24" ratchet or ratchet adapter?

[VolvoRyan]

This is a tool that I've not really had a need for: The long handle, 24" 1/2" drive ratchet.

I have breaker bars, 17" ratchets, and impacts.... but I've found a need to have some more leverage in awkward places to run on-vehicle special tools for bearings and bushings. Impact guns won't fit in these applications and breaker bars are awkward, plus I want to be able to "feel" what's going on before breaking things.

I almost took the bait and got a 24" ratchet from SK before they went kablooey. GearWrench has the 84T model in a locking flex-head for $72... and Snap-On has a ratchet adapter. Has anyone experience with either? Tool truck brand 24" ratchet handles are a little expensive for the occasional use that this specific tool would see, though I'd rather spend the extra money on them if it means I won't flat on my face if cheaper options are more likely to fail.

Thanks!

-Ryan

 

[Rabid Badger]

I've had good luck with this one. The head is very compact and very low backlash makes the most of 72 teeth. The flex head doesn't lock, but it has a very stout detent.

 

[Mgdoug3]

I have the 24" SK flex LP90 and wouldn't want to be without it. I got it when it was on steals and deals. It and the 42470 is my most used 1/2" drive ratchets.

I don't think I would want the GW one with the locking head. It may be the weak point. The mechanism for the ratchet should be fine. Before I bought the long SK, I used my GW 120xp flex that's around 17 or 18" long with a pipe on a bolt because I needed the leverage, the reach, and low arc. A breaker bar didn't have enough swing and an impact wouldn't fit. It got the bolt loose and didn't break. An 84T should be just as strong if not stronger.

 

[bob15]

This is a tool that I've not really had a need for: The long handle, 24" 1/2" drive ratchet.

I have breaker bars, 17" ratchets, and impacts.... but I've found a need to have some more leverage in awkward places to run on-vehicle special tools for bearings and bushings. Impact guns won't fit in these applications and breaker bars are awkward, plus I want to be able to "feel" what's going on before breaking things.

I almost took the bait and got a 24" ratchet from SK before they went kablooey. GearWrench has the 84T model in a locking flex-head for $72... and Snap-On has a ratchet adapter. Has anyone experience with either? Tool truck brand 24" ratchet handles are a little expensive for the occasional use that this specific tool would see, though I'd rather spend the extra money on them if it means I won't flat on my face if cheaper options are more likely to fail.

Thanks!

-Ryan

I would buy and use the SK because they aren't out of business and is what you want. Where did you heard that they are out of business?

 

[Wrench97]

I have both the Snap on adapter and the 24" ratchet, I rarely use the adapter any more and have managed to break both using a cheater pipe............................................

 

[ihateminimumwage]

I have this Tekton, and it's saved my *** a couple of times now.

1/2 Inch Drive x 24 Inch Quick-Release Extra-Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Quick-release ratchet with 90-tooth gear and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and sleek, comfortable handle. SRH11224.

www.tekton.com

 

[nadogail]

Maybe you need to upgrade to a larger drive size ?

 

[VolvoRyan]

I have the 24" SK flex LP90 and wouldn't want to be without it. I got it when it was on steals and deals. It and the 42470 is my most used 1/2" drive ratchets.

I don't think I would want the GW one with the locking head. It may be the weak point. The mechanism for the ratchet should be fine. Before I bought the long SK, I used my GW 120xp flex that's around 17 or 18" long with a pipe on a bolt because I needed the leverage, the reach, and low arc. A breaker bar didn't have enough swing and an impact wouldn't fit. It got the bolt loose and didn't break. An 84T should be just as strong if not stronger.

I have a 17" LP90 and that 17"(ish) 120XP. Both are nice. Looks like GW has a 90T on the horizon to replace the 84T...

I would buy and use the SK because they aren't out of business and is what you want. Where did you heard that they are out of business?

I've been a big SK fan, but SK isn't shipping until at least 1/6/22..... In addition, I want to give them several months before ordering anything from them. They still "owe" me a couple non-Steals-n-Deals tools (I suspect they're null and void at this point). SK did make me mostly whole before changing hands. We'll see what shakes down. The 24" SK is still pretty spendy without some of the super secret coupon codes that were floating around. Matco isn't that much more, and I do really like the Matco ratchets.

