When you’re working underneath a vehicle, safety and efficiency are paramount. Mechanics rely on a range of specialized tools designed to lift and support cars, allowing for essential repairs and maintenance. So, what is the mechanic tool that goes under the car? Actually, it’s not just one, but several, each serving a crucial purpose. Understanding these tools is vital for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
One of the most common tools you’ll find going under a car is the car jack. This device is used to lift the vehicle, providing access to the undercarriage. There are various types of car jacks, including scissor jacks, floor jacks (also known as trolley jacks), and bottle jacks. Floor jacks are particularly popular in professional settings due to their ease of use and stability for lifting heavier vehicles.
Once a car is lifted with a jack, it’s absolutely crucial to use jack stands, also known as axle stands. These are sturdy supports designed to hold the vehicle’s weight securely. Never rely solely on a jack to support a car while you’re working underneath it. Jacks are for lifting, jack stands are for supporting and ensuring safety. Placing jack stands at appropriate jacking points on the vehicle’s frame is a fundamental safety practice in auto repair.
For tasks that require sliding under the car, a mechanic’s creeper is an invaluable tool. This low-profile wheeled platform allows mechanics to comfortably and efficiently move around underneath the vehicle without having to scoot on the hard floor. Creepers come in different designs, some even featuring adjustable headrests for added comfort during extended undercar work.
Beyond these core tools, mechanics also utilize various specialized hand tools and power tools when working under a car. These might include wrenches, sockets, ratchets, and impact wrenches for tasks like exhaust system repair, suspension work, or oil changes. The specific tools needed will depend on the particular job, but the jack, jack stands, and creeper are foundational for safe and effective undercar access.
Now, considering the investment in these essential mechanic tools, many might wonder about insurance. While it’s possible to insure your tools, experienced mechanics often advise a different approach: saving for replacement. Like the advice given to musicians regarding their equipment, insuring mechanic tools might seem logical, but over time, the cost of insurance premiums can outweigh the actual replacement cost of the tools. Building a dedicated savings fund for tool replacement can provide greater financial flexibility and control in the long run. Furthermore, in a professional garage setting, tools are often covered by the establishment’s insurance against theft or fire while on the premises.
Regarding tool ownership, especially in a business context, it’s crucial to maintain clear proof of ownership for all your mechanic tools. In cases of business closure or disputes, having documented proof, such as purchase receipts and inventories, is essential to reclaim your tools. Just like proving ownership of musical instruments in a closed music store, mechanics must be prepared to demonstrate that their tools are their personal property.
In conclusion, when thinking about “what is the mechanic tool that goes under the car,” remember it’s a suite of tools designed for safety and efficiency. Jacks, jack stands, and creepers are fundamental for undercar work. While tool insurance is an option, saving for replacement and diligently documenting tool ownership are often more practical and financially sound strategies for mechanics.
