Q: I have a lot of tools that I have four or five copies. I'll be retiring soon and I won't need all these duplicates. I don't want to throw out tools, but I know that I can sell them. What would be the quickest way? I don't want to spend a lot of time with this.
A: The quick and easy? Ask around the shop. Your fellow techs may want to take advantage of the used tool sale. Also, ask your tool truck reps. Maybe they know of a tech just starting out on a limited budget. Other options: flea markets, neighbors, friends or relatives.
Q: I had to buy another specialty tool for a vehicle I was working on. This is not the first time and I know that it's not the last. But, they are expensive! Is there another source that's cheaper?
A: Fifteen, 20 years ago, the only source for specialty tools was the tool truck or the dealership/manufacturer. Today, you have so many more options. I would start on the Internet, first. There, you can purchase direct from the manufacturer, specialty companies, warehouse, along with the tool companies. You may get a better deal buying direct.
Have an automotive service-related question for Pam Oakes? Email it to Tire Business reporter William Schertz at [email protected].
Pam Oakes is a retired, 20-year owner of nationally awarded automotive shop Pam's Motor City Automotive and Tires, an ASE-certified technician, automotive author, automotive speaker, automotive patent holder and host of "Car Care for the Clueless” Daily Edition, a syndicated radio talk show airing on dozens of stations coast-to-coast. And, yes, she still "turns wrenches"—but just for fun, nowadays.