Tools of Japan

[cleeny]

Has anyone ever purchased the Nepros combination (or other) wrenches? I see a lot of info on the ratchets, but none on the wrenches.

I use Nepros combination wrenches and recently got a couple of the long ones, which are basically the same length as standard Snap-on wrenches.

Nepros combination wrenches are pretty much identical in shape, feel, and function to Snap-on wrenches in my experience besides the length (American wrenches tend to be longer than European/Asian ones IME).
Strength wise they seem to be equal while, at least initially, the Nepros chrome finish is better as it borders on near perfection. Hard to say which chrome is better in the long run though as both hold up just fine.

Attached are a standard Snap-on combination wrench, a long Nepros combination wrench, and a "standard" Nepros combination.

 

[tamaraw]

Has anyone ever purchased the Nepros combination (or other) wrenches? I see a lot of info on the ratchets, but none on the wrenches.

I was looking to get some for a while but didn't find much in the way of reviews/photos. Ended up getting some other KTC and TOP wrenches instead because I just don't really like the feel of chrome in my hand (even if it is pretty!).

There are a few posts mixed in to the Nepros thread:

the Nepros brand hand tool thread

I welcome the few other Nepros owners out there on GJ to post on this Nepros thread with their photos and findings. This goes for future owners as well who find this thread before, during, or after they get their Nepros tools. Now for my Nepros feedback…….. A little background is in order...

www.garagejournal.com

Also this page:

Nepros Mirror 5GQ Combination Wrench NMS2 Review

This is a review of the Nepros Mirror 5GQ Combination Wrench NMS2!

motofaction.org

And I think there are some videos by Koon Trucking, Factory Gear TV, and a few others on youtube.

 

[tamaraw]

I use Nepros combination wrenches and recently got a couple of the long ones, which are basically the same length as standard Snap-on wrenches.

Nepros combination wrenches are pretty much identical in shape, feel, and function to Snap-on wrenches in my experience besides the length (American wrenches tend to be longer than European/Asian ones IME).
Strength wise they seem to be equal while, at least initially, the Nepros chrome finish is better as it borders on near perfection. Hard to say which chrome is better in the long run though as both hold up just fine.

Attached are a standard Snap-on combination wrench, a long Nepros combination wrench, and a "standard" Nepros combination.

One thing I notice from pictures is that the Nepros stuff seems to have very low chamfer on the box end openings compared to just about everybody else.

 

[cleeny]

One thing I notice from pictures is that the Nepros stuff seems to have very low chamfer on the box end openings compared to just about everybody else.

Good eye, sir.
It looks unique though. I assume the quickness advantage the chamfer gives in regards to fastener engagement is as negligible as the grip or strength advantage of the non-chamfered edge.
Even KTC's Profit wrench has chamfered box ends.

 

[cleeny]

I was looking to get some for a while but didn't find much in the way of reviews/photos. Ended up getting some other KTC and TOP wrenches instead because I just don't really like the feel of chrome in my hand (even if it is pretty!).

There are a few posts mixed in to the Nepros thread:

the Nepros brand hand tool thread

I welcome the few other Nepros owners out there on GJ to post on this Nepros thread with their photos and findings. This goes for future owners as well who find this thread before, during, or after they get their Nepros tools. Now for my Nepros feedback…….. A little background is in order...

www.garagejournal.com

Also this page:

Nepros Mirror 5GQ Combination Wrench NMS2 Review

This is a review of the Nepros Mirror 5GQ Combination Wrench NMS2!

motofaction.org

And I think there are some videos by Koon Trucking, Factory Gear TV, and a few others on youtube.

I agree regarding the feel. IMO, the best feeling wrench is Stahlwille's Open Box 13. Maybe it's the rounded edges, the satin finish, and the weight, but they are an absolute joy to use...

 

[rick carpenter]

Just made my first Rakuten order for a pair of IPS HLB-300 bent nose hyper long pliers. Price + shipping was $14.41. I The "Furigana" fields threw me but I went to a katakana translator for my name and all went through. Should ship in 1-2 days... we'll see!

