Multimeter

[Devin]

Looking for some suggestions for a good, cheap multimeter. I have used several Flukes and like them a lot, but I would rather not drop that kind of coin since I am not going to be using it much. Any input would be great.

Thanks in advance.

 

[70_Steve]

I have a cheap no-name DVM that I got at Ace Hardware in one of there $5 tool bins. I keep it in the Bronco tool box. Used it a couple times, and it works great for it's intended use. I also have a Keithley that I used to use for work and is now in my garage tool box. Kinda on a par with a Fluke as far as accuracy.

I've seen DVMs in all price ranges. In Phoenix, there is a Frys Electronics that carries a huge assortment of meters. Also check out Radio Shack. The two things which drive up the price are accuracy and MTBF. You should be able to get a full fuction DVM for general home use for around $20

 

[phred]

I bought one from Sears. Nice unit and not to expensive.

 

[Viperwolf1]

A cheap meter is fine for automotive work but I suggest you get one with a thermocouple for measuring temps.

 

[jrnymn]

Flukes at work but I have been using my $20.00 on sale, Sears at the house and it has worked fine.

 

[bmc69]

I have a lot of multimeters..but I have to say the one I like the most of late is a very comapct model that includes the 'amp clamps' that I bought for about 70 bucks at my local electrical suppy.

The thermocouple option is 'nice to have', but frankly, with what a decent non-contact IR thermometer gun goes for these days, to me that is the better way to go.

 

[Explorer]

Been using meters for over 40 years and bought a Fluke for home after I retired. Just my opinion, but worth every penny. You pick them up on E-Bay fairly reasonable. You will use it more than you think, not just for working on the Bronco.

 

[4G5]

I got a craftsman one from sears about two years ago for about $20, works great and if you blow it, it's not a big deal.

 

[jsnouffer]

Not sure what you are looking to spend but I just picked up this one from Sears the other day.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_03481079000P?keyword=multimeter

Has the thermocouple and infrared temp. readings.

 

[W650Mike]

Sears will have a bunch of stuff like that on sale in the next week or so.

 

[dodgen56]

GB Instruments 15 function on Ebay for $50. I use it on the Bronco and around the house

 

[Steve83]

The cheapest one you can find will do almost everything you need. If you need high-current, you can buy an adapter. If you need temperature, a handheld IR thermometer can be had new for less than $30. You won't need true-RMS.

 

[Dave]

Lots of cheap options available. I actually like my old analog meter for trouble shooting where you are just looking for an approximate voltage, current, or resistance vs an actual value. The meter moves imediatly and gives you a good indication without having to read a digital dispaly and see if its reading .1234 Volts or 12.34 Volts.

 

[73stallion]

i just wanted something simple, so i got this one and am happy with it.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_03482351000P?keyword=multimeter

 

[lonesouth]

I've got the cheap craftsman at the house but I long for the Flukes I use at work. Diode check is extremely useful for finding a short, not to mention checking diodes...

 

[feitctaj]

swap meet Craftsman

 

[77BroncoWag]

A cheap meter is fine for automotive work but I suggest you get one with a thermocouple for measuring temps.

sears about 90 bucks

 

[Jeepster]

Go with how much you want to spend. For $20 buy 2 of them. Simple continuity/volt check..... as cheap as you want to be.