I have this Tekton, and it's saved my *** a couple of times now.

1/2 Inch Drive x 24 Inch Quick-Release Extra-Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Quick-release ratchet with 90-tooth gear and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and sleek, comfortable handle. SRH11224.

www.tekton.com

Tekton is on my radar. I've been considering some of their 3/4" offerings for some other chores, too.

Thanks!

-Ryan

 

[dmaxfireman]

SLF80 or SLL80

 

[VolvoRyan]

Maybe you need to upgrade to a larger drive size ?

This.

3/4" with some select sockets is indeed on my wish list.

-Ryan

 

[Firebrick43]

I have a flex head snap on that I have bounced on (250lbs) and a non flex head tekton. To be honest I have not bounced on the tekton(haven't need to) but I have put quite a bit of torque on the tekton 3/8 18" ratchet that I use all the time.

I have a 42 inch snap on 3/4 but the SHLF80a is a lot more handy.

 

[VolvoRyan]

SLF80 or SLL80

The more I sniff around online, the budget does seem to be creeping up that way....

-Ryan

 

[sparky 1971]

I have the Gearwrench. It works perfectly, but I can't bring myself to trust it for really cranking on something. I don't know why other than maybe it didn't cost enough or possibly because I also have the SK 30" breaker bar and the Mac 26" locking flex.

 

[Fedwrench]

I don't care for ratchet adapters on the end of a breaker bar. They seem long and unwieldly to me.

To me, the best bang for the buck in a fixed head 24 inch long ratchet is the Tekton without quick release. I say without quick release because I don't want a hollow square drive on that beast of a ratchet. Right now until Christmas, Tekton.com is offering 15% back in rewards points. You also get free domestic shipping once registered with them.

I would buy a fixed head SK LP90 series ratchet in stock from Epstein's but, given the issues I've had with other LP90 Series flex head ratchets in 1/4 & 3/8 drive, I would skip SK flex heads but, that's just me.

The 24 inch locking Gearwrench 84 tooth ratchet flexes a bit too much for me. They're often on sale in the $60 range too so, if you're using more for reach than torque, it's still a ggod buy.

 

[visionguru]

I have Snap On 24", only has been used a couple of times. A glorified breaker bar, rarely useful (to me).

Have you considered "ratcheting breaker bar"? such as this Klutch 24", $43 at Northern Tool

 

[Mgdoug3]

I have 3/4 drive but sometimes I don't have enough space to use it. The SK 3/4 ratchet is fairly bulky and my Wright breaker bar with a socket is still thicker than my SK LP90. I paid somewhere around $135 for my SK 24" flex. I almost bought the Snap-on ratchet until I saw the SK and decided to gamble. I have had good luck with my LP90's (I have them in 1/4, 3/8 and two 1/2) but not everyone has been so lucky.

 

[VolvoRyan]

You guys certainly have given me some food for thought.

I poked around GJ with the search, and found a thread that kinda confirms ratchet adapter isn't the right move. They aren't necessarily rated for full 1/2" torque, and they are awkward looking.

I've had good luck with LP90's (I may have all of them but the 24") once I hosed out the factory lube in the 1/4" and 3/8" and replaced with SuperLube. The 1/2" LP90's do better out of the box. Curiously, I've had the same problem with a brand new SK round head. The rub is that a 24" LP90 is tool truck money.

I'm glad I asked about the GearWrench. I'm getting the impression that I might not want to lay into it...

I'll track down the "bang for the buck" suggestions, and also figure out if I truly need a flex head.

Thanks a bunch for the thoughts and comments! I'll report back.

-Ryan

 

[KomatsuTech]

I have this Tekton, and it's saved my *** a couple of times now.

1/2 Inch Drive x 24 Inch Quick-Release Extra-Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Quick-release ratchet with 90-tooth gear and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and sleek, comfortable handle. SRH11224.

www.tekton.com

I have the same ratchet and it works very well for me.

 

[sparky 1971]

You guys certainly have given me some food for thought.

