Help Me With Replacing Craftsman RP Ratchets

[bulletpruf]

Fellas -

So my ratchet collection consists of 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, and 3/4 ratchets. All raised panel Craftsman. All standard length. Nothing fancy.

My latest addition is a new 3/8" Snap On flex head long handle comfort grip.

I don't want to end up with 100 ratchets like some of y'all, but I'd like to upgrade (or at least supplement) what I have. Anyone care to recommend, in order of priority, the next 6 or so you would buy if you were in my shoes? Looking for quality. I'm ok with Snap On prices.

So, would it be -

1. SO 1/4" standard length
2. SO 3/8" standard length
3. SO 1/2" standard length
4. SO 1/4" stubby
5. SO 3/8" stubby
6. SO 1/2" long handle
7. SO 1/2" flex head

Tools are mostly used for working on cars, so I often need a smaller fine-tooth ratchet that I can maneuver in a small space.

Thanks!

Scott

 

[kythri]

If it were me, I'd buy in this order:

2.
3.
1.
6.
7.
5.
4.

 

[d.mcfarland]

As for #5, I think the better option is a 3/8 drive in a 1/4 body. The few times you need it, clearance is the issue and the 1/4 body is always going to be better.

 

[er3456df]

Based strictly on my own usage patterns, I'd go from most frequently used, and work my way down. I also wouldn't buy anything that's not fine tooth, and would consider some good ratcheting box ends as part of this upgrade (if you don't have some already, and get the ones with the reverse lever).

1. 3/8" regular
2. 3/8" stubby flex
3. 1/4" regular
4. 3/8" long flex
5. 1/2" long
6-99. insufficient data for meaningful reply.

I'd also say that if you're serious about your tools, it might be good to try a cheaper version of something unusual before you buy the SO, for example get a long flex 1/4" from Sears or HF to see if you actually like using it (I don't, so mine just takes up space now. Glad it was cheap!)

 

[belvedere]

If it were me, I'd buy in this order:

2.
3.
1.
6.
7.
5.
4.

I think this makes pretty good sense. OTOH, only you know how often you use each size. Everyone's usage will be a little difference.

 

[jrobb316]

I put a 3/8 long flex at the top of my list. then:
2
3
7
6
1
5
4
I personally have 3 or 4 SO ratchets in every size.
1/4
standard
flex
very long flex with handle
3/8
stubby
standard
standard with handle (its longer than the standard without a handle)
and long flex with handle
1/2
standard
long flex with handle
very long flex with handle (25" I use it for head bolts, you may not need this) but this ratchet is bad ***

 

[Loscaldazar]

I'd actually skip the snap on 1/4 drive ratchet. The 72T models just aren't as good as the 80 tooth 3/8 and 1/2 drive models. I'd get the armstrong MAXX or SK in 1/4 drive, and the snap on in 3/8 and 1/2. Sk's design is old, but I still think it's the best 1/4 drive out there. 60T, extremely smooth, and very strong.

3/4 I'd go for SK again. The 72T round head ratchet is a beast from SK.

 

[bulletpruf]

Fellas -

What about rebuilding the Craftsman ratchets that I have? Does anyone make another mechanism that you can install?

Thanks,

Scott

 

[bulletpruf]

I'd get the Armstrong MAXX locking flex head ratchets. Or are you set on Snap On? You can get the Armstrong for pretty good prices at AAP if you use coupons.

Something like this, right?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Armstrong-U...22819853?pt=US_Hand_Tools&hash=item418025910d

 

[devoncoolman]

A standard length 1/2 is about usless most of the time. Buy an 18in and a 24in 1/2 drive ratchets before upgrading your standard length 1/2 drive stuff. I work on everything from lawn tractors to semi trucks. Generally when im getting out 1/2or3/4 drive tools i dont want an 8 in long handle.

 

[NathanB]

http://frankstools.com/koz14drra27.html
Here's another highly rated ratchet.

