screws just about anything with em and they still work perfectly. Spend the money once, for life.
The $200 HF Tool Carts are a great value for lots of things. I have a red one that lives on my back patio. It sits next to my BBQ Smoker and it holds all my gloves, temp probes, aluminum foil, and all my other BBQ tools & stuff. I’m using another one to build an auto detail cart. Electric pressure washer mounted to the lower shelf, and all my detail crap in the drawers. When it’s time to wash a car, just roll the whole cart outside, hook up water & electric and I’m ready to go
Build a Complete toolbox 42-inch top and bottom and fill it with tools ONLY from Harbour Freight. Quinn Master Socket sets, 1/2" (83pc), 3/8" (72pc), 1/4" (54pc). Also, Master Impact socket sets, 1/2" (61pc), 3/8" (48pc), and Master bit socket set (87pc). A lot of videos want to go straight to ICON brand everything, but Quinn makes good stuff.
I agree and the quality to price difference really isin't worth splurging on the Icon. At least sockets wise. Pliers I would go Doyle or Icon myself if I was buying at HF.
I've always liked these videos for a couple of reasons 1. The completed carts always go out to graduating technicians, which is always a blessing since techs in the United States are responsible for their own tools 2. It highlights tools from the non-truck brands that are solid for not only new technicians, but shade tree/home mechanics, showing that we don't always need tool truck tools 3. It showcases what I call the "Harbor Freight" approach, which gets you in the door to find out what you will always be using and what is worth upgrading if it breaks
Thank you so much! To me upgrading where needed, when needed is the play. You can always upgrade, but ya can't really go back the other way. I hate seeing young techs go buy $$$ tools that they end up never using. I know I did plenty of that in my day
1. Absolutely one of THE best automotive channels on UA-cam. 2. You are such a nice person too. I remember a few years ago, I sent you a question and I was actually surprised with how you answered it and how nice you were. 3. FINALLY.....can you do like a 72" dream toolbox build?
I absolutely love these videos, i am a mechanic myself but have been stuck with a husky tool set, I don't make enough money to load up a cart like this because of how expensive things are, but I love seeing you build them!
Same here. I've realized husky an icon has been a savings savior for me, and a few more people out there as well have come to see that for themselves, because it helps us to get into the tool business to make our money back or even more to help us to buy more tools or higher quality tools that come with warranties or some perks with certain company's to get more tools for us to make more money that we thought we couldn't make, my A-tech and masters-tech has been a good couch to help me along the way with questions and concerns
The tool bag is very good though for the car tools, which are very often the thing that gets you out of a bind. Also useful when you are at home or out doing DIY, as it can hold a lot of tools for small jobs. Well worth using, saving you from either not having a screwdriver or pliers on the road, or to carry stuff when at home.
As a 20 year old who has been at a dealership for just over a year, I don't see the need to spend more than I have to. I will admit I have my fair share mac tools that I used my student discount, and a snap on ratchet that I also used my discount on before I graduated this past spring. And I love all of my Milwaukee battery tools. All of my sockets are Tekton or Sunex, and extension and bit sets are ICON, which I also love ICON brand. My box is the $600 US General 7 drawer which you can get on sale for less. It's a perfect box for me, which I have organized very well to fit as much tools as possible, with room to grow. For someone who is just starting in this industry, realistically, you need about 3k minimum starting out, but most people that I know my age agree that 5k puts you in the best spot. This big thing is staying out of debt, and buying as you go.
I have a Milwaukee 2010R pen light! More expensive then the one you showed, but it is rechargable, battery life has been good too. Has a rubber end so you can bite down on it to hold in your mouth and free up your hands when needed, and it has a laser pointer so you can use it to point out problem areas to customers or service advisors
For the cheap shop multimeter I highly recommend the fluke 101. $40-50 for a fluke that you can fit in your shirt pocket, auto ranging and super clean UI and display makes doing basic continuity/resistance testing a breeze.
Very nice tool box for anyone just starting out in the field. I started kind of late in life working on cars after I was already married with kids and it has been really hard to get a decent tool box going. I am getting there but it is a slow process. I need to pay bills and such first and when I have a little extra money I will go buy something I need. I really have been just using Harbor Freight for hand tools and to be honest for what I need them for they are perfect for me. Thanks for sharing this video, I am sure it will help many people who are new to the trade.
When I started (locomotive/railroad mechanic), I was working out of an old, handheld Kennedy box. I had one of the cheaper Crafstman box setups on layaway. That was back in 2010. I *just* bought a much nicer, larger Craftsman lower box. It was a LONG time coming.
You know, I was going to say something about the sponsor deal…. But I get it…. Bills need to be paid…. I always like the REPO boxes on the tool truck. Better quality, terrific deals….
That Maddox caliper kit is a life saver. I spent years fighting the "cube" you get from the parts stores to compress the rear brakes on mustangs. I bit the bullet one day and bought one of those kits, and I absolutely love it.
I love this videos of tools man give me a lot of knowledge about how to buy tools!! I dont have that much tools cuz i had everything in my country, I want to get that set I being watching ur videos a lot! im from MEXICO bless me with those tools man ❤️
I'm starting my automotive career this month, and these videos have been super helpful for me to get an idea of what I should be buying to fill out my box. Thank you!
most important advice ever make smart tool purchases, buy what you can afford and need not what you want. good luck, on a side note work smarter not harder
Harbor freight is the way to go. Cheap and most sets have lifetime warranty. Please whatever you do stay off the tools trucks. Specialist tools yea for sure but as far as hand tools and sockets and wrenches hf is where its at
@@nicknunez8012 got a few HF tools but for somethings I always go to the truck, particularly ratchets, it may sound weird but they just "feel" right in my hands on top of being damn good.
