If you are a beginner to solar and DIY it might not occur to you that a part of creating a good lasting setup is to have good tools to work with. This means spending a bit more and not just grabbing your tools from the 99 cent bargain bin at the auto parts store. Screwdrivers are not one size fit all screws. Nor should you grab pliers to tighten down battery bolts. And that big Crescent wrench is not the tool to drive in ground rods with.
While you are in the research stage of your new project put some effort into researching adequate tools to complete the job. Yes it does add to the cost. But it is worth it having tools you can rely on.
Some of my most used tools for doing electrical work are my Klein screwdrivers (3 Phillips and 3 slotted size) I have had them in my kit for 30 years. A Klein wire stripper/crimper does most of my wire duties up to 10awg. Another favorite is my Channel Lock diagonal cutting pliers as well as Slip joint pliers. I have an old set of needle nose pliers that I have had for so long that no descernable name on them can be found but they just keep working. Nut drivers I own are Craftsman and Popular mechanics brand. Most wrenches, sockets, and ratchets are Craftsman I bought back in a steel tool box from Sears in the late 70's. I do own several newer tools that I have bought to complete a particular job or task some just set now and gather dust.
While you are in the research stage of your new project put some effort into researching adequate tools to complete the job. Yes it does add to the cost. But it is worth it having tools you can rely on.
Some of my most used tools for doing electrical work are my Klein screwdrivers (3 Phillips and 3 slotted size) I have had them in my kit for 30 years. A Klein wire stripper/crimper does most of my wire duties up to 10awg. Another favorite is my Channel Lock diagonal cutting pliers as well as Slip joint pliers. I have an old set of needle nose pliers that I have had for so long that no descernable name on them can be found but they just keep working. Nut drivers I own are Craftsman and Popular mechanics brand. Most wrenches, sockets, and ratchets are Craftsman I bought back in a steel tool box from Sears in the late 70's. I do own several newer tools that I have bought to complete a particular job or task some just set now and gather dust.
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