 

[E.T.]

I’ve upgraded all my 3/8 ratchets. No issues. I’d guess no warranty because either 1) as a consumer you aren’t a factory technician nor a professional “qualified” to handle the complex internals of a ratchet or 2) the company lost sales revenue from selling a 72t version and it’s way to de-incentivize upgrading

I’ve noticed things operate a little different w Japanese companies. Like you can’t return items just because it didn’t meet your expectations. AzJP may be an exception, Webike was confused by my request for a return when the item wasn’t broken or mislabeled (ratchet handle was way too small). Anyway YMMV

 

[cleeny]

Just made my first Rakuten order for a pair of IPS HLB-300 bent nose hyper long pliers. Price + shipping was $14.41. I The "Furigana" fields threw me but I went to a katakana translator for my name and all went through. Should ship in 1-2 days... we'll see!

Haven't Rakutened in a while, but I thought Rakuten couldn't be used by us Americans anymore?
Is it that Global Rakuten is gone, but you can still order from the Japanese site?

 

[cleeny]

I’ve upgraded all my 3/8 ratchets. No issues. I’d guess no warranty because either 1) as a consumer arent a factory technician nor a professional “qualified” to handle the complex internals of a ratchet or 2) the company lost the sales revenue from selling at 72t version and it’s way to de-incentivize upgrading

I’ve noticed things operate a little different w Japanese companies. Like you can’t return items just because it didn’t meet your expectations. AzJP may be an exception, Webike was confused by my request for a return when the item wasn’t broken or mislabeled (ratchet handle was way too small). Anyway YMMV

Probably a hard question to answer unless you literally sit there and analyze both a 72-tooth and a 36-tooth one, but is everything identical once the conversion is done? I'm assuming the alloy is the same, wall thicknesses of the head, all dimensions, etc., you know?
Because if that's the case, what you say is probably true.

 

[dukefx]

I’ve upgraded all my 3/8 ratchets. No issues. I’d guess no warranty because either 1) as a consumer arent a factory technician nor a professional “qualified” to handle the complex internals of a ratchet or 2) the company lost the sales revenue from selling at 72t version and it’s way to de-incentivize upgrading

I’ve noticed things operate a little different w Japanese companies. Like you can’t return items just because it didn’t meet your expectations. AzJP may be an exception, Webike was confused by my request for a return when the item wasn’t broken or mislabeled (ratchet handle was way too small). Anyway YMMV

Japanese warranty is very similar to European warranty. I can't imagine how USA companies do not go bankrupt. You literally abuse your tools, use them for purposes they were never intended for and when they break you get a replacement. For tool truck companies that's perfectly fine because that's what they are for and you pay a hefty premium, but otherwise it makes no sense.

 

[Dave455]

Has anyone ever purchased the Nepros combination (or other) wrenches? I see a lot of info on the ratchets, but none on the wrenches.

I have the ring spanners (box end wrenches).

Utterly superb tools, flawless in every respect.

I bought them because Nepros were one of the few manufacturers offering hex / 6 point versions, but I would have bought them (and will probably buy more) for the quality alone.

Broaching is superb, on a par with (or possibly better than) the very best out there, as is the finish. Only time will tell if the steel and finishing outlast anything else, but early indications are that they might.

Not long after getting these wrenches I dropped one from the roof of a Land Rover (where I was installing a roof rack) onto a concrete floor. The wrench was unmarked!

 

[dukefx]

I was considering buying 2 for 8, 10, and 13 mm sizes, but they start at about $40 not including shipping and import. That's way too much for my taste.

 

[KnurledNut]

Clocked hex broach.

 

[Odd-job]

I have the ring spanners (box end wrenches).

Utterly superb tools, flawless in every respect.

I bought them because Nepros were one of the few manufacturers offering hex / 6 point versions, but I would have bought them (and will probably buy more) for the quality alone.

Broaching is superb, on a par with (or possibly better than) the very best out there, as is the finish. Only time will tell if the steel and finishing outlast anything else, but early indications are that they might.

