Getting a Grip on Tools for the Road
Car travel gets easier all the time, thanks to products that make vehicles mobile homes away from home--complete with repair kits. Prices do not include shipping.
Cool tool: Multipurpose tools that go beyond a basic pocketknife are proliferating. Now comes Victorinox’s AutoTool, specifically for car needs. Out of its 5-inch-by-1 1/2-inch stainless steel casing unfold a digital tire pressure gauge, an ice scraper, a fuse puller, an electrical crimper and full-size pliers. You’ll also find a built-in flashlight (runs on one 1.5-volt battery, included) as well as a serrated blade, wire cutter, 3mm and 5mm screwdrivers, Phillips screwdriver, can and bottle openers and wire bender/ stripper. The AutoTool comes with a carrying pouch and makes a neat gift for the handy person.
Victorinox AutoTool (item 53908) is $89.95. For a nearby store, call (800) 243-4045; Internet https:// www.swissarmy.com.
Easy cell: Cell phones mounted to the car dashboard make for easier access on the go, but drilling holes in a vehicle can reduce its value. Pro-Fit’s custom-designed cell phone mounts are an ingenious alternative. After removing the bezel covering the radio and climate control panel, the installer attaches the mount using existing dashboard fittings and holes that match holes in the vehicle-specific mount. He then replaces the bezel, locking the mount in position. A phone cradle (available from the cell phone manufacturer) is then attached to the mount. Pro-Fit makes a universal cradle that accommodates most cell phones, but I prefer the holders made by the phone manufacturers. Though the mount comes with installation instructions, I recommend professional installation to prevent damage. Pro-Fit will provide a list of qualified installers in your area.
Pro-Fit cellular phone car mount is $39.95 (installation is about $20); universal cradle is $12.95. For a dealer, call (800) 388-0073, Internet https://www.pro-fit-intl.com.
Empowered drive: Road trips needn’t drain the batteries of video games, personal stereos, laptops or other portables. Franzus’ Auto DC/DC Adapter plugs into the car cigarette lighter, powering and charging items that have DC sockets. The unit has seven DC output selections (1.5 volts to 12 volts) and is equipped with six universal plugs that accommodate most appliances and accessories. Keep one in the glove compartment.
Franzus Auto DC/DC Adapter (TSA-172VGA) is $12. For a nearby store call (800) 706-7064; Internet https://www.franzus.com.
Macho road warrior: Yo! Got a problem out there? The Gerber Sport Utility Pack (but regular cars qualify too) is a sturdy polyester case, 12 inches by 11 inches by 3 inches, containing five heavy-duty tools and a first-aid kit, each in its own pouch. There’s a folding spade for digging out of ice or other crises, a big folding saw with locking blade, a hatchet, a multipurpose tool with 13 elements, including needle-nose pliers, several screwdrivers and a file, and a full-size aluminum Mag-Lite (runs on two D batteries, not included). The little first-aid kit has only bandages, alcohol prep pads and aspirin, but there’s room for more in its zippered mesh pouch.
Gerber Sport Utility Pack (05638) is $199. For a nearby store, call (800) 777-6805, Internet https:// www.gerberblades.com.
The Gear & Gadgets column appears monthly.
