Tools of Japan

[superautobacs]

Wow! Some very nice bit-rats in there!

That Anex set looks perfect. I like that they offer stubby bits. I think I'll snag some from Frankstools within the next week or so.

Can't tell you how many times that would have come in handy!

Yeah, the short bits are great. To aid in removal, the bits have a groove around it's circumference--a nice touch.

Coudnt do my job without my super tool co ratchet podgers:

Cool. What type of construction work do you do?

Annex is the OEM for the Snap on offset screwdrivers I believe, I want some but Japanese tools are hard to get in the UK and I have not found a supplier yet.

Anex is not the OEM....although Apex might be.

Amazon had it the cheapest

Wow, I didn't expect Amazon carried them!

Thanks for the info.
But carbide/ zirconium / depleted uranium or whatever are just sort of risky to use on aluminum such as cyl heads and deck surfaces. The sharper and harder the material the deeper the gouging if you just happen to sneeze or feel an itch in yar nut sack while scraping.
Did some research after my previous post. Found what they call "non-marring" scrapers. This is the one I liked best. Nothing too extravagant. Just plane razor blade shaped plastic inserts. We'll see how they work but they seem like they should do the job.

You'll be surprised at how well the that KTC scraper performs. I was using them on aluminum components. I do have a plastic, non-marring scraper made by Kanzawa. They made the first polycarbonate scraper blade in Japan:

It's a really light duty scraper though; not fit for scraping gaskets. That Titan one appears to be more rugged though.

The staff was very friendly and after the purchase we took some photos, which are now on their website:

http://www.sprasia.com/tv/user/fgrshitamachi/index

Was a cool new experience buying tools. Must do for all whom visit Japan!

Cool! I was there a couple years ago, but never got the privilege of a photo-op. Lucky you!

 

[superautobacs]

more items from my trip:


From Japan's No.1 file producer, Tsubosan:


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451764798" title="J2014 Tsubosan by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15451764798_ce23974cfe_b.jpg" width="1024" height="588" alt="J2014 Tsubosan"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451240379" title="J2014 Tsubosan 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5605/15451240379_ed1274d3f4_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Tsubosan 2"></a>



From a 100yen shop (dollar store). Yes, it's made in Japan

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15469905917" title="J2014 Tweezer by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3955/15469905917_ba1e2b4c7c_b.jpg" width="663" height="1024" alt="J2014 Tweezer"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15469901877" title="J2014 Tweezer 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3947/15469901877_dfeb2497f0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="792" alt="J2014 Tweezer 2"></a>




A high-flow/venturi tip blower from Seednew (OEM=WTB (Watabe))

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15035129754" title="J2014 SeedNew by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15035129754_74f0c9fe6d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="782" alt="J2014 SeedNew"></a>


Air regulator:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15470303810" title="J2014 Seednew 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7506/15470303810_ded5c41340_b.jpg" width="1024" height="846" alt="J2014 Seednew 2"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15035125174" title="J2014 Seednew 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/15035125174_c91a79740d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="744" alt="J2014 Seednew 3"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15655868165" title="J2014 Seednew 4 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3941/15655868165_71b58c26b0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="867" alt="J2014 Seednew 4"></a>


Also got the flexible attachment as well (500mm long):

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15655866565" title="J2014 Seednew 5 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7505/15655866565_b4c5a5b8ee_b.jpg" width="1024" height="591" alt="J2014 Seednew 5"></a>

 

[Ruger_556]

Wow, I didn't expect Amazon carried them!

Yeah, I was surprised...

 

[gbh]

Those Tsubosan files are great.
Here's a pic of some Lobster pliers I was tempted to buy today.

 

[Crown Imperial]

You'll be surprised at how well the that KTC scraper performs. I was using them on aluminum components. I do have a plastic, non-marring scraper made by Kanzawa. They made the first polycarbonate scraper blade in Japan:

It's a really light duty scraper though; not fit for scraping gaskets. That Titan one appears to be more rugged though.

If the blades are standard size razors they might work on the Titan holder. Those blades look sharp.
Thanks!

 

[superautobacs]

If the blades are standard size razors they might work on the Titan holder. Those blades look sharp.
Thanks!

Yup, I can confirm that they are standard sized.
As far as durability, how are those Titan blades holding up?
















Some KTC items.