 

[BirdMobile]

If I had it all to do over again, I'd buy:

1/4 Drive:
Carlyle 72 Tooth Standard Length
Snap On TLL72
Carlyle 100 Tooth Roto-Head
Armstrong MAXX Locking Flex-Head
Harbor Freight Dual-Head (1/4-3/8) Long-Handled Ratchet

3/8 Drive:
Snap On F80
Carlyle 100 Tooth Roto-Head
Kobalt 72 Tooth Stubby Non-Flex
Armstrong MAXX Locking Flex-Head
Harbor Freight Composite Long-Handle
Tekton 18" Extra-Long Handle Pear Head

1/2 Drive:
Armstrong MAXX Locking Flex-Head
Snap On SL80A
Harbor Freight Professional Standard-Length Flex Head

Throw in a 1/2 Drive Harbor Freight 25" breaker bar, for an even 15 tools.

I'd buy the standard length non-flex head ratchets first, then the roto-heads, then the others as you can afford them.

This is most of my current lineup for working on my own cars at home, but I have a bunch of other ratchets that I hardly ever use... and sometimes wish I hadn't bought. I see the above list, with some possible variation (eg: substitute Snap On FLL80 for Tekton 18") as an almost ideal selection for the non-professional mechanic.

I didn't list any 3/4 drive stuff... I own it, but never use it.

P.S. I agree on the standard-length 1/2 drive... though a standard length flex-head sometimes saves the day!

 

[bulletpruf]

I ordered the Armstrong Maxx 1/4" locking flex head ratchet. About $55 or so from Amazon.

I already have a fair assortment of breaker bars - Craftsman and Harbor Freight - for 3/8", 1/2", and 3/4".

I'm rethinking the order for my purchases. I already have the standard length Craftsmen and they still work fine. Makes more sense to pick up the ones that I don't have (stubby, flex head, long handle, etc) and then upgrade the Craftsmen.

Good point on the 1/2" standard length ratchets. I don't work on semi's, but always have at least one large 4x4 SUV (Excursion or Suburban 2500) in the driveway, so my 1/2" stuff does get used.

 

[nine4gmc]

I would go so far as to recommend HF swivel head ratchets for stubby, they are awesome ratchets and you can't beat the price!

 

[BirdMobile]

I would go so far as to recommend HF swivel head ratchets for stubby, they are awesome ratchets and you can't beat the price!

Agreed. However, if you go this route, buy now. They're on closeout and have already been sold out in many HF stores.

 

[NathanB]

These are also up there with snap on http://nepros.net/?cat=2&grp=9

 

[byoungblood]

Fellas -

What about rebuilding the Craftsman ratchets that I have? Does anyone make another mechanism that you can install?

Thanks,

Scott

No, but the Craftsman premium 1/4" drive ratchet is surprisingly good. I use it most of the time unless the longer handle on it is going to be an issue. Then I go to my Wright 2400.

 

[bulletpruf]

I would go so far as to recommend HF swivel head ratchets for stubby, they are awesome ratchets and you can't beat the price!

Are you referring to these?

http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t.../3-piece-flex-head-stubby-ratchets-46742.html

 

[BirdMobile]

Are you referring to these?

http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t.../3-piece-flex-head-stubby-ratchets-46742.html

No...
Pretty sure he's referring to these, and the stubby versions:

http://m.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-quick-release-swivel-head-ratchet-96782.html

 

[nine4gmc]

Are you referring to these?

http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t.../3-piece-flex-head-stubby-ratchets-46742.html

NO!!

No...
Pretty sure he's referring to these, and the stubby versions:

http://m.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-quick-release-swivel-head-ratchet-96782.html

These^. They come in standard, and stubby in 3 sizes, I would pick up one of each.

 

[Wamsutta]

I don't see the 3/8 drive flex head with the bent handle on your list. That ratchet is a necessity sometimes.

 

[bulletpruf]

NO!!