Not long after getting these wrenches I dropped one from the roof of a Land Rover (where I was installing a roof rack) onto a concrete floor. The wrench was unmarked!

You are breaking me down. must resist adding these to my Amazon Japan shopping cart. Hopefully I can't find a 16mm.

 

[pizza]

I have to say that i've only had good experience with Amzn.jp packaging. Its quite efficient (no excessive packaging stuff) and effective . One time they neatly laid out all the tools on a cardboard sheet, cling wrapped the whole thing and put it in a heavy duty brown paper bag !! it arrived with absolutely no damage to the packaging or the contents.

that's how my azjp orders usually are, too. i've never seen that style of packaging from anywhere else. i think it's a good idea. and thrifty.

 

[cleeny]

Need to warranty a Nepros tool but they don't seem to be responding (it's been a few business days).
I emailed [email protected]. Anyone have any idea if this is the correct email address?

 

[M6erfan]

Need to warranty a Nepros tool but they don't seem to be responding (it's been a few business days).
I emailed [email protected]. Anyone have any idea if this is the correct email address?

Yes, that is the correct address according to the Nepros website. A Nepros tool failed? What happened?

 

[cleeny]

Yes, that is the correct address according to the Nepros website. A Nepros tool failed? What happened?

I wouldn't say failed, but I have a several-year-old NBR290FS that I was finally going to start using after all these years. When pressing on the quick release, it is not smooth, and it is "notchy", making it hard to press, and you hear a snap/click or two as if a particle is stuck in the mechanism.
I have an NBR290S that is the same age that also hasn't been used, and its quick release is super smooth as it should be.
Even if I won't use a tool right away, I'll usually test it to make sure all is functionally well, but I honestly don't remember if I did that with this one.
And I don't think the mechanism corroded as these things were stored indoors the whole time.

 

[toddmorr]

i have to say i'm a little disappointed with these 2 Engineer pliers, pz57/58. The small one has only one use, today on a idle screw on a 93 Toyota. The larger one occasional usage over a year+. These are far more worn compared to say, the teeth on some Knipex pliers I use much more often. I'm a big fan of Japanese tools but these seem soft. I'd seriously look at alternatives next time around. Yeah they get the job done, but not sure for how much longer...

 

[rick carpenter]

Haven't Rakutened in a while, but I thought Rakuten couldn't be used by us Americans anymore?
Is it that Global Rakuten is gone, but you can still order from the Japanese site?

I didn't know any of that, but it looks like you're right. Why though? I first got what may have been a couple of confirmation emails in Japanese. Then I got the English one saying the order was canceled due to new covid outbreak:

◆Notice of Cancellation of New Order

EMS by air is now not working due to The novel coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, it is not possible to ship overseas.

When the outbreak of the new coronavirus infection is over, we are waiting for your order.

The email subject line was "Request to suspend order reception", so looks like it's maybe just on hold? If I can find these pliers close to what Rakuten was charging ($14.41 including shipping) then I'll cancel this order, otherwise I'll leave it and see what eventually happens.

 

[Odd-job]

i have to say i'm a little disappointed with these 2 Engineer pliers, pz57/58. The small one has only one use, today on a idle screw on a 93 Toyota. The larger one occasional usage over a year+. These are far more worn compared to say, the teeth on some Knipex pliers I use much more often. I'm a big fan of Japanese tools but these seem soft. I'd seriously look at alternatives next time around. Yeah they get the job done, but not sure for how much longer...

They are a bit of a consumable item IMHO. I have been looking for a pair of Knipex twin grips as I suspect they might hold up better, but unfortunately do not come in the size range of the engineers. Also 3X as expensive, but that's not going to hold me back.

 

[JWC86]

I’ve noticed things operate a little different w Japanese companies. Like you can’t return items just because it didn’t meet your expectations. AzJP may be an exception, Webike was confused by my request for a return when the item wasn’t broken or mislabeled (ratchet handle was way too small). Anyway YMMV

I returned two Nepros ratchets for exchange due to poor finish. Wasn’t as easy as some US tool company’s but wasn’t that hard. They covered all costs. Emails were usually retuned in one business day.

