Aircraft Mechanic Toolbox Tour

[@i.r.wayright1457]

I have nearly 50 years in the business (A&P, I.A.) and one thing I found VERY useful was a good quality, small digital camera. I would stick it in tight places, take a photo, then take it into the office and look at it on the computer monitor. Several times I was able to identify cracks that were not visible to the naked eye. You need to be able to zoom in close with software. I can also tell you when it is time to retire. When, after decades, your knees hurt from pulling planes (up to 6000 lbs) around by hand with a tow bar and getting up off a creeper 89 times a day. Then you stand in front of your tool box and ask yourself, "What in the hell did I come up here for?"

[@turdpike]

I.R. Wayright Uh oh, I already have that last thing happening to me!

[@stkdr]

I agree 100% about the camera. Most of the cell phones cameras are great. I use mine all the time for looking at damage like you described and also getting serial/part numbers.

[@i.r.wayright1457]

@Jhonny Abbes Drive a truck. I had two customers who could afford a single or a twin. They were truck drivers. Not owner/operators. They worked for a large firm.

[@eduprey1969]

I feel your pain retired here A&P too.

[@Empty7775]

I use the camera on my phone.

[@stkdr]

Dead on with the 1/4 statements. Ive been an A&P for almost 35 years on large aircraft. Ive got a set of 3/8 universal sockets I bought in the 80s and have never used them!

[@cdailey38115]

Going on 3yrs at FedEx as a aircraft mechanic and the older guys tell me window shop in there toolbox to see what I want and need but our tool crib provides a lot the stuff we need good video and well organized 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@poohbearvlogs6455]

@BI'm looking to get hired by FedEx too. Have you found anything out yet?

[@calkennedy8388]

i’m going into college next year for aircraft maintenance and i’m super excited! this video gave me a good idea as to what i’ll expect! thank you!

[@gairnokkillstryke3875]

Why college? I'm going to A&P at a local trade school (FAA approved.) total cost. 8,025.00 dollars. Course is 18 months.

[@sbryann18]

Gairnok Killstryke where do you live at im from California curious if theres any trade schools around here currently im looking into a community college also

[@Crazywaffle5150]

@@gairnokkillstryke3875 They only charge you 8k? Holy shit! My tech school wants 30k!

[@DisabledPrepper]

How did it go?

[@johntheaircraftmechanic4844]

I see what appears to be a DeHavilland sticker. I used to work on a pair of Otters on floats with the PT6 down in Key West, Florida. I like to see we have some similar tools. I also appreciate that you didn’t rag on Snap on for 20 minutes like some people do. You acknowledged the quality and moved on. I buy a lot of snap on, but mostly because of the convenience. They show up at work and I can take a nice 10 minute brake in A.C./heat

[@turdpike]

Glad you enjoyed the vid! Yeah DHC are my favourite airframe manufacturer I’ve worked on so far. Really enjoyed my time on them in the bush. Incredible airplanes

[@ltsgobrndniagre3endofquote525]

Thank you for the video. Former diesel mech here. Since you said bigger tools wouldn't really be necessary, that probably means my Mac 1/2 inch SVH14RBRT set wouldn't be used? Have a merry Christmas btw!

[@turdpike]

You will use it occasionally, must have it in your box but you will not use it near as much as your previous life

[@joshstaton508]

I’m an anotmotive tech and I’m jealous of the smaller amount of tools you have to have as compared to the automotive side. I like your organization.

[@turdpike]

Thanks! Yeah only needing SAE and usually 1/4” drive/small stuff at that is pretty nice. Allows a guy to have fewer but maybe nicer tools at that.

[@leemorales3884]

Same here, automotive/ Heavy/ Diesel Mechanic.. working on military equipment and we use everything from 1/4" to 3/4" all the way up to heavy 1" impacts and massive wrenches beyond 34mm. Love it though.

[@eduprey1969]

No the aircraft need special tool which cost a lot of money and if we were to buy them we would need a truck.

[@tombob671]

Congratulations on a common sense approach to tools

[@turdpike]

Tom Burgess thanks!

[@AlexanderEddy]

Cool box, I wish mine had more shallow drawers like yours. Since I'm avionics I don't really have any huge tools that I need deep drawers for.

[@matthewmartin7639]

I am studying to be an aircraft mechanic (hopefully one more year before I graduate) and I literally just purchased that snap on ratcheting screwdriver with my student discount. Best tool in my toolbox without a doubt. I have mostly cheap to mid-range tools but there are a select few I spent the big bucks on. If you're smart with those discounts you get a great tool that you will use, has a lifetime warranty, and you won't go broke. Everything else is either second hand or harbour freight.

[@turdpike]

Matthew Martin agreed, I wasn’t able to take advantage of that discount as much as I should have but hindsight is always 20-20! But in the end, you won’t know which ones are worth spending $ on until you get some time in on whatever machines you’ll be working on. By no means should you spend all your savings on tools!

[@psoon04286]

Nicely laid out tools. Very good practice to store your tools in an orderly fashion....makes finding them a lot easier and you’ll notice something’s missing at a glance. BTW, I’m avionics and I have a small collection of 1/2” drive tools besides a set of 3/8” and of course a full complement of 1/4” drive stuff. If you’ve ever replaced the igniter plugs of a B767 or even the A320s you’ll know what I mean🤪☺️

[@edwardarruda7215]

Got out in the early 80s. Loved the work. However my passion was science. I have the exact tiny ratchet, great.

[@catlikepizzagaming8280]

Nice tool kit mate appreciate the tour, mine is looking a bit tired at the moment, been out of the game for 10 years or so and not looking to ever return if I had my way, reckon I would need to spend 2k to get it to the point I want it Couple of points Didn’t See magnet or Mirror I used my 3/8 quite a bit but only 1/2 to take out spark plugs I loved my snap on long screw philips screwdriver as well unfortunately someone else loved it more Good sized roll cab, I went a bit small Seen some guys with 72inch but that is stupid big when space in a hanger can be at a premium

[@LEGOCAMARO]

1/4 is dominate in the collision repair as well can strip your car to just a shell with drivetrain in it with just 1/4.

