Gearwrench or tone rachet?

[eeriko0]

Hey guys how yall doing in this great weekend so I am a full time mechanic and i was looking to buy a flex head rachet and my priorities are when buying one in as follows small head with, least amount of back drag, as well length has to at least 13 in, having a rigid flex system aka dont become wobbly to quick, as well price has to be less $100 usd , and as well good us customer support
So now that i have told yall my criteria ,and by the way i am opened minded for more brands
I have come down to two rachets at the moment
Gw 90xp 81267T
Tone RH3FHX
Which of these rachets would yall recommend i had used tone line up there amazing rachets and the head design is great ,i have the 1/4 and 1/2 inch model and they diffently have smaller head compared to other rachets as much as 2in or 5mm smaller, but the warranty part is were i am bummed about so i do not know if to go for it and figure it out when my rachet breaks as towards the tone and thanks

 

[Steve_P]

I have a lot of the GearWrench 90T ratchets and they're great for the $ IMO. Rebuild kits are available online for ~$8-12; if you're going to be using it daily, pick up a kit when you purchase the ratchet so you'll be set. The new Tekton ratchets also have very thin heads, but their selection is limited in comparison to GW.

There are complaints about the GW locking flex having a floppy head if the lock isn't engaged. I only have one with a locking head and it was very floppy. This was easily fixed with some ~.005" thick shim washers, but most people don't have these "in stock". I have a bunch of the non-locking flex heads, and they're all excellent with no slop; I was able to tighten the screw for the amount of friction that I like.

If you're concerned with quick service warranty, then you'll need to pay up for Snap On or Matco. Or the HF Icon.

 

[BrandonV]

I like the GW. Not sure what warranty looks like with the Tone.

Honestly right now I don't think you can beat the Icon ratchets in terms of warranty. Just bring it back to a HF under the lifetime warranty and you're back in business.

Honestly if warranty is important I buy Icon, Matco, Snap-on, Mac, or industrial brands at Grainger.

 

[Fedwrench]

I don't think Tone has much of a US footprint as of this writing so, I don't think you would have any warranty support.
Gearwrench customer support is hit or miss at times. I've never had an issue with them but, other people claim to have issues with Gearwrench Customer support. On a side note, the Gearwrench locking feature on the 81267T leaves a lot to be desired.
They have a newer style locking flex head ratchet in their 120xp line that's 15 inches long but, you would have to shop around to get it under $100.

81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" here.

www.gearwrench.com

If I was shopping for a flex head ratchet, I would get a Tekton. Excellent customer service, reward points, durability at a price that doesn't break the bank.

3/8 Inch Drive x 12 Inch Flex Head Comfort Grip Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Classic non-quick-release flex head ratchet with 180-degree flex, 90-tooth gear, and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and comfort grip handle. SRH22112.

www.tekton.com

 

[lardy1]

I've never even had a Tone in my hand but I have that same head mechanism in three different ratchets and it's a great mechanism. Very small head, too. Because mine aren't Tone (They are Carlyle and Blackhawk), I can't speak to the flex mechanism. My experience with Gearwrench ratchets is limited to 84 tooth so it doesn't apply.

 

[eeriko0]

I have a lot of the GearWrench 90T ratchets and they're great for the $ IMO. Rebuild kits are available online for ~$8-12; if you're going to be using it daily, pick up a kit when you purchase the ratchet so you'll be set. The new Tekton ratchets also have very thin heads, but their selection is limited in comparison to GW.

There are complaints about the GW locking flex having a floppy head if the lock isn't engaged. I only have one with a locking head and it was very floppy. This was easily fixed with some ~.005" thick shim washers, but most people don't have these "in stock". I have a bunch of the non-locking flex heads, and they're all excellent with no slop; I was able to tighten the screw for the amount of friction that I like.

If you're concerned with quick service warranty, then you'll need to pay up for Snap On or Matco. Or the HF Icon.

Thanks on the input so and gearwrench service kit is bit cheaper compared to tone

I like the GW. Not sure what warranty looks like with the Tone.

Honestly right now I don't think you can beat the Icon ratchets in terms of warranty. Just bring it back to a HF under the lifetime warranty and you're back in business.

Honestly if warranty is important I buy Icon, Matco, Snap-on, Mac, or industrial brands at Grainger.

Thanks but the way that gearwrench has the lock in flex is that I need and we'll I learned that the rebuild kit is not that bad

I don't think Tone has much of a US footprint as of this writing so, I don't think you would have any warranty support.
Gearwrench customer support is hit or miss at times. I've never had an issue with them but, other people claim to have issues with Gearwrench Customer support. On a side note, the Gearwrench locking feature on the 81267T leaves a lot to be desired.
They have a newer style locking flex head ratchet in their 120xp line that's 15 inches long but, you would have to shop around to get it under $100.