These extensions were factory rejects due to cosmetic flaws:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15635100601" title="J2014 KTC by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5599/15635100601_337e269856_b.jpg" width="1024" height="551" alt="J2014 KTC"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451650488" title="J2014 KTC 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15451650488_dfc4dacc8b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 KTC 2"></a>


Every extension should be made like this--with positive depth stops:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15614060096" title="J2014 KTC 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15614060096_0bf6c59d06_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 KTC 3"></a>


These nicks (at the base metal) is the cause:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15017023704" title="J2014 KTC Sale by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3946/15017023704_b9d775190c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 KTC Sale"></a>


3/8" drive breaker bar:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15035728313" title="J2014 KTC by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15035728313_bb8f1d84a2_b.jpg" width="1024" height="364" alt="J2014 KTC"></a>



I didn't realize that KTC incorporated their sprung friction pad on their standard 21c line (I thought it was exclusive to Nepros). This was a pleasant surprise

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15470313630" title="J2014 KTC2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7528/15470313630_93257d9057_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 KTC2"></a>

 

[Jarhead0408]

Wow. They take their QC very seriously don't they?!

 

[hemdale]

Just wondered if TOYO was a parent company of TRUSCO (toolboxes).

 

[Crown Imperial]

Yup, I can confirm that they are standard sized.
As far as durability, how are those Titan blades holding up?

Haven't had a chance to use them yet. Next cylinder head exchange will not happen any time soon I am afraid. Unless the car goes BOOM at the track.

 

[superautobacs]

Wow. They take their QC very seriously don't they?!

Actually, I have no proof that these are factory seconds.
If not the factory, at least the re-seller has a very high standard of QC. They always update their stock with such items though, so I've always had the idea that they were getting factory seconds.....but I could be wrong.

Just wondered if TOYO was a parent company of TRUSCO (toolboxes).

AFAIK, Trusco boxes are Toyo re-brands. In Japan, I have found Trusco and Toyo boxes sold side by side at the same store. Great looking boxes at a economical price.

Haven't had a chance to use them yet. Next cylinder head exchange will not happen any time soon I am afraid. Unless the car goes BOOM at the track.

I certainly don't wish that upon you.







A fine bristle wire wheel (never seen one with such fine, soft bristles) by Kanaya Brush. They make a lot of hand-made brushes of all sorts, from cosmetics brushes for women, shoe brushes, to channel brushes for general cleaning, and all sorts of specialty brushes. All fine quality, using different materials best suited for the task:


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15690035356" title="J2014 Kanaya by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5601/15690035356_3059b67a7f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Kanaya"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15528560317" title="J2014 Kanaya 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7476/15528560317_17206cc301_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Kanaya 2"></a>

 

[Jarhead0408]

Very nice!

As an aside, I just ordered the Anex 4255B set from Amazon. For $17.08 it's not a bad deal!

I actually needed it today for remounting a door knob with little clearence between the knob and the flange.

 

[ricleh]

Recent purchase from Frankstools

 

[SawtoothJL]

Recent purchase from Frankstools

Love those KTC double box end wrenches! [emoji1]

 

[dede2897234]

Recent purchase from Frankstools

ricleh,

Can you please list the model #'s and the functions of all the tools in the above picture except the Merry screw extractor pliers and the 2 Ko-ken impact lug nut sockets?


Thanks,

Dave

 

[Monte]

 

[NathanB]

http://www.muromoto-online.jp/index.php/view/HZP40/
Can anyone help me find a Merry HZP40? I already tried frank and level chrome

 

[dede2897234]

http://www.muromoto-online.jp/index.php/view/HZP40/
Can anyone help me find a Merry HZP40? I already tried frank and level chrome

NathanB,

I have special ordered from LevelChrome multiple times. If you contact Alan at "[email protected]", he will be able to quote you a price if he can source it from his distributor.


Dave

 

[NathanB]

I already did, and Frank wasn't able to get it either for some reason.

 

[espyking83]

Any of you's guys looking to unload some of your Japaness tools to fund the purchase of new ones--feel free to PM me! Love Koken/KTC, but am too impatient to wait 7-10 days for shipping overseas!

 

[ricleh]

ricleh,

Can you please list the model #'s and the functions of all the tools in the above picture except the Merry screw extractor pliers and the 2 Ko-ken impact lug nut sockets?


Thanks,

Dave

From left to right in the picture

KTC Hose Clamp Pliers
Model AE92

Keiba M-665 Radiator Fin
Pliers

Merry Nail Puller Pliers, 2500-T

KTC Interior Trim Clip
Pliers. Model AP202A

(2) IPS Handy Pliers, VP-135

KTC Spindle Nut Chisel
#AS404

The names are descriptive of the function of the different tools.