[@justarandomvideos6594]

I wish i can become a successful aircraft mechanic like you guys :( so i can help my family and achieve my goals

[@Artiscrafty]

👍love your review. I’m ordering a MR4C Ratchet, for the pass 6 months I’ve been trying to figure out which ratchet i like the are crapsman and I think its time to step up. Thanks again for your review🙏

[@briant216]

for the speed handle...... I had a tube of Pro-Seal that was about to expire, so i mixed it and set my speed handle in it. super comfy and gave me a great platform to put some weight on it without stressing my hand.

[@turdpike]

Good tip!

[@RallyRat]

Great idea tying your die grinder collet wrenches together!

[@frederickshandley5408]

Nice commentary and realistic approach to tools. Txu for making this video very informative.

[@ryanbaircraftmechanicandsm7524]

Sweet box and tools. I am currently in a aircraft maintenance school

[@turdpike]

Aviation Maintenance Tool Man thanks, good luck in school!

[@JPZLS805]

I work at a Navy Squadron for H60's. just passing through. looking at Tool Control Videos

[@Fighterofthenightman_]

Awesome box jobs looks sick

[@turdpike]

Pays the bills anyway lol. The fun wore off a while ago!

[@michaelguevara8015]

Nice You sure get by with less tools than i do Working as a heavy equipment mechanic i got to have the full spectrum from 1/4 drive to 1in Company provides most tools bigger than 3/4 but like you said it’s nice to have your own

[@turdpike]

Yeah all our stuff is tiny in comparison to what you deal with!

[@genegrant4332]

My son got his A&P on his 18 birthday. Got a job the next day at the airplane grave yard outside of Tucson. He owned zero tools. I stumbled onto a military auction site and found an A&P airforce tool box. It had every tool he was required to get but one. It was a pelican rolling case completely shadow boxed and all the tools were American made Snap on mac wright and a couple craftsman. 350 bucks delivered. The only tool I had to buy was a Ford wrench. Not sure about that one but I found a ford square jaw pipe wrench from a model T for 10 bucks on ebay.

[@Teflenack]

Wow, what age did he started? Im interested for being an A&P or AME, can you tell me how your son got it in early age?

[@DoTs_Vaporized]

I'm also very interested ^

[@DoTs_Vaporized]

@@Teflenack I just turned 17 about 2 months ago, I dont know much or where I wanna go with it. What is an A&P and AEM what are the differences

[@DoTs_Vaporized]

@@Teflenack AME* as you can tell I'm an amateur

[@Fly85Guy]

Love me some aviation, small tools i have every 1/4 drive socket type they have, blew too muck on wrenches but cant just have a few must have full set... 4 way wrenches 30*60* offset a must have.... valve grind compound saves lives lol

[@Fly85Guy]

You know your shit, flush cuts, have everything ++, GA vs comercial i miss my GA but commercial pays to well harbor frieght stubby wrench set the one with 7/8 to 2 inch if you need to barrow it twice..the third time it better be on order lol

[@yogib37]

I bought a smaller craftmen roller so I can put in those "not supposed to have" fasteners so I would have a nice supply. do a check tool box not mine LOL if the FAA wanted to do it. also Milbar reversible wire twisters are the best you can get. I had a pair of Snap on Heavy duty side cutters, and I was not in aviation and my job travel and I needed some tools so I had it with me forgot to put it back in my travel tool box which gets check and I had it in my carry on.. I lost a nice pair cause TSA took it away. I bet they kept it themselves LOL

[@bricofast]

Great vídeo thanks, knipex wanderfull tools they are magnific. Wiha wera gedore the best quality and biutiful very strong tools.😍😍😍

[@phtevenmolz5030]

I know this video is several years old at this point, but as a rotary wing mech that works on cargo and utility platforms, I envy your use of 1/4 drive. I use it a lot too, but my box is also stocked up to 3/4 drive and it still feels inadequate at times.

[@turdpike]

Ahh see there’s your problem, you’re a spinny wing guy!

[@Bart-kd6ff]

Cool box man, Isn't foam easy to see that things are getting missed? Very nice!

[@lexel90]

about ratchets you should take a look at wera, they have a pretty small still strong 1/4" ratchet with the "zyklop metal" and a tiny bit ratchet i have the 1/4" ratchet with the zyklop speed in a nice textile box with extensions and stuff and the bit ratchet in the toolcheck plus set, wich is a compact set of high quality bits, 6point sockets, converter from hex to square drive and a tiny screwdriver handle both sets are just rly nice for what i do with it, you should take at least a look ;)

[@turdpike]

LeXeL i will have to check it out, thanks!

[@dray22222]

Those offset/angle wrenches are not the same as snap on. They appear to be a 15/60 while snap on offers a 30/60 degree ends. Its nice having all different angles 15/30/60 to get some ridiculously placed bolts.

[@turdpike]

Kristian Eppen you are correct, they are not the same. But I’ve still yet to come across something I couldn’t reach with these. Still struggle to justify spending that kind of money on the snappy’s

[@SteevEdits]

+1 on the snap-on ratcheting screwdriver. HOWEVER, I use the stubby one everyday over the full-size one because the damn cap ALWAYS comes off when im loosening a screw/nut. Probably just gunna throw some 1300L on it and call it a day! Nice box!

[@turdpike]

Steev ya a stubby is next on my hit list, them things are slick!

