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By NAPA
5 Must-Have Tools You Can Use Outside the Garage
It’s true: NAPA boasts nearly 6,000 Auto Parts stores and more than 17,000 Auto Care centers. With America’s largest network of aftermarket automotive parts and auto service, it might come as a surprise that NAPA also specializes in equipment and expertise outside the garage. That’s right, NAPAonline.com carries a huge range of tools from the smaller
link hidden, please login to view like measuring tape, screwdrivers and extension cords to large power tools for serious home repair like pressure washers and cordless or corded power drills. Shop for all the best tools from top brand names like DeWalt,
link hidden, please login to view, link hidden, please login to view, Craftsman and more. These compact tools work great inside and outside the garage, around the home or even on the road. From full home renovation projects like siding replacement, hardwood floor installation and plumbing upgrades to small jobs like fixture installation or adding window treatments, a great home improvement journey starts at NAPA. Shop for Hand Tools at NAPAonline link hidden, please login to view
Even the most complicated at-home projects require those small toolbox staples like a reliable measuring tape. This
link hidden, please login to view features magnetic hooks that cling to steel, as well as a reduced blade arc for a straighter standout. For outdoor projects and surveying, larger units can span up to 300 feet, such as this link hidden, please login to view. A link hidden, please login to view is a great addition in any link hidden, please login to view to use for scale reference in accident photos. Nothing kills the excitement of a home-improvement odyssey like a lack of electrical outlets or worse, a too-short extension cord. Keep a UL Listed basic
link hidden, please login to view on hand for electrical access or upgrade to a link hidden, please login to view for maximized length. These cords are durable, insulated for use with power tools and remain flexible in temperatures down to -40 degrees F. This link hidden, please login to view features four grounded outlets and a safety circuit breaker, plus the built-in cable management eliminates twisting. Best of all, the spool design has a rewind handle for fast and tidy pack-up and storage. The humble screw is an ancient design. It’s the fastener that holds our world together, so never underestimate the tool that drives it. In all shapes and sizes, both Phillips head screwdrivers and flat-head screwdrivers are critical tools for any basic tool kit and are used everywhere. This durable
link hidden, please login to view is a great way to make sure you always have the right size screwdriver. For a space-saving option, go with a multi-head device like this link hidden, please login to view. Different types of specialized screws require specific kinds of screwdrivers, such as these link hidden, please login to view for torx security screws. Also, consider this link hidden, please login to view, which includes a #00 size for small tech repairs. Powerful Tools for Every Project link hidden, please login to view
One of the simplest ways to improve your home is a good, old-fashioned scrub down! As time passes, ultraviolet rays, dust, insects and even algae and smoke can build up on and stain siding, outdoor furniture and concrete driveways. The garden hose is rarely sufficient for a quality clean and the cost of hiring a service racks up quickly. Shop NAPAonline.com for a personal pressure washing system, so you can keep the outside of your home looking great and free of damage.
These versatile tools are powered either by electricity or gas and come in a variety of psi ratings that you can use to clean more than just siding and driveways. If you only need a
link hidden, please login to view, this link hidden, please login to view offers 1300 psi and a quick connect multi-directional nozzle. For a more robust, gas-powered cleaning, try this link hidden, please login to view with a 208cc gas engine and brass head axial pump with a preset unloader valve for low-maintenance use. No home improvement kit is complete without a reliable power drill. Choosing the best option may take some research, but these days, many power tool systems are designed to utilize one common type of battery. Both
link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view offer combo kits that feature multiple tools, as well as charging bases so you never get stuck with a dead battery. Additionally, consider a uniquely designed link hidden, please login to view for drilling in tight corners and hard-to-reach spaces. Shop at your
link hidden, please login to view and check off your home improvement to-do list! When you sign up for link hidden, please login to view, you get access to our members-only offers and special promotions. Get 1 Point for every $1 you spend. When you collect 100 points, you’ll automatically receive $5 off your next purchase. Photo courtesy of
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By Counterman
Being a somewhat evolved primate, I appreciate tools. I have a LOT of tools – maybe more than strictly necessary for a guy who spends most of the day behind a parts counter rather than in a shop bay. To be completely honest, I even own a few tools that I’ve never actually used, simply because at the time of purchase, I thought they were pretty darn cool, and I might need them some day. Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it, right?
