Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Sector:
AUTOMOTIVE/LAND TRANSPORT
Qualification:
DRIVING NC II
Unit of Competency: CARRY OUT MINOR VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
AND SERVICING
Module Title: CARRYING OUT MINOR VEHICLE
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING
RPASI
RIVERVIEW POLYTECHNIC and ACADEMIC SCHOOL, INC.
Ibulao, Baguinge, Kiangan, Ifugao
HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY BASE LEARNING MATERIALS
Welcome to the module in Carrying out minor vehicle maintenance and servicing.
This module contains training materials and activities for you to complete.
The unit of competency “Carry out minor vehicle maintenance and servicing"
contains knowledge, skills and attitudes required. It is one of the specialized modules in
Driving NC II.
You are required to go through a series of training activities in order to complete each
learning outcome of the module. Complete procedures are provided for you to follow
when performing the task required for this module.
In each learning outcome are Information Sheets and task sheets. Follow these activities
on your own and answer the self-check at the end of each learning outcome. If you have
questions, don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for assistance.
Each task forms contains the title, the learning outcome or objective for the task, the
assessment standards and the task content or requirements that you must achieve to be
successful. Rating sheet on task sheet will be provided by your instructor that contains
all the training and re-assessment records, which will be completed by your instructor as
your training progresses or at the end of each training session.
Where task requirements can not be reasonably accessed within the limit where the
competency based training course is being conducted, your instructor will explain the
item but he will not require you to sign off the task or the rating sheet.
Before you commence any practice, your instructor should explain each driving task to
you. You should also comply with the requirements of the training institution.
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
2. You should carry with you your student driver’s license permit at all times
When driving.
3. You must not carry any passengers or animals during the training session except for the
instructor conducting the training.
4. For safety reasons you must wear appropriate footwear when driving- thongs, bare feet,
clogs (shoes thicker than 3cm.) or shoes without heel support.
When you are learning to drive the instructor accompanying you is required to:
1. Instruct you in the safe and efficient operation of the motor vehicle
3. Be seated immediately alongside you at all times while you are driving. This applies to
parking practice (even in car parks) except if the training session is conducted within
the school compound.
You should also insure that they have the following characteristics:
• Patience and calm approach to your learning
3 Obey and observe traffic rules and Obeying and observing traffic
regulation rules and regulation
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the skills and knowledge and attitudes
required to carry out basic servicing and maintenance of a light
vehicle such as cleaning the vehicle. It also includes the action
to implement the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications for
routine checks and maintenance and that the vehicle is optional
to the requirements of both the workplace and the relevant road
and traffic authority.
NOMINAL DURATION : 20 hours
QUALIFICATION LEVEL : NC II
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Vehicle is cleaned as per prescribed procedures using appropriate cleaning supplies,
tools/equipment and according to occupational health and safety (OHS).
2. Wastes are disposed of as per relevant ordinance, rules or law.
CONDITION: Student/ trainee must be provided with the following:
EQUIPMENTS
1. Light Vehicle Unit
2. Air compressor
3. Vacuum pump
4. Steam polisher
5. Polisher
6. Hose
7. Cleaning materials
a. Soap
b. Car shampoo
c. Clean water
d. Absorbent cloth
e. Pail
8. Learning modules
Assessment method:
1. Oral questioning
2. Written examination
3. Demonstration of practical skills
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Answer self-check 1.1-1 If you got 100% correct answer in this self-
check, you can now move to the next
information sheet. If not, review the
information sheet and go over the self-check
again.
Answer self-check 1.1-4 If you got 100% correct answer in this self-
check, you can now move to the next
information sheet. If not, review the
information sheet and go over the self-check
again.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to identify the
parts and function of the vehicle.
A car is a complex machine with several systems functioning simultaneously. While most
modern cars contain computerized systems that are beyond the understanding of all but the
most specialized technicians, knowing the basic parts of a car and how they function makes it
easier to spot problems, perform basic repairs and drive more responsibly.