@@nicknunez8012 I'm lucky enough to get massive student discounts on the tool truck brands I care for. It makes the pricing similar enough to justify it for me, as well as assuring me I'm getting quality tools. I'd rather have tools I know will last and not break as easily even if I have to spend a little more.
I only work on my car to save money and sometimes help my friends out to save money so I’ve gotten a lot of tools. Love the videos and love watching it get unboxed
A few notes I'll give as a Ford tech. If you plan to work on Fords, an angle torque wrench is a must. Ford really loves to use angle specs on a surprising number of their bolts so even a newer tech really should have on. I decided to get some snapon ones with my student discount but the quinn ones from harbor freight are pretty great from what I have heard. Next time you do one of these I think it would be great to see some more suggestions for young guys that are starting to take on more advanced jobs. One thing in particular that I have made an investment in recently is sockets. A large assortment of specialty sockets such as swivel and u joint sockets has been a game changer for me when trying to access hard to reach fasteners.
I love watching your videos!! As someone building up my tool box i recommend an icon stick flashlight specifically because it’s magnetic and thin enough to lookin places without a pencil light.
Whoever got the rollar cart with the Milwaukee drills and hex bit set is one lucky person. Those saved me so many times and had things running fast for me to make more money than i invested into buying those for myself. I am lowkey kinda jealous. Those are a life savior
Humble mechanic I've been a fan of you for a while now and I really appreciate the insight you give with regards to the automotive field . Love from trinidad and tobago
I’m going into the mechanic field and have already received and bought tools, but I aim to get a lot more by the time I graduate highschool. So watching these I can get an idea what I need
I look forward to your Sunday vids. Thanks for all the time and hard work you put into them! As far as a penlight, the Coast® HP3R 385 Lumen Rechargeable LED Penlight is my go to. A little more cost, but rechargeable is great for me.
I would recommend a universal radiator pressure Tester Kit/ vacuum refill kit for cooling system. It makes filling the coolant system a lot easier and less time consuming. Plus when you put a vacuum on the system you can see if you have a leak before filling it or pressuring it because it won't hold vacuum.
One thing I would recommend would be thin wall impact sockets. Grey pneumatic makes some nice sets, no need for impact and chrome redundancy saves money and space
For cheap stuff: Flexible magnet / grabber, fuel line separator tool, spark plug gap tool Spring pilot hole tools come in handy when you can't get a hammer in there
Gearwrench refers to the long nose pliers with two pivot points as "Double X". I would consider a set of oil filter cartridge sockets since many late model cars have internal cartridge oil filters. Coast makes some very bright, very durable rechargeable flashlights that won't break the bank. I would also add some Astro impact swivel sockets as they are a bargain and increase productivity. What I like most about these videos, is you keep the new tech off of the tool truck starting out. Great job!!!!
my previous job provided those same head lamps. i’m back turning wrenches now and use it everyday usually get abt 5-6 hours on high. would highly recommend
Great box build!! I'd love that, it covers all of it! I'm always borrowing from the guys at work, which is nice to have such lovely co-workers.. but holy guacamole. Thats was good! Congrats to the lucky tech who won the box!!
If you’re buying tools yourself I would recommend the Icon brake caliper set. It has a few more adapters, a left and a right hand assembly, and it’s only like $20 more than the Maddox. Not knocking the Maddox one, because I’ve had some good quality Maddox tools, but the Icon one might be a better purchase if you work on different makes of cars that the Maddox one might not have.
Went back to 9:35 and paused, just to reiterate the importance of what he is about to say--not using a torque wrench may have been the cause of my motorcycle malfunction which almost crippled me bad. If something has a torque rating, it is best to grab it.
The Braun pen light from Harbor Freight is amazing. It's USB rechargeable. I sent mine through the washer AND dryer, and it still charges and works just fine.
God i wish i had Harbour Freight in the UK, there arent many stores dedicated to tools. Anyway i love these videos, ive watched the other 2 like 100000 times.
I use a strap wrench for oil filters. one size fits all. I bought some extras and gave them to Mom and my sister to put in there kitchen. Strap wrenches are great to open pickle jars.
this would send my work and school into the outer limits! Im so grateful for the chance at something so necessary for making money and a name for myself at work. I am a student at a tech school for automotive and work at a used dealership while raising 3 kids on my own. I would be so lucky to get the win
I ❤ Vag, I drive a Audi type 89 convertible 2.3e 5 cilinder. Best first car ever. Only problem i've had was a coolent leak. The extra radiator had a tiny hole, easy fix but took me a day and a roll of paper because the hose was crusted on😅
Love your videos! I watch way to many videos on building a tool box. One tool I never see in a tool box is a good computer tablet. I have used my tablet many many many times. when I’m having problems on a job my go to problem solving tool is my computer tablet. If I’m having a problem I know someone has had the same problem before me and posted it on UA-cam.
My vote for the next box is a for a mobile heavy diesel mechanic. Being one myself, I’d like to see what input someone from the light vehicle world has to offer, and see something more in line with end of apprenticeship stuff, stuff you’d have from later in the trade that you may use everyday or basically never. And in that case I’d recommend a strap type filter wrench that you put in your ratchet, and a big set of multi grips, big pipe wrench, and 2 sets of adjustable wrenches, with a 24” adjustable wrench to go with it.
I bought a cheap 3 claw oil filter wrench and any time I have to fight just a little bit too much to take an oil filter off, I grab it. Works every single time, and I call it the God Hand 😂 It doesn’t work on chevy though, the filter is surrounded by the oil pan.
