16again
Well-known member
Just ordered some Koken goodness. Should be here in a week or so. I'll post pictures when they all arrive. 
Tools of Japan
- Thread starter Frankstools
- Start date
toddmorr
Well-known member
I'm sorry, no experience with asahi, but that is an extremely well done catalog, so clear and comprehensive. Why can't the snap ons of the world do this
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jmhinkle
Well-known member
Asahi is usually reviewed well by owners, but they tend to get overlooked for other brands. I have an Asahi offset wrench I bought on a whim from a user on the forum with some other tools I really wanted. I'm sure I have a picture of it a few pages back in here. Some of their regular stuff has rougher finishes so it isn't as pleasing visually, but quality is up there with the good stuff from japan.
Found it, here you go. It was a line wrench.
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Looked around for a nice cutting mat, only thing I could come up with were mats from Olfa made in Japan. Accidentally ordered the wrong size at first, but decided to keep both.
I really like them, they seem well made and the printing is crisp and well placed. But I have nothing else to compare them to, so not sure if generic mats are any better or worse.
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I really like them, they seem well made and the printing is crisp and well placed. But I have nothing else to compare them to, so not sure if generic mats are any better or worse.
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jimmyin3D
Banned
Amazon.JP usually has the best prices and if you’re in the US shipping is through DHL so it’s super quick about 4-5 days.
giants
Banned
Thanks
Gcf11
Active member
Frankstools order...
Okay guys, I did not want to post this but I’m not sure what to do. A bit over a month ago I ordered some tools from him and I’ve yet to get an order update or even hear back from him despite a few emails regarding the order. Now I don’t mind waiting, but I do mind the lack of communication. So I wanted to ask if anyone had recently ordered from him and if they got their order, or at least an update? I genuinely wanted to support him and love the idea of his business, but I’m tempted at this point to cancel the order and go through Amazon japan.
Now I’ve read that his emails can get caught by spam and I’ve checked there frequently, so I must ask, what would you do at this point?
As a side note, I got in some tsunoda flush cuts and my cornwell guy saw them and was so impressed he had them on his truck the next week. Are there any other Japanese tools that are “must haves” and should be more popular than they are here in the USA?
Thanks so much!
Rick
Okay guys, I did not want to post this but I’m not sure what to do. A bit over a month ago I ordered some tools from him and I’ve yet to get an order update or even hear back from him despite a few emails regarding the order. Now I don’t mind waiting, but I do mind the lack of communication. So I wanted to ask if anyone had recently ordered from him and if they got their order, or at least an update? I genuinely wanted to support him and love the idea of his business, but I’m tempted at this point to cancel the order and go through Amazon japan.
Now I’ve read that his emails can get caught by spam and I’ve checked there frequently, so I must ask, what would you do at this point?
As a side note, I got in some tsunoda flush cuts and my cornwell guy saw them and was so impressed he had them on his truck the next week. Are there any other Japanese tools that are “must haves” and should be more popular than they are here in the USA?
Thanks so much!
Rick
giants
Banned
Yes, I ordered two accessory tools on 11/6/19, my first order. The next day, I received two automated e-mails confirming my order*. I copy/pasted the USPS tracking number, then went to usps.com to get tracking updates sent to me. The package is scheduled to arrive on 11/12/19.
* The automated message said that I can check my order status at:
https://order.store.yahoo.net/
I've had occasional problems with on-line vendors because the order didn't go through. Did the bill for your order at frankstools.com show up on your credit card statement?
If you have an account with frankstools.com, why don't you check your on-line account, too?
If that still doesn't work, maybe you can call them first thing on Monday.
paulsomlo
Well-known member
Try texting him at 603-395-7719. If that doesn't work, try PM'ing him here on GJ.
Gcf11
Active member
Thank you, currently order status and tracking field are blank. I paid via PayPal and it went though on my end. I’ll try reaching out to them on Monday. Thanks again
Awesome, I’ll give it a shot. Thanks!
Not seen this quick spinner before or the short Torx socket. Looks like the spinner press fits onto sockets rather than sitting in between a ratchet and socket so it doesn't add any extra length.
Ko-ken 1/4" extra short torx bit socket..
Quick Spinner for Ko-ken 1/4" Extra Short Torx Bit Socket
Ko-ken 1/4" extra short torx bit socket..
