Tools of Japan

[RKA]

Great, thanks!

 

[measuredtwice]

I have those exact same Torx bits and hex bits. Koken offer, I think, four different lengths but I thought the shortest would be the most useful in the first instance.

The fit of the Torx bits is comparable to other quality brands. I have some Snap On, some Stahlwille and some Hazet (though not all in 3/8 drive) and as far as I can tell the KoKen are up there with the others.

I took the precaution of ordering spare inserts for these (KoKen are very good about supplying these - some makers (such as Stahlwille) won’t supply the inserts - but despite regular use I havn’t needed to replace any yet.

So, good fit, and very durable! If you have only ever used the Taiwanese bits, these are a step up! Reasonably priced too!

Thank you. Sounds good.

 

[ukruser]

A couple of years ago I purchised Engineer TWM-08 pocket adjustable wrench from ebay. But today when I want to see whether I can uncover the handle, I found thet it is an ordinary 150mm wrench with cut handle. And also while according to information on Amazon, maximum jaw opening is 24mm, mine can open to 19mm only

 

[ukruser]

Here are the pictures:

 

[rice rocket]

Any recommendations for sockets and wrenches (regular combination) that are worth checking out?

I have two full sets of Koken ZEALs in 1/4 and 3/8, and a few super long KTC double box wrenches that I really love, looking to diversify a little though. Would like more "standard" sized stuff, i.e. not ultra short height like the ZEALs and regular/standard sized combination wrenches.


TONE or KTC maybe?

 

[J.C.]

The ZEAL range includes semi-deep and deep sockets as well as the super shallow ones, if you wanted to stay with Koken but diversify the socket sizes...

 

[Skin]

A couple of years ago I purchised Engineer TWM-08 pocket adjustable wrench from ebay. But today when I want to see whether I can uncover the handle, I found thet it is an ordinary 150mm wrench with cut handle. And also while according to information on Amazon, maximum jaw opening is 24mm, mine can open to 19mm only

That's not an 08 that's an 06. The 08 has pointed jaws and a red handle. Open width is about right, spec lists 20mm. And yes its a chopped TWM-03. The TWM-08 is similarly just a cut down TWM-07.

 

[jimmyin3D]

Any recommendations for sockets and wrenches (regular combination) that are worth checking out?

I have two full sets of Koken ZEALs in 1/4 and 3/8, and a few super long KTC double box wrenches that I really love, looking to diversify a little though. Would like more "standard" sized stuff, i.e. not ultra short height like the ZEALs and regular/standard sized combination wrenches.


TONE or KTC maybe?

For “regular” sized sockets go for Koken regular line. They have complete sets for 1/4 shallow deep 4MM-15MM, 3/8 5.5MM-25? Shallow deep semi deep. And also comes in 12pt for everything as well.

KTC makes some great wrenches.

That Engineer pocket wrench looks cheap as hell! They didn’t even grind it down, I would not be happy with that!

 

[Handyandy23]

That's not an 08 that's an 06. The 08 has pointed jaws and a red handle. Open width is about right, spec lists 20mm. And yes its a chopped TWM-03. The TWM-08 is similarly just a cut down TWM-07.

Ha! Someone in the engineering department got a big raise for that one. No new tooling costs required, just stick our regular wrenches in the band saw! Voila, stubby!

 

[M6erfan]

Any recommendations for sockets and wrenches (regular combination) that are worth checking out?

I have two full sets of Koken ZEALs in 1/4 and 3/8, and a few super long KTC double box wrenches that I really love, looking to diversify a little though. Would like more "standard" sized stuff, i.e. not ultra short height like the ZEALs and regular/standard sized combination wrenches.


TONE or KTC maybe?

If you already have the Zeal ratchets I would stick with Zeal sockets. As J.C. said, look at the Zeal deep and semi-deep sets.

KTC makes great wrenches, including standard combos.

 

[Vicks]

Any recommendations for sockets and wrenches (regular combination) that are worth checking out?

I have two full sets of Koken ZEALs in 1/4 and 3/8, and a few super long KTC double box wrenches that I really love, looking to diversify a little though. Would like more "standard" sized stuff, i.e. not ultra short height like the ZEALs and regular/standard sized combination wrenches.


TONE or KTC maybe?

I wouldn't buy Tone because they are not entirely made in Japan (yes, thats what i'm looking for on the "Tools of Japan" thread). KTC - maybe but i will be sticking with Koken - Zeal and the regular line.

here you go - http://www.koken-tool.co.jp/catalog/en/html5.html#page=1

enjoy !