Just a tip for the parrot nose pliers - it helps a LOT if you grind the lower jaw so it’s parallel or if anything slightly angled downward from the end of the jaw to the beginning (by beginning I mean closest to the hinge). The icon ones come slightly curved on the lower jaw which leads to them slipping off of fasteners a little too easily. Grinded parallel and they’re all good. Also I’d highly recommend a safety wire tool. In a pinch you can make very strong hose clamps, cotter pins, hang exhausts temporarily or as a permanent solution if you want to, and probably tons of things I haven’t thought of.
Wish this video was around when I started my career. Spent way too much on snap on my first year. My biggest advice to new techs is buy a us general cart they’re cheap and they do the same thing as the snap on carts for a 1/3 the price.
My vote for the next box is a for a mobile heavy diesel mechanic. Being one myself, I’d like to see what input someone from the light vehicle world has to offer, and see something more in line with end of apprenticeship stuff, stuff you’d have from later in the trade that you may use everyday or basically never.
Great recommendations. I wish we had this many options when I was starting out. I'm glad to have good quality basic hand tools, but also have some pretty expensive stuff that doesn't get used often
I have one of those carts to supplement my other boxes cabinets. It is great. Good choice. Hard to beat Klein...and Knipex for pliers. Great video offers excellent guidance. Greater still, the give away to to a tech student.
The acebeam pokelit or pokelit 2aa will blow that streamlite out of the water. A high cri neutral color light with a clean crisp beam makes a big difference in an inspection light. Getting clear color rendering makes a world of difference for diagnostics
thank you so much for these EPIC video series!!! this is so helpful for me as a mk7.5 owner in nj who needs to build a good diy tool kit:) i love how sweet you are to these new techs, man. it's so inspiring. i hope i can do this one day (if i graduate from my armchair mechanic status, that is haha) what if you built/set up a toolkit/set of tools that could adequately cover someone living in a place where they don't have access to a garage/can't buy a big toolbox? i live in a really urban part of jersey and the best i would be able to do tool storage wise is buy milwaukee's new structured tool backpack, or a really small portable toolbox to store in my apartment closet. maybe something that would be 3-4ft tall and 2ft wide maximum. maybe something that could cover a range of beginner diy stuff? i've really been impressed with milwaukee's new packout system and i would love to hear your opinion on how someone who can't fit a big toolbox/doesn't have a place like a garage to store tools or work on their car can still do some great diy work, and with what tools you think is best:)
This is so awesome!!! The Pittsburgh torque wrenches are the ones I have seen rate pretty high. They’re the twist bottom kind but are waaaay cheaper. I already had one for ft/lbs but got the Pittsburgh for in/lbs and it’s awesome! I think it was like $30 and has been really accurate
The streamlight 66320 MacroStream has been my edc for 3 years now. It’s a little wider than a pen light but way shorter and has a helpful clip for a hat that comes in handy. Not to heavy either, highly recommend.
@@HumbleMechanicthat would probably be like a 30k video just that air chuck you was talking about i purchased the other day off the snap on truck and it was $244 😅 needless to say i need to find me a racing gig so i can use the ability to see air pressure in the tenths 😂😂😂
Been changing oil for almost 2 years this has been the most expensive job I’ve ever had I get underpaid for the amount of oil changes I got to do and every paycheck I be buying tools from harbor freight it never ends I’ve spend thousands already I haven’t been able to save up any money I don’t have nice car or a nice gaming setup or even nice quality tools when I use to work at a fast food place I was able to save $10k
2:40 i have that set and other than a 46” striking snap on one they are the BEST pry bars on the planet for light duty work. i’m a heavy duty tech and they work wonders. i’ve broken all of them and replaced them, but for the price it’s more worth it to replace them every 3 years then get a whole snap on set
I may have missed it but an essential for me is an impact screw driver. There’s always a Phillips on brake rotors and drums that sucks to get out and it doubles on any sticky bolt that won’t come free with an impact gun. Also olight i5t and i3t are fantastic pen lights
Going on 18 years of wrenching. If I was starting out today, I would get everything from harbor freight, and slowly upgrade to higher quality tools. I've seen too many young guys be crushed by debt, and leave the industry.
Picking up tools and tool boxes at Harbor Freight using a Home Depot rental truck............PRICELESS. My vote for your next toolbox giveaway goes to ICON. BTW, what casters did you put on the first cart in this video??? I need to replace mine, and those looked pretty stout.
The Olight Warrior Mini 2 is my daily flashlight. I like it a lot. A little too bright some times at 1700 lumens on high, so I recently picked up the Olight Arkfeld UV. It works great for AC diag, and only 1000 lumens. They both have rear magnets too. They are also the same price around $80.
For tight spaces I highly recommend flex head gear wrenches. They’re spendy but well worth the price. Also the extended double spline drive wrenches from Mountain Tool Company. They’re slightly less expensive than the icon ones and they go from 8-19mm.
Excellent episode, I would suggest a vehicle series per tool box. Start from basic 1990's to the next series, highlighting the different tools per series. Would be great viewing, go through a preferred cart per Audi A4 / Golf GTi / A5 etc. Really helpful for any owner? Every owner wants to know what are the best tools to own for their vehicle.
VW friend said impact rated T25 t27 and T30 , get every 1/4 drive 1/4" shallow sockets are yard sales and glue em in. A 4-5Ft extension cord, you cut in the middle and add alligator clips to the cut ends.. You can plug it in a 25/50/100 extension cord and not have a test lead set. The digital torque adapter HF sold works great vs a $$ wrench. The $10 ebay clutch pully socket, Short Titan triple square set,, to get in rear caliper carriers on Mk6. Mac 5.6mm RBRT allen keys. 5.5mm allen for ABS wheel sensors. the Wera phillips with laser cut teeth. the cam for strut removal and pentalobe MAF bit from Kerma.