Quick Spinner for Ko-ken 1/4" Extra Short Torx Bit Socket
Leave it to Ko-ken...I’ve also had some trouble getting ahold of Frank lately. I know that he is in the Army and that selling tools is his hobby/ side job so I’ve tried to be patient. Even when he gets back to me it seems he hasn’t read the entire email, i.e. if requesting multiple items I only get a response about one.
I’ve been looking at uktools.com lately. Shipping to US, exchange rate, and conversion fees make them the same price as AmazonJP for most items.
I’m waiting to here from Frank at this point. His pricing is usually hard to beat
Formerjeeper
Well-known member
I ordered some Koken double swivels from him a couple of months ago, communication was a little slow but nothing terrible. All went well and I'd definitely suggest just reaching out to him, I think you'll find he will respond.
16again
Well-known member
Just ordered some Koken goodness. Should be here in a week or so. I'll post pictures when they all arrive.
Have to say I like the sockets since they are short. Not at all impressed with the ratchets. I understand the low tooth count, that’s not the problem. The direction change lever feels like it’s going to fall off on both the 1/4” and the 3/8” not impressed at all. I’ll take my snap-on over these.
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jimmyin3D
Banned
Have to say I like the sockets since they are short. Not at all impressed with the ratchets. I understand the low tooth count, that’s not the problem. The direction change lever feels like it’s going to fall off on both the 1/4” and the 3/8” not impressed at all. I’ll take my snap-on over these.
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Yeah I love Koken but they are definitely not a replacement for SO ratchets. More like a secondary ratchet after you have the main types.
I think where they really shine is in there socketry items, really good fitment and insane amounts of unique heights/designs. There wobble-fix Extensions are probably my favorite item they make, knurled at the drive end and really positive attachments.
You’re gonna love those sockets.
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I’ve ordered several things from Frank. Never had any issues. Wondering if he’s been busier than usual as I’ve sent several emails with inconsistent response.
giants
Banned
Thanks. What model(s) of Koken ratchets do you have and what do you like and dislike about them?
Tonight, I had to adjust a parking brake cable on my Toyota. I finally found an actual tight space situation that I needed to work on, so I used my 1981 36 tooth (?) US Craftsman as a simulation of the Koken. Couldn't work on the parking brake, so I had to use my 90 tooth.
ChevyEFI
Well-known member
measuredtwice
Well-known member
I recall people complaining about the Z-EAL selector switch in prior posts (see quotes below). One said it was a problem on the 1/4 but not the 3/8 Z-EAL. He noted that reviews on Amazon.co.jp also complained about the switch. He also said the switch on their regular 2753NB was better than the switch on the Z-EAL.
I have their 3753N 3/8" ratchet, not the Z-EAL. The selector works fine on it.
Vid spotted on Twitter of the Ko-ken spinner previously posted.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yb7QmC1h3rk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yb7QmC1h3rk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Biggest advantage I see in the Koken ratchets is the very low back drag, especially for awkward spots where getting a bolt started by hand is tricky. The low back drag and nutgrip sockets are a gamechanger for me.
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borgjohnson
New member
- Joined
- Aug 3, 2017
- Messages
- 3
I've ordered from Frank five or so times, and while the communication isn't great I've never had any issues. If I email him asking for an update he always replies back in a short time.
superautobacs
Well-known member
I got one of those last year (I did a horrible feature of it in one of my videos). The store I got it from was the exclusive seller of that tool. No one else sold that tool, simply because the store was the one that asked Ko-ken to make it for them. The customers were people who installed Octanorm, a German company that specializes in display systems (the kind that you see in exhibition halls). The one I have is dated coded to May, 2016. So it's been around for at least that long.
That store unfortunately closed this April, and as a result, customers had no where to purchase them from. So, Ko-ken decided to add them into their catalogue with part #'s for the T30 bit and sleeve. I have an unofficial flyer (dated 2019, October) which lists a complimentary series of tools for the Octanorm system.
As an aside, if you look at the list of tools available from Ocatanorm, you'll see tools from Wera, Wiha, Facom, and others: https://www.octanorm.com/us/products/browser?text=Tools&id=541&pbc=1-1-134-541#subfam_993
superautobacs
Well-known member
I've had my Zeal ratchets for like 6 years and I did notice the selector switch having more play than most, but in real world use, I don't think I've ever been bother by it. I played around with it today at work and I did notice that the 1/4 drive has a bit more play than the 3/8 drive. The selector switch on the 3/8 drive is more firm in feel, as you switch the selector left/right. The 1/4 drive selector is really small and there's very little in terms of feedback, when switching between left/right.
giants
Banned
superautobasics and other owners, what is wrong with that spinner?