The Engine
Every car is powered by an engine, and most cars use an internal combustion engine that runs
on gasoline. Gas, along with air, is drawn into a combustion chamber where it is compressed
The drive line is a series of components that connect the motion produced by the engine to the
wheels of the car to provide forward (or backward) motion. The engine is connected to a drive
shaft (a rigid metal shaft) via the transmission. Whether a car uses an automatic or manual
transmission, the function is the same: to use metal gears to match the engine's speed to the
power requirements of the car, which depend on vehicle speed, the slope of the road surface
and the weight of the car itself. Additional gears transmit power from the drive shaft to the
wheels themselves.
Various types of wheels and tires are useful for driving under specific conditions. All-season
tires, for example, have the versatility of being used throughout the year, even if severe
conditions occur. A car's brakes are one of its most important safety features and generally
come in one of two types: disc or drum. Disc brakes use a spinning disc, which is pinched
between brake pads mounted on calipers to slow the motion of the car. Drum brakes use
shoes that push outward to contact the inside of a spinning cylinder, or drum. Some cars
contain both types of brakes (one type for the front wheels, another for the rear wheels) to take
advantage of the best each type of braking system has to offer.
Temperature
Power train Open doors
warning
malfunction indicator
light
One of the most visible parts of a car is its instrumentation. Most drivers are aware of the
speedometer and fuel gauge, but other dashboard instruments are equally important. A
tachometer, which displays engine speed in rotations per minute (RPM), indicates how hard
the engine is working. An oil pressure gauge or engine temperature gauge can be useful in
diagnosing common problems, such as a leak of oil or engine coolant respectively. Stopping a
car when oil pressure begins to drop or temperature begins to rise can avoid catastrophic
engine failure.
Column A Column B
4. ______________________
e. Oil pressure
5. ______________________
f. Battery warning
6. _______________________
7. ______________________
8. _______________________
3. Rags - a small piece or scrap of usually old or unwanted cloth used for cleaning,
polishing, or applying liquid substances.
4. Oil – a liquid lubricant usually made from crude oil and used for lubrication between
moving parts.
4. Pail – a round container that is open at the top and usually has a handle.
6. Broom – a brush that has a long/short handle and that is used for sweeping
floors
7. Hose – usually rubber tube that liquid or gases can flow through.
Column A Column B
A. air freshener
1. __________
. B. water
2. _________
. C. soap
3. _________
D. shampoo
4. _________
. E. polish
5. _________
F. rags
6. _________
. G. oil
7. __________
SELF-CHECK 1.1-2
3. The weight or force that is produced when something presses or pushes against
something else.
a. Polisher
b. Pressure washer
c. Vacuum cleaner
Properly managed safety programs show commitment to safety by the management in turn creating a great
safety culture where everyone ‘wants’ to be safe.
Workers want to work in a safe environment; absenteeism drops when effective safety programs are
introduced.
Work premises are kept to higher standards for safety, cleanliness, and housekeeping
A safe work environment produces happier employees/trainees; everyone wants to go home safe each day.
Worker Compensation insurance claims decrease, in turn lowering WCB Rates. This is a benefit to any
company/institution that has to pre-qualify to work; a lower rate gives you a better grade with your clients.
In turn, workers feel like they are part of the safety solution.
9. SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENTS ENHANCE THE BRAND VALUE AND GOODWILL FOR A
COMPANY/INSTITUTION
Enables a company/institution to win and retain business customers. Clients want to work with companies
that are safe (less downtime due to incidents).
SELF-CHECK 1.1-3
A.
B.
C.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to care and use
cleaning tools and equipment.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Vehicle is cleaned as per prescribed procedures using appropriate cleaning supplies,
tools/equipment and according to occupational health and safety (OHS).
2. Wastes are disposed of as per relevant ordinance, rules or law.
CONDITION: Student/ trainee must be provided with the following:
EQUIPMENTS
1. Light Vehicle Unit
2. Air compressor
3. Vacuum pump
4. Steam polisher
5. Polisher
6. Hose
7. Cleaning materials
a. Soap
b. Car shampoo
c. Clean water
d. Absorbent cloth
e. Pail
f. Learning modules
Assessment method:
1. Oral questioning
2. Written examination
3. Demonstration of practical skills
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Answer self-check 1.2-4 If you got 100% correct answer in this self-
check, you can now move to the next
information sheet. If not, review the
information sheet and go over the self-check
again.
