Top 10 Tools Hardlines drive this tech’s top tools list A racing enthusiast, this Baton Rouge, La.-based technician has nearly 15 years of professional wrenching experience. By Erica Schueller, Editor TECHNICIAN: Robert Venable LOCATION: Baton Rouge, La. SHOP: Brian Harris BMW Want to show off YOUR Top 10 Tools? For more information, email Editor@VehicleServicePros.com. 54 PTEN FEBRUARY 2017 VehicleServicePros.com Featuring a gearless ratchet design for smooth operation and less than a 3-degree sweep, this ratchet is designed for reaching confi ned areas. Veneable says this ratchet is the least expensive and one of the most useful tools he has in his toolbox. Circle 156 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com The BK5500 includes a 8.5mm diameter imager head that fi ts into most spark plug holes, a 36” long shaft for added reach and a 75” shaft bend radius for great fl exibility. “I use this almost daily,” Venable says of this wireless video scope. “Even if I don’t need the scope, the long remote fl ashlight abilities help greatly.” This imager enables users to see in two directions at the fl ip of a switch, and is ideal for cylinder and valve inspection applications, or for any application where a straight and side view is needed. Users can view straight ahead or at a 90-degree angle, eliminating the need for a mirror attachment. “This allows me to see at 90-degree angles without risking dropping a mirror off the end of my scope,” Venable says. The smaller head and dual pawl mechanism of this ratchet provide users increased accessibility and fl exibility. A patented sealed head provides lubrication and keeps out dirt, dust and other contaminants, leading to longer tool life. Venable uses an older version of this tool, and says he uses this tool when there is no room for using an adapter. Venable confi rms this kit is “very versatile for electrical diag(nosis).” This kit allows the technician to follow and locate short and open circuits without removing molding panels and carpet just to expose wires. Circle 157 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com Venable uses the older version of this tool (his is No. BWFQ5), which features a fl ex-square hinge design that provides a double offset at the hinge. With this tool, he says he has the fl exibility to reach 1/4” drive bits in tight spots. Circle 158 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com The design of this tool set integrates the drive extension and socket, reducing the possibility of the socket disconnecting from the extension. Of this set, Venable says this kit includes “fl exible extended length sockets for the sizes (he sees) daily.” The beam of this headlamp has adjustable focus for distance, allowing users to select the appropriate beam dimensions, either fl ood or spot. The light head pivots up or down to direct the light, and an adjustable head strap makes it easy to wear for extended periods of time. Venable confi rms this “rechargable head light provides exceptional light for hours.” Circle 159 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com “Extra length and fl exibility helps reach hard-to-get-to hardware,” Veneable says of this set. Wrenches in this set feature a zero-degree offset box end and fl ex ratcheting end on an extra-long beam. Circle 160 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com Tools in this set feature fl exible ends that bend to desired position. Extra-long shafts on each tool provide access to hard-to-reach areas, and feature a comfortable two-piece composite handle. “I use this (tool) for most hose clamps,” Veneable says. “The added length really helps in tight areas.” Circle 161 on card, or enter at "inquiry" on VehicleServicePros.com Robert Venable began working at Brian Harris BMW in Baton Rouge, La. in 2004, after graduating with an associate degree from UTI’s Auto + Diesel & Industrial program. Now a Level 1 BMW Tech, he has gained experience working for different organizations such as Wedge Kyes Import Specialties, and as the Head Mechanic for Team Johnstone Supply Racing (2011-2015). “I pride myself on being able to do just about anything on any car I take on, from windshield replacements to engine rebuilds,” Venable says. “I’ve built race cars from start to finish." Venable has worked on Johnstone Supply Racing’s cars that won The Devil in the Dark, a 12-hour endurance race, three consecutive years, and has previously won the opening season of BMWCCA Endurance racing. He has also won or placed in a number of other races.
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