125+ Diesel Mechanic Tools That Are Essential

Good diesel mechanic work requires high-quality diesel mechanic tools.

If you're looking to build the industry skills employers are looking for, you need to get a diesel mechanic tool set with the essentials and start training.

Once you do, you can train to develop your skills the right way and eventually apply for entry-level diesel roles as a qualified technician.

Keep reading for our diesel mechanic tools list, informed by some of the biggest diesel brands in the world. Once you’re in school, you can start adding to your tool list for diesel mechanics to be better prepared for what's to come.

Key Summary Points

• Comprehensive diesel mechanic tools list: An extensive list of tools recommended for diesel mechanics, including various types of wrenches, socket sets, pliers, screwdrivers and more, to ensure preparedness for pursuing a career in the field. These recommendations are informed by major diesel brands and include tools for working on heavy equipment machinery and diesel engines.
• Tool organization and accessibility: Having a cart or rolling toolbox to efficiently organize and separate tools for easy access and use is important, as good tool management is an essential part of effective diesel mechanic work.
• Specialized tools and equipment: Beyond basic hand tools, the list includes specialized items like torque wrenches, feeler gauges, multimeters and wiring equipment, highlighting the technical complexity involved in diesel mechanic work and the need for a broad range of tools.
• Additional recommended items: There are other useful items needed for a diesel mechanic toolkit, such as safety glasses, hearing protection, a flashlight and a 12-foot measuring tape, underscoring the importance of safety and precision in the profession.
• Building your diesel toolset: Aspiring diesel mechanics should start building their toolset while still in school and consult with potential employers about specific tool requirements. Some employers may provide certain tools and acquiring used tools from retiring mechanics can be a cost-effective option for getting high-quality tools at a lower cost.

Diesel Mechanic Tools List

Schneider provides truckload, logistics and intermodal services. Below is a list of tools for diesel mechanics that the company recommends, along with variations of these recommendations      so you have an idea of what various heavy equipment machinery and diesel engine manufacturers might be looking for.

You'll want a cart or rolling toolbox that efficiently separates your tools so they're easy to locate and use.

Adapters

• ¼-inch to ⅜-inch
• ¼-inch to ½-inch
• ⅜-inch to ¼-inch
• ⅜-inch to ½-inch
• ½-inch to ⅜-inch
• ½ to ¼-inch
• ½-inch to ¾-inch
• ¾-inch to ½-inch

Allen Drivers

• Standard 3/32-inch to ⅜-inch and metric 3-millimeter to 17-millimeter
• Standard Allen wrench set .05-inch to ⅜-inch
• Metric Allen wrench set 2-millimeter to 12-millimeter

¼-Inch Drive Socket Set

• Standard (shallow and deep, SAE) 3/16-inch to ⅝-inch
• Metric (shallow and deep) 5-millimeter to 15-millimeter
• Standard depth 3/16-inch to ½-inch
• Deep 3/16-inch to ½-inch
• Standard depth 4-millimeter to 13-millimeter
• Deep 4-millimeter to 13-millimeter
• Short, medium, long extensions
• Ratchet handle
• Universal joint

⅜-Inch Drive Sockets

• Standard (SAE, deep, shallow and impact) 5/16-inch to 1-inch
• Metric (deep, shallow and impact) 7-millimeter to 20-millimeter
• Standard depth 12 Point ⅜-inch to ¾-inch
• Deep 6 point ⅜-inch to ¾-inch
• Standard depth 10-millimeter to 19-millimeter
• Deep 10-millimeter to 19-millimeter
• Short, medium, long extensions
• Ratchet handle
• Universal joint
• ⅜-inch to ¾-inch Sq Dr flexible socket
• 0-250-inch-lb. torque wrench

½-Inch Drive Sockets

• Standard (SAE, deep, shallow and impact) ⅜-inch to 1 ¼-inch
• Metric (deep, shallow and impact) 10-millimeter to 27-millimeter
• Shallow ½-inch to 1⅛-inch
• Deep ½-inch to 1⅛-inch
• Shallow 13-millimeter to 32-millimeter
• Deep 13-millimeter to 32-millimeter
• Sq Dr stud remover tool
• Breaker bar
• Short, medium, long extensions
• Ratchet handle
• Universal joint
• 0-250-foot-lb. torque wrench

Extensions

• 2-inch
• 6-inch
• 12-inch
• 24-inch (optional for reaching transmission bellhousing bolts)

Feeler Gauge Set

• Red handle for exhaust
• Blue handle for intake

Hammers

• Dead blow
• Ball-peen (16 ounce and 24 ounce)
• 4 to 5 lb. sledgehammer
• Plastic 2.5-lb. h. d.