Great video! One suggestion I'd make is don't sleep on the Hercules line of 20v and 12v tools. We've been through the Milwaukee and Dewalt. The Hercules lineup has been nothing short of awesome. If you've dealt with Milwaukee or Dewalt warranty process, you already know the burning desire to ditch the brand altogether.
great vid. unless the husky set comes with it, a couple of other useful tools would be snap ring pliers, c-clamps, e-torx star socket set, gear pullers
For the Multimeter i would recommend Owon OW18E or CM2100B. They are a bit more expensive but they come with Bluetooth logging, which is very practical if you work alone. I have used my CM2100B to probe something in the engine room during a test drive several times.
As far as small pen lights go, check out the Coast PM50R, about $30. Rechargeable USB C, magnetic end, flash and flood lights, a laser pointer, and red light. I use it in my IT job all the time and have used it to work on my car occasionally. I have nothing but good things to say about the light.
As far as a penlight, I also started buying the stream light one you showed when those specific ones first got popular back in like 07/08…I remember buying one in orange and everyone else at my shop only had black…they were all like “WTF….ORANGE LIGHT!!?? I want one too!!” that was right when some of the colored ones started coming out. Then I upgraded to one size up. I still consider it a penlight, but really it’s a pocket light. Streamlight but instead of 2 AAA it uses 2 AA Batteries. The first time I bought one, in I think 09 it looked identical to the one in your video just larger, since then I’ve dropped and broken them, ran them over, left them in engine bays or interiors, on a control arm, somewhere with a measuring tape(yep)…. And I’ve had to replace it several times. They’ve updated the design almost everytime I bought a new one, but still my top flashlight. Has HI, LO, strobe mode and is programable so you can change the orders of the modes or even to just ON/OFF. IIRC the price of your light is right around $20, mine is more like $35/40 but I personally think well worth it, it’s also about 3x brighter than your pocket one.
If you want to see some other tool videos with lower budgets, see below :
$2500 Tool Box ~ ua-cam.com/video/v1sJsCKAJew/v-deo.htmlsi=_rBRJ5L6fsfCy8VN
$1500 Roll Cart Kit ~ ua-cam.com/video/zZ4xrrHZE4A/v-deo.htmlsi=fXPG5YxRl42SJM8d
@@HumbleMechanic don't forget the brake pad gauge
Olight has a good selection of lights.
you should build a mechanics tool bag for low level mobile mechanics. using maybe a tool tote
This just reminds me how much I have invested in tools. What a time to be alive.
haha I try not to think about it.
😂 SAME,
I have a gear wrench box (made by extreme tools) and it's currently FULL, I probably have about $10k in that entire box as far as tools go
You didn't have to buy off the truck...
@@yalantyr25 I started wrenching 2 years ago with an old school USA ball bearing craftsman box and every drawer is stuffed with tons and tons of really nice tools. Same like you, I could have bought a sweet truck for what I got in tools now. Those tools will be with me wherever I go and I’m grateful for the decisions I’ve made to get to this point. I wanted to buy a bigger toolbox now but I’ve learned to organize and it’s not a problem. Now I need to start enjoying some of my money instead of buying tools. I’d like a new Toyota pickup and vacations to Miami.
@@L4ND.SH4RK I bought half my tools from Mac and the other half is used stuff that looks almost brand new. I spent my money on the truck where it really matters.
I've been a tech for 871 years and i approve this message. I cringe any time a new tech gets on a tool truck looking at 8000 dollar tool boxes 400 dollar wrenches ect. Great video! Im definitely adding a mr. Predicto to my box. Thanks!
I agree and all they are doing is oil changes and tire rotations, truck tools are nice if you've got the money for them but not a requirement right off the bat, Adam Savage from mythbusters said something like buy the tool you can afford and when you break that tool it might be time to upgrade. have also heard the stories about new guys getting on the truck and blowing all their money on merch and stuff they don't need but keep on having to borrow wrenches and screwdrivers off other guys
Yeah that's why I'm trying not to get pressured by the snap on guy lol
@@raymondpresley3808 don't be afraid to yell out, DONT FALL FOR IT!
I still cringed whenever my coworkers got on the Snap-On truck, regardless of experience.
Most of the dudes I worked with had $1,000+ monthly payments. One of my managers had the Epiq bench and it cost something like 40k after he was done modifying it. It was nice, but not car payment nice.
Mobile mechanic truck box?
Great vid, almost nothing better than a whole video of tool unboxing lol
@thedumbapple2339 moral of the story: when not at work, never carry your work tools. Just enough to fit in a small bag, just enough for small jobs that the family needs help with.
A mobile mechanic set up would be a cool video
If your looking for neat mobile set I mentioned it in my comment but you should check out govt auctions so I couldn't afford the Snap On one but in military we had mobile tools kits(part of contract had to be US made tools & have enough tools if you happen to break down & not on base it's a field kit)and one I bid on & won was mainly SK & crescent but feel like I got a steal bc it came with 6 drawer weatherproof box. The snap on are the newer versions but for an emergency kit for the truck I feel it's a steal though not a professional mechanic I dabble in it and something that stays in my truck great for emergencies or if somewhere. It might be just me but in past when something breaks the person either doesn't have tools or it's like a fisher price kit lol
I've had my Klein cutters for nearly 20 years, still perfect. I cut nails screws just about anything with em and they still work perfectly. Spend the money once, for life.
They legit cut anything hahah
The $200 HF Tool Carts are a great value for lots of things. I have a red one that lives on my back patio. It sits next to my BBQ Smoker and it holds all my gloves, temp probes, aluminum foil, and all my other BBQ tools & stuff.
