Light Vehicle Tooling & Equipment

At MPI, we are committed to working with you to help ensure you have full awareness of the tooling and equipment required for you to carry out proper repair each and every time.

Depending on the scope of work that your shop performs, it’s not essential to own all the recommended tools and equipment. You need to make the business decision as to what tools and equipment you invest in, based on the type of work you do.

Overall, it is essential that you have the right tools and equipment to complete proper repairs. If you do a repair that requires a specific tool, you need either:

  • The right tool
  • A plan to access the right tool
  • A plan to sublet the work

Recommended Tooling and Equipment List

The following list of recommended tooling and equipment is based on OEM specifications and requirements. Depending on the specialty work you perform, you may need additional equipment beyond this list to meet specific OEM requirements.

Description
Specifications
Autobody
Frame

1

Frame Bench/Rack

Frame bench/rack capable of multiple pulls and additional anchoring points

X

X

2

Electronic 3-D Vehicle Measuring System

System must meet OEM vehicle manufacturers specifications, be capable of measuring in-progress repairs, and record/store measurement data

X

X

3

Tram Gauge

For damage analysis and to measure upper body and openings

X

X

4

Spray Booth

Approved spray booth with dedicated make-up unit (1000 foot candles, 125ft³/min exhaust, 19,000CFM, 1.5MBTU Burner capacity)

X

5

OEM Approved Refinishing System

OEM approved refinishing system; top tier following manufacturer standard operating

X

6

Air Respirator System

Workplace Safety and Health regulations, but not limited to M.R. 217/2006 as amended

X

7

Paint Guns

High volume low pressure or reduced pressure compliant; shop preference

X

8

Enclosed Gun Cleaner

Accredited Shop preferred brand

X

9

Anti-Corrosion Compound and Application Equipment

Accredited Shop preferred brand

X

X

10

Digital Imaging Equipment

Accredited Shop preferred brand

X

X

11

Headlamp Aiming Equipment

SAE J599 and J600 compliant

X

12

Pulse MIG Welder

Pulse MIG welder, upgradeable and programmable with silicon-bronze MIG brazing capabilities; min 220V, min 200A synergic pulse; OEM-specified wire size

X

X

13

MAG Welder

Min 220V, min 200A

X

X

14

Low RPM Spot Weld Drill

Accredited Shop preferred brand

X

X

15

Digital Inspection Scope (Boroscope)

Required for damage analysis and confirm proper corrosion protection application

X

X

16

Portable Hydraulic Kit

10-Ton

X

X

17

Squeeze-Type Resistance Spot Welder

Squeeze-Type Resistance Spot Welder (STRSW) upgradeable and programmable, with Smart technology

X

X

18

Laser Weld Cutter

Capable of controlling cut-off depth

X

X

 

These recommendations are subject to change based on OEM recommendations and established repair standards.

MPI is committed to supporting you and ensuring your awareness of proper tooling and equipment and that you have access to the training required for proper repair, whether for glass or body work.

If you have any questions, please contact the Accredited Repair department.