Would you provide a link to your YouTube video review?
If there are any redeeming qualities (I like how it slips on and doesn't add to the length of the socket/ratchet), what's the part number (search of Koken and 196 didn't turn up anything)?
I searched this thread and can't find the original reference to it.
Thanks
superautobacs
Well-known member
Giants,
Not sure how you got the idea that there's something wrong with it....there's nothing wrong the product.
It wasn't really a review, nor did I get into much detail....just me trying to explain, haha:
Not sure how you got the idea that there's something wrong with it....there's nothing wrong the product.
It wasn't really a review, nor did I get into much detail....just me trying to explain, haha:
giants
Banned
superautobacs, your 8:57 post wrote, "I did a horrible feature of it in one of my videos)."
Anyway, was there a part number for it?
Anyway, was there a part number for it?
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I think superautobacs was being humble about his video, not saying the tool is bad. Vid as usual was very interesting. 
Manufacturer model number 188-12
https://ec.f-gear.co.jp/item/4991644016037.html
The set screw is out of view in the Factory Gear images and video so I assumed it was simply press fit. Did wonder if the spinner would slip if the internal rubber ring got oily or wet.
Manufacturer model number 188-12
https://ec.f-gear.co.jp/item/4991644016037.html
The set screw is out of view in the Factory Gear images and video so I assumed it was simply press fit. Did wonder if the spinner would slip if the internal rubber ring got oily or wet.
16again
Well-known member
Selector switch on the 1/4” sticks when placing in opposite directions. Think I’ll lube them up and see what happens. Still don’t think think they will sway me from my snap ons.
giants
Banned
I'm wondering if the selector switch is stuck due to lack of lubrication of either the pawl or its spring? Can you open up the cover, check, then lubricate?
Pardon any mistakes - I'm just starting my second cup of coffee, LOL.
Pardon any mistakes - I'm just starting my second cup of coffee, LOL.
superautobacs
Well-known member
I think superautobacs was being humble about his video, not saying the tool is bad. Vid as usual was very interesting.
Manufacturer model number 188-12
https://ec.f-gear.co.jp/item/4991644016037.html
The set screw is out of view in the Factory Gear images and video so I assumed it was simply press fit. Did wonder if the spinner would slip if the internal rubber ring got oily or wet.
Thanks.Yeah, I'd assume it would slip/spin without the set screw.
Same here. I've never noticed any selector jamming or any sort of internal sticking/binding. I've never opened up my Zeal ratchets before as I've never felt the need to.
I think the feel of the selector lever might be due to the fact that the Zeal mechanism is unlike other floating pawl mechanisms, as well as the fact that it uses a really low spring rate.
36-tooth Zeal ratchets were never meant to be "Snap-on killers/replacers"
They aren't marketed as such by Ko-ken and I don't think the users tout them as such either. It would be ridiculous if they did.
There's a place and need for high-tooth count ratchets, but there's still a place where low-tooth count ratchets can perform effectively.
I never thought of this until typing this reply.....
If one were brought up using modern 72-tooth ratchets from the very beginning and nothing lower, I can see why they'd balk at the thought of using a coarse-tooth ratchet. 24 or 36-tooth Ko-ken ratchet probably seems archaic by comparison, and anyone using them today has got to be old.
Oh, FWIW, I had the opportunity to play with probably around 30 Zeal ratchets, 3/8 and 1/4 drive, in all styles. I wanted to do a quality check on the ratchet mechanism of each ratchet that was on display at the store. To my surprise I did find one 1/4 drive Zeal ratchet that had a slight issue.
What I do is free spin the anvil one full turn and note whether the back drag is consistent throughout, and even between eachother.
I can tell you that the back-drag is consistent on each and every ratchet (can't say that with tool truck brands!).
It was just one ratchet that exhibited a slightly higher resistance at one particular section (maybe 10* degrees) of the gear.
The result of my inpromptu quality check was that:
the ratcheting feel was consistent throughout, in both 1/4 and 3/8 drive
Ko-ken products aren't devoid of flaws, as small as it may be, what I noticed was still a flaw
Dave455
Well-known member
I just thought I’d chuck in my two pence worth to this discussion.