I’m using another one to build an auto detail cart. Electric pressure washer mounted to the lower shelf, and all my detail crap in the drawers. When it’s time to wash a car, just roll the whole cart outside, hook up water & electric and I’m ready to go
Build a Complete toolbox 42-inch top and bottom and fill it with tools ONLY from Harbour Freight. Quinn Master Socket sets, 1/2" (83pc), 3/8" (72pc), 1/4" (54pc). Also, Master Impact socket sets, 1/2" (61pc), 3/8" (48pc), and Master bit socket set (87pc). A lot of videos want to go straight to ICON brand everything, but Quinn makes good stuff.
I agree and the quality to price difference really isin't worth splurging on the Icon. At least sockets wise. Pliers I would go Doyle or Icon myself if I was buying at HF.
I've always liked these videos for a couple of reasons
1. The completed carts always go out to graduating technicians, which is always a blessing since techs in the United States are responsible for their own tools
2. It highlights tools from the non-truck brands that are solid for not only new technicians, but shade tree/home mechanics, showing that we don't always need tool truck tools
3. It showcases what I call the "Harbor Freight" approach, which gets you in the door to find out what you will always be using and what is worth upgrading if it breaks
Thank you so much! To me upgrading where needed, when needed is the play. You can always upgrade, but ya can't really go back the other way.
I hate seeing young techs go buy $$$ tools that they end up never using. I know I did plenty of that in my day
1. Absolutely one of THE best automotive channels on UA-cam.
2. You are such a nice person too. I remember a few years ago, I sent you a question and I was actually surprised with how you answered it and how nice you were.
3. FINALLY.....can you do like a 72" dream toolbox build?
I absolutely love these videos, i am a mechanic myself but have been stuck with a husky tool set, I don't make enough money to load up a cart like this because of how expensive things are, but I love seeing you build them!
Me as well
Same here. I've realized husky an icon has been a savings savior for me, and a few more people out there as well have come to see that for themselves, because it helps us to get into the tool business to make our money back or even more to help us to buy more tools or higher quality tools that come with warranties or some perks with certain company's to get more tools for us to make more money that we thought we couldn't make, my A-tech and masters-tech has been a good couch to help me along the way with questions and concerns
The tool bag is very good though for the car tools, which are very often the thing that gets you out of a bind. Also useful when you are at home or out doing DIY, as it can hold a lot of tools for small jobs. Well worth using, saving you from either not having a screwdriver or pliers on the road, or to carry stuff when at home.
They can definitely be handy. I think im salty because I end up with a bunch haha.
@@HumbleMechanic I can always do with a few more of them, they come in real handy. But shipping is a bit of an issue from USA to me......
Jump box needed for car tool box.
As a 20 year old who has been at a dealership for just over a year, I don't see the need to spend more than I have to. I will admit I have my fair share mac tools that I used my student discount, and a snap on ratchet that I also used my discount on before I graduated this past spring. And I love all of my Milwaukee battery tools. All of my sockets are Tekton or Sunex, and extension and bit sets are ICON, which I also love ICON brand. My box is the $600 US General 7 drawer which you can get on sale for less. It's a perfect box for me, which I have organized very well to fit as much tools as possible, with room to grow. For someone who is just starting in this industry, realistically, you need about 3k minimum starting out, but most people that I know my age agree that 5k puts you in the best spot. This big thing is staying out of debt, and buying as you go.
I have a Milwaukee 2010R pen light! More expensive then the one you showed, but it is rechargable, battery life has been good too. Has a rubber end so you can bite down on it to hold in your mouth and free up your hands when needed, and it has a laser pointer so you can use it to point out problem areas to customers or service advisors
I use a streamlight wedge xt little bigger than a pen light but has a pocket clip and it's bright
I've been playing both of your other videos on repeat while planning out my set up, this is a huge help thank you.
I think it would be pretty cool to see a motorcycle mechanic setup.
I second this I just transitioned from being an automotive mechanic to working at a Harley dealership.
For the cheap shop multimeter I highly recommend the fluke 101. $40-50 for a fluke that you can fit in your shirt pocket, auto ranging and super clean UI and display makes doing basic continuity/resistance testing a breeze.
I’m gonna buy you be and check it out. That seems like a perfect one
@@Saw_Squatch I wish I would have done that starting out. Those are really good everyday multimeters.
A race style pit box would be a cool build. More niche but could be cool to see a box set up with the essentials to survive a weekend at the track.
Very nice tool box for anyone just starting out in the field. I started kind of late in life working on cars after I was already married with kids and it has been really hard to get a decent tool box going. I am getting there but it is a slow process. I need to pay bills and such first and when I have a little extra money I will go buy something I need. I really have been just using Harbor Freight for hand tools and to be honest for what I need them for they are perfect for me. Thanks for sharing this video, I am sure it will help many people who are new to the trade.
When I started (locomotive/railroad mechanic), I was working out of an old, handheld Kennedy box. I had one of the cheaper Crafstman box setups on layaway. That was back in 2010.
I *just* bought a much nicer, larger Craftsman lower box. It was a LONG time coming.
You know, I was going to say something about the sponsor deal…. But I get it….
Bills need to be paid….
I always like the REPO boxes on the tool truck. Better quality, terrific deals….
That Maddox caliper kit is a life saver. I spent years fighting the "cube" you get from the parts stores to compress the rear brakes on mustangs. I bit the bullet one day and bought one of those kits, and I absolutely love it.
Bit the Bullet? you say that like it's expensive the maddox kit is like $45 lol
I love this videos of tools man give me a lot of knowledge about how to buy tools!! I dont have that much tools cuz i had everything in my country, I want to get that set I being watching ur videos a lot! im from MEXICO bless me with those tools man ❤️
Thanks for this. I watched and realized I have a few more things I need to pick up and add to my boxes.
