Tool Review: VIM Tools 2-pc Patented Locking Pliers, No. FRLP100
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Q: How did the tool function as far as saving you time?
A: Locking pliers are one of those things that are not needed every day, but are invaluable when you need them. These locking pliers have well-built, durable jaws that do a great job of gripping stripped fasteners.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?
A: Locking pliers are one of those items that, when the need arises for them, you can’t go without. Whether removing a striped fastener or simply holding one when a third set of hands is not available, they offer time savings that directly equate to increased productivity.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: Very. It has smooth operation and an easy release, which not all locking pliers have.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: Packaging was great, the two pliers came well boxed for shipping and arrived in a woven nylon carrying case with a Velcro clasp.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I loved the aggressive and well-constructed jaws. The teeth are well-defined and robust. The dual-purpose jaw design is a great feature that is not shared by many of the other locking pliers on the market. I also loved the release; other locking pliers have a secondary release that can be a challenge when the pliers are adjusted tightly.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: The only thing I can think of to improve it would be more lubrication of the adjusting screw during the assembly process, so it has a little smoother action out of the box.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: I used the larger set (FRLP7) to hold the busted ball stud on a sway bar end link, and it performed admirably. The smaller set (FRLP5) worked great for securing a jumper wire to the negative post of a battery during some electrical diagnostics. There are a million and one uses for locking pliers.
Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool? How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: Not this brand, but I own and have used many sets of locking pliers. The two features that set these VIM Tools products apart are the dual-purpose jaws and the ability to use a hex bit on the adjusting screw. This is a straightforward product that looks well-constructed.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?
A: I rate them a nine only because the adjusting screw on the small set was rough out of the box. With a little effort, it smoothed out right away, though.
The 2-pc Patented Locking Pliers, No. FRLP100, from VIM Tools are made of CRMO (chromemoly steel) and feature bi-directional jaws. A traditional locking jaw with vertical cut grooves in the jaw allows the tool to bite onto the head of stripped fasteners to easily remove them. The set contains both a 5” and 7” pair in a nylon carrying pouch.
About the Author
Erik Screeden
Technical and Multimedia Content Director
Erik Screeden is the Technical and Multimedia Content Director for the Vehicle Service & Repair Group. He has been in the automotive industry for over 25 years. During that time, Screeden was a technician. He started out at a Ford dealership and continued to several independent repair facilities as well as spent time in the specialty aftermarket where he had the opportunity to work at a GM-specific performance shop. After his time as a technician came to an end, Screeden transitioned into a role providing scan diagnostic and J2534 tool support. He was then able to parlay his experience as a technician and a support specialist and use that in several technical sales roles.
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