Here in the U.K. I see quite a lot of Koken, but most of it, probably 90%+ is the regular line.
When I see Koken being discussed on these forums, probably greater than about 50% of the discussion is about the Z Series / Zeal line. Now these are great tools, but they are a slightly specialised, compact range of tools, and I can’t help wondering if some folks would be better off with the regular tools.
I was following the discussion above regarding the Koken Z Series ratchet compared with a Snap On. All valid points, but for a really valid comparison you need to compare the regular tool.
To illustrate my point here’s an picture of two Koken 3/8 ratchets. Compare the Z series with the roto head and hopefully you can see what I mean! Totally different tools, totally different feel!
For what it’s worth, I’ve never felt that Koken are quite the equal to Snap On. They’re very good, and the range of tools on offer is superb, but not quite the equal. They do offer, I reckon, about 90% of the quality, for about 35% of the price, and that’s an attractive deal to me.
I would also point out, that both makers have areas where they are strong and weak. Where regular ratchets are concerned, Snap On pretty much dominate. The dual 80 is a better tool than Koken’s equivalent. But there are surprises, the roto ratchet shown is one of Kokens best offerings in my opinion, and I think it’s a better tool than the Snap On equivalent. Ditto many specialist items such as spark plug sockets, Koken every time.
Koken also win with regard to the range of sockets on offer. If I need a universal socket in a Whitworth size (and yes, sometimes you do - or at least I do) Koken are the only game in town!
My advice is - have a look at the Koken website (the manufacturers one, not an importers), maybe download the catalogue, and have a good look through before you part with your hard earned..!
Here in the U.K. I see quite a lot of Koken, but most of it, probably 90%+ is the regular line.
When I see Koken being discussed on these forums, probably greater than about 50% of the discussion is about the Z Series / Zeal line. Now these are great tools, but they are a slightly specialised, compact range of tools, and I can’t help wondering if some folks would be better off with the regular tools.
I was following the discussion above regarding the Koken Z Series ratchet compared with a Snap On. All valid points, but for a really valid comparison you need to compare the regular tool.
To illustrate my point here’s an picture of two Koken 3/8 ratchets. Compare the Z series with the roto head and hopefully you can see what I mean! Totally different tools, totally different feel!
For what it’s worth, I’ve never felt that Koken are quite the equal to Snap On. They’re very good, and the range of tools on offer is superb, but not quite the equal. They do offer, I reckon, about 90% of the quality, for about 35% of the price, and that’s an attractive deal to me.
I would also point out, that both makers have areas where they are strong and weak. Where regular ratchets are concerned, Snap On pretty much dominate. The dual 80 is a better tool than Koken’s equivalent. But there are surprises, the roto ratchet shown is one of Kokens best offerings in my opinion, and I think it’s a better tool than the Snap On equivalent. Ditto many specialist items such as spark plug sockets, Koken every time.
Koken also win with regard to the range of sockets on offer. If I need a universal socket in a Whitworth size (and yes, sometimes you do - or at least I do) Koken are the only game in town!
My advice is - have a look at the Koken website (the manufacturers one, not an importers), maybe download the catalogue, and have a good look through before you part with your hard earned..!
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jimmyin3D
Banned
Koken 3753SM Multi 3/8 Ratchet
Koken Zeal 2726Z-160 1/4 long flex ratchet
I used to have the 3/8 Zeal flex ratchet 280mm too but ended up selling it to lessen the amount of ratchets I have. The multi ratchet is very similar to the SO FZ936A with a 3/8 square attachment on three sides. Super smooth and one of most favorite ratchets.
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giants
Banned
Thanks for your comments.
If you own both Koken and Snap-On sockets, would you compare and contrast them?
giants
Banned
Koken 3753SM Multi 3/8 Ratchet
Koken Zeal 2726Z-160 1/4 long flex ratchet
I used to have the 3/8 Zeal flex ratchet 280mm too but ended up selling it to lessen the amount of ratchets I have. The multi ratchet is very similar to the SO FZ936A with a 3/8 square attachment on three sides. Super smooth and one of most favorite ratchets.
Thanks.
I'm having a bad experience with my SK 3/8 non-quick release. How hard is it for your to remove sockets from those two Koken ratchets?
I presume you got the 3753SM for tight spaces. If so, please give me some examples, because I'm not sure that my Toyota would benefit from this tool, although I really like the concept in general and that tool in particular.
Thanks
