Tool Review: VIM Tools 2-pc Patented Locking Pliers, No. FRLP100
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Q: How did the tool function as far as saving you time?
A: Locking pliers are one of those things that are not needed every day, but are invaluable when you need them. These locking pliers have well-built, durable jaws that do a great job of gripping stripped fasteners.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?
A: Locking pliers are one of those items that, when the need arises for them, you can’t go without. Whether removing a striped fastener or simply holding one when a third set of hands is not available, they offer time savings that directly equate to increased productivity.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: Very. It has smooth operation and an easy release, which not all locking pliers have.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: Packaging was great, the two pliers came well boxed for shipping and arrived in a woven nylon carrying case with a Velcro clasp.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I loved the aggressive and well-constructed jaws. The teeth are well-defined and robust. The dual-purpose jaw design is a great feature that is not shared by many of the other locking pliers on the market. I also loved the release; other locking pliers have a secondary release that can be a challenge when the pliers are adjusted tightly.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: The only thing I can think of to improve it would be more lubrication of the adjusting screw during the assembly process, so it has a little smoother action out of the box.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: I used the larger set (FRLP7) to hold the busted ball stud on a sway bar end link, and it performed admirably. The smaller set (FRLP5) worked great for securing a jumper wire to the negative post of a battery during some electrical diagnostics. There are a million and one uses for locking pliers.
Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool? How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: Not this brand, but I own and have used many sets of locking pliers. The two features that set these VIM Tools products apart are the dual-purpose jaws and the ability to use a hex bit on the adjusting screw. This is a straightforward product that looks well-constructed.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?
A: I rate them a nine only because the adjusting screw on the small set was rough out of the box. With a little effort, it smoothed out right away, though.
The 2-pc Patented Locking Pliers, No. FRLP100, from VIM Tools are made of CRMO (chromemoly steel) and feature bi-directional jaws. A traditional locking jaw with vertical cut grooves in the jaw allows the tool to bite onto the head of stripped fasteners to easily remove them. The set contains both a 5” and 7” pair in a nylon carrying pouch.
About the Author
Erik Screeden
Technical and Multimedia Content Director
Erik Screeden is the Technical and Multimedia Content Director for the Vehicle Service & Repair Group. Erik is an ASE Master Automobile Technician with L1, and L4 credentials, who has been in the industry for over 25 years in various capacities. During that time, Screeden was a technician. He started out at a Ford dealership and continued to several independent repair facilities as well as spent time in the specialty aftermarket at a GM-specific performance shop. After his time as a technician came to an end, Screeden transitioned into a role providing scan diagnostic and J2534 tool support. He was then able to parlay his experience as a technician and a support specialist and use that in several technical sales roles.
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