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!
Some tech schools and tool dealers are hurting the industry. If you make a great tool then the great techs will eventually graduate to it despite the price. But it has to be such a shift in technology to demand the price. Otherwise…..price your tool to what the industry will support. If you don’t believe me, ask the vehicle manufacturers. They can’t sell $70k trucks and we can’t afford them anymore than we can afford $700 basic wrench sets. Be honest about the financing by posting the cash price and the financing price.
@260Jake, im not sure if you are aware, but Lisle among other companies make some specialty tools for Snap On, Mac and Matco which just put their names on them and hike up the price. Way back in my younger mechanic days I bought a set of Snap On pipe wrenches off the truck and years later I noticed a WF logo on them, as in the same Western Forge that made many tools that were branded as Craftsman. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with the tools. I still use them to this day, but if hindsight was 20/20, I would’ve paid a hell of a lot less for them. The same as my Matco plier set that was made channelock. Knowledge is power.
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.
@@dochaze1yea but how many techs will steal tools while working or when they know there about to loose job then the tools will be a stress for owners trying to keep eyes on who gots what
@@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.
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.
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.
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.
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 RUclips for more.....
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.
Im a professional Heavy equipment mechanic and have both. My 25 year old snap on wrenches are still sized correctly the harbor freight tools dont last. I have boxes similar to yours but they are heavily used I also have a 2007 Kenworth Service truck working on CAT. The Hercules 3/8 impact failed with in 2 years My Snap on still works fine overall Snap On made in America still service me well. I’ve spent well over $500,000.00 in tools over the last 40 years. Using tools on steel over the years has wear and when I break Snap On its replaced. My youth I worked field in Alaska where broken tools were not an option $3000.00 for a one way ticket to Fort Yukon. Thanks for the video.
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.
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.
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!!!
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?
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 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.
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
My Dad’s old time Craftsman were excellent tools. I got away from the tool truck addiction many years ago and have many “low end tools” that have served me well for many years and continue to do so.
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.
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 a diyer too I love Tekton, GW, Capri and have bought some Olsa sockets. I also have a bunch of older USA Craftsman and some HF stuff. Hard truth I’ll never be able to afford Snap-on as a hobbyist. The brands I mentioned above have been a godsend for me.
Yea my jobs are slowly adding up I haven't completely opened an engine up yet but I have yet run into an issue with the sockets. I am impressed they don't really seem to damage fasteners.
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.
AMEN! Same with me. I do sepend big bucks on certain things that save me money, where nobody else has that design weight, features etc. I have some cordless Mac tools that nobody makes 2 in particular! Yes everyone makes the tools but not 3 in one like the 3 inch buffer polisher sander and die grinder. YES DIE GRINDER will rip a hole thru anything and very light, I can't describe it unless, youve used it. I do custom builds and custom paint. It has saved my hand joints, time, etc, etc. Also their cordless buffer is better than my other 3 cordless and 2 corded buffers. Other than that, I have quite the mix of brands. A lot of guys look down on you for that, but I'm here to make money. So don't ever feel less accomplished or belittled because everything isn't from one big brand. Chappy out, keep it real💪🏽
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.
I work in construction and have spent a fair amount of money on tools but seeing some of these videos of how much a mechanic owes the snap on truck is mind blowing. My hats off to all mechanics.
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%..
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
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!
Snap-on is the brand of innovation. The only reason Harbor Freight is relevent in auto shops today is because they stole technology from US companies and have it manufactured at a fraction of the cost with no R&D needed. This is why I am 100% for trarrifs. It will help reduce "Americans" from selling out their country based on a cheap price. The loser is the American job.
The hand tools are not the issue any more. Now days locked down software so they can charge you expensive ongoing subscriptions or flat out prevent one from doing a job is the new barrier to entry. The average person has no idea but I can imagine it has something to do with the ballooning cost of auto repair. The modern car is just as much computer as it is mechanical. I do wonder if vintage cars will become a thing of the past when the manufactures decide to turn the servers off making some repairs impossible.
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
Snap on ratchets are still the best, right behind them are GW, Tekton and Advance Auto Diehard brand. Snap on has its place, but you don’t need Snap on everything.
Yeah for wrenches and sockets and drives Snap-on will always have a special place in my heart. But does anyone need it? Maybe if you're in the pit crew at the brickyard with a multimillion dollar sponsorship on the line. That describes very few. The rest of us have a moment to do things right.
