About Cal-Van Tools
About Cal-Van Tools
Cal-Van Tools traces its roots to 1939 and was later known for production under Cal-Van Machine Products Inc. in Jackson, Michigan starting in the 1940s. For nearly a century the company has focused on automotive specialty tool design and manufacturing, building a reputation among technicians for solving specific repair problems rather than offering generic hand tools.
Today Cal-Van Tools operates as a division of Horizon Tool Inc., combining in-house manufacturing with a global supply chain and full-line packaging capabilities. The company's catalog includes hundreds of specialized products such as diagnostic instruments, brake and oil service kits, and engine-specific tools, alongside sister brands All Star, Mighty Seven, and KT Pro.
Cal-Van Tools products are sold across automotive, industrial, and general hand tool markets, with the company's parts reaching technicians through more than 320 different tool offerings. On ChatMRO, service and fleet maintenance teams can search by repair task or vehicle system to find the right specialty tool quickly.
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Frequently asked questions
What kinds of automotive tools does Cal-Van Tools manufacture?
Cal-Van Tools manufactures specialty automotive tools including diagnostic instruments, brake and oil service kits, and tools designed for specific engine or vehicle system repairs. Its product range is built around solving particular repair tasks rather than general-purpose hand tools.
Is Cal-Van Tools related to All Star, Mighty Seven, or KT Pro?
Yes, Cal-Van Tools is one of four hand tool brands manufactured and distributed by the same parent operation, alongside All Star, Mighty Seven, and KT Pro. All four brands share manufacturing and supply chain resources under Horizon Tool Inc.
Does Cal-Van Tools manufacture in-house or source globally?
Cal-Van Tools combines in-house manufacturing with a global supply chain and full-line packaging capabilities, allowing it to offer a broad catalog of specialty tools at competitive pricing. This hybrid approach supports both proprietary tool designs and private-label packaging for distributors.
What repair tasks are Cal-Van Tools' brake and oil service kits designed for?
Cal-Van Tools' brake and oil service kits are designed for common maintenance tasks like caliper service, brake bleeding, and oil filter removal across a wide range of vehicle makes. Specifying your vehicle type or specific repair task helps match you to the right kit.
How long has Cal-Van Tools been in the automotive tool business?
Cal-Van Tools was founded in 1939 and has remained focused on automotive specialty tool design and manufacturing for nearly a century. This long history has let the company build a large catalog of task-specific tools refined through decades of technician feedback.