Impacts

• ½-inch
• ⅜-inch
• ¼-inch (battery- or air-powered)

Multimeter

• Auto-ranging
• Digital read-out

Pliers

• Standard
• Adjustable
• Needle nose
• Vise-grip set
• Adjustable joint
• Locking
• Side cutters
• Slip-joint
• Snap ring
  • Small reversible
  • Large reversible
  • Flat with 1¾-inch minimum opening
• Brake spring
• Battery nut

Pry Bar Set

• Small 1-foot
• Medium 2-foot
• Large 3-foot

Ratchets

• ½-inch standard ratchet
• ⅜-inch standard ratchet
• ¼-inch standard ratchet
• Breaker bar

Screwdrivers

• Philips (short, medium, long)
• Flatheads
• 1-inch #2
• 6-inch #1
• 6-inch #2
• 1-foot #3
• Blade type: 1-inch, 6-inch, 9-inch, 1-foot, offset

Torque Bit Drivers

• T10
• T15
• T20
• T25
• T27
• T40
• T45 (medium and long shaft drivers)

Wiring Equipment

• Crimping tool
• Wire stripping tool
• Wire cutters
• Handheld torch

Wrenches

• Standard (SAE), 5/16-inch to 1¼-inch
• Metric, 8-millimeter to 22-millimeter
• Combination standard ⅜-inch to 1¼-inch
• Combination metric 6-millimeter to 26-millimeter
• Flare nut standard ⅜-inch to ¾-inch
• Flare nut metric 7-millimeter to 19-millimeter
• Adjustable 1-inch to 8-inch
• Adjustable 1-inch to 1-foot
• Torx wrench set T-15 to T-55
• Pipe wrench 10-inch or 14-inch
• 20-inch reversing chain wrench
• Filter wrench

Files

• 12-inch fine
• 12-inch coarse
• Round
• Half-round
• 6-inch triangle

Punches

• Pin 3/16-inch to ⅜-inch
• Center 5-inch
• Cold chisel
  • ⅜-inch blade to 5-inch length
  • ⅝-inch blade to 6-inch length
  • ⅞-inch blade to 7-inch length
• Starter 3/16-inch to ⅜-inch
• Brass punch

Feeler Gauges

• .005-inch to .05-inch
• .005-millimeter to .07-millimeter

Other Items for a Diesel Mechanic Tool Set

More items you might want to add to a tool list for diesel mechanics include:

• 12-foot measuring tape
• 15-inch aligning bar
• Adjustable all-angle inspection mirror
• Battery post cleaner
• Battery terminal clamp puller
• Cotter key extractor
• Crimp/stripper tool
• Dial caliper
• Drill bits 1/16-inch to ½-inch
• Extractor set (broken bolt)
• Flashlight
• Flexible retrieving and holding tool
• Gasket scraper 1-inch wide
• Hacksaw
• Hearing protection
• Knife
• Magnetic pickup tool (telescoping)
• O-ring pick set
• Rolling head pry bar
• Safety glasses
• Set starter – jumper wires with clips
• Tire air chuck
• Tire gauge (truck-type)
• Valve core replacement tool
• Wire brush
• Work gloves

Start Building Your Diesel Tool Set for Mechanics

This is a long list, but mechanics may not need all the tools on this list for their future employers. Some employers may even provide certain tools. It can help to contact employers you're interested in working for to see what they require.

Also, take advantage of employer visits on your Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus. You can talk directly with employers about what tools they recommend you start with.¹ Our diesel instructors are great resources, too.

As diesel mechanics retire, many offer to sell their tools to the next generation. Ask around in your networks and look online for lower-cost tools that are still high-quality.

When you study Diesel Technology at UTI, you don't have to worry about purchasing tools while you're in school. We provide students with everything they need for training with equipment they'd use in the field.

Diesel Mechanic Tools FAQs

1. What are the essential tools needed for a basic diesel mechanic tool kit?

A basic diesel mechanic tool kit should include fundamental hand tools such as wrenches, socket sets, pliers and screwdrivers. Additionally, including specialty tools like torque wrenches, a multimeter and various adapters will help mechanics effectively tackle diesel engine repairs and maintenance tasks.

2. Can you recommend any specific brands for high-quality diesel mechanic tools?

Some reputable brands known for producing high-quality diesel mechanic tools include Snap-on®, Matco Tools® and CRAFTSMAN®. It's essential to choose tools that are durable and reliable to withstand the demanding environment of diesel repair work.

3. What are the differences between diesel engine tools and gasoline engine tools?

While there is significant overlap in the tools used for both diesel and gasoline engines, diesel tools are often more robust due to the higher torque and pressure levels found in diesel engines. Additionally, specific tools such as compression gauging tools, diesel injection equipment and more specialized diagnostic tools are unique to diesel mechanics.

4. How do I properly maintain and store my diesel mechanic tools to ensure their longevity?

To maintain your diesel mechanic tools, clean them regularly after use to remove grease and debris, and store them in a dry, organized toolbox to prevent rust and damage. Periodically checking for wear and tear and ensuring proper lubrication for moving parts will also prolong the life of your tools.

5. What safety equipment should I have on hand when using diesel mechanic tools?

Essential safety equipment for diesel mechanics includes safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris, gloves to safeguard your hands and hearing protection when operating loud machinery. Additionally, having a first aid kit readily available can help address any injuries promptly.

Ready to Train for a Diesel Career?

Apply for UTI’s Diesel Technology program, which starts every three to six weeks at our campus locations nationwide, and use the diesel mechanic tools we provide to train toward pursuing a career!¹ We also have a variety of specialized training programs, like the 12-week Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI), where eligible students can earn manufacturer-specific certifications that prepare them to pursue employment at one of the 350+ Peterbilt dealerships across North America.¹⁵

To learn more and to get in touch with an Admissions Representative, request information online or call 1-800-834-7308 today.

UTI Campuses That Offer Diesel Mechanic Training

• Avondale, Arizona
• Long Beach, California
• Rancho Cucamonga, California
• Sacramento, California
• Miramar, Florida
• Orlando, Florida
• Lisle, Illinois
• Bloomfield, New Jersey
• Exton, Pennsylvania
• Austin, Texas
• Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas
• Houston, Texas