Pliers for HGV workshop and auto-electrical work
The pliers used in a commercial vehicle workshop cover a wider range than most general mechanics carry. Auto-electrical work on trucks requires precision tools — wire strippers, crimping pliers, and long-nose variants for working in wiring harnesses and connector housings. Mechanical work requires locking pliers for seized fixings and circlip pliers in both straight and angled versions for suspension components, gearbox shafts, and brake assemblies.
Combination pliers cover most general gripping and cutting tasks. The serrated jaws handle wire, fittings, and soft materials; the cutting section near the pivot handles cable and small wire. For heavier wire or bolt croppers, linesman pliers rated for the cable diameter are the correct tool rather than overloading combination pliers on work they are not designed for.
Locking pliers — mole grips — are one of the most used tools in any workshop. They are particularly useful on rounded or seized fasteners where a spanner has lost grip, on clamping applications during repair work, and as a holding tool when a third hand is needed. Choose a jaw opening range that suits the fastener sizes you work on most frequently.
Circlip pliers come in internal and external variants, and in straight and angled jaw configurations. Confirm which type you need for the specific application before purchasing — internal and external circlips require different plier jaw designs and cannot be substituted for each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of pliers do I need in an HGV workshop?
The core set for HGV workshop use is combination pliers for general work, locking pliers for seized fixings and clamping, long-nose pliers for auto-electrical and wiring work, and circlip pliers (internal and external) for suspension and drivetrain components. Wire strippers and crimping pliers are also needed if the workshop handles electrical diagnostics and repair.
What is the difference between internal and external circlip pliers?
Internal circlip pliers have tips that spread outward to grip the inside of a circlip fitted inside a bore or housing. External circlip pliers have tips that close inward to compress a circlip fitted around a shaft. The two types are not interchangeable. Using the wrong type risks losing the circlip or damaging the component.
Can locking pliers damage fastener heads?
Yes, if used on accessible fasteners in good condition. Locking pliers grip by biting into the fastener surface, which damages the flats. They should be used as a last resort on accessible fixings, or as the primary method only on fasteners that are already rounded or seized beyond spanner use. On pipe fittings and soft material clamping applications, the surface marking is not an issue.
What should I look for when buying combination pliers?
Look for drop-forged chrome vanadium construction, a clean pivot action without play, and induction-hardened cutting edges. The jaw serrations should grip firmly without crushing. For general workshop use, a 200mm combination plier covers most tasks. Longer versions are available where extra leverage is needed.
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