Snap On Magnetic Driver SSDM40 Cap Solution

straightcut · May 18, 2018

There are many of the discontinued Snap On magnetic drivers (SSDM40) in the wild that are relegated to the bottom of the toolbox because they're missing the NLA end cap. I like the black hard handles, but need the cap so I don't loose the bits.

Step one: determine the thread size needed for a cap: M18 X 1.5
Step two: find something suitable for a cap

-My google-fu came up with a thread insert made by Time Sert. The only problem was that I didn't realize they size them by their internal thread size. :lol_hitti

Of course, we're looking for the external thread to be M18 X 1.5. A call to Time Sert's tech support got me the correct part number - Insert #51401. The length of this insert is 9.4mm, which works well - not too long or too short. The insert is copper plated steel.

Step three: find something suitable to JB Weld into the insert. I found a 3/8 drive/gear left over from a Snap On F936 ratchet rebuild. It's low profile, serrated for grip and it keeps things in the SO family for the fan boy in you. :pimpflash

The insert can be ordered from Amazon. It's not the cheapest solution, but does get the tool back in action. Post up your cap ideas if you've got something clever.

wkndwarrior29 · May 19, 2018

That is a creative solution.

I probably would have just filled it with Bondo (because I have some old Bondo around) and smoothed off the end then painted it to match. Or just left it open.

I didn't realize losing these caps was a problem, mine all seat pretty tightly.

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

WWheeler · May 19, 2018

how about using an O2 sensor plug?

Something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LBQL7CG/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Maybe grind some flats with a grinder or grooves/notches with a rotary tool cutoff (DIY knurling) all around the sides of the flange so you can more easily screw/unscrew it by hand? Or just grab a pair of pliers or an allen when you need in it.

MWEric · May 19, 2018

eBay is full of replacement caps

seber · May 19, 2018

Why wouldn't you just cut off an 18 x 1.5 hex cap screw. You could even grind the cap down to look nice.

Snaparxon · May 19, 2018

seber said:
Why wouldn't you just cut off an 18 x 1.5 hex cap screw. You could even grind the cap down to look nice.

I tried that. The weight of the bolt head made the screwdriver feel awkward in my hand. I just didn't balance well.

straightcut · May 19, 2018

MWEric said:
eBay is full of replacement caps

I believe those caps are for a newer model. I checked the vendor that sells all of the different colored ones, but it won't fit this model.

Wyoming, MN - my dad was raised there! :beer:

straightcut · May 19, 2018

I tried an M18 X 1.5 bolt, but it was too heavy.

I like the idea of the O2 sensor plug - that's a great idea! :bowdown:

6PTsocket · May 20, 2018

I found the almost perfect plug. They call it a blanking plug. It is made of gray nylon, has a thin head with a screw slot in the top that looks like a coin would work fine. They are being sold by somebody on the Walmart site. They are $5.93 for 20 pieces. The thread length is 8 mm. They are hollow from the under side so should weigh almost nothing. It says "clearance" so if you want them you better move on it. The thread pitch is not in the description but is clearly visible on the plug, in one of the pictures, M18 x 1.5

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davethorik · May 20, 2018

My Williams WRS-1 And Snap-on TMR4 both have the o-ring cap and knock on wood, never had a problem with them coming off.

That being said I admire your ingenuity. Definitely a more steampunk solution than oem. I'd rock it. :thumbup:

straightcut · May 21, 2018

6PTsocket said:
I found the almost perfect plug. They call it a blanking plug. It is made of gray nylon, has a thin head with a screw slot in the top that looks like a coin would work fine. They are being sold by somebody on the Walmart site. They are $5.93 for 20 pieces. The thread length is 8 mm. They are hollow from the under side so should weigh almost nothing. It says "clearance" so if you want them you better move on it. The thread pitch is not in the description but is clearly visible on the plug, in one of the pictures, M18 x 1.5

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Thanks for the great tip! Despite that I'm set, I couldn't help but to purchase this. It might be better than what I made!

alinc100 · Feb 2, 2023

Just ordered a set of Blanking Plug caps from Newegg.com if anyone is in need.

Qualitytools · Feb 2, 2023

I have my cap but it was cross-threaded and ruined the screwdriver threads. I had to use pliers and gouged the cap to remove it. I think what I need is a thread chaser the clean up the screw driver and cap.
any suggestions?

Speed-Racer · Feb 2, 2023

See if a driver will exchange for a new one.

Qualitytools · Feb 2, 2023

straightcut said:
I tried an M18 X 1.5 bolt, but it was too heavy.

I like the idea of the O2 sensor plug - that's a great idea!

Speed-Racer said:
See if a driver will exchange for a new one.

I have had that screwdriver since the late 90s and I no longer have access to a driver. However, I do see a truck on the road every now and then maybe I can carry it with me when I am out and about. Thanks!

alinc100 · Feb 14, 2023

I can confirm the 18mm x 8mm blanking cap works. Sits a bit proud on the end,but I'd bet some filing,or even a small gasket or o-ring solves that problem ,for sure now it will hold bits. I ordered mine (after a google search) from NewEgg Blanking Cap ,I've got 19 left ,LOL

Snap On Magnetic Driver SSDM40 Cap Solution

straightcut

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