If you have some problem on the content of
Read Information 1.2-5
the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Diagnosis of vehicle faults and irregularities
approach your facilitator.
and major repair and service requirements
If you feel that you are now knowledgeable
on the content of the information sheet 1.2-
5, you can now answer self-check provided
in the module.
Answer self-check 1.2-5 If you got 100% correct answer in this self-
check, you can now move to the next
information sheet. If not, review the
Answer self-check 1.2-6 If you got 100% correct answer in this self-
check, you can now move to the next
information sheet. If not, review the
information sheet and go over the self-check
again.
Read Information 1.2-7
Writing and documenting service and If you have some problem on the content of
maintenance report the information sheet don’t hesitate to
approach your facilitator.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to identify the
parts and function of the vehicle.
Engine:
Car engine, the big metal box type thing under the bonnet in human biology terms is the heart
of the car and like the heart the engine is made up of all different components which make the
car move and function. Fuel and air is fed into the engines cylinders where combustion takes
place, causing rapid expansion of the gases in the form of heat which then creates motion.
Alternator:
Ever wondered how all your car electrics work? This is the job of your car’s alternator – it turns
the rotating movement of the drive belt into electricity. It does this by turning a magnet inside a
coil of wire producing a voltage to charge the car’s battery. This allows the battery to power for
the cars electrical components like your headlights, brake lights and internal electrics.
Radiator:
Your car’s engine can get very hot from all the moving parts within it, the radiator is located at
the front of the car allowing fresh air to run over and through the radiators fins to help absorb
the coolants excess heat to ensure the car doesn’t over heat. Coolant is pumped through the
radiator and through chambers in the engine block by the engines water pump.
Suspension:
The car’s suspension job is to keep your tires in contact with the road and works to reduce the
impact felt in the cabin on varying road surfaces, so if your car is bouncing a lot it may be time
to get your suspension looked at.
Your car’s ignition acts like a match that ignites the air/fuel mixtures which makes the car run.
Muffler:
The muffler is a metal container under the car which has a series of sub-chambers inside,
which help to reduce the engine noise. Ever wonder why some cars are so loud when they
drive past? It’s generally because the muffler has been altered.
Brake Pads:
Your car’s brakes are made up of different components and the brake pads job is to slow the
rotation of the wheels by sandwiching the brake discs, causing friction and heat.
Chassis:
The chassis is where all the parts of the car are bolted on and protected.
Exhaust Pipe:
The exhaust pipe carries the engines exhausted combustion gases into a special gas
converter (or in mechanic speak a catalytic converter) and from there to the muffler and
eventually out the back of the car as emissions.
Transmission:
The car’s transmission job is to transmit the power and torque from the engine to the wheels in
different gear ratios according to the car’s road speed.
Column A Column B
______1. a machine that converts heat energy to
a. transmission
mechanical energy.
______2. is where all the parts of the car are bolted on
b. brakes
and protected.
______3. is to slow the rotation of the wheels by
c. engine
sandwiching the brake discs, causing friction and heat.
______4. is a metal container under the car which has
a series of sub-chambers inside, which help to reduce d. muffler
the engine noise
______5. is to transmit the power and torque from the
engine to the wheels in different gear ratios according to
the car’s road speed. e. chassis
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know the basic
principles of operation of vehicle system.
1. Leaf-spring suspension
The leaf spring is the oldest and simplest suspension. Several long, thin steel leaves are
bound together in a pack by clamps. One end of the pack is connected to the vehicle's
frame vis a bushing. The other end uses a shackle that can move for and aft. Combined
with the flexing of the leaf pack itself, that provides the suspension movement and
cushions the ride.
The old-school manual might be an endangered species, but you should learn to drive you
—and learn how it works. Manual transmissions provide a direct connection to the
machine—one that makes the whole experience of driving a more rewarding activity.
