u/ItsHotgiirl

I’m looking for some advice from people already working in the diesel/heavy-duty mechanic field.
I have an opportunity to start as a diesel mechanic at $28/hr with overtime after 40 hours. I’m expecting to average around 44–46 hours per week.

I’m trying to figure out what my actual paycheck will look like.
At $28/hr working 44–46 hours per week with OT after 40, I should gross around $1,288–$1,372 per week ?
I’ll have no health insurance, 401(k), or other benefit deductions, so it should basically just be taxes coming out.

For anyone making around the same amount, what does your weekly take-home pay look like after taxes?

I’m starting out as a diesel mechanic and I was given a required tool list, but I’m a little confused about how they’re listing the sizes.

The list says:

• Combination End Wrench Set — (1/4. . 1-1/4)
• Combination End Wrench Set — (1/4. . 3/4)
• Flare Nut/Line Wrench Set — (3/8. . 5/8.)
• 1/4" Drive Ratchet Set — (1/4. . 1/2. )

When they say something like (1/4. . 1-1/4) are they saying I need every standard wrench size in between those two sizes, or just the specific sizes listed?

Same question for the flare nut/line wrench set — would I need all the common sizes between 3/8" and 5/8"?

Also, for the 1/4" Drive Ratchet Set I’m assuming the 1/4" refers to the ratchet drive size and the 1/4"–1/2" range refers to the socket sizes. Is that correct?

If so, should I buy shallow sockets, deep sockets, or both for a starting diesel mechanic set?

I’m trying to make sure I buy exactly what they’re asking for without spending money on the wrong tools. Appreciate any help.

I’m looking at a **2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE** that’s **Toyota Certified Pre-Owned**

It has:
1 owner
Clean CARFAX (no accidents)
Regular maintenance history
Heated seats
Sunroof
Roof rack
All-weather floor mats
Black wheels

For those of you who own one:
How has the reliability been?
Any common issues or expensive repairs I should know about?
Is there anything I should inspect or ask the dealer before I buy it?
How’s the hybrid battery holding up on higher-mileage RAV4s?
Any regrets or things you wish you knew before buying?
I’d appreciate any advice before I pull the trigger. Thanks!

I’m looking at a 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE that’s Toyota Certified Pre-Owned

It has:
1 owner
Clean CARFAX (no accidents)
Regular maintenance history
Heated seats
Sunroof
Roof rack
All-weather floor mats
Black wheels

For those of you who own one:
How has the reliability been?
Any common issues or expensive repairs I should know about?
Is there anything I should inspect or ask the dealer before I buy it?
How’s the hybrid battery holding up on higher-mileage RAV4s?
Any regrets or things you wish you knew before buying?
I’d appreciate any advice before I pull the trigger. Thanks!

I have an interview coming up for an entry-level diesel mechanic/technician position with a fleet. Besides the usual interview questions, what questions should I be asking the employer?

I’m making a career switch from being a CDL truck driver to becoming a diesel mechanic/technician. So far I have

10 pc 3/8” Drive 6-Point SAE Semi-Deep Impact Socket Set (5/16”–7/8”)
11 pc 12-Point SAE Combination Wrench Set (3/8”–1”)
10 pc Metric Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set (10–19 mm)
3 pc Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set (21, 22, 24 mm)
3/8” Drive Dual 80 Flex-Head Ratchet Set
1/2” Drive Dual 80 Flex-Head Ratchet Set
1/4” Drive Dual 80 Flex-Head Ratchet Set
16 pc Punch & Chisel Set
Air Line Disconnect Set
Brake Shoe Tool
Brake Slack Adjuster Tool
Strap Oil Filter Wrench

Is there anything on my list that you'd skip ? I'd appreciate any advice.