Every power tool imaginable is readily available in the NASCAR pits.
I have a friend who owns three of every imaginable automotive tool. Why does he have three of the same thing? Because when he can’t find the first two, he buys yet another extra of the same “missing” tool.
I was reminded of the need for keeping tools organized when I walked through the garage stalls and pits at the Phoenix International Raceway during last month’s NASCAR race. (See photos, above and right.) When seconds count, pit crews need to know precisely where to find the exact required tool. They have tool boxes in the pits, at the garage stalls, and even in their haulers.
While wrenching in your garage might not lead to a winner’s trophy (or even the admiration from your significant other), keeping things organized will make your life easier.
If you have space, wall-based storage designs allow you to use an entire garage wall for tool storage. Alas, I don’t have that much space in my garage. If you’re in the same situation, don’t despair: There are plenty of other organizational options.
Mastergrip slanted metal tool box
First things first. You need a high-quality toolbox to store most of your tools. Having one go-to spot for your tools speeds up any project or task. Also, a box, case, or similar organizer will keep all your tools free from dirt, dust, or possible damage.
Go Big
When it comes to buying a toolbox, follow this trusted rule: Go big. Even if you don’t currently have enough tools to fill half the space, you’ll want the room to expand your tool collection without needing to buy a new toolbox. Many storage boxes are now equipped with electrical outlets and USB ports to keep things charged. That’s a desirable feature.
Plan ahead when buying more tools. For example, many companies sell wrench sets in convenient storage compartments. Keep the wrenches in the provided holders, and store the tray in one of the tool-box drawers. In that way, the full assortment of new tools stays organized in one convenient location.
13-piece set of reversible ratcheting wrenches
Divide and Conquer
Don’t stop there with your newfound organizational skills. eBay Motors offers a wide selection of tool storage dividers and holders for your toolbox. If you line up your metric wrenches by size, it will be easier to find exactly the one you want. When you need the next size up, grab the next wrench in the lineup.
The most important key to organization is common sense and doesn’t cost a penny: Return tools to their proper location. Of course, it’s all too tempting to wrap up the day by tossing all the screwdrivers, sockets, and measuring tapes in one heap. But I know from personal experience—trust me—it only makes more work later. Some of the cleanest professional garages that I’ve seen have the whole crew spend the last 15 minutes of the day returning everything to its proper location.
A well-maintained tool-storage setup doesn’t necessarily qualify you to join a NASCAR pit crew, but you’ll feel like a pro every time you reach for the desired tool—and find it exactly where you thought it would be.
See Tool Chests&Cabinets Tool Chests for sale on eBay.