I'm starting my automotive career this month, and these videos have been super helpful for me to get an idea of what I should be buying to fill out my box. Thank you!
most important advice ever make smart tool purchases, buy what you can afford and need not what you want. good luck, on a side note work smarter not harder
Harbor freight is the way to go. Cheap and most sets have lifetime warranty. Please whatever you do stay off the tools trucks. Specialist tools yea for sure but as far as hand tools and sockets and wrenches hf is where its at
@@nicknunez8012 got a few HF tools but for somethings I always go to the truck, particularly ratchets, it may sound weird but they just "feel" right in my hands on top of being damn good.
@@nicknunez8012 I'm lucky enough to get massive student discounts on the tool truck brands I care for. It makes the pricing similar enough to justify it for me, as well as assuring me I'm getting quality tools. I'd rather have tools I know will last and not break as easily even if I have to spend a little more.
I only work on my car to save money and sometimes help my friends out to save money so I’ve gotten a lot of tools. Love the videos and love watching it get unboxed
A few notes I'll give as a Ford tech. If you plan to work on Fords, an angle torque wrench is a must. Ford really loves to use angle specs on a surprising number of their bolts so even a newer tech really should have on. I decided to get some snapon ones with my student discount but the quinn ones from harbor freight are pretty great from what I have heard.
Next time you do one of these I think it would be great to see some more suggestions for young guys that are starting to take on more advanced jobs. One thing in particular that I have made an investment in recently is sockets. A large assortment of specialty sockets such as swivel and u joint sockets has been a game changer for me when trying to access hard to reach fasteners.
As a ford tech the i would say half size sockets and nano sockets are a life saver too
I love watching your videos!! As someone building up my tool box i recommend an icon stick flashlight specifically because it’s magnetic and thin enough to lookin places without a pencil light.
Whoever got the rollar cart with the Milwaukee drills and hex bit set is one lucky person. Those saved me so many times and had things running fast for me to make more money than i invested into buying those for myself. I am lowkey kinda jealous. Those are a life savior
Love these tool box builds.
thank you!
Humble mechanic I've been a fan of you for a while now and I really appreciate the insight you give with regards to the automotive field . Love from trinidad and tobago
Cheers my friend, thank you!!!
I’m going into the mechanic field and have already received and bought tools, but I aim to get a lot more by the time I graduate highschool. So watching these I can get an idea what I need
I look forward to your Sunday vids. Thanks for all the time and hard work you put into them!
As far as a penlight, the Coast® HP3R 385 Lumen Rechargeable LED Penlight is my go to.
A little more cost, but rechargeable is great for me.
I would recommend a universal radiator pressure Tester Kit/ vacuum refill kit for cooling system. It makes filling the coolant system a lot easier and less time consuming. Plus when you put a vacuum on the system you can see if you have a leak before filling it or pressuring it because it won't hold vacuum.
One thing I would recommend would be thin wall impact sockets. Grey pneumatic makes some nice sets, no need for impact and chrome redundancy saves money and space
Ive heard great things about Grey!
For cheap stuff:
Flexible magnet / grabber, fuel line separator tool, spark plug gap tool
Spring pilot hole tools come in handy when you can't get a hammer in there
Mr. Predicto! You are giving away our most-secret tool! You are banished!
HAHA hopefully they skip that part.
When I started mechanics 2 years ago started with same us general cart and the Quinn mechanic set was like $400-$500for both on Black Friday
Gearwrench refers to the long nose pliers with two pivot points as "Double X". I would consider a set of oil filter cartridge sockets since many late model cars have internal cartridge oil filters. Coast makes some very bright, very durable rechargeable flashlights that won't break the bank. I would also add some Astro impact swivel sockets as they are a bargain and increase productivity.
What I like most about these videos, is you keep the new tech off of the tool truck starting out. Great job!!!!
I second the Coast lights. I have so many of their products and they're amazing! Their sales are fantastic and often
I was LITERALLY just craving another one of these videos, and the algorithm blessed me.
my previous job provided those same head lamps. i’m back turning wrenches now and use it everyday usually get abt 5-6 hours on high. would highly recommend
For a flashlight I have liked what NEBO has been putting out. Very bright, rechargeable, high quality
Great box build!!
I'd love that, it covers all of it!
I'm always borrowing from the guys at work, which is nice to have such lovely co-workers.. but holy guacamole. Thats was good!
Congrats to the lucky tech who won the box!!
If you’re buying tools yourself I would recommend the Icon brake caliper set. It has a few more adapters, a left and a right hand assembly, and it’s only like $20 more than the Maddox. Not knocking the Maddox one, because I’ve had some good quality Maddox tools, but the Icon one might be a better purchase if you work on different makes of cars that the Maddox one might not have.
Pretty sure the Icon specialty tools also fall under their Hand Tool Lifetime Warranty, which is always a great thing to have for such niche tools.
love this video Charles, i hope that one lucky tech school student is grateful to have soo many awesome tools
I love when you do these tool box videos to help out up and coming Mechanics
Went back to 9:35 and paused, just to reiterate the importance of what he is about to say--not using a torque wrench may have been the cause of my motorcycle malfunction which almost crippled me bad. If something has a torque rating, it is best to grab it.
The Braun pen light from Harbor Freight is amazing. It's USB rechargeable. I sent mine through the washer AND dryer, and it still charges and works just fine.
God i wish i had Harbour Freight in the UK, there arent many stores dedicated to tools. Anyway i love these videos, ive watched the other 2 like 100000 times.
They say that Amazon is the largest tool truck in the world.
I use a strap wrench for oil filters. one size fits all. I bought some extras and gave them to Mom and my sister to put in there kitchen. Strap wrenches are great to open pickle jars.
this would send my work and school into the outer limits! Im so grateful for the chance at something so necessary for making money and a name for myself at work. I am a student at a tech school for automotive and work at a used dealership while raising 3 kids on my own. I would be so lucky to get the win
My #1 pet peeve... Thank you for addressing the sharp edges of poorly trimmed zip ties. Cheers!