@robertomilanecky i have 8 snap on ratchet and 3 koken ratchets and I grab the koken first every time it has no back drag and can get in smaller places and is a strong ratchet
I like seeing the tool comparisons. I think you explained the changes in the quality of tools and how and when to spend money on a higher end tool rather than diving right into debt when it’s not necessary.
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!
Same in France and Spain....I'm English but currently working for someone else In Catalunya....first job I've had in 30 years😂😂😂...but I took one of my boxes there....but the whole Taller now is enamorat with my Facom and Snap on....😂😂..the Snap almost impossible to warranty in Europe...
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.
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.
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.
Yep. My Dad worked in maintenance for 45+ years. 80% or more of his tools are Proto. He has a few Williams, Snap-On, and Armstrong - like one or two small sets of each of those... maybe got those from an employer or just tried them out. And his home toolbox was full of Craftsman. He never saw any advantage of Snap-On. Like most people, he'd say you're just paying for the name.
I appreciate your straightforwardness. It’s realistic. As a home mechanic, I’ve saved myself thousands of dollars doing my own work. Started with Walmart tools and moved to what I feel is “professional” for my needs, tekton, icon, etc. the quality bump from the two is large and is enough for my needs. If it was my career, yes snap on, Mac, etc would be the next step.
The moment that your videos have the appearance of a commercial, folks will tune out. I have enjoyed your content and honesty. Your thoughts are a gift to a lot of people. Thank you for the effort in posting content.
At this point Snap-on needs to lower their prices down to like 30% of where they're currently at. When they cost double of what the other brands cost, it makes sense to buy them. Not 10x
They’re going have to start running sales once a year , they could afford the 30% hit , they get a lot of traffic and people get loyal they rely on the loyalty , my snap on tools are in my house and if they weren’t ridiculously expensive they be where they belong 😂
He’s right about snap on / craftsman days , in the salvage yards it was even more critical to have the trucks tools” 🧰 and warranty. They had all the pneumatics that would last
I live about an hour from one of their plants (yes, in the US... this one anyway).... I've applied for work there after moving here a year ago. They pay the lowest wages of any "industrial" full time job within a thousand miles.
I think wrench sets were about 280 he must be dipping into the 80s , I could be wrong I was a kid going on tool trucks watching everyone brag / complain about the newest tool they were sold on co-sign
@@Tom-6502 that’s the problem with USA , the cost of manufacturing for Americans to profit is pennies overseas compared to here . Eventually snap on will have do something or just keep a niche market. They get contracts like ford government will always spend money here if it’s a option
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.
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.
Yes, those China tools work and yes they are sharp. Let’s see if the company and the metal stands the test of time I like to buy American. I’d like to have a relationship with my snap on dealer and I like to be able to trade one tool in for a warranty without the whole set. Also, the line wrenches are the only wrenches that fit on some fuel injection pumps and the screwdriver tips and many other things
My good sir. You have earnestly and wholesomely earned my sub and notification. Amazing to see someone that actually cares about the consumer and not just trying to make a quick buck from sponsors. Keep on brother💪🏼
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.
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.
2 дня назад
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.
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.
You guys should really check out the Husky 1025-Piece piece tool set form home depot I think it might be the best starting set for a new technician. I bought that and a US General 72In Box And it was like 4k total so far its been pretty much all ive needed besides some power tools and what not for the last 2 years.
When I was 17 I was working as a air compressor mechanic. I bought a wrench set up to 1 1/2 in and a 1/2 in drive up to 1 1/2 in 6 point and 12 point sockets all from JC Penny with a lifetime warranty. I’m 67 and still have them tools that aren’t used anymore but they were a great set and weren’t that much money back then.
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.
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.
As a mechanic of over 40 years I found this out about 5 years ago. At 18 when I first bought my first set of tools I financed $3k in a basic set of standard sockets, ratchet, wrenches, hammer, hacksaw and plier set with a 4 drawer table top box. I only remember Craftsman back then. Over the years of trying other brands but always grabbed my Snap On because I liked how they felt in my hand. Over the past 10 years tools have come along ways just like your saying and would tell new techs go see how it feels cause that's what your going to have in your hand 6+ hours a day.
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.
Young mechanics we’re programmed just to buy snap on & keep them on the overpriced payment plan different brand of tools quality has improved tremendously today u can do the job with different brands of tools especially scanner’s &tools. Thanks for shining a lite on this subject
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.
