5 Of The Cheapest DeWalt Tools For Mechanics
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DeWalt is a constant presence in the toolboxes of mechanics. The brand makes virtually any kind of tool you might need to get the job done under the hood, and its catalog extends to many other areas of use. Professionals often turn to DeWalt equipment because it's durable, full of premium features, and easily accessible. Unlike brands such as Hazet or Metabo that rank among the best German brands but may be a little harder to find in a local hardware store, DeWalt is a visible and constantly available presence across the U.S. tool landscape.
DeWalt tools are often considered inexpensive, but that doesn't mean that the brand doesn't have great quality for its value. In fact, many pieces of its gear offer both low cost and serious durability, not to mention a 3-year limited warranty. For many users, that's one of the most important factors to consider when buying DeWalt. These tools are some of the most vital assets a mechanic will have available to them, and stand as a great starting point or expansion checklist for others who work on vehicles in their spare time. The following list includes inexpensive solutions that deliver plenty of functional utility and job coverage for the mechanic seeking to get serious mileage out of their gear.
¼-Inch Drive Mechanics Tool Set
One of the most important tools that mechanics have at their disposal is the mechanics tool set. Naturally, this kit provides flexibility and coverage across a range of small to moderate-scale jobs. The mechanics tool set is also a valuable piece of equipment for those who are moving into their own place for the first time or require a versatile set of hand tools to bring with them on the go. These sets can therefore be an early starter kit of equipment for some and the basis of a professional-level problem-solving solution for others. Different mechanics tool sets will range in price and availability, so it's helpful to know first what you're looking for. Of course, the more pieces a kit has, the more expensive it'll likely be.
The ¼-Inch Drive Mechanics Tool Set from DeWalt features both SAE and metric measurements and includes 50 pieces, all of which can help tackle common jobs. There are no Allen keys or other extraneous tools found in the set, but it does feature a 72-tooth ratchet head with a 5-degree arc swing spinner handle, extensions, screwdriver bits, and more than enough sockets to take on most tasks. The kit is available for $38 at Amazon and $34 at Home Depot; it can also be found at Walmart for $50.
Pneumatic Cut-Off Tool
A product that can go a long way in the collection of auto mechanics is the cut-off tool. Whether you're shaping parts to be welded for body repair or cutting away fasteners that have seen better days, this tool is instrumental in many of the subtasks you'll handle under the hood.
One of the most cost-effective choices DeWalt buyers have at their disposal is the 3-Inch Self Locking Pneumatic Grinder/Cut-Off Tool. Admittedly, this tool needs an air compressor to work, but this support system is something that many mechanics will be buying if they don't already have one. The result is cross-compatibility with equipment that delivers power tool capability without the need for electricity. Air tools are typically inexpensive in comparison to their electric counterparts, and with simplified designs, they can provide better durability over the long term.
This particular pneumatic air tool has a self-locking trigger with a cushion grip and touch control for comfortable and accurate use. It features a rear exhaust that directs air flow away from you as you work and provides a blade speed of 19,000 RPM. If you're looking to add it to your garage, it's available for $57 at Amazon and $69 at Home Depot. It can also be found for $72 at Zoro and $53 at Walmart.
Xtreme 12V Max ⅜-Inch Impact Wrench
The impact wrench is a tool mechanics can't live without. Much like a mechanics tool set, the impact wrench is the bread and butter for automotive repair technicians. There are many options available on the market, and some of the best impact wrenches you'll find come from a lineup of usual suspects across major tool brands. DeWalt makes numerous versions, but the brand's Xtreme 12V Max ⅜-Inch Impact Wrench has the best value. Available on Amazon for $78, this is a great impact wrench that provides a huge turning force for a low price. It can also be found at Lowe's and Acme Tools, but you'll be paying $169 for the same tool.
This model features glass-filled nylon housing that helps the tool resist damaging interactions with solvents and other automotive chemicals that may be at play in your workshop. The tool runs on DeWalt's 12V battery system and therefore features a slimmed-down profile that makes it easy to access tighter workspaces. The tool features a 400 ft.-lb. max breakaway torque and 250 ft.-lbs. of tightening force, delivering ample muscle in either direction.
Max Fit 6-in-1 Multibit Screwdriver
Multibit screwdrivers are critically important tools that offer tremendous versatility to users. Instead of carrying a large collection of screwdrivers with different blades, a multibit screwdriver allows you to pack just one into your toolkit. Changing bits to tackle different jobs is simple, and many of the best multibit screwdrivers feature additional functions that make them even more useful when handling fastening or screw removal tasks. The DeWalt Max Fit 6-in-1 Multibit Screwdriver is a great option for users looking to bring inexpensive functionality into their garage. This tool doesn't feature ratcheting action, but that doesn't mean it's light on premium and user-friendly additions. The tool has a magnetic screw lock system that mitigates lost screws while you install or remove fasteners. It also has onboard storage to keep bits in the tool handle to speed up changes when you need to change bits or if you've worn one out and require a replacement.
Completing the picture, the handle has an ergonomic grip that helps prevent slipping as you turn a fastener. All told, the tool is a quality choice for users demanding functionality with great pricing. You can find your own at Acme Tools for $15 and at Home Depot for $14.
Heat Gun
A heat gun may not sit at the top of your mind when thinking about tools that mechanics require on a regular basis. However, they're instrumental in tackling numerous application tasks across the automotive landscape. This tool makes quick work of decal installation or removal, paint stripping, plastic part fusion, and window tint installation. They can also be used to help remove rusted or otherwise seized nuts. Both structural repair tasks and aesthetic installations often rely on the heat gun to support some of the more nuanced work that goes into the finished product. The corded Heat Gun from DeWalt is a solid choice among tools in this realm.
It features a variable temperature control that maxes out at 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, more than enough to support numerous automotive tasks. It also boasts built-in overload protection that keeps the tool from overheating and risking damage to it and the workplace. The tool is available for $77 at Amazon and $90 at Acme Tools. It is light, allowing for easy use over a lengthy period of time, and features a built-in kickstand to help set the tool down safely as it heats up or cools down between uses.
Methodology
Each of the tools listed here are ideal additions to a mechanic's setup of equipment. They're all instrumental in tackling one or more tasks that mechanics typically face while working on all aspects of a project car or performing routine vehicle repair services for themselves or others. All of these DeWalt tools offer the cheapest option within their respective niches for users looking to save money while still receiving competent, durable, and reliable performance.