BEST Tools for New Aircraft Mechanics
If you’re just starting out as an aircraft mechanic apprentice or you’re getting ready to finish school, you’re probably wondering what tools you’ll actually need once you get out in the field.
Here is my list of the Top 10 tools I actually use on the job:
We’re assuming you already have the basics like screwdrivers, wrenches and socket sets. You need a good quality toolbox to work out of, but don’t go into debt getting the biggest fanciest box you can find. You’ll acquire what you actually need as you go and can expand your toolbox as needed.
🛠 1. Cordless Drill/ Driver
When you first start out, your IA doesn’t know what you’re capable of or what you can be trusted with. Your first tasks will most likely be opening and closing panels. If you’re doing so on anything bigger than a Cessna 150, you’re going to want a cordless driver to help you. Otherwise, your hands and arms will let you know about it…
If you prefer the yellow brand, I don’t think you’d go wrong with this one.
I have no preference really, everyone in my shop happens to use the red ones…
🛠 2. Safety Wire Pliers
Next up, your next task you’ll be given is likely safetying bolts and assemblies. You can do it without them, but life becomes so much easier with safety wire pliers. I recommend a pair with a large easy to use locking bar that are also reversible. I’m personally using the SK 7749 on the job, but my favorite so far are the Milbar 41W.
🚨NOTE: Supply chain issues continue and GOOD safety wire pliers have been hard to come by. Matco and Snap-On aren’t currently in stock. (Snap-On recently came out with a new version as well.) You might have to shop around to find a good pair, but I recommend a reversible set with more substantial locking bar like the Milbar 41W.
🛠 3. Duck Bill Pliers
I really don’t know where these pliers have been all my life, but duck bill pliers are my go to in many situations.
(I don’t own these, but other Ares and Channellock tools I own are solid.)
🛠 4. Soft Jaw Pliers
There’s multiple plugs and finishing hardware in aviation that you might need a little more oomph than using your fingers, but don’t want to scratch or mar the finish. Enter soft jaw pliers to the rescue, all the power of regular pliers without the damage.
Tsunoda Needle Nose Pliers
🛠 5. Flare Nut/ Line Wrenches
There are plenty of lines and hoses on aircraft whether for oil fuel hydraulic fluid or air. I prefer to use a line wrench whenever I can to protect these fittings. Replacing them is a pain and can be costly.
🛠 6. Low Profile Wrenches
Some jobs require a wrench, but you just have enough room for your normal set. Enter low profile wrenches. The video mentions the Grip Thin Wrenches, however I recently switched to these wrenches by Duratech. They are better than the Grip brand in every way EXCEPT they do not have the 1 1/8- 1 1/4″ wrench which is needed for garter filter nuts on the firewall. But any 1 1/8″ wrench will do the job.
🛠 7. Good Wire Cutters / Diagonal Cutters
You will have need for a good set of wire/ diagonal cutters every single day. Don’t cheap out! Make sure you buy a pair that can easily cut through 0.40″ safety wire and will last. I currently own the Doyle brand, but have used the Klein. Klein is my go to for any electrical hand tools. (I needed a good pair quick and ran down to Harbor Freight.)
🛠 8. Flush Cut Pliers
Many things in aviation are secured using zip ties, but nobody likes getting all scratched up by all the little tails left behind from using diagonal cutters. Get some flush cut pliers and save yourself some pain and blood.
🛠 9. Inspection Lights
It’s hard to do your job if you can’t see the job. I use various types and brands of lights on the job for different tasks. I always have an EDC light on me if all else fails.
🛠 10. Tool Apron
When you get a new airplane in for annual inspection, a ,multitude of things need to be done while everything is still warmed up. I prefer to use a tool apron to hold everything I need for that phase and I haven’t seen a tougher one yet than this one from SOE Tactical Gear. I’ve been using it for a year straight with no sign AT ALL of it giving out. Can’t say the same for other brands I’ve used over the years.
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