Originally Posted by BirdMobile
No...
Pretty sure he's referring to these, and the stubby versions:

http://m.harborfreight.com/3-8-eight...het-96782.html


These^. They come in standard, and stubby in 3 sizes, I would pick up one of each.

I can't find the stubby ones on the website. Am I looking in the wrong place or maybe these are store only? Nearest Harbor Freight is about 7,000 miles from here...

Thanks

Scott

 

[bulletpruf]

I don't see the 3/8 drive flex head with the bent handle on your list. That ratchet is a necessity sometimes.

I recently purchased the Snap On 3/8" flex head comfort grip ratchet. They make one with a bent handle, too? What does this do for you? Do you have a part #?

Thanks

Scott

 

[Rickster]

I too recommend the swivel head ratchets. I use my 1/4dr all the time and the 3/8 dr most of the time. I have a Snap-on 1/4dr and both a Snap-on & SK 3/8dr.

 

[Farmall450]

I'd get the flex heads first...they'll do the jobs of two ratchets.

 

[back2class]

I am not a fan of snap-on ratchets. Much better ratchets out there for much lower prices. In the case of snap-on ratchets I don't think because they are the most expensive is any sign they are the best. I find them bulky and much prefer a well designed quick release. I have owned over a dozen SO ratchets and have never been impresses. Look elsewhere.

 

[ecotec]

I am not a fan of snap-on ratchets. Much better ratchets out there for much lower prices. In the case of snap-on ratchets I don't think because they are the most expensive is any sign they are the best. I find them bulky and much prefer a well designed quick release. I have owned over a dozen SO ratchets and have never been impresses. Look elsewhere.

What brands do you like better?

 

[Boredmechanic]

Snap on bulky.wtf?

 

[nine4gmc]

I can't find the stubby ones on the website. Am I looking in the wrong place or maybe these are store only? Nearest Harbor Freight is about 7,000 miles from here...

Thanks

Scott

I don't see them on the website but HF is 5 mins away from me, I will check for part numbers when I get a chance. Even the standard length is great but if you can find the stubby, I'd get one of each.

 

[Schurkey]

Anyone care to recommend, in order of priority, the next 6 or so you would buy if you were in my shoes? Looking for quality. I'm ok with Snap On prices.

So, would it be -

1. SO 1/4" standard length
2. SO 3/8" standard length
3. SO 1/2" standard length
4. SO 1/4" stubby
5. SO 3/8" stubby
6. SO 1/2" long handle
7. SO 1/2" flex head

Tools are mostly used for working on cars, so I often need a smaller fine-tooth ratchet that I can maneuver in a small space.

Thanks!

Scott

Short story...I wouldn't buy what you have listed. I don't think they're a good value; by which I mean anything with a regular handle your existing Craftsman are probably good enough. I tend to grab a long-handle ratchet--or a stubby--so regular-length handle ratchets don't get a lot of use anymore. Your needs may vary.

Here's what I'm actually using. I have other ratchets, some of them in a "road chest" that travels with me. There are some oddballs that seemed like they might be handy--but have yet to be used. Those are not in this photo. All of these guys in the picture, though, actually stand a chance of being used, even if some are not used heavily:

1. 1/4 bit ratchet. Cheap enough, nice offset handle, made in USA. "Might as well". Truthfully, most of my bits are used with a 1/4" bit socket, and a regular ratchet.

2. 1/4 plain ol' ordinary Craftsman, had it for decades, never needed a repair kit. I have no urge to "upgrade".

3. 1/4 palm ratchet, made in USA Craftsman. Nice feel, absolutely essential for a certain project I was involved in.

4. 3/8 multi-position Snappy. Occasionally very handy. Replaced a stubby-handle Mac 3/8 ratchet. When the existing head needs to be replaced, it'll get a quick-release head.

5. 3/8 head in a 1/4 body Mac Spinflex. I like having a compact 3/8 flex head; the "Spinflex" feature means nothing to me. A plain metal handle would be less bulky than the big plastic grip.