For tool reviews Tekton released their 3/8 impact swivel sockets around a month or so following TTC's video. I think their sockets are great I haven't had any issue with them. Yet I like that you can get no skip sets, buy individual pieces, and their warranty seems pretty good too. I haven't had to use it yet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
As a DIY guy, I never could justify SnapOn 40+ years ago but sure did want them. The quality advantage was obvious then. I agree there are many more good choices today with more value for the $$ spent. Appreciate your candid comments and videos.
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.
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.
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.
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…. Debt in any industry is a very serious concern on many levels… Using resources efficiently is paramount in any successful business. Thank you
I bought a Harbor Freight tire machine and balancer fifteen years ago, for under two grand. Still going strong. I spent over five g to have my old tires removed that had built up, third time I have had to do since buying machines.
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.
Your points about the Flank Drive patent expiring and the price differences are so vital. I’ve been in a backup capacity at a diesel shop for a couple years now and used a ton of different brands, and there’s no way I can justify dumping that much money out on snap-on with the amount of time I spend turning wrenches and the amount of brands that are significantly cheaper that get pretty close. At the same time, when people always talk about how snap-on’s tools are indistinguishable from HF, they’re really only talking about the power tools and are also kind of missing the point on the whole situation. Since you did mention their channel, I think the torque test channel’s video about the wrench tests is worth. It gets a little bit too much into the nitty gritty on things, but to make a long story short, different classes of brands have a certain torque spec that they want to target on for their wrenches. Store brands (Pittsburg, Kobalt, etc) have a really low torque spec (100% of ASTE standard), prosumer brands like GW have a spec that’s more than serviceable (150% of ASTE), and tool truck brands like Snap-On, Matco, and MAC have an absurdly high standard that’s matched to (>175% ASTE). The wrenches from tool trucks are in their own category for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you absolutely need them starting out. There’s not a single mechanic I have spoken to that would sincerely recommend snap-on over gearwrench before the half-decade mark. In conclusion, this video does a great job of laying out in plain terms why you don’t need the best tools to do the work with the ever-decreasing degree of variance between brands nowadays, so thanks for making it. You’ve definitely earned a subscriber
First toolset was a Master Mechanic box full of American made tools made in the USA by Husky and sold by JC Whitney in 1969...I recall that it was 435 piece set which at least 50 piece count was hack saw and utility knife blades.... I still have the deep well 1/2" sockets and hand wrenches... It was the most cost effective way for me to start as a mechanic....large tonnage refrigeration and precision millwright. My go brand for many years was Klein and Proto Professional... Good luck on your new endeavor
In all my 27 years of playing cars at home, my most expensive set was an sp ratchet spanner set. I've always bought mid to lower tools, and they've always done the job I needed it to do. All my impact sockets too are just basically the cheapest, none have failed. So yeh, idk, I think mid tools do the job just fine.
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!
Yep. Seeing a kid graduating tech school with a $30K tool debt before they are even working is sad.
Some tech schools and tool dealers are hurting the industry. If you make a great tool then the great techs will eventually graduate to it despite the price. But it has to be such a shift in technology to demand the price. Otherwise…..price your tool to what the industry will support. If you don’t believe me, ask the vehicle manufacturers. They can’t sell $70k trucks and we can’t afford them anymore than we can afford $700 basic wrench sets. Be honest about the financing by posting the cash price and the financing price.
@@Freedom_is_better_than_safety now that’s a cool idea! I’m gona use that. Post a cash price and a financed price. That’s great!
@@WalkerSmallEnginePerformance totally agree with that!!
@260Jake, im not sure if you are aware, but Lisle among other companies make some specialty tools for Snap On, Mac and Matco which just put their names on them and hike up the price. Way back in my younger mechanic days I bought a set of Snap On pipe wrenches off the truck and years later I noticed a WF logo on them, as in the same Western Forge that made many tools that were branded as Craftsman. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with the tools. I still use them to this day, but if hindsight was 20/20, I would’ve paid a hell of a lot less for them. The same as my Matco plier set that was made channelock. Knowledge is power.
As long as you remain unbiased, I will watch. Your direct sincerity goes a long way. Appreciate the feedback.
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.
@@dochaze1yea but how many techs will steal tools while working or when they know there about to loose job then the tools will be a stress for owners trying to keep eyes on who gots what
@ well, it only takes one idiot to screw things up for everybody.
