kitdoctor
Well-known member
Nine cars...I think I need nine of these.
Tools of Japan
- Thread starter Frankstools
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kitdoctor
Well-known member
I just luv purple!
rick carpenter
Well-known member
130mm Aigo 5R regular function Japanese locking pliers from Tekni Industrial. They do not include wire cutters, but not all of my Petersens do either. Thanks to @Steel_Rain and @superautobacs who kindly steered me away from buying 3.peaks screw removal locking pliers for regular use. Aigo went out of business in 2011, so these are NOS.
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DBE = double box end
Its not a specific tool, just a general term that could apply to any number of wrenches.
The one pictured looks like the style of an old spark plug wrench with a swiveling wire handle attached to the socket body.
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Kind of looks like an appeal to Hazet users with the location of the knurled band and the polished chrome nose.
kitdoctor
Well-known member
I've been looking for a Japanese manufactured set of four vehicle positioning jacks. Is there such a set?
My research says stick with a ratcheting, not hydraulic, set and the Rolls Royce product is the USA made GoJak.
Are you ready for the price shock here in a Australia? AUD6197 or USD3842 for a set of four including the rack. I just don't get what the justification is for this pricing in Australia. You can purchase a set from https://zendextool.com/product/gojak-wheel-dolly-shop-kit/ for USD1435. You can buy a budget 4-post or 2-post lift/hoist for way less than AUD5000.
Go Jacks GJ6313 AUD2849 per pair. 1575 lb/wheel (714 kg). Rack is an additional AUD499.
www.vektools.com.au
JackCo CD 310 162,156 Yen for a set of four Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
Chapped 31,000 Yen each on Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
My research says stick with a ratcheting, not hydraulic, set and the Rolls Royce product is the USA made GoJak.
Are you ready for the price shock here in a Australia? AUD6197 or USD3842 for a set of four including the rack. I just don't get what the justification is for this pricing in Australia. You can purchase a set from https://zendextool.com/product/gojak-wheel-dolly-shop-kit/ for USD1435. You can buy a budget 4-post or 2-post lift/hoist for way less than AUD5000.
Go Jacks GJ6313 AUD2849 per pair. 1575 lb/wheel (714 kg). Rack is an additional AUD499.
GoJak Ratchet Vehicle Positioning Jack to 2810kg Tire widths to 13" (P
Replaces Model GK6200 The Model 6313 is an ox. Able to jack vehicle weights to 2863.5kgs. (714.4kgs. per wheel), including light duty trucks with tire widths up to 32cm wide and 13-22" tall. This auto jack / dolly is the most versatile and strongest GoJak® in the line. It has steel rollers...
www.vektools.com.au
JackCo CD 310 162,156 Yen for a set of four Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
Chapped 31,000 Yen each on Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
Qualitytools
Well-known member
Thank you
Vinny
Well-known member
What's the best (cheapest) place to buy Vessel tools from? Want to pick up the wood handle ones. Cheapest I found was ebay, but I'm always hesitant to use ebay for new tools after a previous bad bootleg experience.
HannibalLecter
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Amazon jp
Odd-job
Well-known member
I haven't seen any. I might have to buy them if they exist.
Formerjeeper
Well-known member
Does it take Makita US batteries or is there a difference?Really starting to get the MIJ itch...
Not hand tools, hopefully this okay to post here.
Picked up the MIJ TD173 about a month ago and finally got in a bunch of my JDM bits in from Amazon Japan. Mostly Vessel, Tone and Anex.
I know the version with the US/UK chuck just came out recently, but I prefer MIJ products and this thing is a WORKHORSE. Incredibly impressive for the price, around $160 shipped, brand new from Japan.
These JDM bits are also awesome and the selection is insane. The Vessel 6-point sockets, screw extractor kits and various accessories are especially useful. The double-tipped bits are also super useful.
The collection grows...
