Top 10 Tools: Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive

Owner: Matt Fanslow

Shop: Riverside Automotive

Location: Red Wing, Minn.

Matt Fanslow is a diagnostic technician at Riverside Automotive in Red Wing, Minn. He services all makes and models. An ASE Certified Master L1 tech, he has 20 years of experience diagnosing vehicles and has provided training for ASA Midwest at industry events.

1. OE scan tools

Fanslow has several factory level scan tools interfaces with a number of accessories to work on a multitude of vehicles. He says the reasons for owning OE scan tools, such as the Ford Rotunda IDS, number greatly. “Programming, coding and initializing modules is probably at the forefront, as is access to all available modules,” says Fanslow, noting OE scan tools can sometimes access more than 75 modules. He also appreciates having access to service information.

2. Aftermarket scan tools

With about a half-dozen different options to choose from, including the Snap-on VERUS Edge, Fanslow often turns to aftermarket scan tools first because many are handheld and faster to use. He says in addition to improved speed, many times aftermarket scan tools perform required tasks better than an OE tool.

3. Pico Technology PicoScope Advanced Automotive Kit, No. 4425

While scan tools make acquiring information quick and easy, the data collected still needs to be interpreted. “PicoScope and a combination of their accessory offerings allow me to view this raw data, and in some cases, help me analyze it and find issues that are difficult to make an accurate call on strictly based off codes or scan data.”

4. EMS Exhaust Gas Analyzer, No. 5001

Although it is now discontinued and replaced by newer models, Fanslow still relies on this device. “I still feel that the best way to flow test fuel injectors on a vehicle is with the exhaust gas analyzer, watching lambda rather than watching pressure drop,” he explains. “I’ve used it from time to time on problematic EVAP leak issues as well as testing for a head gasket here and there.”

5. AESwave uScope

Fanslow utilizes the company’s uScope in addition to other voltage maintainers, relay testers and test probes. He says the variety of tools and equipment, coupled with customer support is extremely valuable. “They have a group of technicians in the field, who help them with support by answering questions or in some cases actually calling and talking to you,” Fanslow says. “It’s great.”

6. SABER 7-Watt LED Cordless Underhood Light, No. ATD-80352

Fanslow uses a number of cordless underhood lights and cordless flashlights around the shop. “I use the underhood lights in the car as well, hooking them along the roof so it illuminates the dash of the car for work inside the vehicle,” he says. “They last a long time, and they’re so bright.”

7. Snap-on 3/8” 18V Compact Cordless Impact Wrench, No. CT8810

Cordless tools have become a staple in the shop for Fanslow. “No more air hoses,” he exclaims, noting he also owns a 1/2” cordless impact, 1/4” cordless driver and 1/4” cordless ratchet from Snap-on as well as a 3/8” impact and 1/4” driver from DeWalt. “I don’t use air hoses unless I have to air-up a tire or use my SmokeWizard.”

8. ALLDATA Repair Information

Fanslow says a tech can’t do much without a good source of electronic service information, adding it has become a deep subject. He likes looking up a vehicle by its VIN and having wiring schematics, description and operations, flow charts, specifications and removal/replacement steps at his disposal.

9. iATN Waveform Library

Having access to vehicle-specific files is advantageous, “but the real gold to iATN is the forums, especially looking up archived conversations,” Fanslow says. Although a subscription is necessary, the tech says the information found in technical discussion, shop management and educator’s forums is valuable. “You shouldn’t even consider the dollars you pay as ‘spent.’” iATN offers an iOS app to access information from a mobile device.

10. Cal-Van Amp Hound 2

Fanslow uses the original Amp Hound, which has since been replaced with the Amp Hound 2, to quickly test fuses. “Nowadays, you can’t just go and start pulling fuses – or if you do, you’ve got to pull them out and leave them out,” Fanslow says. He programs the tool so it knows what he’s testing, and then he waits for the results. “If a fuse is bad, it beeps at you,” he says. “When I use it, I love it.”