The automotive equipment industry is engaged in the manufacture of all types of tools and machines needed for the manufacture, maintenance and repair of vehicles including automobiles and auto parts. Therefore, the industry produces different types of devices, ranging from simple hand tools to more complex machines.
Various types of automotive equipment
Auto repair shops and garages will not function without automotive equipment. Shop furniture, hydraulic lifts, exhaust hoses, air compressors, greasers, electric and light reels, jacks, vehicle maintenance equipment, fluid storage tanks, and air lines are some of the many different types of vehicle equipment used by automobile manufacturers and auto repair shops.
Common types of automotive equipment
* Hand Tools: Auto repair shops use different types of hand tools for their repair and maintenance projects. Some of the most common items are ratchet and wrench sets, crowbars (aka crowbars), socket sets, screwdrivers, star and coupler head screwdrivers, hammers, pliers and wire cutters, electric drills, hacksaws and torque wrenches.
* Pneumatic Tools: Most auto repair shops are now using pneumatic tools as an alternative to electric powered motors, as the latter are more prone to fire hazards. Such tools are compressed air powered and are powerful versions of the more traditional hand tools. Common examples of automotive pneumatic equipment are air compressors, which can be used to power a variety of tools including hammers, drills, ratchets, and spray tools.
* The availability of pneumatic equipment makes it easier for mechanics and technicians to carry out repair and maintenance work because they are powerful and easy to use. For example, pneumatic snips can cut through sheet metal faster and leave a smoother edge compared to traditional tin snips. Similarly, air hammers fitted with chisel or punch bits have multiple uses. They can be used to straighten dents. The chisel function can be used to loosen rusted parts and the punch bits can be used to remove old rivets and screws that are too difficult to remove by hand.
* Lifting Platforms: Various types of lifting devices are used to lift and secure cars, allowing mechanics and repair personnel to easily work under the vehicle. These lifting tools include both low-tech tools like simple jacks, car ramps and jacks, as well as hydraulic lifts and jacks for greater efficiency and performance.
* Vehicle Exhaust Removal Systems: Vehicle exhaust removal systems are used to capture and remove noxious exhaust gases to ensure optimal air quality in automotive maintenance and repair shops. These are mandatory items of equipment under OSHA standards to limit exposure to harmful vehicle emissions. Common vehicle exhaust removal systems include hose debris and reels.
* Lubrication Systems: Automotive lubrication systems include various types of oil meters, ATF meters, transmission oil meters, discharge valves, and grease discharge valves.
The automotive equipment business is a very large and competitive business. Auto repair shops need to buy equipment from reputable dealers to get the best deals and levels of performance.