[@SteevEdits]

Yeah it's the best screwdriver ive ever owned. The handle is small so you can put some good torque on it, plus it feels perfect in your hand. Also, the shanks are interchangeable which makes adapting to different applications such a breeze.. 10/10 would recommend

[@davidmarco302]

Steev I can see why it wouldn't work

[@jacobfranklin820]

I work at kalitta air. Getting my tools up. Just got two new torque wrenches. Still waiting to get back from cal. Ughh lol

[@frankbutaric3565]

An aircraft mechanic should not have torque wrenches in their toolbox if working for a larger company. If you do have one it must be calibrated at least once a year.

[@jackdaniels7913]

Thank you for the insight it's very helpful on this next adventure! 🥃cheers🍻

[@RipRoaringGarage]

Whats funny is that I never considered working on GA aircraft. I worked on heavies, and it still rubbed off on me a LOT (think using the stupid foam on every single drawer..which Im redoing now because I got a new box...and I work on cars, but man, FOD is still on my brain. I will shut down the shop and look for that lost staple or chunk or broken pry bar lol) I am moving away from relying on foam, since its a pain to upgrade to new tools, something that in aviation is less of an issue. I could take apart a 707 with a 7 drawer Snapon box. For cars, I have two massive toolboxes, probably 25 drawers total (but Im also disabled, so lots of tools that were once a luxury are now a ncessity). I guess Im getting old because I have fond memories of airplanes (although the smell of jet exhaust IMMEDIATELY brings back the bad memories LOL...so youtube vids are perfect!)

[@TheTech660]

Gotta a lot of Detail in your Craft! Thanks for this! Got a Sub Bro!

[@turdpike]

TheTech660 thanks man!

[@mattmenendez721]

As an equipment and truck mechanic I have 13,000 in non truck brand tools and I'm in my first year. I can't believe you can fix airplanes with those few tools. Do you do engine work or electrical troubleshooting?

[@turdpike]

Matt Menendez yeah we don’t have it nearly as bad as you guys! And yes we do electrical, engines, hydraulics, airframe, you name it. There are specialized people for each of those fields, but I work at a line maintenance base so we touch everything we have time for. Mostly troubleshooting and light inspections where I work. As far as the tools, I’m not kidding when I say 1/4, basic wrenches and screwdrivers are king. We do use 3/8’s occasionally. But we aren’t expected to buy those one-off specialty tools that each airplane or engine often requires. Like everything else in the business they are astronomically expensive. Another good thing is bulk of the machines have only SAE sized fasteners. No need to worry about about metric anything

[@JM-qy9pi]

Good video I like the part where you said Canadian Pesos

[@harveysmith100]

Nice tour. Really nice to have a none biased owner. Some cheap tools are OK for some jobs. Credit only when it's due, I agree with your comments on the Snap-on ratchet screwdriver and the Knipex products, they are worth the extra money. Quarter inch drive is probable fine for aviation as you don't suffer so much with rusted on nuts. Also the quality of the hardware used in aviation is so much better than your average car or truck, in addition planes that fly above a certain altitude tend to operate in a dryer environment, so again less prone to rust. Nice box, spend your money on the tools, not the box! You have it the right way around.

[@turdpike]

Harvey Smith thanks for the input! Ya I can't wrap my head around how some people are willing to go into massive debt for tool truck branded stuff, when alot of times they aren't required. Indeed the quality of the hardware we use is typically better, and less prone to rust. Biggest thing is weight savings though, smaller fasteners are more than enough to hold together aluminum or composite materials. For us 1/4 inch is king! Even for the big stuff, I've never seen a torque value over 120ft/Lb.

[@harveysmith100]

Interesting. I forgot about the weight aspect, makes sense. The tool issue is a whole other massive subject. Marketing. Very clever subject that has been perfected. They know how to trigger parts of the brain, desire, insecurity, greed etc.

[@turdpike]

Harvey Smith You've got that absolutely spot on! Was kind of my intention of this video, hopefully show some up and comers that they don't need to buy into that mindset of needing to best of the best of everything

[@harveysmith100]

Good man, help the younger guys. I was told just buy cheap tools until you find out what you use all the time (ratchets etc) then buy quality of the most used. The spare cheap tools can live at home or in the car. Take care of the PT6's

[@williamsuleyman3018]

I noticed the Canadian tire maximum black tool box behind,,I bought one on sale for 800 $ in Calgary Alberta and just about everything Canadian Tire along with Princess Auto sell,,Back in the UK now and everyone asks me were did I by my tools from as they find everything is top quality and want to buy the same,,Oh how I miss those stores

[@turdpike]

william suleyman nothing equivalent in the UK?! Sorry to hear that! They sure are life savers- everything always seems to be on sale with them too!

[@williamsuleyman3018]

@@turdpike Very true always looking forward to the flyer on a friday night

[@psoon04286]

Have a look at the Stahlwille line of wrenches (or spanners as you call them across the pond). They are not hefty, well finished and certainly up to the job. I do shop at Canadian Tire and Princess Auto for economy reasons, but for the tools that you’ll use often and that will not give you grief and frustrations.....pay a little more - Snap-on for their sockets and ratchets, side cutters, Knippex for their slip-joint pliers.

[@Crazywaffle5150]

Cool. I was a aircraft sheet metal mechanic before being laid off. Thought about taking A&P mechanic classes. Tell I looked at the bill. It's 30k and unsure if the school bill is worth it. Also I'm unsure if layoffs are common there as well.

[@turdpike]

Yeah all of us in the industry are taking a kicking right now... I’m thankful at our base we’re not laid off but down to 50% time right now. Who knows when things will be back to normal, that’s the scary part!

[@josephburton92]

Hey great video man I appreciate you taking the time to show us your set up! Quick question man, I’m a hydraulic guy in the Air Force and just finished my writtens for the A&P I’m going back to the states soon for the oral and practical. Question is I don’t really know much outside of hydro and electrical , did you go to school? Do you think it would be beneficial to go to school or does it not teach you much? 8 years experience.

