Some repairs may look simple to complete, but as many technicians know, that’s not always the case. The same is true for equipment within the shop. Phil Founier, owner of Phil’s Auto Clinic in Hemet, California, reviewed Master Magnetics’ Magnetic ToolMat and can attest it’s very much unlike your average magnetic tool tray.
“Compared to typical magnetic trays that have been with us for so many years now, [the Magnetic ToolMat’s] benefit is in its conformable shape,” Founier says.
The Magnetic ToolMat is made of synthetic leather and consists of strong magnetics on both sides, enabling it to attach to flat and curved ferrous metal surfaces as well as wrapping around non-metal surfaces by attracting to itself.
For being “a simple device that holds tools and hardware in position,” Fournier says it improves organization for tear down and reassembly.
The tool mat is self-explanatory, Founier says, and is easy to use. It comes with a sewn-in handle, but Founier says it mostly gets left stuck to the side of his toolbox.
Its flexibility, along with its ability to conform to irregular surfaces are his favorite features.
“The powerful magnets allow it to cling to an uneven surface, even one that is partially nonferrous, like for example, an aluminum hood with steel hood hinges,” he says.
The tool mat comes in handy for any job where nuts and bolts are involved, particularly when working underneath a vehicle such as for a transaxle R&R, he says. Unlike typical magnetic trays that have a rigid structure, the Magnetic ToolMat is able to cling to a convenient spot within reach.
The magnets are also strong enough to hold tools such as wrenches and sockets, which he said is convenient when working on the bottom of a car where he often switches between 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm sizes. “You can stick [the tools] to the magnetic mat and have them close at hand to swap out,” he says.
He noted that his previous magnetic tray would often end up falling to the ground, scattering parts, nuts, and bolts everywhere. Fortunately, the Magnetic ToolMat doesn’t fall off.
Fournier hopes to discover whether the ToolMat will withstand the rigors of regular use, such as being sprayed with brake fluid, oil, coolant, etc.
As for improvements, Founier says “other than maybe making it larger to hold more tools and hardware, I’m not sure how you would improve on this design.”