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.
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.
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.
Agreed!
@1pcfred Icon makes as good if not better hammer than Snap on for less than half the cost. 54$ vs 130$.
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.
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 RUclips for more.....
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.
Im a professional Heavy equipment mechanic and have both. My 25 year old snap on wrenches are still sized correctly the harbor freight tools dont last. I have boxes similar to yours but they are heavily used I also have a 2007 Kenworth Service truck working on CAT. The Hercules 3/8 impact failed with in 2 years My Snap on still works fine overall Snap On made in America still service me well. I’ve spent well over $500,000.00 in tools over the last 40 years. Using tools on steel over the years has wear and when I break Snap On its replaced. My youth I worked field in Alaska where broken tools were not an option $3000.00 for a one way ticket to Fort Yukon. Thanks for the video.
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.
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.
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 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 . 🧢
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!
@@jwa718 if folks were good with paper most of them wouldn't be in the trades.
@@jwa718 you know some companies don't ask for a receipt or proof of purchase to warranty a tool.
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 love the “Open Mind” mentality. So refreshing.
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 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.
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...
My Dad’s old time Craftsman were excellent tools. I got away from the tool truck addiction many years ago and have many “low end tools” that have served me well for many years and continue to do so.
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.
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 a diyer too I love Tekton, GW, Capri and have bought some Olsa sockets. I also have a bunch of older USA Craftsman and some HF stuff. Hard truth I’ll never be able to afford Snap-on as a hobbyist. The brands I mentioned above have been a godsend for me.
Yea my jobs are slowly adding up I haven't completely opened an engine up yet but I have yet run into an issue with the sockets. I am impressed they don't really seem to damage fasteners.
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.
Well said sir!
AMEN! Same with me. I do sepend big bucks on certain things that save me money, where nobody else has that design weight, features etc. I have some cordless Mac tools that nobody makes 2 in particular! Yes everyone makes the tools but not 3 in one like the 3 inch buffer polisher sander and die grinder. YES DIE GRINDER will rip a hole thru anything and very light, I can't describe it unless, youve used it. I do custom builds and custom paint. It has saved my hand joints, time, etc, etc. Also their cordless buffer is better than my other 3 cordless and 2 corded buffers. Other than that, I have quite the mix of brands. A lot of guys look down on you for that, but I'm here to make money. So don't ever feel less accomplished or belittled because everything isn't from one big brand. Chappy out, keep it real💪🏽
Snap on can quickly become Strap- On if you greased enough 😂
I worked in the repair center in PA for 20 years. Trust me, we have been saying this for YEARS.
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.
I work in construction and have spent a fair amount of money on tools but seeing some of these videos of how much a mechanic owes the snap on truck is mind blowing. My hats off to all mechanics.
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 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%..
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
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!
Snap-on is the brand of innovation. The only reason Harbor Freight is relevent in auto shops today is because they stole technology from US companies and have it manufactured at a fraction of the cost with no R&D needed. This is why I am 100% for trarrifs. It will help reduce "Americans" from selling out their country based on a cheap price. The loser is the American job.
The barrier to entry in a field where you are required to buy your own tools is getting lower everyday. And I love it.
The hand tools are not the issue any more. Now days locked down software so they can charge you expensive ongoing subscriptions or flat out prevent one from doing a job is the new barrier to entry. The average person has no idea but I can imagine it has something to do with the ballooning cost of auto repair. The modern car is just as much computer as it is mechanical. I do wonder if vintage cars will become a thing of the past when the manufactures decide to turn the servers off making some repairs impossible.
Thank you. Honesty seems to be a rare commodity these days. Appreciate how you explained the controversy and your thoughts about the subject.
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!
You must be rich to buy Snap On
😅
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.
I’ve purchased an icon half inch and 3/8 extended handle ratchet and haven’t had one problem with it
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.
Used craftsman my whole life, currently 71, built several Harleys, worked on everything, love Craftsman.
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 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.
Snap on ratchets are still the best, right behind them are GW, Tekton and Advance Auto Diehard brand. Snap on has its place, but you don’t need Snap on everything.
Yeah for wrenches and sockets and drives Snap-on will always have a special place in my heart. But does anyone need it? Maybe if you're in the pit crew at the brickyard with a multimillion dollar sponsorship on the line. That describes very few. The rest of us have a moment to do things right.
