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Why Your Shop Should Be Using Loaded Knuckles to Save Time and Money

It’s midday on a Friday, and an older-model Subaru rolls into the bay in need of new wheel bearings. In the past, this would have meant a few hours with the shop press, possibly a torch, and maybe some choice words to get the job done. But it doesn’t have to be that...

Use the Little Radiator—and Have Customers Do the Same

Disclaimer: If a car is overheating and it is possible to safely exit the road and stop the car, that should always be the first course of action to avoid the risk of fire. The solution described in this article should only be used where that is not possible. If a car...

PSA: The Right (and Wrong) Ways to Handle Iridium Spark Plugs

For the vast majority of vehicles on the road, swapping out spark plugs is gravy work. Yoink the old plugs, make sure the replacements meet the necessary gap spec, install the new plugs, and button up the ignition system. You’re in and out of there in no time, right?...

Tool Review: Permatex 25240 Thread Locker

Disclaimer: This chemical was purchased at full retail price at the expense of the author, with no compensation from the retailer or manufacturer to write about the item.Be honest: do you always check the manual for the correct grade of factory-recommended sealant on...

Try Doing It the Wrong Way

Today’s article is composed of two quick tips that are distinct and different, but interrelated because they’re used on the same items: the humble fasteners we remove and install hundreds of times daily. These tips are both geared to newer techs since we all must find...

Modern Power Window Switches: Smarter than You’d Think

When was the last time you rolled down the power windows in an older car or truck? I’m talking at least pre-2000. The older, the better. As a passenger, you’ll find that every door has a mix of buttons, switches, locks, and handles to mess around with, plus maybe a...

It’s All About the Process

Man, it feels like just yesterday you graduated with that Associate’s in Automotive Tech, but nope, it's been three months already, and you've landed a solid job at ABC Auto Repair back in your hometown. The boss has been taking it easy on you, dishing out a bunch of...

Rookie Tip: LOF? Leave the Dipstick Sticking Out and the Oil Cap on the Hood Latch

The following video has a great lesson in it, but most salty shop vets will miss it.Other than the obvious blowby issue, one thing that jumps out is the dipstick waving like a flag in the breeze. For you newer mechanics and home gamers: take a lesson! No doubt this...

Making your own gaskets? Get a hollow punch set for pro results. (VIDEO)

by Shop Press Staff | Apr 30, 2024

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Description

When it is necessary to make your own gaskets, small bolt holes are often the trickiest features to cut. That’s why you should pick up a set of hollow punches to make clean, round holes in common gasket materials. You might not use these tools all the time, but when making a new gasket is your best option, they can certainly save the day.