Tools the veteran shop owner/instructors rely on

Dec. 6, 2013
Glenn and Betty Jo Young maintain a reputation for diagnostic and repair excellence.

SHOP: Young's Automotive Center

LOCATION: Houston, TX

OWNERS: Glenn and Betty Jo Young

Young’s Automotive Center in Houston, Texas provides a full range of diagnostic and repair services. Owners Glenn and Betty Jo Young are both active in industry associations and are both automotive instructors. They keep a close eye on repair and diagnostic tools.

1) Precision Diagnostic Instruments CA-60 AC/DC low amp probe.

 "Using an amp probe and a scope makes drivability and electrical diagnosis make sense," Glenn Young notes.The current clamp measures and monitors current draw without the need to break the circuit. The clamp accurately measures DC or AC current from 10mA to 60A. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10105929.

2) Redline Detection Smoke Pro Air Complete. 

The Air Complete comes with its own onboard micro air compressor, eliminating the need for shop air or gas tanks. "This tool is only limited by your imagination," Glenn Young notes. "It is a true leak detection device." It gives technicians the ability to utilize an air/gas-only cycle, mandated and recommended by OEMs for many applications, and by all hybrid/ EV manufacturers for testing battery compartments. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10615060.

3) Power Probe Hook. 

Power Probe’s latest circuit tester can connect to systems from 12V to 48V. The “Smart Tip Advantage” senses the probe tip condition and selects the correct meter. "We just thought we liked our Power Probe III, but 'The Hook' is the next generation of electrical testers. We became adjusted to the size very quickly," Glenn Young says. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10727921.

4) Milwaukee Electric M12 1/4" cordless ratchet 2456-21.

The cordless ratchet utilizes a powerful 12V motor to produce up to 30 ft/lbs of torque and 250 RPM. "This a must have tool for every tech. The size, the power, the battery life and the durability in our opinion is the unsurpassed," Glenn Young says. The variable speed metal trigger and reinforced steel housing provide maximum control and durability with any application. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10668403. 

5) ATS E Scan Pro.

"We may not scan every vehicle that comes in our shop, but we scan most. The 'Sharpshooter' functions are not found in any other diagnostic software that I’m aware of."  This PC-based drivability tool with "Sharpshooter" troubleshooting capabilities includes service and technical support before and after the sale. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10106486. 

6) Autel MaxiDas DS708.

"We have multiple factory scan tools. However, in a large number of cases, we go to the MaxiDAS first. This tool gives the absolute best cover in aftermarket scan tools for the dollar, bar none." This OE-level diagnostic solution was designed for the aftermarket and offers vehicle coverage for more than 30 domestic, Asian and European makes. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10176527. 

7) Uview Air Lift 550000.

The tool can be used on more than just a vehicle's cooling systems. "Another must-have tool. You need it to be able to leak test a cooling system, fill to the proper level and never start the engine." It eliminates airlocks and refilling cooling systems, including the heater core, and reduces the time it takes to do a cooling system service. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10101169.

8) National Electric Extend-A-Lite 30025 hood light.

This light allows 25 watts of fluorescent light to be positioned anywhere, even under the hood. "You don’t know what you miss when you can’t see it." The heavy duty anodized aluminum telescoping bar is 44". For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/11220038. 

9) ACDelco Inspection Camera ARZ604.

"This is another tool that is only limited by your imagination. It finds AC evaporator leaks and allows window diagnosis without removing the door panel " The inspection camera allows users to check tight spots where lighting and visual contact is limited. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/10297305.

10) Mountain MTN1012 socket set. 

This socket set works on SAE, metric, 6-point, 12- point, e-torx and square drive sockets. "It's a very cool socket set," Glenn Young notes. This complete kit is designed to allow the user to work in tight areas where standard ratchets can't. For more information on this product, go to: VehicleServicePros.com/11220040.

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