Tool Review: Tool Aid Sharktooth Sway Bar Pliers, No. 13570

March 22, 2024
Reviewed by Brian Culotta, shop foreman/master technician at Dave’s Auto Care in Willoughby, Ohio.

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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?

A: These locking pliers offer access in tight restricted areas without sacrificing clamping force via its unique-shaped jaw 

 

Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?

A: These pliers have sped up my removal time of conventional ball- and socket-style stabilizer bar links. Their thin jaw design allows access to the stabilizer bar link’s mounting stud. This allows quick removal of the fastening nut without worry of the stud spinning.   

 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?

A: No setup was required. The tool is ready to go once the package is opened.   

 

Q: How easy was it to use?

A: The tool operates like most other locking pliers. Very easy to use.   

 

Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?

A: The tool arrived in the typical clear plastic packaging with descriptive cardboard backing.   

 

Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual, and was the manual easy to understand?

A: No manual was included nor did I think one was necessary. The tool is self-explanatory for a professional in the automotive repair industry.   

 

Q: What features did you like?

A: The unique shark-tooth triangular-shaped thin jaw offers a new approach to replacing stabilizer bar links and other similar repairs.    

 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?

A: After a few uses, the teeth become damaged and worn. I believe that if a higher quality hardened steel was used, the tool would maintain its original grip much longerOnce the teeth are worn away, the tool does not perform well.   

 

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for? Please provide a few specific examples.

A: Primarily under-car suspension repairs. Where this tool shined the most for me was during stabilizer bar link replacement. Most standard locking pliers cannot fit into where these pliers can. 

 

Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool? If so, what are some new features compared to the old version? 

A: I have used these pliers for a few years now. I had a larger pair prior. This new one is a little bit smaller and offers more access.   

About the Author

Brian Culotta

Brian Culotta is a graduate of the Universal Technical Institute in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating, he started working for an independent car dealership as a lead technician for seven years. He then moved to a new job at an independent repair shop where he stayed for three years. He now works at Dave's Auto Care in Willoughby, Ohio, as the shop foreman and ASE Master L1, L3 technician.

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