81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" here.

www.gearwrench.com

If I was shopping for a flex head ratchet, I would get a Tekton. Excellent customer service, reward points, durability at a price that doesn't break the bank.

3/8 Inch Drive x 12 Inch Flex Head Comfort Grip Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Classic non-quick-release flex head ratchet with 180-degree flex, 90-tooth gear, and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and comfort grip handle. SRH22112.

www.tekton.com

I saw that contender but the backdrag Is what I am looking for and the 90t line has a crazy minor backdrag that even better than tool truck brands

I've never even had a Tone in my hand but I have that same head mechanism in three different ratchets and it's a great mechanism. Very small head, too. Because mine aren't Tone (They are Carlyle and Blackhawk), I can't speak to the flex mechanism. My experience with Gearwrench ratchets is limited to 84 tooth so it doesn't apply.

Yea I have the 1/2 xl version and is a great tool to have in hand and the prices are way cheaper I think I paid $97 but for a xl rachet I think is a 18 inch rachet great for spanning harmonic balancers when disconnecting the engine and transmissions

 

[toyotadriver]

I recently bought the Gearwrench 90T flex head 3/8 size. I’ve only used it for one automotive repair so far but was surprised how much I use the flex head ratchet and how handy it is. I can’t speak for Gearwrench’s longevity or warranty but I’m happy with my Gearwrench ratchets so far. I can recommend them.

My Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches have been good so far too. Owned them for quite a few years now.




Nothing in this post should be misunderstood, interpreted, misinterpreted, or construed to be of a political nature.

 

[matthew]

I believe Powerbuilt 649953 is rebranded Tone with a different handle.

I’m not a pro, but I have another rebrand of that ratchet, and quite like it. I would like to have a little shorter handled version of it as well.

 

[eeriko0]

I believe Powerbuilt 649953 is rebranded Tone with a different handle.

I’m not a pro, but I have another rebrand of that ratchet, and quite like it. I would like to have a little shorter handled version of it as well.

It quite similar to be honest and on the price as well I might have to consider it and see what happends

I recently bought the Gearwrench 90T flex head 3/8 size. I’ve only used it for one automotive repair so far but was surprised how much I use the flex head ratchet and how handy it is. I can’t speak for Gearwrench’s longevity or warranty but I’m happy with my Gearwrench ratchets so far. I can recommend them.

My Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches have been good so far too. Owned them for quite a few years now.




Nothing in this post should be misunderstood, interpreted, misinterpreted, or construed to be of a political nature.

That that is another a good review to keep in mind I'll see then

 

[Steve_P]

I looked at Tone, but there's very limited availability in the US, and they don't have the selection that GW 90T does; at least what I saw. In addition, the heads are thicker than the GW 90T. Another to consider is the Capri 90T, but they just have a few choices- standard length, super long, and no flex heads. The Capri heads are slightly thicker than the GW 90T, about the same as the Snap On dual 80.

 

[eeriko0]

I looked at Tone, but there's very limited availability in the US, and they don't have the selection that GW 90T does; at least what I saw. In addition, the heads are thicker than the GW 90T. Another to consider is the Capri 90T, but they just have a few choices- standard length, super long, and no flex heads. The Capri heads are slightly thicker than the GW 90T, about the same as the Snap On dual 80.

Yea I saw the line but flex is a top priority but they look like a good contender

 

[Rabid Badger]

For $12 over your budget you can get 4 ratchets with the Tone mechanism:

https://www.amazon.com/Powerbuilt-Piece-Tooth-Reach-Ratchet/dp/B07VZYLCPB/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Steve_P]

For $12 over your budget you can get 4 ratchets with the Tone mechanism:

https://www.amazon.com/Powerbuilt-Piece-Tooth-Reach-Ratchet/dp/B07VZYLCPB/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's a bargain. I looked at those on my ratchet quest also. I immediately dismissed them since the grip portion of the handle made no sense: it's 90* off - IMO. Does anyone else make a ratchet grip that's taller than it is wide????

 

[eeriko0]

To be honest no not even snappy or matco tools has them like that

That's a bargain. I looked at those on my ratchet quest also. I immediately dismissed them since the grip portion of the handle made no sense: it's 90* off - IMO. Does anyone else make a ratchet grip that's taller than it is wide????