 

[ukruser]

That's not an 08 that's an 06. The 08 has pointed jaws and a red handle. Open width is about right, spec lists 20mm. And yes its a chopped TWM-03. The TWM-08 is similarly just a cut down TWM-07.

thank you for your explanation, because I started to think it is fake

 

[rice rocket]

Okay, I lied about wanting more standard stuff, those Asahi Lightool wrenches piqued my interest.

Any experiences?

 

[measuredtwice]

Okay, I lied about wanting more standard stuff, those Asahi Lightool wrenches piqued my interest.

Any experiences?

I don't have any experience at all with those wrenches and I'm not trying to be a meanie but why would that be a good idea?? Hope they have a good warranty replacement!

 

[rice rocket]

I assume they've done their due diligence when reducing the weight, but maybe not, which was why I was asking.

As to why, this is for a set of tools that I'm bringing to the track, so any weight savings I can get for hauling in/out of my truck would be nice, though obviously not mandatory. Just looking to try new things. Variety is the spice of life.

 

[M6erfan]

I've considered those wrenches for my track box too. Haven't pulled the trigger, yet...

 

[RKA]

Ko-ken 3305P and 3305PZ 14mm sparkplug sockets.
On some engines, the standard socket was giving me little to no room in the plug well, so I got the PZ version with the turned down shaft for better access to the sparkplug.

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/46361969701/in/photostream/" title="Ko-ken 12pt, 14mm Magnetic Sparkplug Sockets"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4817/46361969701_6c00d5aeab_b.jpg" width="964" height="1024" alt="Ko-ken 12pt, 14mm Magnetic Sparkplug Sockets"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/32490281038/in/photostream/" title="Ko-ken 12pt Magnetic Sparkplug Sockets 3305P and 3305PZ"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4810/32490281038_57c2a27100_b.jpg" width="1024" height="603" alt="Ko-ken 12pt Magnetic Sparkplug Sockets 3305P and 3305PZ"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bumping this up to say thank you! I looked all over on google to find out if any Koken sockets would work on a 14mm 12pt spark plug in a BMW (requires a thin wall socket). This was the only post I found, but it looks like the 3305PZ is the ticket!

 

[Qualitytools]

^Let us know how it worked and which BMW engine you used it on please.

 

[BarryWells]

Received my Koken 3715SLK Spinning T-Handle 3/8” in this mornings mail!

Nicest spinner made ! Used mine a couple days back tearing down a P.O.S. Nissan 4cyl
I used to use old school speeders but GOOD t handles are nicer.

 

[jimmyin3D]

I wouldn't buy Tone because they are not entirely made in Japan (yes, thats what i'm looking for on the "Tools of Japan" thread). KTC - maybe but i will be sticking with Koken - Zeal and the regular line.



here you go - http://www.koken-tool.co.jp/catalog/en/html5.html#page=1



enjoy !

Koken is probably the best choice for socketry items. Their regular line is made to the same quality as there Zeal line, they just have more conventional heights.

However with ratchets stick with the Koken Zeal over their regular line. They are a bit more premium with not too much price difference.

KTC (Kyoto Tool Co.) produces great wrenches as does there Nepros line. There different styles of double box end wrenches are superb and also priced very well.

Tone Maeda Ind. has a lot of their main line tools Made in Japan. One of my favorite tools by them is there crows foot Flare Nut Universal Socket Set. Very tight tolerances with a uniquely strong design. Although I would skip there sockets and ratchets because there are better options for that.

 

[ttpete]

Bumping this up to say thank you! I looked all over on google to find out if any Koken sockets would work on a 14mm 12pt spark plug in a BMW (requires a thin wall socket). This was the only post I found, but it looks like the 3305PZ is the ticket!

Here are some thin 12-points:

Snap-On S9714MK with rubber insert

Schwaben magnetic

BurgerTuning.com magnetic

Ko-Ken makes an extended 14mm 6-point 3300C-180. Also, 3300C-250 that are 180 and 250 mm long respectively, and are magnetic.

I've never seen a 12 point sparkplug. Both my Ducati and BMW motorcycles use NGK 10 mm plugs with a 6 point 14 mm hex, and I would think that BMW car engines do also.

 

[mr.lemons]

Not sure if already posted.

Mazda KTC Premium Tool Set.

https://rev9autosport.com/mazda-ktc-premium-tool-set.html

 

[Skin]

Didn't seem too bad until I noticed $300 was only for the ratchet and 3 sockets/extension.

One hell of a markup for some laser engraving.

 

[mr.lemons]

Price markup is for the carry case with a flippy lid that converts into a display stand.

 

[jimmyin3D]

Damn that’s a hell of a price. Have you seen the limited edition Nepros Japanese themed ratchets for $500? They do look beautiful but as far as tools go that’s way overkill.

