Do you love buying tools as much as we do?
Some of us at mechanic.com.au think we got into this trade just as an excuse to load up on tools!
Besides feeding our hobby, having an abundance of quality tools is an integral part of being a good automotive technician.
In this article, we take a look at the benefits of both Air Tools and Battery Tools
What we love about Air Tools
Generally speaking, air tools often pack more of a punch then their battery-operated counterparts but this is a gap that has been rapidly closing over the past few years. We find they generally tend to have a higher RPM rating.
Being a simpler device along with the absence of batteries, air tools are often easier on the hip pocket than cordless tools. Who else love saving money? Ok, you’re right... we just end up buying more tools.
While many cordless tools are now brushless and very reliable, we love the fact that we can completely rebuild most air tools. Maybe it’s just in our nature to fix things but it's good to know that a quality air tool will last you many years even if something does go wrong.
Anyone who has spent an entire day using a cordless ½” drive rattle gun will know how sore your wrist can get. Those things are heavy! We like the fact that air tools are often lighter due to the absence of a battery.
What we love about Cordless Tools
Freedom! No more being tethered to an air line. It’s not so bad if you spend all of your time in a workshop with air reels everywhere but when it comes to working out in the elements or on the side of the road, cordless tools are far more favourable.
With the insurgence of brushless motors, cordless tools require no more maintenance than a wipe down every now and then. If we’re honest, putting a squirt of oil in an air tool every so often isn’t the end of the world but it is another task to complete.
Accessories baby! LED Lights, Belt Clips, Magnets. We love all of the gadgets that hang off of some of the new cordless tools that make life a little easier.
Most battery operated drivers also come fitted with a clutch, allowing us to vary the torque without affecting the speed of the tool. This is often not the case with an air tool.
Prior to the evolution of battery technology, cordless tools were cumbersome and had a short battery life. With modern advancements in battery technology this is no longer the case. Many modern cordless tools sport exceptional battery life and fast charge times.
So which is better?
In our opinion, neither.
Both have their place. Where there is an abundance of air supply and hose reels and we're are doing engine bay/underbody work we prefer air tools.
When it comes to working inside a vehicle or on a callout, it’s cordless for us.
What do you think?
Let us know which you prefer and what your favourite brand of tools is in the Mechanic.com.au Private Facebook Group. (Members Only)
Top Tips
When purchasing cordless tools, try and find a brand you like and stick to it. This often means that you will have a wider arsenal of batteries and can use a single charging station.
For everyday cleaning of hand tool skins, we find a soapy degreaser solution to be effective at removing grime. For tougher grit, try using brake cleaner. (Test in an inconspicuous area first to prevent fading of tool colour)