So the rachet is exactly the same is just i guess to hide the fact they just twisted the handle and homework done but on the grip aspect snap on has them much wider and comfier grip but besides that not that I can really think of

 

[kb1982]

I have several different Gearwrench ratches, and a single Tone ratchet in the link below. The Tone has never gave me an issue, but I have had a couple GW ratchets lock up on me including a 120XP and a 90. Never had an issue from a 84 tooth ratchet though. The only downside of the Tone is the flex in the handle, due to being not as robust as other brands..

https://www.amazon.com/T-One-RH4FH/dp/B00EY6B2OE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[eeriko0]

I have several different Gearwrench ratches, and a single Tone ratchet in the link below. The Tone has never gave me an issue, but I have had a couple GW ratchets lock up on me including a 120XP and a 90. Never had an issue from a 84 tooth ratchet though. The only downside of the Tone is the flex in the handle, due to being not as robust as other brands..

https://www.amazon.com/T-One-RH4FH/dp/B00EY6B2OE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Hmm good to know I am still looking but someone on this thread shared a link to the same rachet just power built rebrand but handle is just backwards but I'll keep this one in mind as well thanks

 

[kb1982]

Hmm good to know I am still looking but someone on this thread shared a link to the same rachet just power built rebrand but handle is just backwards but I'll keep this one in mind as w

I had the Powerbuilt 200 piece master mechanics service tool set close to six years now that I keep at my apartment for small jobs. They have the XT90 ratchets included, but the tools have held up well. I wouldn't be afraid to give the Tone look a likes a try.

 

[toyotadriver]

If you like his videos, Project Farm on youtube has a few videos on ratchets. The Gearwrench ratchets all handled the abuse well and is usually his favorite ratchet.




Nothing in this post should be misunderstood, interpreted, misinterpreted, or construed to be of a political nature.

 

[Wamsutta]

They have a newer style locking flex head ratchet in their 120xp line that's 15 inches long but, you would have to shop around to get it under $100.

81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" here.

www.gearwrench.com

Is that a spring loaded push button to change the head angle?

 

[NUTTSGT]

NAPA has been having some decent deals on their house brand Carlyle. Watch their monthly deals.

 

[lardy1]

Look to UK sellers on ebay for Carlyle ratchets. I no longer really follow it but they used to have some excellent deals from time to time. Even with the shipping. That's where I got two of mine and I've seen them relatively recently.

 

[eeriko0]

NAPA has been having some decent deals on their house brand Carlyle. Watch their monthly deals.

I'll keep a eye out

If you like his videos, Project Farm on youtube has a few videos on ratchets. The Gearwrench ratchets all handled the abuse well and is usually his favorite ratchet.




Nothing in this post should be misunderstood, interpreted, misinterpreted, or construed to be of a political nature.

I saw that this morning

I had the Powerbuilt 200 piece master mechanics service tool set close to six years now that I keep at my apartment for small jobs. They have the XT90 ratchets included, but the tools have held up well. I wouldn't be afraid to give the Tone look a likes a try.

I'll take a look at them

 

[Fedwrench]

Is that a spring loaded push button to change the head angle?

no. there are grooves cut into the base of the ratchet head. in the unlocked position. the head can move through 10 different positions. locked, locks the head in place. The button isn't spring loaded. it has two distinct positions, locked and unlocked.
Here's link from Gearwrench.com that explains and shows what I'm trying to explain:

81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" here.

www.gearwrench.com

 

[Bigblue&Goldie]

I recently bought a 1/2" drive 25" ratchet (still in the mail). The Tone were cheap and fit my criteria, but the noted flex was a deal breaker for me. Carlyle's quick release is a deal breaker for me, and I don't expect NAPA parts kits to be readily available in a few years as they're constantly changing models. I went with the Gearwrench 90T as they're very similar ratcheting mechanisms and flex mechanisms to the Armstrong 88's, which are probably my favorite ratchets overall.

 

[Wamsutta]

no. there are grooves cut into the base of the ratchet head. in the unlocked position. the head can move through 10 different positions. locked, locks the head in place. The button isn't spring loaded. it has two distinct positions, locked and unlocked.
Here's link from Gearwrench.com that explains and shows what I'm trying to explain:

81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81321 3/8" Drive 120XP Dual Material Handle Locking Flex Head Ratchet 15.5" here.

www.gearwrench.com

So does it work like a regular flex head when it's unlocked?

 

[eeriko0]

So does it work like a regular flex head when it's unlocked?

Yes it does

 

[Mr_B]

Don't get too concerned on warranty, best life warranty service is self warranty .
The Tone style heads is a HighFive Super Ten ratchet design concept.
Can find that style head on a lot of rebrands that use HighFive & manufacturing partners .

 

[Fedwrench]

So does it work like a regular flex head when it's unlocked?

yes

 

[eeriko0]

Don't get too concerned on warranty, best life warranty service is self warranty .
The Tone style heads is a HighFive Super Ten ratchet design concept.
Can find that style head on a lot of rebrands that use HighFive & manufacturing partners .

