Affordable Racing Tools - Must-Have Tools

Intercomp has a digital caster/camber gauge that indicates caster and camber to 20 degrees in 0.1-degree increments, giving superior accuracy. The unit uses a standard 9-volt battery good for up to 100 hours of power, and its compact design holds well to the hub. Standard features include an auto shutoff mechanism and self-calibrating camber. MSRP: $299. Intercomp, Dept. SCR10, 14465 23rd Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55447; 800/328-3336;www.intercomp-racing.com

The Norstar Pop-Up Canopy, available at Irvan-Smith, can help create a convenient, shaded work area whenever you're trackside. The canopy is designed for ease of use, so two people can open and close the unit. In addition to offering ample headroom, a reinforced truss system gives maximum durability and strength, and the unit carries a 12-month warranty. MSRP: Prices range from $200 to $675. Irvan-Smith Inc., Dept. SCR10, 1027 Central Dr., Concord, NC 28027; 800/221-RACE (7223); www.irvansmith.com

A quick-fill inlet valve allows the user to fill the Longacre Aluminum Quick-Fill Tank in less than 10 seconds. The tank comes with a Quick Fill Tire Gauge that permits faster fill or purge, and the tank's aluminum construction allows easy transporting of the 7-gallon unit. The tanks are available with 0-60, 0-30, and 0-15 pound filler-style air gauges. MSRP: $198 at any Longacre dealer. Call or visit their Web site for a dealer nearest you. 800/423-3110; www.longacreracing.com

Longacre offers the Accutech Tire Pyrometer, which includes a protective case and large numbers for easy viewing. The pyrometer's slim design makes it easy to handle, and the auto-shutoff extends battery life. A high-temperature hold button locks-in the highest temperature for quick reference. The unit has a 1,400-degree range. MSRP: Available for $132.95 at any Longacre dealer. Call or visit their Web site for a dealer nearest you. 800/423-3110; www.longacreracing.com

Two different models of the Powerhouse ProductsTM Self-Powered Timing Lights are available. Both feature a one-wire inductive lead design and operate on two D-cell batteries. A bright xenon flash tube makes each unit ideal for use in sunny conditions. The standard model is usable to about 5,000 rpm, while the pro model can operate beyond the 10,000rpm range. MSRP: $49, standard model; $89, pro model. Powerhouse Products Inc.TM, Dept. SCR10, 3402 Democrat Rd., Memphis, TN 38118; 800/872-7223; www.powerhouseproducts.com

A New Cordless Drill Series From Snap-on offers power ranges that include 9.6-volt, 12-volt, 14.4-volt, and 18-volt drills. All have two speeds, feature heavy-duty industrial quality gear trains supported by ball bearings, and strong heat-treated alloy steel gears. Each drill weighs less than 5.5 pounds and comes with a battery pack, battery charger, and storage case. MSRP: Prices range from $209.95 for the 9.6-volt drill to $299.95 for the 18-volt model. Available by contacting any local Snap-on representative, visiting www.snapon.com, or calling 877/762-7662.

The rechargeable Versa Volt Flashlight from Snap-on resists impact, temperature extremes, and most automotive fluids, and a lens made from tempered glass resists scratching. The head swivels 120 degrees, and a battery pack base allows the flashlight to stand on its own. The flashlight is powered by either a 9.6-volt, 12-volt, or 14.4-volt battery pack. MSRP: $40.95 for flashlight; $69.95 to $86.95 for battery packs; $65.95 for charger. Available by contacting any local Snap-on representative, visiting www.snapon.com, or calling 877/762-7662.

Pro Tools has a hole-saw-type notcher that has a 1/2-inch thick steel frame and engraved markings for easy reading. The unit, which has the ability to notch up to 60 degrees, has two large ball bearings with seals on both sides to prevent chip damage, and a 1-inch diameter shaft to eliminate flex and chatter. A vise-type tube clamp with an adjustable V-block allows offset notching, and the unit weighs just under 30 pounds. Sold complete with drill press mounting bracket. MSRP: $299. Pro Tools, Dept. SCR10, 7616 Industrial Ln., Tampa, FL 33637; 813/986-9000; www.pro-tools.com

Two different configurations are available with the Model 105 Mechanical Bender offered by Pro Tools. In addition to the standard model, a heavy-duty unit with 5/8-inch thick steel main arms has been added to the lineup. Pro Tools benders are machined and fitted with a pivot bushing to eliminate friction. MSRP: $275 for the basic bender only. Pro Tools, Dept. SCR10, 7616 Industrial Ln., Tampa, FL 33637; 813/986-9000; www.pro-tools.com