[@turdpike]

Thanks for the input! As far as your question- it’s hard for me to comment as I’m Canadian and don’t quite now how all the schooling works anyway down there for what you guys call an A&P. If it’s anything like here, I believe ex air force mech’s here would still be better off going to school to just get the exams over with that our governing body mandates (Transport Canada, like your FAA). And not sure about there but as far as I know air force time here can’t count towards civilian time as mechanics... it’s dumb. But ya I wish I could confidently answer your question but I just don’t know how it works there

[@blink808ya]

Yeah man I was in the US marine corps and got my A&P before I got out. School can teach you a lot if you haven't had much engine experience especially piston engines, and also the FAA standards which is way different than what you are use to. But if you can find a part time gig while in school, you will learn more doing that.

[@jonomano3992]

Same. Airframe sheet metal structures dude and Hyd guy. Im about to get out but all of my buddies here are saying if you want to go commercial or get hired by corporations you're going to NEED your A&P. That being said i have buddies who don't have their A&P's but are doing contracting jobs. 4k dollars every biweekly paycheck.... Im hoping I could get that soon. Good luck man!

[@jchrg2336]

By now you can do it yourself... making and maintaining and in some cases re-creating objects that can fullfill the ''acension''

[@victorortega2718]

Damn I just started my first job in aviation as an a&p ... and after seeing your vid I realized im not even close to having enough tools but good vid

[@turdpike]

Don’t feel that way, I’m 5 years in so I’ve had time for this. I didn’t start with much either- its not always about having the most tools. Just learn along the way whats worth spending your money on and what isn’t

[@Crazywaffle5150]

How are you liking it?

[@victorortega2718]

@@Crazywaffle5150 man learning like hell! Lol i like it tho

[@justarandomvideos6594]

Hey man im graduating as an aircraft mechanic next year after this quarantine im from Philippines 🇵🇭 Any advice do i need to be smart to be aircraft mechanic i hope i can find my dream job on overseas hopefully on us or canada this is my biggest dream I hope ican become successful to help my mom and siblings

[@AircraftTech2024]

Good luck hope everything goes great for you, I will also be graduating next year and will start working as an A&P, hope it's all worth it.

[@juandelacruz1749]

Good luck to you! Don't buy set and expensive brand. Maximize and explore the usage of your tools. Big box are less experience... Small box....skilled! Parang kutsara lang yan na pwedeng gamitin kahit walang tinidor. Always remember it is not the tools that make the job done

[@juandelacruz1749]

Pagkatapos ng covid baka mag retire na ko. So for sale na tools ko.

[@juandelacruz1749]

Look for a company na nagbibigay ng training para ma enhance your technical knowledge. LEARN HOW TO READ AND UNDERSTAND THE AMM.

[@justarandomvideos6594]

@@juandelacruz1749 hello sir musta po bakit po nag reretire nakayo saan company po kayo??

[@AndrewBoundy]

Using this to complete my motorcycle kit - had most but a few I didn't know about. Why is 12-point such a big thing> I thought 6-point was stronger so graduated to them - is it for getting into tight spots as they have an easier connection? Thanks for the video (bit late to this party).

[@turdpike]

12 point isn’t really big outside of the aviation business and say some performance engine building. Many 12pt fasteners I see everyday while at work. Main reasons I think being: -the heads can be physically smaller size -when working “blind” a 12pt socket will slip onto the fastener much easier -actually higher torque yield capabilities as the 12pt socket on a 12pt fastener has much more surface contact than 6pt. I’d say the good majority of the more ‘critical’ bolts on aircraft we see are 12pt bolts, ie engine mounts/prop bolts/turbine stub shaft bolts

[@AndrewBoundy]

@@turdpike Gracias señor Pike.

[@C7eeN]

Are aircraft beginning to use metric fasteners, or is most stuff still SAE?

[@jethro9341]

We have to shadow our boxes. Its a lot of work but I would do it even if its not required. Not only for FOD, but my tools are my livelihood and shadowing protects my investment.

[@Crazywaffle5150]

Other aircraft workers tend to have sticky finger.

[@SynysterGoose]

You should specify what type of aircrafts you work on. I use 3/8 drive all the time on crjs and erjs

[@turdpike]

Synyster Shadows I wrench on Saab 340’s, 1900’s, King Airs of all types, DHC-2/-3/-6’s, Navajo’s and a 185. I suppose I should have said that in the video

[@SynysterGoose]

turdpike I was focused on the tools lol it's a nice set up

[@Volfas]

which knipex wrench pliers size do you use the most? I am looking to get 2, maybe a 12 and 7?

[@turdpike]

I’d say I use all 3 of my different sizes equally. If you can afford it, just get em

[@Artiscrafty]

PLease tell me the width. Of your box. You mention 24 in deep but I didn’t catch the width

[@turdpike]

56” wide!

[@Justdoit.527]

very informative ,thank you .I am new comer to state and I was wondering which store has those mechanic tools regarding quality and money wise ?thanks

[@turdpike]

Not sure- I’m Canadian. Some others in the comments will have to help you out

[@favioescalon528]

Youre not required to have them organized in foam? I thought every aircraft mechanic was to have foam cutout for every tool they had.

[@turdpike]

Favio Escalon not the case no. It’s more up to each shop to enforce something like that

[@favioescalon528]

@@turdpike ha, that sounds pretty nice then. I have to say i liked your tools especially your wrenches!

[@RTO_Tech]

In GA they don’t require it at most shops

[@BEARDEDYAKIN]

Sweet tour man. Nice box..

[@turdpike]

BEARDED YAKIN thanks!

[@BEARDEDYAKIN]

turdpike... No problem bro keep the vids coming

[@MrHaiser]

Very informative!!