No koken has them beat
@ nah.
@robertomilanecky i have 8 snap on ratchet and 3 koken ratchets and I grab the koken first every time it has no back drag and can get in smaller places and is a strong ratchet
@ ok.
I like seeing the tool comparisons. I think you explained the changes in the quality of tools and how and when to spend money on a higher end tool rather than diving right into debt when it’s not necessary.
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!
Unbiased w no ego these guys make great videos, thanks Sherwood and company.
In the Netherlands (and probably all of Europe), technicians get salaries and will use the tools provided by their employer.
Totally different system.
Same in France and Spain....I'm English but currently working for someone else In Catalunya....first job I've had in 30 years😂😂😂...but I took one of my boxes there....but the whole Taller now is enamorat with my Facom and Snap on....😂😂..the Snap almost impossible to warranty in Europe...
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.
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.
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.
Do you remeber Proto tools?! Thatshow old i am they used to have a truck route too.
Yep. My Dad worked in maintenance for 45+ years. 80% or more of his tools are Proto. He has a few Williams, Snap-On, and Armstrong - like one or two small sets of each of those... maybe got those from an employer or just tried them out. And his home toolbox was full of Craftsman. He never saw any advantage of Snap-On. Like most people, he'd say you're just paying for the name.
Very good tools
Proto was the professional line of Stanley black and decker
They still make proto tools since Stanley bought thrm. I have both older and newer ones still made in the USA.
I appreciate your straightforwardness. It’s realistic. As a home mechanic, I’ve saved myself thousands of dollars doing my own work. Started with Walmart tools and moved to what I feel is “professional” for my needs, tekton, icon, etc. the quality bump from the two is large and is enough for my needs. If it was my career, yes snap on, Mac, etc would be the next step.
Can’t forget Cornwell
Yeah! I think those are better than Snap-Off.
The moment that your videos have the appearance of a commercial, folks will tune out. I have enjoyed your content and honesty. Your thoughts are a gift to a lot of people. Thank you for the effort in posting content.
At this point Snap-on needs to lower their prices down to like 30% of where they're currently at. When they cost double of what the other brands cost, it makes sense to buy them. Not 10x
They’re going have to start running sales once a year , they could afford the 30% hit , they get a lot of traffic and people get loyal they rely on the loyalty , my snap on tools are in my house and if they weren’t ridiculously expensive they be where they belong 😂
He’s right about snap on / craftsman days , in the salvage yards it was even more critical to have the trucks tools” 🧰 and warranty. They had all the pneumatics that would last
I live about an hour from one of their plants (yes, in the US... this one anyway).... I've applied for work there after moving here a year ago. They pay the lowest wages of any "industrial" full time job within a thousand miles.
I think wrench sets were about 280 he must be dipping into the 80s , I could be wrong I was a kid going on tool trucks watching everyone brag / complain about the newest tool they were sold on co-sign
@@Tom-6502 that’s the problem with USA , the cost of manufacturing for Americans to profit is pennies overseas compared to here . Eventually snap on will have do something or just keep a niche market. They get contracts like ford government will always spend money here if it’s a option
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.
Torque test channel already settled this. Snap on wins but the icon stuff is really good for the money.
We love Pushy!
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.
Yes, those China tools work and yes they are sharp. Let’s see if the company and the metal stands the test of time I like to buy American. I’d like to have a relationship with my snap on dealer and I like to be able to trade one tool in for a warranty without the whole set.
Also, the line wrenches are the only wrenches that fit on some fuel injection pumps and the screwdriver tips and many other things
My good sir. You have earnestly and wholesomely earned my sub and notification. Amazing to see someone that actually cares about the consumer and not just trying to make a quick buck from sponsors. Keep on brother💪🏼
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.
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.
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.
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.
Testing tools fairly with no bias is saving everybody money. Can't have anything but love for it.
You guys should really check out the Husky 1025-Piece piece tool set form home depot I think it might be the best starting set for a new technician. I bought that and a US General 72In Box And it was like 4k total so far its been pretty much all ive needed besides some power tools and what not for the last 2 years.
When I was 17 I was working as a air compressor mechanic. I bought a wrench set up to 1 1/2 in and a 1/2 in drive up to 1 1/2 in 6 point and 12 point sockets all from JC Penny with a lifetime warranty. I’m 67 and still have them tools that aren’t used anymore but they were a great set and weren’t that much money back then.