Manual vacuum pump. For the DIYer without access to a power brake bleeder. Handy for testing something that's supposed to move when there's vacuum.
WD-40 put outlets over the Vermont plate, and I took that personally. Kidding aside, that was a great video!
I ❤ Vag, I drive a Audi type 89 convertible 2.3e 5 cilinder. Best first car ever. Only problem i've had was a coolent leak. The extra radiator had a tiny hole, easy fix but took me a day and a roll of paper because the hose was crusted on😅
Love your videos! I watch way to many videos on building a tool box. One tool I never see in a tool box is a good computer tablet. I have used my tablet many many many times. when I’m having problems on a job my go to problem solving tool is my computer tablet. If I’m having a problem I know someone has had the same problem before me and posted it on UA-cam.
My vote for the next box is a for a mobile heavy diesel mechanic.
Being one myself, I’d like to see what input someone from the light vehicle world has to offer, and see something more in line with end of apprenticeship stuff, stuff you’d have from later in the trade that you may use everyday or basically never.
And in that case I’d recommend a strap type filter wrench that you put in your ratchet, and a big set of multi grips, big pipe wrench, and 2 sets of adjustable wrenches, with a 24” adjustable wrench to go with it.
Just wanted to say thanks, I am off to grab some tools I didn't know I needed :)
I bought a cheap 3 claw oil filter wrench and any time I have to fight just a little bit too much to take an oil filter off, I grab it. Works every single time, and I call it the God Hand 😂
It doesn’t work on chevy though, the filter is surrounded by the oil pan.
Just a tip for the parrot nose pliers - it helps a LOT if you grind the lower jaw so it’s parallel or if anything slightly angled downward from the end of the jaw to the beginning (by beginning I mean closest to the hinge). The icon ones come slightly curved on the lower jaw which leads to them slipping off of fasteners a little too easily. Grinded parallel and they’re all good.
Also I’d highly recommend a safety wire tool. In a pinch you can make very strong hose clamps, cotter pins, hang exhausts temporarily or as a permanent solution if you want to, and probably tons of things I haven’t thought of.
You should keep making videos like this❤ keep up the good work
Wish this video was around when I started my career. Spent way too much on snap on my first year. My biggest advice to new techs is buy a us general cart they’re cheap and they do the same thing as the snap on carts for a 1/3 the price.
Me too! Haha would have saved me so much h
Your next video should be a tool box tour compilation. It'd be pretty cool to see how people organize their tools
My vote for the next box is a for a mobile heavy diesel mechanic.
Being one myself, I’d like to see what input someone from the light vehicle world has to offer, and see something more in line with end of apprenticeship stuff, stuff you’d have from later in the trade that you may use everyday or basically never.
Great recommendations. I wish we had this many options when I was starting out. I'm glad to have good quality basic hand tools, but also have some pretty expensive stuff that doesn't get used often
I have one of those carts to supplement my other boxes cabinets. It is great. Good choice. Hard to beat Klein...and Knipex for pliers. Great video offers excellent guidance. Greater still, the give away to to a tech student.
The acebeam pokelit or pokelit 2aa will blow that streamlite out of the water. A high cri neutral color light with a clean crisp beam makes a big difference in an inspection light. Getting clear color rendering makes a world of difference for diagnostics
thank you so much for these EPIC video series!!! this is so helpful for me as a mk7.5 owner in nj who needs to build a good diy tool kit:) i love how sweet you are to these new techs, man. it's so inspiring. i hope i can do this one day (if i graduate from my armchair mechanic status, that is haha)
what if you built/set up a toolkit/set of tools that could adequately cover someone living in a place where they don't have access to a garage/can't buy a big toolbox? i live in a really urban part of jersey and the best i would be able to do tool storage wise is buy milwaukee's new structured tool backpack, or a really small portable toolbox to store in my apartment closet. maybe something that would be 3-4ft tall and 2ft wide maximum. maybe something that could cover a range of beginner diy stuff?
i've really been impressed with milwaukee's new packout system and i would love to hear your opinion on how someone who can't fit a big toolbox/doesn't have a place like a garage to store tools or work on their car can still do some great diy work, and with what tools you think is best:)
This is so awesome!!! The Pittsburgh torque wrenches are the ones I have seen rate pretty high. They’re the twist bottom kind but are waaaay cheaper. I already had one for ft/lbs but got the Pittsburgh for in/lbs and it’s awesome! I think it was like $30 and has been really accurate
+1 for the Topdon IR camera attachment for you phone. Not super mechanic-centric, but I use it a lot. Much better resolution than the competition.
Going to take classes in September and this made me realize how much I’ve spent on tools to just fix my fiancés and my cars
Finally! im hyped to see this. i feel like ive been waiting for years for another one haha thank you!
The streamlight 66320 MacroStream has been my edc for 3 years now. It’s a little wider than a pen light but way shorter and has a helpful clip for a hat that comes in handy. Not to heavy either, highly recommend.
I suggest including a UV flashlight to detect leaks.
Ive been begging Milwaukee to make one!!!
Olight probably makes the best one. Light pointer light and uv all in one
I've been waiting 1 month for this great video. Thank you
Thank you!!! I know it took a little while. HAHAH
I want to see the opposite version 😁 the super box for starters all snap on or Matco version 👍
That sounds super fun. I really like that idea!