The job of the manual transmission is to transmit the engine's torque from the input shaft,
through various gear sets to the output and on to the axle and driven wheels. Those gear
sets in the transmission combine with the gears in the axle to multiply the torque of the
engine and get the car moving. This basic animation shows how the gears are selected,
and what these gears actually do when you move the shifter.
3. Vacuum shifting
Back in the 1930s, a vacuum chamber added a new level of ease for shifting when the
manual gearshift lever was moved to the column to free up floor space. Make sure to
watch until the very end, when, just as the announcer proclaims "greater safety for all!" we
see a mom place her child right on the front bench seat next to her with no visible seatbelt.
Yikes.
4. The engine
This incredible animation by Toyota outlines the process by which an engine produces
power. It covers the typical cylinder configurations as well as basic terms like compression
ratio, displacement, and the differences between single and double overhead cam
engines. The video also explains some of today's newer engine technologies, like variable
valve timing. It's worth watching more than once.
A clutch let the driver smoothly couple and de-couple the engine from gearbox so that
power can flow from one to the other without stalling the engine or damaging to other
components. Every time you push the clutch pedal, the pressure plate releases pressure
from the clutch disc, separating it from the engine's flywheel. Releasing the clutch pedal
(after a new gear is selected, for example) creates friction between the disc and flywheel,
which connects the transmission to the engine again, sending power to the wheels.
6. Frame rigidity
Back in the mid-1930s, Chevrolet developed what must have been some expensive and
time-consuming films to explain in detail how automotive systems worked. The narrative in
this one likens the squeaks and rattles in an outdated car frame to those in old houses.
Cars at this time used body-on-frame construction like pickups still do today, though many
of our modern trucks skip the engineering fixes outlined here because they use ultra-high-
strength steel alloys that make them far more robust and much lighter than these earlier
designs.
7. Starter motor
Can you imagine having to crank-start the car every time you need to run an errand? In
the early days of driving, people would have to start vehicles with a hand crank, an
unpredictable science that sometimes resulted in a broken arm if the crank kicked back.
Not fun. Although electric starters began to appear on cars in the 1910s, cars like the VW
Beetle still included a crank up until the 1950s. This 1957 US Army film explains the
wonder of electric starter motors. Interestingly, these old military trucks still used a starter
switch. Modern cars and trucks have them integrated with the ignition.
8. Automatic transmission
Perhaps more than any other automotive component, the automatic transmission became
so ubiquitous so quickly that most people don't even notice it's there. Really, that's the
automatic's job: to shift gears without drawing attention to it. But there's plenty going on
behind the scenes, and this video demonstrates.
9. CVT
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) has gained popularity as carmakers hunt for
fuel economy gains anywhere they can find them. Unlike a conventional manual or
automatic transmission, a CVT has no fixed gears inside the transmission case. Instead,
CVTs use two adjustable pulleys with a chain in between to change ratios.
Picture a bicycle chain moving up and down the sprocket gears in the back and from one
of the large chain rings to a smaller one up front. As the diameter of these discs change,
so does the ratio. That's the principle behind the CVT. This short animation is Subaru-
specific but does a great job explaining the tech in simple terms.
10. Oil
After almost two minutes of showing us skiers and ice skaters, the announcer finally gets
around to explaining that skates and skis glide upon a thin layer of water on top of the ice.
It's a lubricant, and the video goes on to explain how lubricants work in our everyday life.
The most interesting part comes halfway through, when they begin to explain why oil is
needed as a lubricant between metal parts. A cut-away of an engine shows exactly how
the oil is routed from the oil pump in the pan up through the various bearings, valves, rods,
and pistons.
11.Torque converter
Like the clutch, the torque converter acts as a smooth connection between a manual
transmission and the engine. The torque convertor is a fluid coupling that's far more
complex than the clutch but can be perfectly tailored to suit the power and torque
characteristics of a particular powertrain. The converter can multiply torque, acting as an
extra gearbox of sorts for a short time as a car leaves the line. Here's how this slick
coupling works in concert with an automatic transmission.
