Owner: Randy Begin
Shop: Mission Hills Automotive and Cass Street Automotive
Location: San Diego, Calif.
Randy Begin is the owner of Mission Hills Automotive and Cass Street Automotive, both located in San Diego. He is an ASE Certified Master Technician, and is L1 and L2 Certified, in addition to being a California certified smog inspector. He says his mission is to restore the integrity and respect of the automotive industry by taking over and improving automotive repair shops one at a time.
1. Snap-on Flat Tip Pocket Distributor Orange Screwdriver
Begin says he never leaves home without this necessity. "Too many uses to list, plus if you have a good one, the magnet on the other end is a life saver," he says. "Sometimes the simplest tools are the most important."
2. Ross-Tech Wireless VCDS Professional Kit
Describing it as a must for anyone servicing or repairing VW and Audi vehicles, Begin says this tool is simple to use, comprehensive and can scan every module on vehicles. Plus it prints out a report. "It saves all coding data on the first pass, so if you change a part that requires coding, you have the information," he explains.
3. Hofmann 14K Scissor Alignment Lift - Surface Mount
Begin likes that this hoist can be mounted flush so that any vehicle with more than 1/2" ride height can be aligned and serviced, adding the equipment opens up many profit avenues. "The number of factory lowered vehicles is only going to increase due to the fact lower is more efficient," Begin notes. "Plus with this rack you can go after the high-end alignment business. Combine that with all air suspension vehicles that are super low when collapsed, this rack is a money-maker."
4. GoPro HERO Session
This camera has a Wi-Fi hotspot that transmits to a phone. Begin mounts the device to a suspect area of the vehicle by using the camera's suction cup, and then he watches suspension movement, front end vibrations, drive train shifting and more in real time. Begin cautions safety, adding its best to watch this video from the passenger seat while someone else drives.
5. Vividia Ablescope VA-800 USB Flexible Inspection Camera
"It connects to a laptop and allows easy inspection, but, more importantly, easy recording and emailing to customers," Begins explains, calling this camera a requirement for shops that want to keep its customers informed.
6. Identifix
Begin concedes this information source is not a traditional tool. "But if you are not using it, you are missing out on a wealth of information and other people's experiences," he says.
7. Miller Multimatic 200 Multiprocess Welder
The welder identifies and sets the machine up for whatever power source is available at that time. "Simply switch the included plugs and go from 110(V) to 230/220(V) in a snap," says Begin. "Welds more thickness than any shop should tie into."
8. GearWrench Spline Drive Ratcheting Wrench
These tools are “a blessing” for Begin, adding the wrenches are time-savers and assist productivity in many ways. “With cars trying to cram more into less space, the GearWrench is the latest must-have hand tool for the line tech of the 21st century,” he says.
9. Snap-on 1/4" Drive 14.4v MicroLithium Cordless Ratchet
"I am a tech from the 80s, and I owned every possible air tool available. They were time-savers on steroids," Begin recalls. "Now, with the advent of Li-ion battery power and longevity, the handheld 3/8" battery-powered ratchet is a must." Not relying on air hoses or lubing air tools every day is added benefit to using the cordless ratchet.
10. Ingersoll Rand UP6S Series Fixed Speed Rotary Screw Compressor
"The air compressor is one of the loudest noises in the shop, but not anymore," Begin states, calling the air compressor the most noticeable tool in the shop. "With screw type compressors, you can work right next to the unit running at full output and have a normal conversation. Wow, the new technicians today really have it good."