You are right as well

 

[eeriko0]

I recently bought a 1/2" drive 25" ratchet (still in the mail). The Tone were cheap and fit my criteria, but the noted flex was a deal breaker for me. Carlyle's quick release is a deal breaker for me, and I don't expect NAPA parts kits to be readily available in a few years as they're constantly changing models. I went with the Gearwrench 90T as they're very similar ratcheting mechanisms and flex mechanisms to the Armstrong 88's, which are probably my favorite ratchets overall.

Point taken as well will consider it

 

[Madjik Man]

Was gifted a $50 Amazon card for the holidays. Reading this thread...

Bought this one on sale for $28

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075KM4Y88?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[eeriko0]

Was gifted a $50 Amazon card for the holidays. Reading this thread...

Bought this one on sale for $28

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075KM4Y88?tag=atomicindus08-20

Good investment hope it works out

 

[Madjik Man]

Good investment hope it works out

Thanks. If I didn't have the gift card I probably wouldn't have pulled the trigger. But I figured what the heck?

 

[Fedwrench]

Was gifted a $50 Amazon card for the holidays. Reading this thread...

Bought this one on sale for $28

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075KM4Y88?tag=atomicindus08-20

It's a great ratchet I have a few of the Powerbuilt pro series ratchets. I really like the shape of the handle. Nice chrome, good balance, crisp ratcheting action. If I was to pick a flaw, it would be that they used a pin instead of some kind of set screw to retain the ratchet head in the handle fork. This is a very minor criticism. Before Covid, the Powerbuilt Pro ratchets were probably the best bang for your buck and a sleeper ratchet. You'll enjoy it.
Powerbuilt pro has a 7 & 9 inch 1/4 drive flex head ratchets that are very nice too.

 

[Madjik Man]

It's a great ratchet I have a few of the Powerbuilt pro series ratchets. I really like the shape of the handle. Nice chrome, good balance, crisp ratcheting action. If I was to pick a flaw, it would be that they used a pin instead of some kind of set screw to retain the ratchet head in the handle fork. This is a very minor criticism. Before Covid, the Powerbuilt Pro ratchets were probably the best bang for your buck and a sleeper ratchet. You'll enjoy it.
Powerbuilt pro has a 7 & 9 inch 1/4 drive flex head ratchets that are very nice too.

I was noticing no tension/set screw but I've had their $16 3/8s ratchet saved in my list forever... but the last thing is another fixed head 3/8s ratchet.

I appreciate your feedback, it's always valued.

 

[DPDISXR4Ti]

Just a quick data-point... for several years I've owned a 1/2" Gearwrench 17" 90T ratchet, model# 81306T. I'm not a pro, but I've sometimes used it like a breaker bar and it hasn't failed me at all. I see from this thread that rebuild kits are available for ~$12. I can see that being a great option when you need a replacement RIGHT NOW. I recall back in the day Sears used to sell ratchet rebuild kits for ONE PENNY. I appreciated the logic of allowing someone to do their "free" warranty replacement in advance of actually needing it.

 

[redragoon]

I have both.
Standard and flex gearwrench ratchets and wrenches.
Tone ratchet wrench and roto/swivel head ratchet.

Tone is a nicer ratchet to use. Finish and fit are excellent.
Gearwrench is solid, but not the greatest quality. These are usually the second ratchet with another socket size mounted.

 

[Rinspeed]

NAPA has been having some decent deals on their house brand Carlyle. Watch their monthly deals.

I was going to mention the same thing, it seems like NAPA blows them out the door every two or three months mainly because the retail is way high for a Taiwan ratchet. I have three or four Carlyle and really like them.

 

[shoggoth80]

Relatively unsolicited two cents. Gearwrench... I have an 84T that's been doing duty for a while, and a 13mm ratcheting wrench still kicking. They've been decent. I have mid deep socket sets, and they've been great. That said, it's older GW.

I bought a newer set of wrenches at work for a coworker and the 16mm locked up first go. Tried to warranty it. Heard absolutely nothing back from GW, and replacement either never sent, or received. So warranty support may not be so great. If you need a longer flex, and warranty is a concern... I would opt for the G2 Icon in the budget friendly category. Tekton has flex, but apparently no locking ones around 12". Those guys are spot on for warranty/customer support.

Going truck brand is nice, but the price spikes way up at that point, but nets a few more options.

Just some food for thought.

 

[cody1325]

Heard a lot of rumors that the Quinn ratchets @ Harbor Freight are rebranded GearWrench. I've got a 3/8 and like it a lot.