 

[superautobacs]

To compliment my lone 12mm that I got many years ago....got these. These are unique in that it's a 12/6pt double box:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15729708742" title="J2014 Kowa by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7474/15729708742_be863b3497_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Kowa"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15729716652" title="J2014 Kowa 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3937/15729716652_4b3dc49ff1_b.jpg" width="1024" height="509" alt="J2014 Kowa 3"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15543310240" title="J2014 Kowa 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7578/15543310240_244ea72c52_b.jpg" width="1024" height="701" alt="J2014 Kowa 2"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15543306450" title="J2014 Kowa4 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7566/15543306450_59283847de_b.jpg" width="1024" height="776" alt="J2014 Kowa4"></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15704442326" title="J2014 Kowa5 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7465/15704442326_a1a95256bc_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Kowa5"></a>

 

[SantaAna12]

Very cool thread. High up on my gearhead required reading list.

Advanced has the Koken "attack driver" 1/2 inch drive, and with the coupon: an outstanding deal.

 

[christodav]

I finally bought a pair of trim removal tools. I can hardly wait to go and try them out.

Chris

 

[Van Steele]

Nothing much to say here....awesome Keiba pliers:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15017113534" title="J2014 Keiba by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3934/15017113534_775e20be5d_b.jpg" width="766" height="1024" alt="J2014 Keiba"></a>

What do the handle grips feel like on these high grade series?

To compliment my lone 12mm that I got many years ago....got these. These are unique in that it's a 12/6pt double box:

I've had the set in my Webike wishlist for a while now and had just about forgotten but you just had to post this, didn't you.

 

[garthg]

Hi, All.
My wife and I are going to Tokyo for a week. Are there any tool shops I should hit up while I'm there? If so, how do I find them?

Thanks.

 

[superautobacs]

I finally bought a pair of trim removal tools. I can hardly wait to go and try them out.

Chris

I think you'll find that those will be useful for not just trim/panel popping.

What do the handle grips feel like on these high grade series?

If you were to imagine the standard, smooth grips being like a Snap-on chrome finish, then the Keiba grips are like Hazet's fruit-skin finish. ...if that makes any sense at all
....in other words, you can easily feel that they are textured grips, but are otherwise the same as a standard, dipped grip. I don't particularly like those fat, cushion-grip handles found on a lot of brands these days so these grips are nice.

I've had the set in my Webike wishlist for a while now and had just about forgotten but you just had to post this, didn't you.

Hi, All.
My wife and I are going to Tokyo for a week. Are there any tool shops I should hit up while I'm there? If so, how do I find them?

Thanks.

I you go 1/2 pages back in this thread, there was a bit of discussion.

Here's a couple threads as a guide, if you haven't read them already:


This was Osaka, but there's many other Factory Gear stores in the country, including a couple in Tokyo:

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=148018


There's two World Import Tools stores in Tokyo:

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=150399

 

[superautobacs]

KTC 10mm (ultra) slim profile combination wrench (from their bicycle tool series):


The design was inspired by the beautiful cherry blossoms falling along the Kamo river, a river that runs along Kyoto.

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15726238671" title="J2014 KTC 10mm. by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7523/15726238671_de600c1d9f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="330" alt="J2014 KTC 10mm."></a>




According to a KTC representative that I spoke to, there was a bit of R&D that went into the production of these wrenches. Their difficulties and challenges revolved around achieving the suitable hardness/temper on wrenches that are as slim and long as these are. This 10mm is 180mm long, with a 3mm open-end thickness; 5.5mm ring-end thickness.


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15542725188" title="J2014 KTC 10mm.. by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7511/15542725188_61fa71a542_b.jpg" width="1024" height="284" alt="J2014 KTC 10mm.."></a>




KTC 8mm double-box wrench from their Profit series--another slim-type series that's been around for a while. Both ends are 8mm, but with different offsets on either end. They worked on achieving a different look to their surface appearance. It has neither a polished chrome or satin chrome look/feel to them.

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15704459806" title="J2014 KTC Profit by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7581/15704459806_5ee6e2741b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="410" alt="J2014 KTC Profit"></a>



KTC XL-length E-torx double box wrenches:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15726252291" title="J2014 KTC E-torx by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7566/15726252291_b420113980_b.jpg" width="1024" height="671" alt="J2014 KTC E-torx"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15542980717" title="J2014 KTC E-torx.. by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/15542980717_a7868b795a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="682" alt="J2014 KTC E-torx.."></a>

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15726243911" title="J2014 KTC E-torx... by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7481/15726243911_daf260605c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="666" alt="J2014 KTC E-torx..."></a>





Last, but not least, from their premium line: Nepros half-moon wrenches that I got for a steal

oh...btw, I did NOT polish or wipe them off with some microfiber towel before taking these photos.
...on that note...I should say that they don't cease to amaze me with their "mirror finish" tag.....they really are just that. People rave about the quality of the chrome finish on many Taiwanese brands, but I'll say it once again....the clarity, uniformity, and durability of Nepros tools is quite simply better.