HannibalLecter
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Can someone post Trusco toyo toolboxes? I have a taste for them and I have a couple ordered, but I want to see what other people have
riceaterSLC
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I’ve also been looking to get a set of these Dollie’s. Original search had me assume they were all made in the same factory in China, so the plan was to get a set from Harbor Freight (local chain here in the US) for ease of return if there was an issue.I've been looking for a Japanese manufactured set of four vehicle positioning jacks. Is there such a set?
My research says stick with a ratcheting, not hydraulic, set and the Rolls Royce product is the USA made GoJak.
Are you ready for the price shock here in a Australia? AUD6197 or USD3842 for a set of four including the rack. I just don't get what the justification is for this pricing in Australia. You can purchase a set from https://zendextool.com/product/gojak-wheel-dolly-shop-kit/ for USD1435. You can buy a budget 4-post or 2-post lift/hoist for way less than AUD5000.
Go Jacks GJ6313 AUD2849 per pair. 1575 lb/wheel (714 kg). Rack is an additional AUD499.
GoJak Ratchet Vehicle Positioning Jack to 2810kg Tire widths to 13" (P
Replaces Model GK6200 The Model 6313 is an ox. Able to jack vehicle weights to 2863.5kgs. (714.4kgs. per wheel), including light duty trucks with tire widths up to 32cm wide and 13-22" tall. This auto jack / dolly is the most versatile and strongest GoJak® in the line. It has steel rollers...
JackCo CD 310 162,156 Yen for a set of four Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
Chapped 31,000 Yen each on Amazon Japan. 1500lb/wheel (680 kg which is very common).
Are you sure the GoJaks are USA made? I can’t find any documentation on this. The AUS pricing is pretty ridiculous though. Let us know what you end up with.
four.cycle
Well-known member
6 pc non-slip set $57.69
8 pc non-slip $78.97
* be sure to read the "free tools" page prior to placing order *
6 pc non-slip set $45.95
8 pc non-slip set $66.95
* compare shipping costs! *
You will not have any problems with either of these vendors.
kitdoctor
Well-known member
On the web site https://zendextool.com/ it does say "MADE IN THE USA", so I'm confident that's the case.
I don't think you could go wrong with the Harbor Freight Daytonas. See this YouTube video
rick carpenter
Well-known member
I have two T-190s in my tool cart, and two T-320s for my grandkids' toolboxes. I like Altoids "mini-toolboxes" for bits.
larrygerald
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Where is the best place to buy koken? I'm thinking of getting into the nut grips, need a deal
Andres26tnt
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The cheapest is Amazon jp, but no warranty. If you want warranty, only approve dealers from koken USA.
Either Amazon Japan, or Ehime Machine. The latter is cheaper per-item but you need to use a forwarder like Blackship. Depending on how much you order it can work out better than Amazon.
Can't remember I've ever used vice grip pliers for cutting wire. Maybe if you mig/mag weld professionally but otherwise I always reach for some pliers actually made for cutting wire...
Andres26tnt
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Over the past month I have been collecting a lot of tools, from Japan made to Asia exclusives. I'm most excited to review the full tone non slip line(vessel wood compo competitor). Also some of the astro products line, they have a very nice compact round head. Very similar to the KTC version.
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Dave455
Well-known member
What a great thing to do for your Grandkids.I have two T-190s in my tool cart, and two T-320s for my grandkids' toolboxes. I like Altoids "mini-toolboxes" for bits.
Children notice details far more than people think, and starting them out appreciating good tools early on will give them an advantage for life.
I still have tools I was given by my Grandfather aged about 5. If only he’d known the demon he was unleashing…!
Steel_Rain
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Those are great kits for the grandkids. They can use them for years and it leaves them with a good impression of how quality tools improve your quality of life.
rick carpenter
Well-known member
Me neither, that's what nippers & linesmans are for.
rick carpenter
Well-known member
Those are great kits for the grandkids. They can use them for years and it leaves them with a good impression of how quality tools improve your quality of life.
I'm having a little fun collecting the tools! Going slow, enjoying the search for as many different Japanese brands as I can get. I have two identical kits nearly fitted out completely, prolly only long nose pliers and hammers to go then I'll give them to the 3-yr-old cousins (well, to the cousins' parents!). Found out recently I'll need a third kit.
