As with tools, choosing the right shop equipment for vehicle repair and service tasks can not only help maximize a technician’s productivity, but it enables them to work safer. This contributes to a more efficient shop, with less vehicle downtime, and a better bottom line.
If replacing a piece of equipment, it is not wise to just duplicate the old one. Shop and task requirements may have changed.
Additionally, new and improved products are constantly being introduced that may offer improvements over what had been previously available.
It is also judicious to review how current shop equipment has performed, being alert for any issues or problems that could to be addressed with new purchases. Also, think about what types of vehicle maintenance and repair work might be added in the future.
CHECKLIST
Some general key purchasing considerations:
- Physical weight.
- Capacity.
- Efficiency, versatility, productivity, etc.
- Safety features.
- Ease of operation.
- Ergonomics.
- Accessories and options.
- Power requirements.
- Maintenance requirements.
- Life cycle.
- Will it fit the available work space?
- Storage considerations.
- Construction quality.
- Warranty/guaranty.
- Training resources.
- Technical support.
- Product support.
- Brand reputation.
- Budget range/price.
- Financing options.