 

[Van Steele]

Here are some thin 12-points:

Snap-On S9714MK with rubber insert

Schwaben magnetic

BurgerTuning.com magnetic

Ko-Ken makes an extended 14mm 6-point 3300C-180. Also, 3300C-250 that are 180 and 250 mm long respectively, and are magnetic.

I've never seen a 12 point sparkplug. Both my Ducati and BMW motorcycles use NGK 10 mm plugs with a 6 point 14 mm hex, and I would think that BMW car engines do also.

12-point spark plugs are used on some BMW Group and PSA engines.

A 'regular sized' spark plug socket will need a persuader to fit.

 

[M6erfan]

I've never seen a 12 point sparkplug. Both my Ducati and BMW motorcycles use NGK 10 mm plugs with a 6 point 14 mm hex, and I would think that BMW car engines do also.

Pretty common actually

 

[Estebanchee]

I have the double open end set from Asahi. They're useful as the opening is very slim. Great for slipping in cramped fuel fittings. Haven't marred them up, but then again I only use them when i can't slip a regular open end in. Even then I don't abuse them much. They get my vote! I want some for my road box to also keep weight down.

 

[Estebanchee]

Okay, I lied about wanting more standard stuff, those Asahi Lightool wrenches piqued my interest.

Any experiences?

I have the double open end set from Asahi. They're useful as the opening is very slim. Great for slipping in cramped fuel fittings. Haven't marred them up, but then again I only use them when i can't slip a regular open end in. Even then I don't abuse them much. They get my vote! I want some for my road box to also keep weight down.

 

[ttpete]

Pretty common actually

I haven't had anything to do with BMW cars since the Isetta. Spent 35 years working for Ford doing product development on both car and truck lines.

 

[M6erfan]

I haven't had anything to do with BMW cars since the Isetta. Spent 35 years working for Ford doing product development on both car and truck lines.

Well that would explain it...

BMW started using the "bi-hex" plugs back in '07, in their N54 twin turbos. Typical of BMW to go to a non-standard size but I'm sure the engineers back in the motherland had good reason

Of course Ford has their 9/16" size plugs...

 

[ttpete]

Well that would explain it...

BMW started using the "bi-hex" plugs back in '07, in their N54 twin turbos. Typical of BMW to go to a non-standard size but I'm sure the engineers back in the motherland had good reason

Of course Ford has their 9/16" size plugs...

Both my 1200 BMW and 1098 Ducati use NGK 10 mm 3/4 reach dual ground electrode plugs with 14 mm hex. The Ducati has real tight plug recesses. The BMW is dual-plugged. Both use stick coils.

 

[mrspeed]

Posted the tear-down of this ratchet with my initial impressions over in the Tools of the Old World thread. Apparently, this Beta 910 M/55 3/8" drive ratchet is made in Japan, so thought I'd post the pictures here as well. I'm not sure who the original supplier is.

It's a 24-tooth ratchet with an interesting pawl design that disconnects the gear from both sides when the switch is in the middle, between positions. It feels nice and solid, but has a bit of back drag, which combined with the fact that it's only 24 teeth, requires a generous swing arc. I'm also not sure how strong it is considering it only has 2 pawl teeth engaged with fairly deep gear teeth. But the pawls and gears seem to the eye to be well made at least.




Sent from my Pixel 2 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[garfieldzzz]

I´d say its Ko-Ken S.O.D.H. system

 

[Mr. Tool]

.....Ko-Ken makes........an extended 14mm 6-point 3300C-180. Also, 3300C-250 that are 180 and 250 mm long respectively, and are magnetic.

I've never seen a 12 point sparkplug.

....maybe someone had already posted about this but....

Koken does make a 12-point automotive spark plug the 3305P and the 3305P-250.

I've got both of them (also Koken does make the 3305PZ in the Z Series as well. Got that one too!).

http://www.kokenusa.com/products/model/1164

http://www.kokenusa.com/products/model/1165

https://global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644005994/

 

[Mr. Tool]

Nicest spinner made ! Used mine a couple days back tearing down a P.O.S. Nissan 4cyl
I used to use old school speeders but GOOD t handles are nicer.

 

[mercucho]

Vessel 220W

 

[mrspeed]

I´d say its Ko-Ken S.O.D.H. system

That looks like it! Thanks for this. If you turn on closed captioning for that video, it's much more entertaining. Ko-Ken becomes "cocaine" and ratchet becomes "wretched."

"Dogs are located in the wretched body. This ensures the dogs cannot fall out."

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

 

[mercucho]

Anex screwdriver ratchet nº 397

]

 

[Qualitytools]

Anex screwdriver ratchet nº 397

]

Nice! Reminds me of the Vessel ballgrip