@@HumbleMechanicthat would probably be like a 30k video just that air chuck you was talking about i purchased the other day off the snap on truck and it was $244 😅 needless to say i need to find me a racing gig so i can use the ability to see air pressure in the tenths 😂😂😂
Those Pittsburgh hose pliers are INSANELY underrated. I bought a set like 5 years ago and use them almost everyday.
ive been waitng for ever for more tool videos thank you! im so hyped
Been changing oil for almost 2 years this has been the most expensive job I’ve ever had I get underpaid for the amount of oil changes I got to do and every paycheck I be buying tools from harbor freight it never ends I’ve spend thousands already I haven’t been able to save up any money I don’t have nice car or a nice gaming setup or even nice quality tools when I use to work at a fast food place I was able to save $10k
Damn bro, sounds like you may have picked up an addiction.
Toolboxes have wheels for a reason. It may be time to roll yours to somebody who will pay you what you’re worth.
@@Jeff-rk8hqhahahaha
Then quit your job and go work in fast food
@@turbro7185 why would you spend thousands of dollars at harbor freight if all you do is change oil
2:40 i have that set and other than a 46” striking snap on one they are the BEST pry bars on the planet for light duty work. i’m a heavy duty tech and they work wonders. i’ve broken all of them and replaced them, but for the price it’s more worth it to replace them every 3 years then get a whole snap on set
Love this series. Keep making more. I like to see what people come up with. 👍
I may have missed it but an essential for me is an impact screw driver. There’s always a Phillips on brake rotors and drums that sucks to get out and it doubles on any sticky bolt that won’t come free with an impact gun.
Also olight i5t and i3t are fantastic pen lights
Going on 18 years of wrenching. If I was starting out today, I would get everything from harbor freight, and slowly upgrade to higher quality tools. I've seen too many young guys be crushed by debt, and leave the industry.
Amazing video just recently got out the Marine corps and will starting my Automotive technician program this fall!
Picking up tools and tool boxes at Harbor Freight using a Home Depot rental truck............PRICELESS. My vote for your next toolbox giveaway goes to ICON. BTW, what casters did you put on the first cart in this video??? I need to replace mine, and those looked pretty stout.
The Olight Warrior Mini 2 is my daily flashlight. I like it a lot. A little too bright some times at 1700 lumens on high, so I recently picked up the Olight Arkfeld UV. It works great for AC diag, and only 1000 lumens. They both have rear magnets too. They are also the same price around $80.
For tight spaces I highly recommend flex head gear wrenches. They’re spendy but well worth the price. Also the extended double spline drive wrenches from Mountain Tool Company. They’re slightly less expensive than the icon ones and they go from 8-19mm.
Build the ultimate box setup with the 72” top and bottom series 3 from US General 😉
Excellent episode, I would suggest a vehicle series per tool box. Start from basic 1990's to the next series, highlighting the different tools per series. Would be great viewing, go through a preferred cart per Audi A4 / Golf GTi / A5 etc. Really helpful for any owner? Every owner wants to know what are the best tools to own for their vehicle.
that coolant pressure tester recommendation came really handy, I have a small leak on my BMW, and those kits very useful
Either a mobile/roadside mechanic toolbox or an intermediate/2-4 year tech tool box.
VW friend said impact rated T25 t27 and T30 , get every 1/4 drive 1/4" shallow sockets are yard sales and glue em in. A 4-5Ft extension cord, you cut in the middle and add alligator clips to the cut ends.. You can plug it in a 25/50/100 extension cord and not have a test lead set. The digital torque adapter HF sold works great vs a $$ wrench. The $10 ebay clutch pully socket, Short Titan triple square set,, to get in rear caliper carriers on Mk6. Mac 5.6mm RBRT allen keys. 5.5mm allen for ABS wheel sensors. the Wera phillips with laser cut teeth. the cam for strut removal and pentalobe MAF bit from Kerma.
Great video! One suggestion I'd make is don't sleep on the Hercules line of 20v and 12v tools. We've been through the Milwaukee and Dewalt. The Hercules lineup has been nothing short of awesome. If you've dealt with Milwaukee or Dewalt warranty process, you already know the burning desire to ditch the brand altogether.
great vid. unless the husky set comes with it, a couple of other useful tools would be snap ring pliers, c-clamps, e-torx star socket set, gear pullers
For the Multimeter i would recommend Owon OW18E or CM2100B. They are a bit more expensive but they come with Bluetooth logging, which is very practical if you work alone. I have used my CM2100B to probe something in the engine room during a test drive several times.
A semi truck mechanic starter recommendation vid would be cool.
An Aldis next to a Harbor Freight? 😮 the wife and I will both be happy and never leave empty handed 😅
As far as small pen lights go, check out the Coast PM50R, about $30. Rechargeable USB C, magnetic end, flash and flood lights, a laser pointer, and red light. I use it in my IT job all the time and have used it to work on my car occasionally. I have nothing but good things to say about the light.
U got me with Mr predicto. It was a joke. I didn’t get it at first.
As far as a penlight, I also started buying the stream light one you showed when those specific ones first got popular back in like 07/08…I remember buying one in orange and everyone else at my shop only had black…they were all like “WTF….ORANGE LIGHT!!?? I want one too!!” that was right when some of the colored ones started coming out.
Then I upgraded to one size up. I still consider it a penlight, but really it’s a pocket light. Streamlight but instead of 2 AAA it uses 2 AA Batteries. The first time I bought one, in I think 09 it looked identical to the one in your video just larger, since then I’ve dropped and broken them, ran them over, left them in engine bays or interiors, on a control arm, somewhere with a measuring tape(yep)…. And I’ve had to replace it several times. They’ve updated the design almost everytime I bought a new one, but still my top flashlight. Has HI, LO, strobe mode and is programable so you can change the orders of the modes or even to just ON/OFF. IIRC the price of your light is right around $20, mine is more like $35/40 but I personally think well worth it, it’s also about 3x brighter than your pocket one.
Fulcrum or pivot point is fine. as a Golf owner I love your vids.