The turbo is back. What seemed like futuristic performance tech back in the 1980s is now
completely mainstream, thanks to automakers chasing better mpg. The industry has now
turbocharged the engines in practically every segment, from economy cars to full-size
pickup trucks.
Why? Because turbo allow small engines to act like larger ones when needed. Turbo take
normally wasted exhaust gases and uses them to run a compressor, which pressurizes
and feeds more air to the engine. Let's let this video explain.
13. Aerodynamics
Car designers were experimenting with aerodynamics a century ago. At that time it was
called "streamlining," and by the 1930s American cars were beginning to look Art Deco
and perform much better as they cut through the wind. Sadly, though the most advanced
car of that time, the Chrysler Airflow, was largely a flop.
What this film shows more than anything is how far we've come. No, the world of tomorrow
didn't actually deliver elevated highways that can support 120 mph travel. But we do have
big, roomy vehicles that cut through the air better than the slipperiest sports cars did not
that long ago.
14.Supercharger
Like a turbo, the supercharger forces more air into the engine to boost horsepower. But it
does so in a totally different way. Where turbochargers use exhaust gas to turn the
compressor and pressurize air, superchargers are driven off the engine's crankshaft by a
belt. In the old days, turbo engines suffered from lag—it took some time for the exhaust
gas to create boost. Superchargers never had this problem because the boost is tied
directly to engine speed. Most turbo today don't have much lag, so the playing field has
been leveled between the two technologies.
This animation is clearly shows how a screw compressor supercharger works. This is the
same style of supercharger used on today's 650-hp Corvette ZO6.
Air-cooled engines, like those in old VW Beetles or pre-1999 Porsche 911s, were rare
even back in the 1930s and 1940s. Like today, most cars were water-cooled. This 1936
film begins with a dramatic introduction to the value of a water boy to hard workers in the
field. It's perhaps the most cinematic 3 minutes in any car tech film I've ever seen. But as
the story progresses, there's a very straightforward animation of how exactly water
circulates from the radiator through an engine and back to the radiator. Despite similarities
to the systems we use today, cars from that time routinely overheated a problem modern
cars rarely suffer from.
16.Differential
Differentials help compensate for the differences in wheel speed between the inside and
outside wheels in a corner. Those outside wheels need to spin more quickly, so without a
differential, the tires would scrub, chirp, and wear prematurely—and the drivetrain could
sustain damage.
This video from Toyota illustrates exactly how power flows in a rear-wheel drive truck, from
the driveshaft to the rear differential and out to the wheels. It also explains what differential
gear ratios are and the types of differentials are available.
Most cars and trucks have an "open" style of differential driving the wheels. They operate
smoothly, but have a major drawback: When the road is slick (or the dirt trail is muddy), an
open diff will send power to the wheel with the least traction. That usually leaves the
vehicle motionless with one tire spinning uselessly. A limited-slip differential sends some
of that torque to the wheel that has traction.
Many original Hummer H1s came fitted from the factory with a version of the Torsen in
both the front and rear differentials. And for many years, a Torsen was the center
A Torsen differential uses gears instead of clutch packs to divert torque across an axle.
The upside is that when it "senses" a torque difference, it works nearly instantaneously,
sending torque where it can be most beneficial. The downside? It needs to sense some
sort of resistance or friction. So when a tire is off the ground, the Torsen cannot send
power across the axle.
This vintage clip (though it may reek of 1950s sexism) does do an excellent job of showing
how some complex automotive systems worked on the new 1950s Chevy models, using
easy-to-understand models and animations. Chevy customers at that time were apparently
more concerned with ride quality than anything else. Today's cars, for the most part, all
ride smoothly. If a film like that were made today, it would likely focus on efficiency,
connectivity, and safety technologies.
20.Suspension alignment
It's not uncommon that when a car hits that giant pothole just right, it could begin pulling
slightly to the left or right. So automakers build in a level of adjustability into the steering
and suspension. This video shows just what these alignment points are, what components
they affect, and how they control vehicle behavior.