Historically, tool selections were pretty basic: an open stock display of wrenches, sockets and drive tools, and a small display of specific-use tools from one of the major jobber distributor brands. These days, in-store tool selection reflects the diversity of manufacturers in today’s aftermarket and the vehicle-specific engineering that goes into servicing a wide range of global nameplates. Given the tight confines of the modern engine bay and the variety of service opportunities, the “underhood” tool category is spread across several vehicle systems, and includes a number of specialty tools.
Underhood services can include belt-drive and cooling-system service; electrical diagnosis and repair; fuel and emissions; LOF (lube, oil, filter) and other fluid-exchange services; and internal engine repairs. Considering that performing one repair often requires disassembly or removal of multiple components just to access the affected part, underhood repairs often will require multiple specialty tools as you dig deeper into the engine bay. While a complete review of each and every specialty underhood tool is nearly impossible, there are a few types that are universally required for servicing many different vehicles.
Quick-disconnect (QD) tools are one of the most universally requested tools in this category, and also the most diverse. Fuel and emissions lines, transmission and coolant connections and A/C lines all routinely feature a QD fitting of some variety. From scissor-type tools to pliers and spring-lock tools, each is designed for a particular type of fitting. Master-disconnect kits cover the majority of styles in one convenient case, and many QD tools can be purchased individually.
For OEM clamped-hose connections, flat-band clamps have mostly replaced worm-drive clamps, and the “go-to” tool for this type of clamp is the cable-operated plier, which can reach remotely into the engine bay where your hands won’t fit. Another popular OEM clamping method is the “Clic” and “Clic-R” clamp, a reusable clamp similar to the Oetiker ear-type clamps found on CV boots.
Clic-R-style pliers make removal and re-use of these clamps possible without damage. Blunt flat-bladed hose-removal tools then can be used to separate stubborn hoses without puncturing or gouging the rubber – a common problem when improvising with a screwdriver or pick tool. Screwdrivers also can damage stretch-to-fit serpentine belts, so using the proper removal and installation tool increases the chances of reusing a good belt! Belt-tension release tools make accessing buried tensioner assemblies much easier, especially when clearance issues prevent the use of a breaker bar or ratchet.
LOF service – once the most basic of maintenance tasks – has become increasingly complex in recent years. The resurgence of cartridge-type filters has resulted in a variety of specialty sockets for opening engine-oil and diesel-fuel filter housings. GM, Ford and some European OEMs now feature uniquely shaped plastic oil-drain plugs that require specialty sockets to remove and replace without damaging the plug.
Some tools (for example, a particular-size specialty socket or bit) are “required” in the sense that you cannot use any other tool to perform a specific task, while others have been developed to make a job easier or beat the published flat-rate schedule. For professional technicians, time is money, and specialty tools are an investment that help them save time and earn more money. For DIYers, specialty tools reduce the frustration of fighting with an unfamiliar component, and reduce the potential for damaging new or existing parts when using improvised tools
and methods.
Tool rentals allow the DIYer (and even some professionals) access to more expensive tools that they otherwise wouldn’t purchase. As add-on sales, specialty tools can earn the parts store additional income, encourage sales of parts that may be more difficult to install without the proper tools and reduce “defective” returns resulting from installation errors. Having a diverse selection of relevant specialty tools in stock is easier than ever before, and is another way to differentiate yourself in an increasingly competitive market.
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By Counterman
In our cover story for
link hidden, please login to view, we asked distribution leaders to reflect on the successes and challenges of 2022 and share some of their insights for the industry in 2023. Here’s our Q&A with Sanjay Patel, president of Carquest.
AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2022 that you are most proud of?
SP: As I’ve transitioned into this new role, I’ve been incredibly impressed by our Carquest team and our family of independent owners, along with their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the communities they serve. Our owners are resilient, and they find a way to win because they have hustle and heart.
With that said, there are three accomplishments that stand out, one being our first-annual Women of Carquest networking event. We had so many terrific women store partners in attendance, along with leaders from across our enterprise and industry. The breakout sessions and workshops were invaluable, and we’re already looking forward to hosting this again in 2023.
Another was our Leadership Summit in San Antonio, where we welcomed more than 525 store partners, members of our leadership team and supplier partners. After several years of virtual discussions and smaller group meetings, you could feel the energy in each mainstage session, training and panel discussion, especially as we unveiled our new Carquest logo and brand positioning.