Andres26tnt
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Today's pick from Sunday home improvement. Was looking for IPS water pump pliers. Ended up picking the black version with red grips. They also come spring loaded open. Not sure if I'm going to like the feature.
In that same isle, I noticed a wood colored box cutter. Verance, never herd of the brand. What's interesting is that this product was a Collab between 3 brands. Olfa provides the blades, and vessel manufactures the plastic(resin) from their woody compo line. All made in Japan. I had to pick it up, I needed one anyway
.
Not sure if that's the vessel mascot but it's hilarious
.
In that same isle, I noticed a wood colored box cutter. Verance, never herd of the brand. What's interesting is that this product was a Collab between 3 brands. Olfa provides the blades, and vessel manufactures the plastic(resin) from their woody compo line. All made in Japan. I had to pick it up, I needed one anyway
. Not sure if that's the vessel mascot but it's hilarious
.Attachments
Here is Tone tools link for them:
3SEN-24 | 総合工具メーカー、TONE株式会社
総合工具メーカー、TONEがサポートするモータースポーツのレポート。TONEはSUPER GT、D1 グランプリ、PWC、ラリー、86/BRZといったモータースポーツをサポートしています。過酷なレースの現場で研ぎ澄まされていく工具を製品開発に活かしています。
www.tonetool.co.jp
I bought them from some rakuten seller, but here are some links where to get them:
TONE トネ 9.5sq. センサーソケット（6角） 17mm 3SEN-17
電子制御エンジンの各種センサー着脱専用ソケットです。 （水温センサー・オイルプレッシャーセンサー等） 早回しに便利なローレット加工仕上げ。 ・6角部ストロングドライブ ■型式:3SEN-17 ■メーカー:TONE（トネ） ■差込角：9.5sq.(3/8) ■二面幅寸法(mm):17 ■全長(mm):60 ■質量(g):100
ems-tools.jp
rick carpenter
Well-known member
Just got this non-impact Anex AHMD5-01W bit set (lower left) in today. It has one +0, two +1, and two +2 bits in the w-groove pattern which has both the Western 9mm and the Japanese 13mm grooves. Not sure why this isn't the commonest pattern for single-ended bits but oh well.
The new Anex bits and my Vessel stubby and middy impact bits in the small Altoids tins fit in the Centrofix bit holder and all the Anex bit holder handles with virtually zero wobble.
Double-ended bits have a tiny bit more wobble in the Centrofix due to the bit profile rather than the 6.35mm hex section going all the way to the end, but that's of no effect in the other Anex handles.
Do not purposefully buy the Anex AEH-100 bit holder at the very bottom. It is a *************. I didn't know that before I got it but it was in a set of Anex bits I wanted a while back.
The new Anex bits and my Vessel stubby and middy impact bits in the small Altoids tins fit in the Centrofix bit holder and all the Anex bit holder handles with virtually zero wobble.
Double-ended bits have a tiny bit more wobble in the Centrofix due to the bit profile rather than the 6.35mm hex section going all the way to the end, but that's of no effect in the other Anex handles.Do not purposefully buy the Anex AEH-100 bit holder at the very bottom. It is a *************. I didn't know that before I got it but it was in a set of Anex bits I wanted a while back.
HannibalLecter
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Some remarks and updates regarding my 1/4 Koken ratchets, 2725zb and 2725z-160.
I really like the no bs aesthetics and design, the low backtrack and the small form factor. I have used them extensively as a bike mechanic and I will try to be objective. I am elitist and seek the rare and the exotic. However, this doesn't mean that I end up always with the best tool or that it is perfect.
And that leads us to koken. These are 80€ ratchets. Firstly, the small one is too small.I would only characterize it as a special use ratchet and I would think twice to use it on an engine bay because retrieving it would be a big ordeal.
