Creating Your Dream Shop””

Close your eyes for a moment, and visualize your dream shop. Got it? We know you have at least 10 shiny new Rotary’s in there, that’s a given, but what else did you envision? Tools, equipment? Many can choose the type of lifts, or the size of the shop in an instant, however, it’s the little things that may not be top of mind.  Keying in on those can make a big impact on the productivity of you shop.

Tools                                                                                                            From wrenches to sockets, outfitting your shop with the right tools should be a top priority. Having the essentials is one thing, but specialty tools will save time, meaning more jobs and more money. Let’s take a look at some of the basics:

Hand Tools– With little recent innovation, wrenches and ratchets remain a staple in every shop. Techs normally have their own tools, but ensuring the shop itself is outfitted properly can reduce cycle times. Depending on what you service, there may be specialty tools you can purchase to help out your techs.

Pneumatic Tools– Not just for tire shops, pneumatic tools are time and tech savers. They reduce the amount of time it takes to perform jobs, and also the amount of energy your tech exerts. In an industry where tight is right and too tight is wrong, they can save you money from replacing stripped threads or lugs with simple and easy adjustments.

Cordless Power Tools– Overlooked by many, battery operated tools can set you apart from competitors. With ever increasing power options and extended life batteries, they are functional and can reach places corded or hosed tools cannot. If your shop loses power don’t pack up and head home. Battery powered tools, coupled with Shockwave™ equipped Rotary lifts, means your shop is working when others are in the dark!       

Diagnostic Equipment                                                                                                                                                                  From diagnosing a dashboard light to using high tech preventative software, diagnostic equipment is a must for any shop to stay competitive. Knowing what to buy can be a difficult decision and costly if chosen incorrectly. Here’s a checklist of what to look for:

Depth of Information– Obviously you want to know as much about the issue as you can, but more information is not always needed. The problem with very in-depth analysis is that the unit is limited to certain vehicles or could require the purchase of costly upgrades.

Ease of Use– The last thing you want to implement is a system with a high learning curve. This could alienate techs, causing them not to use the system. Make sure you choose one with proper training capabilities so you can put it to use as quick as possible.

Technical Support– In the roll out of new equipment there are bound to be setbacks. Choosing a system with quality technical support can save time, money and perhaps your sanity. Make sure all members of the team can utilize the support, not just you or the shop manager and that they are comfortable doing so.

The size of your shop and the type of lifts are important but without the right tools to get the job done, you could be left holding the bill. These guidelines will help steer you in the right direction. Weigh your options, value your tech’s input and your dream shop can become a reality in less time that you think.

Since you already know what tools you will need to get job done, take a look at our Lift Buyer’s Guide and get an idea of the lifts you want as well.