High-tech tools on display at ISN’s Tool Dealer Expo

For the first time since 2019, ISN’s Tool Dealer Expo brought together mobile tool dealers, distributors, and vendors in Orlando, Fla. from June 30-July 2. Over 1,200 ISN customers registered for the event and attendees were excited to be back together in person.

“There’s just something about that buzz on the floor,” said Pete Peterson, president. “The more talk and the more noise, that means they’re buying!”

Tools and equipment with a high-tech element were a major trend at the tradeshow, from new tech in traditional hand tools, to a mobile app technicians can download to have access to the sensors on a vehicle. 

“We’re seeing a lot of technology driven applications,” said Peterson. “Supplies are coming out with new tools, equipment, and solutions to address age old problems with automobiles.”

New tool highlights

Some of the new or best-selling tools on display at the show were the following:

• ToolSol by LDS: An innovative insert bit extension set that provides an easy solution to adapt preferred drive tools to 1/4 hex bits.
• NEO Series headlamps by Ledlenser: The brand’s lightest and brightest line of athletic headlamps yet, that technicians can comfortably wear all day long.
• Cooling solutions by Hessair: Mobile evaporative coolers that have easy to use multi-function rotary control panel with independent functions.
• EPEQ Welder140 by Vanair: A 140A CC stick welder which combines the flexibility of lithium-powered welding with Vanair’s long history of providing top-level welding capabilities.
• One Hand Jack Set by Access Tools: Price conscious car opening kit that includes the basic tools needed to open any vehicle with speed and accuracy.
• Offers Button Clip Disconnect Tool by VIM Tools: A small specialty tool that fits securely and ergonomically in the palm of your hand. It is used to quickly disconnect fuel, EVAP, and DEF fittings with button-type connectors. It also works with most electrical connections on Asian vehicles.
• Handheld Automatic Tire Inflator by Ken-Tool: Features a backlit digital display, audible warning and two preset inflation settings. Allows the professional auto mechanic to auto inflate and deflate with “over pressure” setting and underinflation protection.
• Lithium battery applications by Clore Automotive: The company is expanding its coverage of LiFePO4 Lithium battery charging across a variety of its charger/maintainer models.
• MV7120 by Mityvac: A new multi-use fluid evacuator and dispenser that offers convenience and efficiency when servicing a wide range of vehicle system fluids.
• 44” RS Pro 8 Drawer Power Service Cart by Homak:  Constructed from 18-gauge steel and features an electric-powered tool drawer with slotted sides to efficiently store, organize, and charge your power tools in one place.
• 1” cordless impact wrench by Ingersoll Rand: Increases productivity, convenience and safety when tightening or loosening high-torque bolts with the tool’s powerful, cordless design.
• XD smoke machine by K-Tool: The KTIXD600T is two machines in one. Equipped with a built-in air compressor, the KTIXD600T can perform tests on both regular cars and light trucks.

Importance of in-person events

While many of us have gotten used to attending events on Zoom, it is nice to get out and go to in-person shows as well.

“Virtual shows are not a replacement for that physical connection. It feels like homecoming!" said Peterson. "Everyone is hugging each other, and they know each other and each other’s family, and that’s on the supplier side, and the customer side."

He notes that in-person shows allow ISN’s suppliers to demo products, reconnect with their customers, and make sales. 

“There’s a lot of training, a lot of new products, a lot of information around how to be successful,” said Peterson. 

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