The biggest problem I have encountered though, or flaw I should say, is that the single bolt that keeps the back plate and in turn all the internals in place keeps getting loose from vibration. And how could it not be , as the thread engagement is as much as the base plate thickness, maybe 1.5mm. This is a serious flaw and as much as I like Koken as an engineer I can't give them any slack. Its a fail. I had all the internals from my long ratchet spilled out twice, I warrantied it with a pawl replacement kit and it got loose again. Now I smeared the head of the screw with superglue and it seems to be keeping it in place. Yesterday, the same problem with my small ratchet, the bolt turned completely loose.
I have no complaints regarding their strength, I have used the long to untighten many 14mm bolts
For this, my rating
of them is ;
Reliability 2/10
Design 5/10
Quality 10/10
Now, would I buy them again? Yes because as I am vain I like the style. However I can't recommend them anymore. My 3/8 ratchet doesn't exhibit the same problem
I really like the no bs aesthetics and design, the low backtrack and the small form factor. I have used them extensively as a bike mechanic and I will try to be objective. I am elitist and seek the rare and the exotic. However, this doesn't mean that I end up always with the best tool or that it is perfect.
And that leads us to koken. These are 80€ ratchets. Firstly, the small one is too small.I would only characterize it as a special use ratchet and I would think twice to use it on an engine bay because retrieving it would be a big ordeal.
The biggest problem I have encountered though, or flaw I should say, is that the single bolt that keeps the back plate and in turn all the internals in place keeps getting loose from vibration. And how could it not be , as the thread engagement is as much as the base plate thickness, maybe 1.5mm. This is a serious flaw and as much as I like Koken as an engineer I can't give them any slack. Its a fail. I had all the internals from my long ratchet spilled out twice, I warrantied it with a pawl replacement kit and it got loose again. Now I smeared the head of the screw with superglue and it seems to be keeping it in place. Yesterday, the same problem with my small ratchet, the bolt turned completely loose.
I have no complaints regarding their strength, I have used the long to untighten many 14mm bolts
For this, my rating
of them is ;
Reliability 2/10
Design 5/10
Quality 10/10
Now, would I buy them again? Yes because as I am vain I like the style. However I can't recommend them anymore. My 3/8 ratchet doesn't exhibit the same problem
Qualitytools
Well-known member
Great information, try using locktite on the screw thread, that should serve the issue with the screw backing out.Some remarks and updates regarding my 1/4 Koken ratchets, 2725zb and 2725z-160.
I really like the no bs aesthetics and design, the low backtrack and the small form factor. I have used them extensively as a bike mechanic and I will try to be objective. I am elitist and seek the rare and the exotic. However, this doesn't mean that I end up always with the best tool or that it is perfect.
And that leads us to koken. These are 80€ ratchets. Firstly, the small one is too small.I would only characterize it as a special use ratchet and I would think twice to use it on an engine bay because retrieving it would be a big ordeal.
The biggest problem I have encountered though, or flaw I should say, is that the single bolt that keeps the back plate and in turn all the internals in place keeps getting loose from vibration. And how could it not be , as the thread engagement is as much as the base plate thickness, maybe 1.5mm. This is a serious flaw and as much as I like Koken as an engineer I can't give them any slack. Its a fail. I had all the internals from my long ratchet spilled out twice, I warrantied it with a pawl replacement kit and it got loose again. Now I smeared the head of the screw with superglue and it seems to be keeping it in place. Yesterday, the same problem with my small ratchet, the bolt turned completely loose.
I have no complaints regarding their strength, I have used the long to untighten many 14mm bolts
For this, my rating
of them is ;
Reliability 2/10
Design 5/10
Quality 10/10
Now, would I buy them again? Yes because as I am vain I like the style. However I can't recommend them anymore. My 3/8 ratchet doesn't exhibit the same problem
HannibalLecter
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Doesn't work. Not enough real estate unfortunately
Andres26tnt
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Today pick 
Asahi Renowave, if there ever was a Japanese tool line that flies under the radar is this one. By now everyone know about the combo wrenches(I own them too), available in all sizes I might add. I took a closer look at the other offerings and purchased the 3/8 ratchet. The ratchet gear is from the light tool version, 72t design. The body reminds me of the old sear craftsman thin profile 60t ratchet, except it solves the issue that ratchet had imo. A round handle that tapers toward the head is comfortable and gives you a nice spot for thumb placement. Truly a nice ratchet, made in Japan. Unfortunately no COO stampings on the tool for those that care for that stuff. Only mentioned in the package.