I’m also proud of the passion our store partners have for supporting our military veterans. This was our first year fundraising for Hire Heroes USA, and our store partners helped us raise more than $100,000 to provide employment assistance for veterans entering the workforce.
AMN/CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2023?
SP: Looking through the lens of our store partners, 2023 provides a strong environment for us to be successful. We’re seeing increases in personal vehicle usage and fleet miles driven. When you also consider advancing vehicle technologies as well as vehicles becoming more resilient, that creates health for our industry. These longer-lasting cars present a great opportunity, as older vehicles will require more repairs and maintenance, creating an increase on parts and supply demand.
And, when you bring in our Carquest independent owners, their product knowledge and unrelenting commitment to serving the customer … that’s where you get the magic!
AMN/CM: How can the independent aftermarket parts and service segments best prepare to repair the car of tomorrow as ADAS, EVs and other technologies become more prominent?
SP: I love this question, because I’m a car guy at heart! My background is in the service industry, and these technologies are so interesting to me.
The big area of opportunity is around training. Our independent owners can partner with Carquest Technical Institute (CTI) to offer training programs to repair shops. We encourage our owners to communicate this to their professional customers.
For a long time, technicians didn’t always have access to quality training. It always seemed to sit in the OE channel. Now, with CTI, Worldpac Training Institute (WTI) and events like the Supplier & Training Expo, we offer training on all makes and models, along with EVs, hybrids, ADAS and other emerging technologies. This increased availability of training helps technicians enhance their knowledge while giving independent repair shops the opportunity to serve a wider segment of the car parc. The fact is, there are a lot of vehicles – especially hybrids – that are hitting that six- to 15-year-old range. These vehicle owners are looking for options. They’re not just defaulting to taking their car to the dealership. When our owners communicate this training availability to repair shops, these shops can offer more services, serve more vehicles and tap into service revenues.
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By Counterman
Bartec USA announced the release of its latest TPMS-tool software update.
“This is our third update for 2022 and as always, adds significant coverage for the Rite-Sensor, adds new model-year tool coverage and increases our already industry-leading OBD II capabilities,” said Mathew Hitchcock, Bartec’s product manager.
As with every tool-software release, Bartec is continuously developing aftermarket-sensor coverage, while improving tool features and functions. This release will enable diagnostic functionality for Tesla models and adds the brand-new TPMS replacement sensor Rite-Sensor Blue.
According to Bartec, tool-software development requires collating huge amounts of data from industry partners, developing the necessary code based on that data, then thoroughly testing and vetting the solution before releasing it to customers. Bartec is an OE-based provider and understands the critical part that testing plays in developing and releasing software, the company noted.
Release 65.0 is for older TPMS tools Tech400Pro, Tech300Pro and Tech500. Release 5.0 covers the TechRITEPro, Tech450Pro, Tech550Pro and Tech600Pro. Both versions contain additional OBD II coverage as well as additional model-year 2023 coverage.
To update your Bartec TPMS tools, first make sure your software access is current. The easiest way to do that is download Bartec’s free application, TPMS Desktop. The TPMS Desktop is a tool-management utility that helps with tool updating, vehicle lookup and coverage as well as inspection-report retrieval and printing. If you’re an existing TPMS Desktop user, it will update automatically. If you don’t yet have TPMS Desktop, visit Bartec USA’s website at
link hidden, please login to view and click on the link to download. A complete technical service Bbulletin describing all the contents of software update 65.0/5.0 is now available for download at
link hidden, please login to view or from the TPMS Desktop. To download and install this update, you must have a current software subscription. Check your account at link hidden, please login to view and call your Bartec distributor to purchase an update certificate. For more information, call Bartec USA at 855-877-9732 or visit the website at
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By NAPA
In some ways electric vehicles are just like any other vehicle on the road. Wheels are powered to move passengers from one place to another along a roadway. It’s the same basic principle that carried us past the days of the horse and buggy. In fact many of the early horseless carriages were actually electric powered. But modern electric vehicles deal in much higher voltages and amperages than anything on the road in the past few decades. Anyone who already works on internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles probably has a link hidden, please login to view, but when it comes to servicing hybrid and electric vehicles (EV) there are a few more things to consider. Let’s take a look at EV tools versus ICE tools and learn what you might need for your EV tool kit.