[@turdpike]

thanks buddy, check out some of my other stuff if you're interested

[@jpbiscaro8694]

I noticed that you had gray canada tools. What do you think of the quilaty, are they worth the price?

[@turdpike]

JP Biscaro the wrenches I bought to treat myself, and they are beautiful. They feels great, fit tight, and seem to work just fine. Now worth the price? Meh.... Only on sale I’d say. The sockets are the same story.

[@jpbiscaro8694]

@@turdpike do they go on sale often? Thank you for the reply

[@jerryvelasco1474]

Need to upgrade that flashlight. Lol Should get a rechargeable streamlight, maybe 2. There great high lumens and candle output and save you big money on having to replace batteries all the time.

[@turdpike]

Jerry Velasco yeah it is old school, I’ll check it out, thanks!

[@drgreene1013]

Do you ever need or use lots air tools? Like impacts or air hammers? Coming from an automotive background I’m curious. How about any diagnostic equip like fuel pressure gauge, oil pressure gauge, DVOM or any sort of “scan” tool for electronics?

[@turdpike]

Mike yes we do use air quite often. All sorts of drills, grinders, rivet guns to name a few. As far as diagnostic equipment, it all depends on the shop you work at and the type of aircraft you run. In our hangar there isn’t per se any scan tools we can use, and if there were the company would most certainly have to provide one for us because the cost. Certain units on our most ‘modern’ aircraft, (Saab 340’s) do have limited self troubleshooting functions built into them but it is usually very limited. The more modern machines/airliners do have complete maintenance diagnostic systems in them themselves, which would be nice but I’m not familiar with any of them. As far as basic stuff ie pressure gauges and stuff, most guys will have basic sets for different uses and pressures. Air pressure gauges and fluid. But as far as big tooling items specific to one airframe or say one engine type are usually provided by your employer because the costs involved with anything in aviation are staggering. Hope this answered your question!

[@nickphillips4398]

Hey man Auto mechanic here. Can I ask who makes that headlamp? Mine just died out, it was a cheap $20 one. I want something better

[@turdpike]

Nick Phillips Steelman is the brand, probably could find on Amazon. But I got mine from the local Mac truck

[@jchrg2336]

Are snap-on tools now a day better then mac tools or stanley tools?

[@jchrg2336]

I need to stay updated Because i't's always cool to know.

[@dongheesong7684]

I will start working as a Heavy overhaul A&P in December. Any more tool recommendations for the heavy overhaul A&P tech? (C and D checks on Boeing 767 mostly) Can you tell us more about the types of aircraft you work on?

[@turdpike]

Dth Song Hi! Sorry that is one thing I should have mentioned in the video. I’m not a heavy, I work at a line maintenance base for our company. We don’t do huge checks but still look after all the smaller ones leading up to say a 4000hr. We don’t run anything too special, Saab 340’s, Beech 1900, King Air 100/200/300/350, De Havilland Canada DHC-2,-3,-3T,-6, Piper PA31-350’s and Cessna 185. At my current base we only service the 340’s, 1900 and a few King Air 300-350’s. As far as tools for heavy maintenance, first and foremost get yourself good flashlights and mirrors. You’ll need em. Next would likely have to be a good drill, (preferably a smaller 12v), good screw extractors, a bunch of plastic scrapers, and decent screwdrivers. The rest I imagine you could get away with standard stuff, you’re not gonna know really what you need need until you get some time under your belt at your new job. Hope this helps!

[@dongheesong7684]

TY for the quick reply.

[@battlebob]

Dont worry to much the guys youll work with, will have what you need. Pro tip make a list of what you use and if you use it twice buy it. Its worked for me.

[@user-ky3wp6gc5z]

No tool shadows? How do you know you didnt forget a tool?

[@turdpike]

Norbie Winiarski inventory after each job and I know exactly everything I have. In a perfect world yes I would do that but thats a lot of wasted space that I can’t afford/don’t feel I need to upgrade yet

[@user-ky3wp6gc5z]

turdpike whatever works man!

[@PARABOLA1966]

LOL... First, you definitely don't need a Snap ON toolbox, but thanks for the clarification.

[@turdpike]

9 LAZARUS yeah I would never buy a Snap on box

[@bradmacdowell6583]

Do you happen to have the part# for those Mac high leverage cutters? Looking to pick something like that up. Thanks.

[@turdpike]

Brad MacDowell sure, they are P301807

[@bradmacdowell6583]

Awesome thanks

[@BoostedFromFactory]

Tekton on Amazon sells the identical ones of about 20$ Canadian

[@henkdemetsenaere1374]

I just wanna say your dog is beautiful

[@wakimdavid2094]

what are the needed steps to work in the aviation field in Canada? knowing that I'm a holder of a BE and ME in Aviation from Ukraine. thank you in advance.

[@turdpike]

Hi, apologies but I’m unsure of what a BE and ME are. Are they maintenance licences over there? If so, the unfortunate thing about here is that it won’t be recognized by our governing body (Transport Canada) and thus you will need to complete the Canadian licensing process from scratch. This does not mean you can’t get a job right away as a mechanic, it’s just that your time and experience over there won’t count towards your AME (aircraft maintenance engineer) license over here. You can still be an apprentice until then no problem. There is a labour shortage for mechanics right now especially, many places are desperate for people with any experience. In your case too I know of some places (that because of the events in your country) are looking specifically for Ukrainians to hire to get them started over here. Like a program from the government that gives companies a grant if they hire Ukrainians. I’d be more than happy to help you if you have any other questions or want more information. Is there a better/more direct way you can be contacted?

[@azewo1438]

I make 23 an hour working in a factory but I really want to become A&P mechanic. Is it worth me making the jump?

