• Mechanics of all types need many tools to perform their job duties.sand car engine image by Clarence Alford from Fotolia.com
  
  Although many retailers sell pre-packaged mechanic's tool kits, these kits may lack things a mechanic needs to work on engines. Having the necessary tools is essential to any successful job. Many mechanics purchase their own tools and use larger equipment owned by their employers. Even though jobs and shops may differ, most mechanics use several basic tools.
  
  

Hand Tools

• Mechanics use various hand tools to work on engines of all types. Tools include crescent and torque wrenches to loosen and tighten parts, strong screwdrivers of different types and sizes to loosen sealed screws, a utility knife for a variety of uses and open-ended and box-ended gear wrenches. Additionally, ratchet handle drivers with various sized bits, hacksaws, pliers of different types and sizes, wire cutters, wire stripping tools, and a rubber mallet are necessary for many repairs. Mechanics need socket sets with generic sockets as well as those for ball joints and spark plugs. An oil filter wrench is often used to remove oil filters and a commercial lug wrench is also necessary.
  
  

Gadgets

• Several gadgets of different sizes are necessary for engine repairs. A hand-held auto diagnostic scan tool to plug into on-board computers and diagnose problems, a digital timing light to set spark plug timing and a continuity tester that tests electrical circuits are all tools that mechanics use frequently. Additionally, larger electrical test kits allow mechanics to track and isolate electrical issues, computer-based programs diagnose many problems, and hand circuit and ignition spark testers indicate internal combustion engine problems. A refrigerant leak detector, an acetylene torch, a battery tester and a rapid battery charger are all helpful as well.
  
  

Equipment

• In order to quickly complete jobs successfully, mechanics can use an air compressor with various attachments to perform tasks. Air ratchets, drills, sanders and spray guns can all be attached to compressors. In addition to air compressor tools, mechanics need a creeper for looking under cars, siphon hoses, jumper cables to start batteries, a stiff brush to clean off battery contacts, a portable power 6 and 12 volt power unit, a hydraulic jack with stands to access the undersides of cars, a flashlight or stand light and funnels for pouring liquids, fluids and chemicals. Additionally, a cordless impact wrench that quickly loosens and tightens nuts and bolts is helpful.