Handtools, convincing mangement to buy high quality tools

[Mechta]

• Always get photos of damage from poor quality tools
• Record time taken to put right damage. This includes getting replacement parts as well as installation
• Get the guys to bring in worn or broken tools to show the beancounters and keep examples (but clearly labelled as U/S!)
• List jobs that cannot be done without high quality tools e.g. access so tight only a fine ratchet will actually turn in the space
• As LASJayhawk says, the cost of processing a purchase order is often greater than the tool itself
• Be ready to demonstrate to the bean counters what measures you will take to prevent pilfering and loss of good quality tools
• A slipped spanner might not just damage the fastener, it might also dent an aluminium or honeycomb panel or stress wiring. Scratched paintwork or trim may also result. Once this has to be repaired, the cost of the proper tool is peanuts in comparison
• As Winglit says, poor quality tools on the shop/hangar floor may lose you a customer before you ever see their aircraft.
• Make sure fasteners in Kanban have the correct tool identified against them. I've seen a good few Pozidrive screws get destroyed by people using Philips bits on them.