[@tacdriver22mk2]

If you're in the us school is about 2 years without .mil experience and then we start at 19-28/hr depending on job and location. Top out for American, delta etc is $54-60/hr and you get flight benifits or FedEx/ups top out after 5-6 years for $65-70/hr. I just graduated and am about to start at a regional for $21/hr + flying for free anywhere I want, hoping to get in with American or FedEx in 1-4 years

[@TJNinneman]

Really great walk through. Almost that entire box is SAE. Do modern aircraft still use standard fasteners rather than metric?

[@turdpike]

TJ Ninneman I can’t speak for brand new machines as the ‘newest’ I’ve ever wrenched on was built in 98’, but I believe they are still SAE. Standardized across the board is what the industry is after, also the cost for manufacturers of machines and parts to re-tool to make metric fasteners would be astronomical. We’ll be stuck using SAE for a long while yet!

[@johntheaircraftmechanic4844]

Depends on place of manufacture. Diamond (based out of Europe somewhere) has lots of metric shit. Dolphine (I think that’s how it’s spelled) a helicopter manufacturer out of Sweden I’d like to say uses metric as well

[@joses.colonpagan2575]

Hi i am a AMT student and have a discount wt snap on and really want to take advantage of it. I am planning to buy some Snap on Ratchet Standard and Long handle on both 1/4 and 3/8 which one would you recommend me? Thanks i have been eyeing out the locking flex one but have no experience wt buying snap on before

[@turdpike]

For 1/4 I’d get both standard and locking flex head if you could. 3/8 doesn’t really matter as much as you won’t use it as often. Could go either way there but I wouldn’t say you need both in 3/8

[@joses.colonpagan2575]

Thanks a lot man

[@joses.colonpagan2575]

Ans what about the long hangle ones?

[@turdpike]

@@joses.colonpagan2575 short/standard length you’ll use more of. Up to you for long one, doesn’t necessarily have to be Snap-on. But yes an assortment of ratchets isn’t a bad idea

[@joses.colonpagan2575]

Thanks a lot man

[@royalwilson6640]

Im a 49 year old private pilot and I wanna go back to school and finish my A&P certificate, so I can work on my own plane when I finally buy one and of course, work on them as well you guys have any advice.The nearest school is 3 hours away. wife is cool with it, but what can I expect in 2020 as far as jobs go. ....Be serious when you reply, If you guys have your A&P Im going to really evaluate your reply to what I really end up doing, Thanks in advance

[@turdpike]

Myself I can’t speak for the American market as I’m Canuckistanian, but here we are in hot demand now. The baby boomers are retiring and my generation appears to not wanna fill the void with trade jobs. I see immediate job postings all over online now, which 8 years ago when I was starting was not the case. I believe you guys are in the same boat- a big shortage of both pilots and mechanics is looming over the industry as a whole, at least here in NA. I’d do some searching before you commit obviously, but my gut says the pendulum is swinging in our favour recently.

[@royalwilson6640]

Thank you Sir, Im going for it, what the hell do I have to lose?

[@super5oldier139]

Where did you get the magnetic snap on logo?

[@turdpike]

Was a sticker actually, someone bought a sticker sheet off the truck

[@austycup]

Where did you attended college? And did you get a 2 year degree or 4 ?

[@turdpike]

Austin Everett I went to Centennial College in Toronto, 2yr program back in 2010-2012

[@chriswalker143]

turdpike how is it I love planes since I was 7 I’m from Toronto to

[@turdpike]

chris walker the program or the job?? As a career its like anything else, highs and lows. We’re in huge demand now and it’s only going to get worse as the industry inevitably grows. I was the same as you, just had an interest in aircraft since I was little, and loved working with my hands and wrenching on stuff so it made sense for me to try it

[@anthonylittlebighorn]

"Im not an avionics guy" - every AP ever 😂

[@andrexipita]

does the FAA allow you to keep in your toolbox calibrated tools like calipers? because EASA doesn´t

[@turdpike]

ANDRE_xipita I can’t speak for the FAA as I’m Canadian and under Transport Canada’s regime, but we can keep calibrated tools like torque wrenches, calipers, multimeters and etc.. as long as they get re-certified every year and are tracked. Usually employers pay to get them done for you if you have the tool. We can also keep non- calibrated stuff, as long as the have a “for reference only” sticker or placard attached. Obviously we wouldn’t use non-calibrated tools for critical jobs, but some things come in handy to have that aren’t certified for lesser important jobs.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

How can one get started in aircraft mechanics?

[@turdpike]

Yota Doug's Tool Collecting Channel Same as most other professions, going to school for it is the easier route. Many colleges offer aircraft maintenance training. Depending on what country you are living in will dictate how long and what kind of training you'll need and also apprenticeship hour requirements. Is it something you are interested in??

[@Crazywaffle5150]

Look up tech schools near you, call and ask. The tech school near me charges 30k of that class. Their most expensive classes.

[@BoostedFromFactory]

Can you tell me where you got the Universal 12 point 1/4 socket set? I really don't want to spend the 290$ to 300$ doll hairs from snap on.

[@turdpike]

Adnan Mine are a Canadian tool brand called Gray Tools. They run seasonal sales and I got those on sale for like 80 doll hairs versus the couple hunny regular. Was a hell of a deal. You’ll have to monitor the website, maybe you’ll get lucky

[@tiffanyhwang1738]

I wonder how much does aircraft mechanics make?

[@turdpike]

I wonder myself lol. A comfortable living anyway, like anything there are a lot of different scenarios. Some more, some less. All depends. How’s that for a convoluted answer?

