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Recommended Equipment
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
The following is a list of tools and parts we regularly use for EV installs, diagnostics, and battery work. Each item links out to Amazon for current pricing and availability. *Affiliate Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. EV West may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
Tesla Pentalobe Tool (Model 3 / Y Battery Enclosures)
About this item:
Purpose-built pentalobe tool used for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y battery enclosure fasteners—ideal for service access when working on pack hardware.
Axial Fuses (BMS Cell Tap Protection)
About this item:
Used for cell tap connections on BMS systems to help protect sense wiring and reduce the risk of damage from faults during pack integration and service.
Microswitch (Brake / Clutch Pedal Signal)
About this item:
Commonly used for brake pedal input in Tesla T2C systems and also works well as a clutch switch in VW applications—simple, reliable pedal-state signaling.
K Type Thermistors (Battery Temperature Sensing)
About this item:
Used in BMS systems to measure battery temperatures—helpful for monitoring pack thermal behavior during testing, balancing, and real-world operation.
Deutsch DT Connector Kit (Automotive-Grade Harnessing)
About this item:
Essential kit for clean, automotive-grade connections across sensors, low-voltage controls, and accessory circuits—great for building reliable EV harnesses.
Power Supply (Module Charging / Balancing & Test)
About this item:
Used to charge individual battery modules for balancing and testing—handy for controlled bench work during pack evaluation and prep.
Multimeter Needle Probes (Backprobing / Tight Access)
About this item:
Essential for backprobing connectors or reaching into tight spots where standard probes won’t fit—excellent for harness checks and EV troubleshooting.
Fluke 101 Meter (Best Bang-for-the-Buck)
About this item:
A solid, compact meter option for EV installs—great value for quick voltage/resistance checks during wiring, commissioning, and service.
Klein ET600 HY Isolation Test Multimeter (Motor Isolation Testing)
About this item:
Used to test isolation on EV motors (Tesla, HPEVS, etc.)—a key diagnostic step when verifying drivetrain integrity and safety.
IWISS iCrimp Set – Automotive terminal crimping tools qty 1
IWISS iCrimp Set (Automotive Connector Crimpers)
About this item:
Crimpers for many of the most common automotive plugs and terminals used in EV conversions. This kit covers the essentials for building clean, reliable harnesses at a great price point, making it a solid option for both beginners and experienced installers.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
Automotive Hookup Wire for EV Inverters – Logic / signal / 12V wiring qty 1
Automotive Hookup Wire for EV Inverters
About this item:
Used for logic, signal, and 12V wiring on EV inverters and general automotive electrical work. Great for clean, serviceable harness builds where you want dependable insulation and consistent conductor quality.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
Tesla Universal Wall Connector – 11.5kW Level 2 Charging qty 1
Tesla Universal Wall Connector (J1772 + NACS Compatible)
About this item:
We like this unit because it supports both the popular J1772 standard plug and the newer North America Charging Standard (NACS), also known as the Tesla connector. That flexibility makes it a strong choice for mixed-fleet shops or future-proof installs. Delivers up to 11.5kW of Level 2 charging power, offering excellent performance for the price.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
Hot Plate for Heating Shaft Couplers – Pre-heat to ~600°F qty 1
Hot Plate for Heating Shaft Couplers
About this item:
We use this small, inexpensive heater to bring motor shaft couplers up to about 600°F before pressing them on. It’s been the most consistent method for us—simple, repeatable, and you can “set it and forget it” by leaving it on for ~30 minutes to ensure the coupler is fully heat-soaked prior to pressing.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
80A 12 Volt Breaker – Resettable waterproof protection qty 1
80A 12 Volt Breaker for DC Converter and 12 Volt Batteries
About this item:
We use this same resettable, waterproof breaker on our 1000W DC Converter installations. It provides solid protection against downstream shorts while allowing easy reset without replacing a fuse. A reliable and service-friendly solution for 12V battery and converter systems.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
SPICER'S PICKS
This group includes Spicer's personal tool picks—items he relies on regularly. Keep an eye out as we continue to add more.
Lisle Wire Holder for Soldering (Magnetic Third Hand)
About this item:
Often called a “third hand,” this wire clamp is used to hold and position wiring while soldering, especially in tight or awkward areas inside a vehicle. Features a magnetic base and adjustable magnetic arms that offer excellent mounting flexibility. Every technician who solders should have one of these in their toolbox.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
AST Long Arm Holder for Soldering WSC15 (Extended Reach)
About this item:
Another “Special Pick from Spicer,” this extended-reach holder serves the same purpose as the Lisle clamp but adds longer arms for harder-to-reach soldering locations. A more premium option, making it best suited for frequent or professional electrical work.
Estimated Price - See current price on Amazon