Asahi Renowave, if there ever was a Japanese tool line that flies under the radar is this one. By now everyone know about the combo wrenches(I own them too), available in all sizes I might add. I took a closer look at the other offerings and purchased the 3/8 ratchet. The ratchet gear is from the light tool version, 72t design. The body reminds me of the old sear craftsman thin profile 60t ratchet, except it solves the issue that ratchet had imo. A round handle that tapers toward the head is comfortable and gives you a nice spot for thumb placement. Truly a nice ratchet, made in Japan. Unfortunately no COO stampings on the tool for those that care for that stuff. Only mentioned in the package.
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Andres26tnt
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Next up is my side project. Home tool kit using all wood or wood like grips.
Tone non slip line screwdrivers
Quality is average, I believe the vessel woody are much better. These will definitely not slip covered in oil. The texture is raspy, very much like sandpaper. First I thought they were unfinished from the factory, but then realized it was on purpose. Not a mentioned on COO in the box, leads me to believe they are either Taiwan or Thailand. The blades do have Japan on them. But with tone is hard to tell, as some stuff is clearly labeled as Japan made. The drivers came with a nice tool bag, it's clearly a universal bag.
For those interested the box is a green moss t-360 toyo. Beautiful color, high quality steel box. I'm afraid it will scratch.
Tone non slip line screwdrivers
Quality is average, I believe the vessel woody are much better. These will definitely not slip covered in oil. The texture is raspy, very much like sandpaper. First I thought they were unfinished from the factory, but then realized it was on purpose. Not a mentioned on COO in the box, leads me to believe they are either Taiwan or Thailand. The blades do have Japan on them. But with tone is hard to tell, as some stuff is clearly labeled as Japan made. The drivers came with a nice tool bag, it's clearly a universal bag.
For those interested the box is a green moss t-360 toyo. Beautiful color, high quality steel box. I'm afraid it will scratch.
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HannibalLecter
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It will scratch, but that's just patina
Andres26tnt
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I know
, I own multiple toyo and trusco boxes. My blue trusco, believe is also a t-360 variant held up great. I had to use Little rubber feet to keep it in better shape.HannibalLecter
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My recently arrived toyo steel
superautobacs
Well-known member
Haven't seen it.
My comments on these:
GoJaks are great. Used a lot at my previous shop where there were over 20+ techs. It handled going over ruts and small lips on entry ramps pretty well. Must've been used for at least 5 years, without a hiccup.
Current shop with just 13 techs has OTC ones that are hydraulic and they only lasted a few years. No where near the quality of the Go Jaks.
So, I recommend the standard ratcheting type and look for models that have large diameter casters, unless you're only working on smooth concrete/asphalt surfaces.
Are the Mayhew ones not good?Any recommendations for Made in Japan stubby or low profile torx and hex bit sockets?
Something like these Mayhew sets, but hopefully higher quality and more durable.
Nope, never seen any MIJ.
The only closest thing I have is from Ko-ken. It's not dual drive, though the Ko-ken 179B-12H series are bits that have a hex drive. The bits have a single spring-loaded ball that holds the bit in a wrench or a socket. They are meant to be used for their door hinge wrench. I've had a set in Torx and XZN.
The only photos i have ...
Comparing it with a VIM 1/4sq T50 ... yes, a T50 (typically a 3/8 or 1/2sq size).
The Ko-ken is mated to a 12mm ratcheting wrench.
In this situatuon i was able to work the fastener without having to remove the rear seat cushion .
Thanks to this novel solution, i was able to get to replace the seat belt reel mechanism and save me time from removing the seat cushion and dealing with a child seat (the customer's car had a child seat secured in place, which if I can, I try to avoid touching/removing).
Unfortunately the 72t Revowave ratchets aren't MIJ. Their first gen 24t Lightool ratchets were MIJ.
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