6. 3/8 regular handle, quick-release Snappy. Not used much--I like long handles if I have enough clearance. The current repair kit for the old quick-release is a beauty--finer teeth and a nice "feel". This replaced a RHFT Craftsman which went into the Road Chest.

7 and 9 have largely been replaced by 8. All long-handle 3/8 Snappys. #9 was my go-to ratchet for more than twenty five years, and it worked with the original quick-release head until about a year ago. 7 and 9 still get occasional use, but I choose #8 for maybe 70% of my ratchet needs now. I just love the long handle--but the rubber grip means little to me. This is strong praise from a guy who deeply values a quick-release head, and doesn't usually like round head ratchets!

10. 1/2 long-handle, quick-release Snappy. Was my favorite 1/2 drive for twenty five years. I bought a spare repair kit while they're still available. Often used with a cheater pipe, but never failed me.

11. 1/2 long-handle, flex head Snappy. I just love the feel of the Dual 80 head, but I miss the quick-release feature. I'd intended to buy the locking-flex-head version, but the locking mechanism looked flimsy--and the locking mechanism had already been updated at least once at the point where I bought this one!

 

[bulletpruf]

Short story...I wouldn't buy what you have listed. I don't think they're a good value; by which I mean anything with a regular handle your existing Craftsman are probably good enough. I tend to grab a long-handle ratchet--or a stubby--so regular-length handle ratchets don't get a lot of use anymore. Your needs may vary.

Here's what I'm actually using. I have other ratchets, some of them in a "road chest" that travels with me. There are some oddballs that seemed like they might be handy--but have yet to be used. Those are not in this photo. All of these guys in the picture, though, actually stand a chance of being used, even if some are not used heavily:

1. 1/4 bit ratchet. Cheap enough, nice offset handle, made in USA. "Might as well". Truthfully, most of my bits are used with a 1/4" bit socket, and a regular ratchet.

2. 1/4 plain ol' ordinary Craftsman, had it for decades, never needed a repair kit. I have no urge to "upgrade".

3. 1/4 palm ratchet, made in USA Craftsman. Nice feel, absolutely essential for a certain project I was involved in.

4. 3/8 multi-position Snappy. Occasionally very handy. Replaced a stubby-handle Mac 3/8 ratchet. When the existing head needs to be replaced, it'll get a quick-release head.

5. 3/8 head in a 1/4 body Mac Spinflex. I like having a compact 3/8 flex head; the "Spinflex" feature means nothing to me. A plain metal handle would be less bulky than the big plastic grip.

6. 3/8 regular handle, quick-release Snappy. Not used much--I like long handles if I have enough clearance. The current repair kit for the old quick-release is a beauty--finer teeth and a nice "feel". This replaced a RHFT Craftsman which went into the Road Chest.

7 and 9 have largely been replaced by 8. All long-handle 3/8 Snappys. #9 was my go-to ratchet for more than twenty five years, and it worked with the original quick-release head until about a year ago. 7 and 9 still get occasional use, but I choose #8 for maybe 70% of my ratchet needs now. I just love the long handle--but the rubber grip means little to me. This is strong praise from a guy who deeply values a quick-release head, and doesn't usually like round head ratchets!

10. 1/2 long-handle, quick-release Snappy. Was my favorite 1/2 drive for twenty five years. I bought a spare repair kit while they're still available. Often used with a cheater pipe, but never failed me.

11. 1/2 long-handle, flex head Snappy. I just love the feel of the Dual 80 head, but I miss the quick-release feature. I'd intended to buy the locking-flex-head version, but the locking mechanism looked flimsy--and the locking mechanism had already been updated at least once at the point where I bought this one!

Schurkey -

Thanks for taking the time to post the pic and details. Yet more tools that I didn't know that I needed...

Definitely can see uses for the palm ratchet; will pick one up.

Agree with you on replacing the RP ratchets; will probably do so at some point, but not until I pick up the ratchets that I currently do not own.