[@tiffanyhwang1738]

@@turdpike good enough lol I have a friend just graduated from aircraft school but probably can't find a job now given the current situation

[@EromliG1995]

great video

[@yamahaguy1732]

Now is this commercial aviation or general aviation

[@turdpike]

Commercial

[@yamahaguy1732]

@@turdpike how are you liking the career I’m taking generals in high school right I’m about halfway through generals 1

[@turdpike]

It’s a job, depends on so many variables. I work mostly line maintenance, some heavy. Don’t do line maintenance if you can’t handle things not going to plan, or if you like consistency. You walk in the door and each day is different and evolves minute by minute. Don’t do heavy if you don’t like monotonous jobs. Depending on the company the pressures on you/ your coworkers can be anywhere from comfortably manageable to downright absurd. So when applying try to sniff out the culture of the place before maybe committing. Or better yet know someone already there that can give you the real vibe. It’s all in what you make of it. Pros and cons to any job. You have to have a love for it though as there are far better paying jobs out there for a fraction of the responsibility. I’ve had all sorts of unforgettable experiences so far, some good some bad, but at the end of the day I still enjoy the challenge. Plus we do get to do some pretty cool shit.

[@yamahaguy1732]

@@turdpike yeah I know what you mean I have quite a few classmates who have dads that work at American where most of us plan to go and they say a lot of the time they just sit around playing cards and whatnot but at the end of the day any job will get boring after awhile at least you get pretty good pay in this industry

[@WWEisTooReal]

Should I go for ame “e” or “m”? Will I find jobs in both or is one more preferred in the industry?

[@turdpike]

Don Gonsalves the job market is currently great- and it’s only gonna get better. So I’d say whatever it is you see yourself preferring. Do you like electrical over mechanical?

[@MrPopo-bd1ix]

Cost? Cost? Cost??? How much you spend on all that and where do i get them for cheap? Starting with the toolbox itself...

[@turdpike]

Mr. Popo toolbox itself was I think about $1700 CAD. Tools are a whole other story, my best guess for everything I had when this was filmed is probably around 6k. That help at all??

[@turdpike]

Mr. Popo as far as where to get them cheap- where do you live? I tend to never buy anything full price, I always wait until what I want is on sale. Also Amazon does have some good deals from time to time

[@robswrenches9501]

Thanks for the tour turdpike. That's an interesting handle. 😀 I like the box for the drawer length and the configuration as well. What is the cabinet width? I think that I missed it.

[@turdpike]

It's 24" deep and 54" in width I believe, 12 drawers total. For the price I couldn't find anything really comparable, its a pretty stout box. Weighs 500 pounds empty itself. Big wheels and casters feel great, rolls better than some of the snappy ones in our hangar. Only complaint is they could have cut the top to fit better. Hard to tell from video but the stainless top floats around a bit, and theres a gap where crap builds up on the top of the box. Ahh well, something I could fix myself just haven't!

[@robswrenches9501]

turdpike That was a good deal. I could really use a box like that. I'm probably gonna stick with US General for the price I guess. I'm a weekend warrior, it's not my career. Thanks for the speedy reply.👍

[@floridaliferich]

Do you work at Pratt? I see the logo on your box. I live in FL but I'm from CT.

[@turdpike]

Richard Nunez Nah I don't work for Pratt, I'm just a regular line A&P (or AME's as we call them) for a regional airline in Saskatoon, SK, Canuckistan

[@salvopulvi]

Hi I'm a 32 years experienced Air Force Aircraft Mechanic. I'm sorry but this is a great example how to NO organize an aircraft mechanic tool box. In a perfect world it's impossible to remind how many tools you use during a maintenance operation. You have a lot of visualization so you have a great responsibility to give the right example to the new people that want to join our big family.

[@turdpike]

Again, tell that to a guy who spent 10k of his own money on a shiny Snap-On box. Tell him he can only fill about half of it up because he needs proper shadowing matts installed. He’ll have to spend 15k next time I guess on a bigger box so he can store all his tools. Or tell him he needs to write down on a sheet every last socket or pin extractor tool he used on a small task. All the while the aircraft is sitting on the ground not making money, and he’s got the owner of the company standing over his shoulder tapping his foot wondering why he’s not finished the job yet. I know it’d be ideal to have systems in place for all mechanics, but not only is it not practical for a lot of guys, it’s simply not a requirement. Bigger companies/airlines may choose to do so because they have the cash to supply tools to their guys via a manned tool room were that’s a sole job of somebody in and of itself. You think the average general aviation shop or small/mid size airline shop is capable of doing that? Get real! You Air Force guys live in a completely different world than us, and I’m not saying that in a negative way. Just that you have to understand the circumstances are a lot different

[@salvopulvi]

@@turdpike I do noto have a big tool cart and I know how annoing is to write every time I take a tool from the cart but is really important, in special way for small aircraft to do so. My solution? Is to take in My cart only the most used tool for maintenance, and I'm responsible for 50 k of tool, 5 person in My team, the other tool stay in the shop insidie a cabinet. This is, in My personale opinion a good way to manage a lot of tool. I percectly know the situation of small shop, but doesn't need to spend a lot of money for tool. I've understand that you are a very good mechanic and This is why I write. You are an example for new people. Thats it.

[@joshseda9064]

I know I’m pretty late but do you have any elements or ncat

[@turdpike]

sohcboostedcoupe huh? Not sure what you’re talking about

[@khalidrajab1487]

What type of flashlight is that ?

[@turdpike]

Khalid Rajab which one? The metallic silver one is a Terralux lightstar 300

[@Falc0ln]

The only problem here is there is no sponge in you toolbox and you cannot check if everything is on its place.

[@turdpike]

Falc0ln In a perfect world yes I would shadow my tools. But I know what I have and do an inventory after each job. Biggest problem I have with doing that is losing so much useable space in the box if I were to shadow every little thing

[@Delvron1]

How do you know if they are all accounted for?