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.
Really appreciate the honesty & objectively in your videos. Thank you
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.
Good information for DYI mechanics, thank you for your objective feedback on tools.
As a mechanic of over 40 years I found this out about 5 years ago. At 18 when I first bought my first set of tools I financed $3k in a basic set of standard sockets, ratchet, wrenches, hammer, hacksaw and plier set with a 4 drawer table top box. I only remember Craftsman back then. Over the years of trying other brands but always grabbed my Snap On because I liked how they felt in my hand. Over the past 10 years tools have come along ways just like your saying and would tell new techs go see how it feels cause that's what your going to have in your hand 6+ hours a day.
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.
Damn I have the snap on set and I still want that damn Icon set love how far harbor has come💪🏻💪🏻
Young mechanics we’re programmed just to buy snap on & keep them on the overpriced payment plan different brand of tools quality has improved tremendously today u can do the job with different brands of tools especially scanner’s &tools. Thanks for shining a lite on this subject
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
Snap On a rip off
For tool reviews Tekton released their 3/8 impact swivel sockets around a month or so following TTC's video. I think their sockets are great I haven't had any issue with them. Yet I like that you can get no skip sets, buy individual pieces, and their warranty seems pretty good too. I haven't had to use it yet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Excellent video ....Hope a lot of young tech can see this ! and believe it !
As an amateur weekend warrior DIY mechanic, Harbor Freight is a blessing and have never failed me.
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
As a DIY guy, I never could justify SnapOn 40+ years ago but sure did want them. The quality advantage was obvious then. I agree there are many more good choices today with more value for the $$ spent. Appreciate your candid comments and videos.
The voice of reason speaking right there
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.
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.
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.
Even the Hercules tool line made me rethink my Milwaukee choices.
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.
Started to use I.C.O.N tools over 2 years ago, and no complain and supper quality for the price!!!!
Great video…. Debt in any industry is a very serious concern on many levels… Using resources efficiently is paramount in any successful business. Thank you
I bought a Harbor Freight tire machine and balancer fifteen years ago, for under two grand. Still going strong. I spent over five g to have my old tires removed that had built up, third time I have had to do since buying machines.
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 thoroughly enjoyed watching all the Snap On reps and fans lose their minds when you guys did that test.
Your points about the Flank Drive patent expiring and the price differences are so vital. I’ve been in a backup capacity at a diesel shop for a couple years now and used a ton of different brands, and there’s no way I can justify dumping that much money out on snap-on with the amount of time I spend turning wrenches and the amount of brands that are significantly cheaper that get pretty close. At the same time, when people always talk about how snap-on’s tools are indistinguishable from HF, they’re really only talking about the power tools and are also kind of missing the point on the whole situation.
Since you did mention their channel, I think the torque test channel’s video about the wrench tests is worth. It gets a little bit too much into the nitty gritty on things, but to make a long story short, different classes of brands have a certain torque spec that they want to target on for their wrenches. Store brands (Pittsburg, Kobalt, etc) have a really low torque spec (100% of ASTE standard), prosumer brands like GW have a spec that’s more than serviceable (150% of ASTE), and tool truck brands like Snap-On, Matco, and MAC have an absurdly high standard that’s matched to (>175% ASTE). The wrenches from tool trucks are in their own category for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you absolutely need them starting out. There’s not a single mechanic I have spoken to that would sincerely recommend snap-on over gearwrench before the half-decade mark.
In conclusion, this video does a great job of laying out in plain terms why you don’t need the best tools to do the work with the ever-decreasing degree of variance between brands nowadays, so thanks for making it. You’ve definitely earned a subscriber
Sounds like its a good time to be a consumer with all the quality choices today.
First toolset was a Master Mechanic box full of American made tools made in the USA by Husky and sold by JC Whitney in 1969...I recall that it was 435 piece set which at least 50 piece count was hack saw and utility knife blades....
I still have the deep well 1/2" sockets and hand wrenches...
It was the most cost effective way for me to start as a mechanic....large tonnage refrigeration and precision millwright.
My go brand for many years was Klein and Proto Professional...
Good luck on your new endeavor
In all my 27 years of playing cars at home, my most expensive set was an sp ratchet spanner set. I've always bought mid to lower tools, and they've always done the job I needed it to do. All my impact sockets too are just basically the cheapest, none have failed. So yeh, idk, I think mid tools do the job just fine.