Meters and Lights

I need some suggestions for multi meters. I am going to rewire the 'Net and will be buying a meter. I have zero experience with them so advice would be helpful. Any thing specific to look for? Brands? etc.

Anybody have a work light they love?? I am looking for something on a reel that is very bright.

Thanks

As meters go, you won't go wrong with anything from Fluke. I use the Fluke 87 at work and home and it is durable and capable. There are cheaper Fluke meters with fewer of the technical qualifications that still do all the things that a home wiring guy needs, particularly if you're doing only low voltage DC like in a car. For less money try an Ancor 702073. (http://www.jmsonline.net/dig-multimeter-10-fun-32-range.htm) I've had one at home for years and it is flawless. It is not as good for high end electronic diagnostics, but again, for automotive stuff, it's great. I'm not sure anything else in the price range can touch it.

Meters are like welders - and I suppose a lot of other tools - if you buy a cheap one it will be frustrating at all the wrong times. But if you buy a good one, you'll soon forget the cost and just enjoy using it.

I agree with the fluke. Mine has been the best life saver and dependable. My Fluke 787 recently had a uncal error. I called Fluke and sent it to Washington state. They calibrated it, replaced the top case, replace U108 and the input jack. My total cost for repairs $0.00. They even paid to ship it back to me. Now that is customer service period. I have had it about 3 years and got it from my father in law as a gift after he had it for about 5 years. I have several Fluke testers and won't buy anything else now.

You can by a cheap one then drop it (accidentally of course) and end up out of pocket for another.

X3 on the Fluke. Mine is at least 10 years old and still works flawlessly. I also have an older analog multimeter which I still use at times. You may want to buy an el cheapo meter to get your feet wet and then decide what will be best for you.

10-4 on the Fluke - Thanks

What about work lights?

For the shop/garage light I have a Snap On roll up and put fluorescent bulb in it. It doesn't get hot and the light is nice and bright. Just don't drop it a long way,the bulbs do break and if you are an EPA junkie you have to call out the hazmat team to clean it up......

Me, a broom and dustpan and your done.....

I recommend in addition to the other stuff you get a cheapie analog meter. It is very useful to have an analog meter when troubleshooting items that pulse (turn signals, dash voltage limiter, etc). They usually pulse to quickly for a digital meter to lock in on the signal so you just see numbers going all over the place, with an analog meter you'll see the needle sweep regularly. You should be able to get one for $20 or less.