We’ve all envisioned a gleaming roll-cab overflowing with brand new tools, but what are the must-have tools a seasoned professional mechanic chooses when equipping a fresh workshop toolbox? Recently, we were fortunate enough to be invited by Supercheap Auto (CLICK HERE) to their Penrith Superstore for a tool shopping spree to set up the Super Garage.
Super Garage’s experienced mechanic, Paulie, was enthusiastic to share his expert tips for setting up a new toolbox, or reorganizing an existing one. After the exciting unboxing, the practical learning began.
We anticipated discovering a range of specialized equipment, but Paulie’s primary advice is to first consider your natural workflow around your toolbox and position your most frequently used tools for easy access. Given the variety of vehicles he works on, he prefers to keep his commonly used socket sets in a readily accessible, mid-level drawer.
Socket sets are fundamental to any toolkit, and Paulie emphasizes having options. He utilizes 1/4in drive sets for intricate, delicate tasks, 3/8in drive for general work, and 1/2in drive for particularly tight or large fasteners. Furthermore, investing in a set of impact sockets is wise if you use power tools – standard chrome sockets can quickly wear down with modern 18v brushless tools.
Spanners were another area where Paulie offered valuable insights. He organizes his regular, go-to spanners in a custom foam cutout in the left-hand drawer. The right-hand drawer is dedicated to specialized spanners, including extra-long, ratchet, and crows-foot spanners (ideal for brake fittings or stubborn fasteners), as well as stubby spanners.
He stores his adjustable “shifter” spanners in a separate drawer along with his hammers, keeping similar tool types together for efficient access.
It’s a common phenomenon for car enthusiasts to accumulate mystery screwdrivers in their toolboxes. Where do they originate? Whose are they? And crucially, do they know the location of the elusive 10mm sockets? Paulie maintains order by using a foam insert, ensuring screwdrivers are easily accessible when needed in a hurry. This organization is key for efficient car mods and repairs.
Paulie was particularly impressed with the tooth design on the ToolPro-X spanners. He recently used them to remove a very stubborn diesel injector on a ute at Super Garage. Paulie keeps several ToolPro-X kits readily available due to their finer-resolution ratchets and high-quality construction, which have genuinely impressed him for demanding automotive work.
Investing in high-quality drill bits is an investment in saving your own time. Remember to also acquire cutting compound to maintain the drill bits in optimal condition. Paulie emphasizes the importance of tools like drill bits, especially during unexpected repairs. Having to struggle with a dull, cheap drill bit, or needing to interrupt a job to purchase a suitable one, can transform a simple fix into a time-consuming ordeal. Having a reliable toolbox, possibly even a supercheap one from Supercheap Auto to start, stocked with quality tools is paramount.