21.Four-wheel drive
Although this is a Jeep-branded animation, the basics are the same for every old-school
four-wheel drive system. Engine power goes to the transmission and then on to a transfer
case. When 4WD is selected, the transfer case splits that power equally between the front
and rear axles. Shift into Low Range and the vehicle's torque is filtered through another
set of gears. In this case, it's a very aggressive 4:1 ratio. This ultra-low gearing allows the
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon to crawl slowly and easily over rough terrain.
23.Stability control
Engineers tap into the hardware of ABS to create traction and stability controls. Stability
control systems use a computer and sensors to apply the brakes at individual wheels if
slipping is detected. As a car begins to slide, say on an icy road, stability control can use
the braking system to correct that slide and keep the car on its intended path. Stability
control cannot overcome the laws of physics, but the technology has led to a serious
reduction in accidents. Here's a cool animation from automotive supplier Bosch.
24.Hydraulic steering
There was a time when power steering wasn't the norm on cars. Early cars and trucks had
skinny wheels and tires that were easier to turn, and the vehicles were relatively light, too.
But that soon changed. The first hydraulic steering system on a production passenger car
came in the 1950s, when cars began to really gain weight and tire size. In the mid 50s, the
technology came to big, heavyweight military trucks. This explanation may be a bit dry, but
it'll show you how hydraulic power steering works in great detail.
SELF-CHECK 1.2-2
Explain the following
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know the
routine service and maintenance of light vehicle.
Oil Change — unless your driving is mostly highway miles, today's engines will run better and
last longer with clean oil every 3,000 miles or three months, including a filter change. A $30 oil
change can save you from costly engine repairs later.
Brakes — An unusual noise or a gentle tug on the steering wheel when stopping are common
warning signs that it's time to check the brakes. A good rule of thumb is to check the brakes at
the 6,000- to 7,500-mile mark when tires should be rotated.
Coolant System — thoroughly flush coolant systems and replace with the appropriate
antifreeze at least every two years to minimize metal deterioration and to keep the system
flowing. And be sure to use the correct water to coolant mix. Check the coolant reservoir
monthly (and the windshield washer reservoir, too) and top off as needed.
Battery — as part of your car's regular maintenance, asks your technician to make sure the
battery cover is in place and the battery is firmly anchored. Most important, clean the battery of
corrosion, especially the electrical posts.
1. Give five-point preventive maintenance program to keep your car running smoothly.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know the minor
routine repair and servicing in light vehicle.
1. Gloves
2. Gas mask
3. Apron
4. Eye goggles
5. Safety shoes
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to diagnosis of
vehicle faults and irregularities.
Engine Overheating
Coolant Leak
Engine Stalls
Engine Noise
Smoke In Exhaust
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
In most cases mechanical or electrical failures can be directly related to the lack
of maintenance on your vehicle. Manufactures Recommended Maintenance
schedules vary significantly. Wilhelm Automotive Service Centers have the most
current applications to make sure the factory maintenance records are completed
to suffice even the strictest of warranties. With knowledgeable ASE Certified
Master technicians and state of the art equipment, Wilhelm Automotive has the
expertise to give you peace of mind during services.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know the 5s in
housekeeping.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know the
important of writing and documenting service and maintenance report.
1 pc Vise Grip
1 pc Tire Wrench
b.
c.
OBJECTIVE: After reading the information sheet the trainee should be able to know how to
caring and using of tools.
Good tools can be quite an investment, but if you take good care of them, they'll return the
favor. Keeping your tools properly stored, cleaned, and maintained will save you time and
money and make your DIY endeavors that much more rewarding.
We're mostly talking about hand tools, power tools, and garden tools in this article, but much
of the same advice applies whether your tools of choice are kitchen knives, crafting tools, or
whatever else. Store them well, keep them clean and well-maintained, and you won't be sorry.
You have to work with the space you have. Maybe you hang them on pegboards, maybe
you store them in boxes, bags, or chests, or maybe you keep them in drawers or on shelves in
your shop. Whatever works for you is best.