Hand Tools
Starting with hand tools the functions are pretty much the same. A screwdriver still has a handle and a tip, wrenches still have jaws, sockets still have six or twelve points. The big difference comes down to stopping the flow of electricity either through the tool or to the user. You’ve probably seen insulated tools before, likely a screwdriver in a set. These are pretty common for household electrical work. But did you know there are insulated tools and then there are non-conductive (composite) tools?
An insulated tool is typically made of metal (like a normal tool) which is then covered with a non-conductive substance like epoxy or rubber. This interrupts the flow of electricity from the tool to the user’s hand. But insulated tools need to be checked regularly to verify if the insulating coating is still intact. Some tools use different colored insulation layers to signal if a tool is ready for replacement. If the warning layer is visible, the tool is no longer safe to use. The last point is one that normally isn’t a part of hand tool ownership. Hand tools either work or they are broken. Insulated electric tools may still technically work as say a wrench, but they will not be safe to use around electrical components once the insulation has been compromised.
Composite tools are actually made differently than normal tools. For example a composite ratchet will have a handle made completely of a strong non-conductive material with no metal inside. This prevents electricity from traveling from the head of the ratchet to the user’s hand. Composite sockets will still have a metal hex insert, but that metal is attached to a strong non-conductive composite, and then to the square drive. The non-conductive material breaks the circuit and blocks the flow of electricity.
Diagnostic Tools
Working on any modern vehicle requires the right diagnostic equipment regardless of the power source. While a
link hidden, please login to viewworking on an electric vehicle won’t be diagnosing ignition or emissions problems, they will be chasing down other normal issues like bad sensors or damaged modules. But one difference in EV tools vs. ICE tools is the power handling capability of the electric vehicle diagnostic tool. For example any link hidden, please login to viewintended to be used on an electric vehicle must be rated CAT III to handle the high voltages often found inside these vehicles. Likewise the link hidden, please login to view need to be also rated for higher voltage use. While internal combustion engines are starting to use 48-volt systems in areas, some electric vehicles operate in the hundreds of volts so special EV diagnostic tools are a must. Shop Tools
Your shop may already be well equipped to work on common internal combustion vehicles, but there are some special electric vehicle repair tools you may need to consider. For example, your two-post lift likely needs different footpads to correctly lift electric vehicles. You also need to make sure your lift can be configured to handle different vehicle weight biases (front to rear) for balanced lifting. Speaking of lifting, many electric vehicle and hybrid batteries weigh a considerable amount and are mounted to the bottom of the vehicle. Safely removing one of these batteries should be left up to a specialized lifting table designed for the task.
Most people are not aware that air conditioning compressors used in hybrid and electric vehicles have a special type of oil that is designed to be non-conductive. That means you will need an
link hidden, please login to view that can prevent cross-contamination between systems. Considering that the air conditioning compressor on a hybrid or electric vehicle is powered by a high-power electric motor rather than an engine pulley, the different oil requirement makes sense. Safety Equipment
It’s a good idea to wear gloves when working on any vehicle, but when working on an electric or hybrid vehicle it is mandatory. Specifically
link hidden, please login to view designed to handle high voltage. Gloves must also be tested before each use for any tears/cuts/leaks/wear that might allow a path for electricity to travel. A good pair of ASTM F 2413-11 safety boots with EH (electrical hazard) rating is also recommended. It is also important to let others know when a technician is working on a hybrid or electric vehicle. Placing
link hidden, please login to view around the bay and a line of link hidden, please login to view signals to others that the vehicle is not to be approached. The safety gear worn by the technician is only designed to protect one person, all others must keep their distance during servicing of electric vehicle components. Any shop that is considering working on electric or hybrid vehicles needs an insulated rescue hook. In the unfortunate event of a technician suffering an accident while working on an electrical component the insulated rescue hook allows the victim to be pulled away from the electrical source without endangering the rescuer. This also means that a technician should never work on a hybrid or electric vehicle alone, there should always be another person present in the shop.
Lastly anyone attempting to service an electric or hybrid vehicle should be properly trained. Old fashioned “on the job” training may be fine for most maintenance procedures on a normal car, the same cannot be said for electric or hybrid vehicles. The potential power output of an EV battery is just too high to risk working on a vehicle without at least basic training. Luckily
link hidden, please login to viewcan help anyone acquire the right training they need to become a successful technician capable of handling electric and hybrid vehicles. The post
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