Whether you are a small-time mechanic or a major auto modifier, there are a few must-haves for your garage that you cannot live without. In fact, the garage is the place to create projects not just for your vehicle but for the house in general.
Of course, before you start working on new projects, you need a set of tools first. There are several tools you can purchase, but only some of them are essential. What are these items?
- Jack and Jack Stands
Regardless of what model of the car you have or what project you are working on, you will need to jack it up to work underneath it. Whether you need your car to be off the ground to change wheels or do maintenance work, a heavy-duty jack and jack stand to lift your vehicle are an absolute garage necessity.
- Power Tools
More likely than not, you will need to drill holes on your home projects. At a bare minimum, get yourself a power drill with a half-inch chuck and with a drill bit set in 1/8-inch increments. Other power tools to have are a reciprocating saw, impact driver, angle driver and a rotary multi-tool. You can easily shop for these tools by browsing through a catalogue like the Supercheap Auto catalogue and purchasing them from a store near you.
- Bench Vice
Performing mechanical works is not only done under the car. You also need an open space to work on certain auto parts, like the carburettor and the radiator. These parts require open space and a sturdy base to repair. A vice is a convenient tool, providing you with extra hands to keep vehicle parts steady while working on them.
- A Complete Tool Kit
Having the right tool for any job makes any task a lot easier to handle. You do not have to buy everything at once—gradually build them up over time. A good and reliable tool kit consists of a quarter and a half-inch drive socket sets, various pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, zip ties, a wire cutter, a hammer, steel tape, electrical tape and duct tape. Check out comprehensive tool kits for your man cave from a Supercheap Auto catalogue.
- Air Compressor
Blow debris out from folds and crevices and pump air in your tires with a good air compressor. Look for one that can give more than just inflating tires. Get one that lets you easily clean and dry auto parts and use spray paint tools. With an air compressor, bigger is better, especially if you consider running your power tools with it since they require more air.
- Fire Extinguisher
You can be safe all you want, but accidents are inevitable, especially in the garage. When things flare-up, a fire extinguisher will save your life. Perhaps, you think that water will suffice, but oil, electricals and gasoline fires require more than that to be extinguished, so a powder-based fire extinguisher that is regularly serviced is a key must-have in your garage.
These are just a few of the many items your garage should have. Don’t worry, though. There is no such thing as a complete garage. The best one is the one that you have invested in to make it the best you have. The essential tools vary depending on every owner’s needs, but as long as you do not compromise quality, the ideal man cave is certainly attainable.
