Safety, Tools, and Shop Practices
Core concepts
Know personal protective equipment (PPE), safe lifting technique, jack stand use, and proper tool selection. Understand torque wrenches, micrometers, dial indicators, and how to calibrate and store them. Be able to explain lockout/tagout, fire extinguisher classes, and safe handling of batteries and chemicals. Know the difference between precision measuring tools and general hand tools.
Traps to expect
Questions often test tool misuse: using a torque wrench to loosen fasteners, using a screwdriver as a pry bar, or using an impact wrench on a torque-critical fastener. Another trap is jack safety: never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Also remember fire extinguisher classes: Class A for ordinary combustibles, B for flammable liquids, C for electrical, and D for metals.
Worked example
A bolt requires 80 lb-ft. Rule of thumb: set the torque wrench to the specified value, tighten in a crossing pattern, and never exceed the tool's rated capacity. Recalibrate after a drop.
Study strategy
Practice identifying PPE for each task, reviewing extinguisher classes, and demonstrating proper torque wrench use.