Touring A Mobile Mechanic Van

Meet Ty, the car guy who turned a Toyota Prius into a thriving mobile mechanic business pulling in $120,000 a year. Now, at 27 years old, he’s upgraded to a Ford Econoline, and today, we’re taking an in-depth look at how he’s built out his van to run his business efficiently—down to the last socket and zip tie.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to run a successful mobile mechanic operation, this tour is packed with insights into Ty’s meticulously organized setup, featuring every tool, gadget, and necessity that keeps him rolling from job to job.

The Tools of the Trade

Ty’s van is packed with carefully selected tools, each serving a crucial purpose in his day-to-day work. Whether it’s a quick diagnostic check or a full-on engine teardown, he’s got it all within arm’s reach.

His Milwaukee Packout system is the backbone of his organization, featuring sockets that snap securely into place—perfect for grab-and-go convenience without worrying about losing pieces. As he puts it, “They should sponsor me at this point!”

Inside his main toolbox, you’ll find everything from:

• 1/2″ Harbor Freight sockets – The workhorse set with the most commonly used sizes always within reach.
• Milwaukee right-angle impact wrench – Compact and powerful, perfect for tight spots.
• Extended reach 3/8″ ratchet – Ideal for getting to those hard-to-reach bolts without breaking a sweat.
• Paint markers, extensions, and swivel joints – Because every job needs a touch of precision and flexibility.

And that’s just scratching the surface—there’s also a stash of diagnostic tools, extra wiring, Loctite, and a mix of hex and Torx bits, all kept meticulously organized for quick access.

Heavy-Duty Equipment

For the bigger jobs, Ty’s got a dedicated heavy-duty drawer, housing tools like:

• Pry bars and hammers – Essential for the stubborn, rusted-on parts.
• Pitman arm remover and tie rod tools – Perfect for front-end work without the hassle.
• Locking pliers and hose clamp tools – Because holding things steady is half the battle.

One of the key pieces of equipment in the van is his Pittsburgh 2-ton jack, which he loves for being lightweight yet capable of handling nearly any vehicle he encounters.

“A lot of you guys ask about this jack—it’s light, reliable, and gets the job done.”

He’s also got backup supplies, like wood blocks for lifted trucks, ensuring no job is out of reach.

Staying Clean and Organized

Being a mobile mechanic isn’t just about having the right tools—it’s also about staying clean and prepared. Ty’s van features:

• Wipes and cleaning supplies – From Fast Orange to crocodile cloths, he’s got it all to keep things tidy.
• Rain gear and gloves – Essential for those less-than-ideal weather conditions.
• A yoga mat – “Because you never know when you’ll need to get under a car comfortably.”

Parts and Fluids

A dedicated shelf system keeps all the essential parts and fluids within arm’s reach, stocked with items like:

• Brake cleaner, throttle body cleaner, and mass airflow sensor cleaner – Ready for any tune-up situation.
• Starter fluid and coolant – Because sometimes, engines need a little encouragement.
• Miscellaneous nuts and bolts – A lifesaver for those last-minute fixes.

The parts shelf is a one-stop shop, housing everything from strut spring compressors to serpentine belt tools, and even a cot for those long workdays that stretch into the night.

Gadgets and Specialty Tools

Ty’s not just about wrenches and sockets—he’s also got some serious tech packed in his van. A few highlights include:

• Autel and Innova scanners – The go-to diagnostic tools for quick and accurate troubleshooting.
• M12 air compressor and M18 Milwaukee fan – Keeping things cool and inflated.
• TikTok shop fridge – Keeping sandwiches and drinks cool for those marathon workdays.

There’s even a GoPro bag, because documenting the journey is all part of the fun.

Inside the Cab – Business on the Go

The front of the van is just as well thought out as the back. Ty keeps it stocked with the essentials to keep him going, including:

• Business cards – Always ready to hand out to potential clients.
• Headlamps, pens, and notepads – For jotting down quick notes mid-job.
• Bluetooth speaker – Since the van doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, he relies on a JBL Flip 5 to keep the tunes going.
• Sunscreen and chapstick – Because working outside all day requires a little self-care too.

His van also features a small fridge, thanks to his wife’s thoughtful touch—stocked with cold drinks and homemade sandwiches to fuel those long hours on the road.

The Sticker Wall

One of the coolest personal touches in the van is the sticker wall, where Ty collects stickers, postcards, and other memorabilia from fans and customers. If you want to contribute, he’s planning to open a PO box soon so he can keep adding to his collection.

Lessons from the Road

Ty’s journey from working out of a Toyota Prius to running a fully equipped mobile mechanic business in a Ford Econoline is a testament to his dedication and smart planning. His advice to anyone looking to follow in his footsteps?

“Stay organized, invest in good tools, and always be prepared for the unexpected.”

Want to See More?

If you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at Ty’s mobile mechanic setup, be sure to check out his YouTube channel @TyTheCarGuy for more in-depth content, business tips, and plenty of van life inspiration.

You can also follow him on social media for daily updates and behind-the-scenes action:

• TikTok: @tythecarguyy

With a well-equipped van, a solid work ethic, and a growing fan base, Ty’s making serious moves in the mobile mechanic world—and proving that with the right tools and attitude, anything is possible.