Pegboards make a great storage system for tools. They let you see all your tools at a glance and
they can make use of wall space in a pretty efficient way. If you don't have enough wall space,
though, you can still take advantage of pegboards by building a hinged system, a rolling
pegboard, or even a portable pegboard storage system.
Toolboxes also make for great tool storage, offering the primary advantage of portability. While
some people opt to store all their tools in toolboxes, for most, the toolbox is a way of carrying
around your most-used tools while leaving the bulk safely stored on pegboards, shelves, or
Rust is public enemy number one when it comes to tools. To avoid rust when storing your
tools:
Keep your tools in a dry place. It seems obvious, but garages and basements and
other enclosed spaces can have humidity issues, especially if they are not heated or air-
conditioned. If you keep your tools in a location like this, especially if you keep them out
on shelves or pegboards; consider investing in a dehumidifier to keep the dampness
down. They're not terribly expensive, especially compared to your investment in your
tools, and most let you set a humidity level so the dehumidifier turns on only when it
needs to.
Hang your garden tools. Even if you keep your garden tools inside the garage or your
shed, hang them so that they don't rest on the floor. Moisture can easily creep up from
concrete floors.
Store power tools in their original cases. Unless you have a climate-controlled
workshop, your best bet for storing power tools in the hard plastic cases they usually
come with. Not only are they better-protected from humidity, they're just better-
protected in general.
Use silica gel packs or rust collector. The silica gel packs that come in lots of
packaging are great at keeping moisture at bay. Toss them in drawers or toolboxes and
they can help keep rust away. You can also buy rust inhibitors for the same purpose and
even anti-rust liners for drawers and shelves.
Cleaning your tools may be the last thing you want to do after a day of work, but it's
essential for keeping your tools in good shape. And it really only takes a few seconds per tool
unless you've got something really nasty on your hands. It's well-worth the time spent doing a
little cleaning to save the time spent repairing a tool (or the money spent replacing it) later.
Hand tools: You can clean most hand tools by simply wiping them down with a rag. If
they're dirty, don't be afraid to give them a good wash with soap and water. Just dry
them well afterward. Spritz metal with a light coat of WD-40 and wipe with a clean rag
(you really just want to leave a light film on them to help keep the rust away). Wipe
wooden handles with a rag dampened with a little linseed oil.
Power tools: Power tools are a little trickier to clean. First, make sure the tool is
unplugged before you clean it. Next, you'll want to get all the dust off. An air compressor
can be really useful for that. Wipe down the surface of the tool and then lubricate any
moving parts. Machine oil is a fine choice for this, but you should also check the manual
that came with the tool to see if they have better recommendations.
While you're at it, don't forget that your toolboxes, belts, and bags will need some care as well.
Clean out your toolboxes every once in a while by emptying them and wiping them down. If
you've got leather belts and bags, you'll want to condition the leather once in a while. I keep a
tub of Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP around and it's always worked great. For bags and belts not
made of leather, a quick wash should do the trick.
We're going to assume you use your tools safely. You wear goggles and gloves when you
should and you follow the safety protocols recommended for your power tools. But taking the
time to inspect your tools every time you use them is one of the most important things you can
do to ensure not only your safety while using them, but the longevity of your tools as well.
Cracked housing on power tools. If a power tool has anything more than a simple
hairline crack on the housing, don't use it. Unless you have the expertise to repair it,
you'll need to get it repaired by a professional.
Power tools that don't start easily. If your tool needs a couple of tries to get going
or a little "push" to get the blade spinning, don't use it. Take the time to clean and
lubricate it and if that doesn't solve the problem, get it repaired. There are some fixes
you can take on yourself, such as replacing a belt on a sander or maybe fitting in a new
switch or power cord. But if you're not 100% sure you're up to the repair, take it to a pro.
Frayed insulation or exposed wires. Obviously, these are electrical hazards. While
some electrical tape might take care of a small problem temporarily, it's best to have the
tool repaired before using it.
Taking care of your tools does require a bit of a commitment, but you ask so much of them it
seems a small price to pay.
B. Electronic References
1. THE DRIVING COMPANION. Government of South Australia. Department
of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure