Top 10 Tools: Terry Elm, Bobby Likis Car Clinic Service

Dec. 22, 2014
Terry Elm shares his list of top tools that help him address drive-ability and electrical/electronic problems.

Shop: Bobby Likis Car Clinic Service

Technician: Terry Elm (ASE -certified master technician, L1, F1 and X1 certified)

Location: Pensacola, Fla. 

In addition to working for Bobby Likis Car Clinic Service, Elm also hosts a two-hour, nationally-broadcast car talk show once a week. While his main docus is driveability and electrical/electronic problems, Elm also updates and reprograms many various Asian, European and domestic control modules. 

1.) OTC CAN test box (DLC), No. 3415

"This is a real time-saver, because it instantly lets me know if the DLC is being powered up," says Elm. The tool's flashing LED shows which protocol it is communicating with, and the tool is also ideal for programming modules, as it shows vehicle voltage level. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12019100

2.) Snap-on Pass Thru Pro II, No. EETA113B

"I have used this J2534 device for programming since 2009," says Elm. "It never has let me down." The Snap-On Pass thru Pro II offers free software/firmware updates and is compatible with J2534-II. This unit also helps fix software-controlled driveability and emission issues, as well as programming new ECUs For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/10106024

3.) HP Business Class nc8230 Laptop w/XP

"Since most manufacturers still support XP for programming, I have to use it," says Elm. "I use five different laptops from XP, Windows 7 Pro to Windows 8 for all my information sites, as well as for PC Lexus, GDS scan tools and programming."

4.) Snap-on MODIS, Version 13.2

"This tool is used primarily for current ramping, O scope waveform testing/capturing, and occasionally as an enhanced scan tool," says Elm. It offers OEM-specific coverage for 45 domestic, Asian and European makes, as well as coverage for dozens of vehicle systems, including new technologies such as steering sensor, TPMS, suspension, park assist and hybrid power. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/11176534

5.) Snap-on Low Amps probe, No. EETA308D

"This is an excellent tool for testing an electrical component that draws current," says Elm, who adds that it ideal for use on blower motors, evap solenoids, fuel pumps and relative compression testing. The probe is compatible with most standard multimeters. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12017913

6.) Matco Tools Maximus Scan Tool

Elm says this tool is "loaded with enhanced Asian, domestic and European vehicle lines," and he appreciates its "very quick update rates." The tool features a 9.7" touchscreen and runs on Windows 7, allowing the user to utlize multiple applications simultaneously. Users can employ Bluetooth to connect to vehicle diagnostics, view graphs and record PID data, all while using wireless to gather repair information from the web. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/10879137

7.) Midtronics Power Change, No. PSC550

"This small voltage charger packs a steady, clean and stable charge," says Elm. In power supply mode, the PSC converts 120V AC line input into a virtually noise-free, nominal 13.4V DC output. In battery charger mode, the PSC delivers current up to the rated value for charging any voltage-depressed 12V lead-acid battery. Once the battery is fully charged, the PSC converts a 120 VAC line input into a virtually “noise free” 13.6 VDC output. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12017920

8.) Fluke DVOM 233/A

"Rated at a CAT IV and good for 1,000V, this unit has a detachable head for remote, easy viewing if you need to test circuits in trunk, or show customers 20' or 30' away," says Elm. When the display is attached to the meter body, the Fluke 233/A operates as a conventional multimeter. The detachable wireless display lets technicians find a comfortable position to view and record test data. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12019154

9.) Blue Link Mercedes CAN analyzer with Mongoose ISO/CAN pass thru device

"Since I work on a lot of problem Mercedes Benz for parasitic battery drain issues, this software is a must," says Elm. "It will look at every module on the CAN and test if any do not shut down and are staying awake." This PC-based software can be used as generic scan tool as well or used as a gateway for a remote programming from Blue Link Diagnostics, he says. For more information, visit: VehicleServicePros.com/12017831

10.) DeWalt LED flashlight, No. DCL510

"This tool has a long life, a rechargeable battery and a magnetic base," says Elm. "Because its light is super bright and it's compact, the flashlight is a great tool for when you are looking for hard to find wiring issues under dash." This worklight features a bright LED output of 130 lumen, and it offers a run-time of four hours. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12018591

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