TEN TOOLS EVERY HELICOPTER MECHANIC SHOULD HAVE

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1. Ratcheting screwdriver- you can get these almost everywhere from canadian tire to the dollar store. so you will have to find one you like and that works best for you. They come with different handle shapes and changeable shafts. The one that seems to be the choice of most engineer is the old style snap on ratcheting screwdriver. Made with a hard plastic handle it won't be affected by grease or oil. It is very durable and you can store extra bits in the handle. The downside is its snap-on and it’s not cheap. The one thing for sure is you will get your money back in use.

2. Ratchet with Socket set 1/4 inch 12 point- These sockets will be your most used. Depending on what type of helicopter you work on they may be metric or standard. You can also get these anywhere. They range in price from 10 dollars to 200 dollars depending on the manufacture. These like the ratcheting screwdriver will be well used.


3. Torque wrench- There will be many times when a torque wrench will be required for the job you are doing. The most common one you will use is the 1/4" drive 20 inch pounds to 200 inch pounds. There are a few other sizes you will require but its best to have at least this one for everyday use.


4. Magnify glass- A magnify glass will come in very handy when inspecting many components. What type is up to you? Make sure it is at least 10 times power. Good place to buy a quality one is from a geology shop.

5. Duckbill pliers- These guys will come in handy for almost everything like installing cotter pins, lock wiring and grabbing on to hard to reach items. You will use these almost daily.

6. Side cutters- Same as the duckbill pliers they will come in handy for many of your daily activities so buy a decent pair that will hold up to much usage.

7. Flashlight- Sounds kind of obvious, but a good flashlight will go along way. There are many types to choose from. Everything from halogen to LED. Just make sure you get one that is bright. Another thing to consider is one that also has black lights in it. This will allow you to see oil leaks better. The oil will glow under black light.

8. Multimeter- This tool will come in handy for any electrical problem you will encounter. There are many different types and models. Fluke makes a really nice product but are very expensive. What ever brand you decide to purchase make sure it has the functions you will need.


9. Hammer and Brass Punch- These guys will come in handy for removing bolts, installing rivets and many other things. Get at least a 8oz. hammer.
10. Knipex- This tool has been around for a short time. They come in many different sizes. Small being 6 inch, medium being 10 inch and large being 12 inch. The only place I've seen these for sale is on a snap-on truck. They cost around 100 dollars, but are worth it. You will find many uses for these pliers.


Well there are ten items you should have in your toolbox to make your life easier. There are many other items that I have not mentioned because they are not used as often as these.

More helicopter troubleshooting and information at http://www.heliwrench.com