I can see where the bit ratchet would come in handy. I'll add that to the list.

See what you're saying on the long handle stuff; if you've got room, you might as well use the leverage.

Thanks

Scott

 

[belvedere]

I am not a fan of snap-on ratchets. Much better ratchets out there for much lower prices. In the case of snap-on ratchets I don't think because they are the most expensive is any sign they are the best. I find them bulky and much prefer a well designed quick release. I have owned over a dozen SO ratchets and have never been impresses. Look elsewhere.

Couldn't disagree more. Ratchets are one of the few things I will pay Snap-On prices for. Nothing better than a Dual 80, IMO.

 

[cheechi]

I'd actually skip the snap on 1/4 drive ratchet. The 72T models just aren't as good as the 80 tooth 3/8 and 1/2 drive models.

I only own TL72 and F80 in snap on ratchets. I would second this; the TL72 is not a very good rat compared to several others I have, definitely didn't live up to my expectation.

I missed it in the original question, is anything wrong with the other ratchets? Not that you shouldn't upgrade from RP's they're not very comfortable rats. I would add ratchets based on need. You started out with a flex, I assume it's because you needed a flex head. Do you also need a stubby? if so buy them at a higher priority, and so on.

 

[durallymax]

I prefer the Matco 88s with comfort grips because the head is much thinner and fits in tight spots. Regardless of brand though here is what I have in the order I would suggest buying.

3/8" locking flex 12". This is my most used ratchet.

1/4" locking flex 6". This is my 2nd most used ratchet.

1/2" locking flex 24". I traded my 17" on this because when I need a 1/2" ratchet I want all the leverage I can get. I don't use 1/2" much because I am always a fan of using the smallest drive possible and when I need 1/2" I'm usually using an impact. The ratchet is still a necessity but gets used the least out of my ratchets.

3/8" stubby flex. I love this little guy for when you don't need a ton of torque.

Stubby 1/4" drive. For tight spots where you don't need a lot of power.

Those are the ratchets I recommend. I also have some Wera Zyklops that are very handy.

 

[aaronrkelly]

I use mainly 3/8.....so I have a SnapOn flex head dual 80 in that size with comfort grip....and thats the ratchet I use almost exclusively.

I also have an Armstrong 88 if Im doing something messy and dont want to hassle with the comfort grip SO. They really are superb ratchets and I think they give up very little if anything to the SO.

My 1/4 and 1/2 ratchets I dont use as often so I was looking for a good alternative and I think your really missing out by not atleast considering the BAHCO.

Yeah.....they dont look the best and they only come in the comfort grip. Your giving right at $30ish for a SnapOn daul 80 in a different wrapper.....super ratchets at what - 1/3 or 1/4 the price of the SO units.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-1-4-D...0995549829&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-3-8-D...1003279516&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-1-2-D...1387903663&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

 

[bulletpruf]

I only own TL72 and F80 in snap on ratchets. I would second this; the TL72 is not a very good rat compared to several others I have, definitely didn't live up to my expectation.

I missed it in the original question, is anything wrong with the other ratchets? Not that you shouldn't upgrade from RP's they're not very comfortable rats. I would add ratchets based on need. You started out with a flex, I assume it's because you needed a flex head. Do you also need a stubby? if so buy them at a higher priority, and so on.

No, nothing wrong with the RPs. Just been drinking the Snap On/Bahco/Armstrong/JH Williams kool aid...

Have decided to keep the RP's for now and buy the ratchets that I don't have. Basically what you suggested.

Thanks,

Scott

 

[bulletpruf]

I use mainly 3/8.....so I have a SnapOn flex head dual 80 in that size with comfort grip....and thats the ratchet I use almost exclusively.

I also have an Armstrong 88 if Im doing something messy and dont want to hassle with the comfort grip SO. They really are superb ratchets and I think they give up very little if anything to the SO.

My 1/4 and 1/2 ratchets I dont use as often so I was looking for a good alternative and I think your really missing out by not atleast considering the BAHCO.