 

[dukefx]

I wouldn't say failed, but I have a several-year-old NBR290FS that I was finally going to start using after all these years. When pressing on the quick release, it is not smooth, and it is "notchy", making it hard to press, and you hear a snap/click or two as if a particle is stuck in the mechanism.
I have an NBR290S that is the same age that also hasn't been used, and its quick release is super smooth as it should be.
Even if I won't use a tool right away, I'll usually test it to make sure all is functionally well, but I honestly don't remember if I did that with this one.
And I don't think the mechanism corroded as these things were stored indoors the whole time.

I'd take it apart and check. In Japan they like to use grease that gets hard over time, especially when not used, like my Shimano gear shifter. All I had to do is put it in hot water.

 

[cleeny]

I returned two Nepros ratchets for exchange due to poor finish. Wasn’t as easy as some US tool company’s but wasn’t that hard. They covered all costs. Emails were usually retuned in one business day.

That's why I'm surprised they haven't responded yet. I mean it's only been three days. Perhaps its some sort of holiday.

 

[cleeny]

I'd take it apart and check. In Japan they like to use grease that gets hard over time, especially when not used, like my Shimano gear shifter. All I had to do is put it in hot water.

Unless they've changed, the cross/plus-type screws are notoriously prone to stripping, I forget if it's because of red threadlocker or something, but didn't want to make things worse. Plus, are the innards in the anvil even serviceable?

 

[cleeny]

Regarding the pesky screws, watch from time 2:15 to see an example of what I experienced a few years ago.

I at least wish torx was used to mitigate this, but I'm pretty sure you have to use heat to remove the screws; just rather not deal with it lol.

 

[cleeny]

Haha, they must be lurking because they responded a little while ago, suggesting I coat the detent ball with oil and operate the push button a number of times.
I tried that using Break Free CLP, but same thing. It feels rougher than a simple old oil or dust accumulation issue. Almost like a little rock is blocking the push button.
Anyway, I'm not at all bent out of shape about this. I'm thinking it's just a super rare tolerance-related thing. I'm more just curious about the cause.
Anyhow, carry on lol. I'll update you all if I find out the exact cause.

 

[E.T.]

I mean the upgraded ratchets work perfectly and look exactly the same with gearing stripped out. Someone (Tanuki?) posted a video back when the 72t came out comparing the ratchet heads and detailing the upgrade process.

 

[cleeny]

I mean the upgraded ratchets work perfectly and look exactly the same with gearing stripped out. Someone (Tanuki?) posted a video back when the 72t came out comparing the ratchet heads and detailing the upgrade process.

Yup. And pretty much all the reviews on Amazon Japan are from Japanese users who purchased to upgrade and are apparently loving it.

 

[Jack_K]

A tool store is closing down soon so they are discounting a lot of stuff. I ordered an endeavour air die grinder and an air ratchet at about 50% off which are rebranded Shinano tools. The Shinano model numbers are basically "SI" instead of "E", not sure if the B in the Shinano model means any difference or not.

I had been looking for used quality air tools like these and normally people want about these prices for used tools.

Endeavour E2002 - Shinano SI-2002
Endeavour E1108 - Shinano SI-1108B

Of course with my luck the die grinder box is missing the die grinder. I was wondering whether any air fitting was going to be included with the ratchet since the inlet is 1/8. What was included was a genuine Nitto fitting made in Japan (Nitto "style" are the most common fitting type here in Australia) at least one of the two Shinano distributors here normally includes knockoff made in Taiwan fittings.


I will sort out a hose whip to make it actually fit into tight spots.

 

[Vicks]

A tool store is closing down soon so they are discounting a lot of stuff. I ordered an endeavour air die grinder and ratchet at about 50% off which are rebranded Shinano tools. Of course with my luck the die grinder box is missing the die grinder. I was wondering whether any air fitting was going to be included since the inlet is 1/8. What was included was a genuine Nitto fitting made in Japan (Nitto "style" are the most common fitting type here in Australia) at least one of the two Shinano distributors here normally includes knockoff made in Taiwan fittings.


