1/2" SK Tuff 1 flex head repair

I've seen threads on here before talking about how to fix floppy flex heads using Teflon tape and other bubble gum repairs, but I'm not that kind of guy. So I pulled mine apart and went a different route. I can't speak for all flex head ratchets or even all SK flex heads, but the Tuff 1 has a small washer that creates drag on the head. Over time it wears down and you end up with an annoyingly, uncontrollable head that flops back and forth. So after looking around my shop at work, I found a 7/16" lock washer to work best. A 3/8" lock washer is the perfect diameter, but the hole would have to be drilled out. The 7/16" inside diameter is perfect for the pin, but the outside diameter needs to be ground down. After grinding down to correct diameter, I then ground it down a bit thinner, but still keeping the offset ends to act as a lock. This way the head will always have tension. Once ground down to correct diameter and thickness, fit it back in the handle and drive the pin through. Whalla! Simple yet very effective.

In the picture you see the original washer on the bottom, a new 7/16" in middle and my "custom" made washer on top. You can also see the machined section of the head that accepts the washer. Again, I chose a lock washer over a regular washer in the hopes it will provide resistance for a longer period of time. Only tools needed are a vice, hammer, pin punch, vice grips to hold washer and bench grinder.