[@turdpike]

I know what i have, thats about it. Not many people I know shadow their tools, in a perfect world we all would but you surrender so much space in your box if you do so

[@ajortiz1724]

Hi I was wondering if you can answer some questions I been wanting to become an a&p mechanic but do you spend more time working then being with the family and do all a&p work night shifts

[@turdpike]

Arturo Ortiz it all depends on who you work for and what their schedule is like. There are lots of night shifts at bigger airlines yes, smaller ones and charter shops not so much. I know plenty of Monday-Friday 8-5 type a&p jobs. I myself work a 4 days on 4 days off shift.

[@ajortiz1724]

turdpike wow thats cool m-f or 4 on and 4 off so there are jobs like that I was talking to this guy about it he told me you work horrible nights and a lot of people get divorced cuz they spend more time I'm working that with a family

[@turdpike]

Arturo Ortiz that isn’t uncommon unfortunately but it really boils down to who you choose to work for. It’s not all terrible shifts and long hours, you just have to look around. Something like nursing is worse I’d say

[@ajortiz1724]

turdpike oh ok are you from california

[@turdpike]

Arturo Ortiz nope, I’m Canadian

[@Hudspethtb]

Good video, but I can't believe you didn't shadow it all.

[@turdpike]

Ideally yes I would, not a requirement though.

[@junjielim111]

Hey turdpike do aircraft mechanics like you use an impact gun or any drill? Look forward to ur reply!

[@turdpike]

Lim Junjie Hello! Not usually nope, the only time I’ll ever use one is to try taking out stripped or stuck screws that I can get a lot of weight into. Never ever ever for tightening. Mostly we just use them to open/close engine crates and what not

[@turdpike]

I realize now you also mentioned a normal drill, in that case yes we use them all the time! When theres sometimes hundreds of screws holding panels down you need a drill. Even to tighten up evenly they are great as you just set the clutch. But ya impact drills, usually a no no

[@junjielim111]

Hi turdpike what kind of normal drill are you referring to? I have interest in becoming an aircraft mechanic

[@turdpike]

Lim Junjie well for me, I use a small 12v Ridgid drill with only 3/8’s chuck from Home Depot. I used to use a Bosch 18v but after it took a spill off a tall ladder it broke. And by then I realized I didn’t need a big torque monster for what we do. The smaller compact 12v drills (with the batteries in the handgrips) are the way to go. Can use them on aircraft interiors, exteriors you name it. Unless you wish to become a sheet metal (structures) tech, you’ll be using cordless drills mostly for removing screws. So really any old drill will work- but I recommend a smaller 12v one that can get you into tight spaces.

[@junjielim111]

Then is there a difference between sheet metal technian and sheet metal mechanic? I have been hearing these 2 words and dont know the difference or is it about the same just the name?

[@mat7can106]

Can you do a version two please

[@turdpike]

Mat7can 10 sure, I’ll see what I can do

[@mat7can106]

turdpike thx nice video btw i subbed because of this

[@jacobd373]

Do you have your initials etched into everything?

[@turdpike]

Jacob D most of my stuff yeah, but not all. I don’t have like every screwdriver or every socket etched. Just the stuff that I know other guys in the hangar have the same brand of

[@trollgod4911]

So you have to buy your own tools?

[@turdpike]

Troll God yes, you have to supply all your hand tools. Company only buys the expensive specialty stuff and test equipment

[@lucifchristo]

Ever encounter mortorq fastners?

[@turdpike]

Never, nope. Anything is possible I guess but it’d be very unlikely

[@lucifchristo]

@@turdpike I'm surprised to hear that. after I ended up getting a set of duralast mortorq bits in a tool haul I looked a promotional video for them made by Phillips and all they talked about was how these are now becoming the industry standard in the aviation field so I'm wondering where these bits might actually become useful LOL

[@turdpike]

Interesting! I could be wrong though, newest machine I’ve ever worked on is from 2000 lol

[@wheelsontario4376]

real question tho whats with saying 12pt is better then 6pt if you can use 6pt you should use them , 12pt strip easier on a 6pt bolts

[@turdpike]

we use a lot of 12pt fasteners is why. also they are superior in tighter areas where you can't get as much swing on your ratchet. but yes I'm aware they strip 6pt fasteners easier

[@xkupi]

Those are some shiny tools

[@Twizter68]

Nice setup, but DAMN, the Navy Airframer/QAR in me is cringing at the lack of positive tool control in that box...*shudder*

[@turdpike]

You guys work in a different world! You know that!

[@Twizter68]

@@turdpike it's all aviation...I'm contracting now, and we still follow TCP .

[@turdpike]

William Mims glad to hear! In a perfect world yes I would shadow my tools. But, I check them every night and know what I have. Have yet to leave a tool behind.

[@jchrg2336]

Mac tools Or Rolls-Royce tools are a good quality

[@JohnBrinkPhoto]

So are most of the aircraft put together with SAE rather than metric.

[@turdpike]

John Brink SAE is king in aviation. I wish it weren’t, and I suppose I can’t speak for all manufacturers, but the Swedish, American, and Canadian built machines I wrench on are all SAE. The industry as a whole is that way I believe. You’ll get the odd weird hex that is metric, but I’ve only come across that on the Saab’s.

[@JohnBrinkPhoto]

@@turdpike Interesting. I'm amazed since almost all machinery seems to be metric now except on construction and possibly some heavy machinery. 'Course I have to keep a double set of almost all tools. It's a PIA. Thanks for the info.

[@turdpike]

John Brink yup that is one benefit that we don’t have to have any metric, one set of everything! Cheers!

[@gbraezey2616]

Do they do morning shifts

[@turdpike]

GB Raezey at my base yes they do, its usually 6am-2pm Monday-Friday. Gravy shift

[@GiannisKoutiolas]

How much did it cost you?

[@turdpike]

Γιάννης Κουτιώλας the tool box? The box cost me about $1700 CAD