I will sort out a hose whip to make it actually fit into tight spots.

Excuse my ignorance but isnt that an Air Ratchet with a 3/8" square drive anvil with ball detent for the sockets ? rather than an Air Die Grinder...

 

[Jack_K]

Excuse my ignorance but isnt that an Air Ratchet with a 3/8" square drive anvil with ball detent for the sockets ? rather than an Air Die Grinder...

I ordered both a die grinder and an air ratchet, how I wrote it isn't the clearest it could be. going to fix it now.

Here are the model numbers as I didn't bother posting them before.

 

[Vicks]

I ordered both a die grinder and an air ratchet, how I wrote it isn't the clearest it could be. going to fix it now.

Here are the model numbers as I didn't bother posting them before.

my bad, upon re re-reading it, it does sound like you bought the two different tools. didn't intend my previous reply to be a smartass comment. Nice air tools btw never seen a cordless ratchet with a wobble drive anvil before.

 

[Vicks]

Not sure if we classify Vinyl Insulation Tape as a tool or a consumable ? hmmmm.... Nevertheless, finally here's some decent quality vinyl tape for electrical work. I’m sick of cheapass ones whose adhesive starts running in the Middle Eastern heat even before youve completed the job


These KTC pry tools were one of my first purchases and I love using them while doing door card / dashboard work in the car.


A recent acquisition - King water stone. I bought this after being fed up of cheap Chinese ones that are advertised as 1000/6000 grit dual sided stones and turn out to be the same 400 grit **** with just different Colours !!

 

[Dave455]

A tool store is closing down soon so they are discounting a lot of stuff. I ordered an endeavour air die grinder and an air ratchet at about 50% off which are rebranded Shinano tools. The Shinano model numbers are basically "SI" instead of "E", not sure if the B in the Shinano model means any difference or not.

I had been looking for used quality air tools like these and normally people want about these prices for used tools.

Endeavour E2002 - Shinano SI-2002
Endeavour E1108 - Shinano SI-1108B

Of course with my luck the die grinder box is missing the die grinder. I was wondering whether any air fitting was going to be included with the ratchet since the inlet is 1/8. What was included was a genuine Nitto fitting made in Japan (Nitto "style" are the most common fitting type here in Australia) at least one of the two Shinano distributors here normally includes knockoff made in Taiwan fittings.


I will sort out a hose whip to make it actually fit into tight spots.

Here in the U.K. we haven’t, historically, seen a lot of Shinano tools. There are just too many other choices. But, Shinano do offer some unique tools.

They seem to be really good at compact tools, such as this polisher. I’m starting to see a few of these around, and I’m quite impressed with how neat they are!

 

[inphx]

For an upcoming visit to Tokyo... is there a retail store to walk into that has browsable aisles of these tools? I am aware of "Tokyo Hands".

 

[redvalkyrie]

Has anyone ever purchased the Nepros combination (or other) wrenches? I see a lot of info on the ratchets, but none on the wrenches.

Yes. The they're awesome.

 

[silvertina]

Has anyone done the Ko-ken 36 to 72 teeth swap?
How's it been? Any issues?
Wondering why Ko-ken supposedly won't warranty your ratchet if upgraded?

I have done one ratchet as a test. Purchased from Amazon.jp. Everything fit perfectly. Backdrag was just as smooth as the previous 36tooth inards. I kept the 36tooth mechanism as a spare just in case I need it in the future.
There are two repair kits available on Amazon.jp, the kit that you should get is the one with the -2 at the end of the part number. This has the 72tooth mechanism.
They wont warranty it because they want you to buy the newer version. But on Amazon.jp the reviews from japanese buyers themselves recommend this upgrade.

 

[silvertina]

New arrivals from Amazon.jp
3/8 long flex, 1/4 flex and 1/4 long.
This three would round up my Nepros ratchets.

 

[toddmorr]

Koken 1/4 double joint universal, Koken 1/4 10mm socket, which is a very short socket. '00 Grand Cherokee radiator removal.