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15728179575" title="J2014 Nepros by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3944/15728179575_e1df6c0f93_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Nepros"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15108220904" title="J2014 Nepros 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/15108220904_1a3b8757b1_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Nepros 2"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15542288739" title="J2014 Nepros 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7551/15542288739_f30af696f3_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Nepros 3"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15729698702" title="J2014 Nepros 4 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3950/15729698702_e4b18f50f7_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="J2014 Nepros 4"></a>

 

[espyking83]

Frank is sitting on orders again, last time I'm doing business with him. Anyone know of RELIABLE sellers, preferably in the states?

 

[superautobacs]

Frank is sitting on orders again, last time I'm doing business with him. Anyone know of RELIABLE sellers, preferably in the states?

What are you trying to get?

 

[espyking83]

I ordered the KTC composite pry-bar kit. Needing some soft scrapers too, ones that have a handle and last for A/C aluminum, maybe a composite body spoon if they make them.


I swear, I go out on a limb and try to support Frank and his small business but it ends up coming back to bite me every time. I expect shipment within 3 days of purchase. Not delivery--shipment. 7-10 days turns out to be 2+ weeks.

 

[superautobacs]

I can understand your frustration.

People have differing expectations and differing levels of patience when it comes to lead times.

I think we need to bare in mind that Frank doesn't operate a brick and mortar store, nor does he have a large inventory, as far as I can surmise. He is serving a really small niche market and I can understand why anyone wanting to cater towards this small niche market would be weary of walking away from their day-time jobs to dedicate their time solely on catering to this small market. .....at least at this point in time it's a SMALL market. I'd like to think that if selling these 'obscure' Japanese brands became his primary means to earning his bread and butter, then we're definitely entitled to voice our criticisms.

I understand that my opinion may not jive that well with some...

In any case, espy, I hope things work out for you in the end.

 

[espyking83]

I turn wrenches 40+ hours a week, sell stuff on here all the time, my orders go out the next day during my lunch break. If he cant dedicate the time to running a business then he shouldnt do it. But yeah, you're right. Everyone has their own opinion, and that is just mine. But I'm a consumer, and when I order tools I have a need for them--because it's what I do for a living.

 

[PureLeaf]

I just put in my first order with Frank for a zeal set, It shipped out a day later (monday). So far very pleased and no complaints. He was also very quick to respond to messages.

I am curious to see how long it takes to make the trip since the USPS tracking number still says 'no tracking info available'. I don't fault him for that.

 

[SawtoothJL]

I know how you feel espyking83. Ive been waiting for A socket set and ratchet to ship for three weeks. When i emailed Frank back, he said it would go out in about A week.... I dont know if ill ever get it. I know that Alan at levelchrome can order anything from the koken catalog; it might cost more, however, the relianility is worth it

 

[PureLeaf]

Just a curious question. Has anyone ever tried to warranty Koken? Is that even possible for USA customers? Only just purchased my first socket set of zeals out of interest, but this would definitely influence considerations of buying large amounts of their tools.

 

[AcuraTech225]

Where can i get a set of those Kowa Honda wrenches? I NEED them....

 

[Frankstools]

Hello, yes there is warranty coverage on Koken. But they do not break when used professionally.

 

[PureLeaf]

Hello, yes there is warranty coverage on Koken. But they do not break when used professionally.

Thanks frank good to know

 

[espyking83]

I know how you feel espyking83. Ive been waiting for A socket set and ratchet to ship for three weeks. When i emailed Frank back, he said it would go out in about A week.... I dont know if ill ever get it. I know that Alan at levelchrome can order anything from the koken catalog; it might cost more, however, the relianility is worth it

Every time I have emailed him with a question about an order he says "I do not need this abuse...", haha. I never said anything remotely insulting or abusive.

I will take my business elsewhere, I should have taken the hint the first two times that I had trouble with him, but I do appreciate what he does (whenever he decides to get around to it). My last order wemt smoothly so I thought those occurences were a thing of the past, but I guess I was wrong. He'll keep burning bridges until people catch on around here.

 

[Van Steele]

If you were to imagine the standard, smooth grips being like a Snap-on chrome finish, then the Keiba grips are like Hazet's fruit-skin finish. ...if that makes any sense at all
....in other words, you can easily feel that they are textured grips, but are otherwise the same as a standard, dipped grip. I don't particularly like those fat, cushion-grip handles found on a lot of brands these days so these grips are nice.

Thank you, that's good to know. I prefer vinyl handles myself over any of those bulky comfort/ergo abominations.

Lots of nice tools you've gotten there.