Yeah.....they dont look the best and they only come in the comfort grip. Your giving right at $30ish for a SnapOn daul 80 in a different wrapper.....super ratchets at what - 1/3 or 1/4 the price of the SO units.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-1-4-D...0995549829&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-3-8-D...1003279516&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bahco-1-2-D...1387903663&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

Thanks for the info. I already have the SO 3/8" flex head Dual 80 with the kung fu grip.

You're right on Bahco - not very aesthetically pleasing, but price is right. I have some Bahco stuff; pleased with the quality.

Thanks,

Scott

 

[spoon671]

I am not a fan of snap-on ratchets. Much better ratchets out there for much lower prices. In the case of snap-on ratchets I don't think because they are the most expensive is any sign they are the best. I find them bulky and much prefer a well designed quick release. I have owned over a dozen SO ratchets and have never been impresses. Look elsewhere.

There are more expensive ratchets out there (German).

I like my Snap-On ratchets but like you, I'm not impressed with their performance considering their price point. Tons of back drag, the particular ones I own don't have recessed reverse selector levers. I really do largely like the Dual-80 mechanism though, the hard handle ones feel good in my hands, and I will recommend them to anyone looking for a USA made ratchet at that price point.

OP, what's your budget? (I assume budget is high because you're upgrading) Are you stuck on Snap-On, or USA COO, or is that flexible?

 

[durallymax]

If you are stuck on COO USA, the comfort grip Matco 88s do not qualify as COO USA.

Cheaper way to go about them is to buy the gear wrench version and put in the 88 guts.

Some days I think I would prefer the snap on flex lock button but other days I prefer the Matco. The only issue with the Matco on is trying to switch it in tight spaces. Both the direction and flex lock levers are recessed which is nice.

I had a dual 80 for awhile before selling it. The head is almost twice as thick. I can't remember but do the snap on have a free swivel mode or do you always have to have them locked. I like being able to free swivel the Matco for certain tasks.

I also thought the snap on had a lot of back drag compared to the 88 but I did actually think the dual 80 felt a bit smoother. Properly lubricating the 88 is necessary for it to be very smooth with little back drag.

 

[BFHtime]

I was going to suggest the. 3/8 flex, but you already have it. I like the 100 tooth roto more as I can use it as a nut driver, a screw driver with the proper socket, and is often quicker than grabbing my cordless impact, if I can you two hands and work it like I was starting a fire. It is so smooth.

I would try that dual 80 ratchet for a while to see how you like it. I would suggest a long 1/2 with a flex head, because sometimes the flex head allows you to swing the ratchet further than you could without the flex. A breaker bar to break most stuff free will get you by most times though. Then finish with the short ratchet, now that it is broken free.

The 1/4 inch are nice a straight one chrome for tight spots and comfort handle on the flex. I do this for most of my ratchets as the thin ones may be neede for tight areas and the thicker handle of the flex ratchets can move out of the way.

I don't have a bent handle as I feel a flex does a similar job for me. I do have an offset speeder type upgraded with a dual 80 head and have not used once in the couple years I have owned it.

Also look to get the promo deals take your time. I never paid full price on an yo these ratchets. I have more than a dozen different ones. There was a promo with heavy duty torx bits where you buy the set and get a 1/4 and 3/8 ratchet free. I already had the ratchets, but my driver let me trade them in on flexes for a few bucks each, plus I had a little discount on the torx set too. So patience helps. I bought a long 1/2 ratchet discounted and got a breaker bar free, both 2'. I got a killer deal on 1/2 stuff and traded an essentially free 2' breaker in for a 3'.
Take your time and make some deals and you will see that list price is not the real price. I think that is for the truck accounts, it allows the driver to break even on the credit he would extend to people that might get behind on paying. My guy throws in free stuff too, you always ask him to throw something in if you are buying things from him. I hope you have a guy where you are. Good luck. Try it before you jump in, to make sure you like the tools first, as they are not cheap.