I poked around GJ with the search, and found a thread that kinda confirms ratchet adapter isn't the right move. They aren't necessarily rated for full 1/2" torque, and they are awkward looking.

I've had good luck with LP90's (I may have all of them but the 24") once I hosed out the factory lube in the 1/4" and 3/8" and replaced with SuperLube. The 1/2" LP90's do better out of the box. Curiously, I've had the same problem with a brand new SK round head. The rub is that a 24" LP90 is tool truck money.

I'm glad I asked about the GearWrench. I'm getting the impression that I might not want to lay into it...

I'll track down the "bang for the buck" suggestions, and also figure out if I truly need a flex head.

Thanks a bunch for the thoughts and comments! I'll report back.

-Ryan

If you haven't already, go to HarryEpstein.com and set up an account. Then, from garage journal, send jsackin a message telling him who you are and that you would like to get the GJ pricing. There is a pretty good discount on the LP90's. The problem right now is that HJE is out of almost all SK ratchets including both 24" and there is no telling when they will get more in. I also checked, and the fixed head 24" is $167 on zoro. You might also check out the Proto Precision 90 26" ratchet. Circle C has the fixed head for $200, they must be out of the flex head because it isn't listed, but I have seen them. Just an FYI, I paid $200 cash for my 26" locking Mac with the comfort grip off the truck.

Sk Professional Tools 1/2" Drive 90 Geared Teeth Pear Head Style Hand Ratchet, 24" L, Chrome Finish 80222 | Zoro

Order Sk Professional Tools 1/2" Drive 90 Geared Teeth Pear Head Style Hand Ratchet, 24" L, Chrome Finish, 80222 at Zoro.com. Great prices & free shipping on orders over $50 when you sign in or sign up for an account.

www.zoro.com

PROTO® J5426HTC 1/2" Drive Precision 90 Pear Head Ratchet 26" - Full Polish

· 90 tooth count allows for 4 degree arc swing. · Double nickel chrome plated for enhanced corrosion protection. · Small, pear head design for access in tight, hard-to-reach work areas. · Full polish finish for superior comfort and easy clean up.

www.circlecsupply.com

 

[Mgdoug3]

That Proto would be awfully tempting if I didn't have a long 1/2 drive ratchet.

 

[bubinga]

I have this Tekton, and it's saved my *** a couple of times now.

1/2 Inch Drive x 24 Inch Quick-Release Extra-Long Ratchet | TEKTON

Quick-release ratchet with 90-tooth gear and 4-degree swing. Ultra-compact head and sleek, comfortable handle. SRH11224.

www.tekton.com

Not a bad price either.
I have the Gearwrench locking flex head, its served me well so far.

 

[ecotec]

24” ratchet. Since I bought one, I haven’t used my 24” breaker bar.

 

[boom10ful]

This is a tool that I've not really had a need for: The long handle, 24" 1/2" drive ratchet.

I have breaker bars, 17" ratchets, and impacts.... but I've found a need to have some more leverage in awkward places to run on-vehicle special tools for bearings and bushings. Impact guns won't fit in these applications and breaker bars are awkward, plus I want to be able to "feel" what's going on before breaking things.

I almost took the bait and got a 24" ratchet from SK before they went kablooey. GearWrench has the 84T model in a locking flex-head for $72... and Snap-On has a ratchet adapter. Has anyone experience with either? Tool truck brand 24" ratchet handles are a little expensive for the occasional use that this specific tool would see, though I'd rather spend the extra money on them if it means I won't flat on my face if cheaper options are more likely to fail.

Thanks!

-Ryan

For a auto mechanic or home gamer, I think the Gearwrench one is the best. I've used them on heavy equipment and while they do hold up, the handles just flex too much for my liking.

 

[Snapped-off]

I've got the long snapon SHLF80. At the time it was 200 on promo with a free FLL80 when they first came out.

It's been great when needed.

 

[finn]

I have the SnapOn, and was going to buy the GearWrench, but while I was waiting for the back order last winter, I came upon a Kobalon clearance at my local Lowe’s.

I like them both, although I have more experience with the SnapOn, since it’s older.

Both are flex head.

For the difference in price, I would probably take the Kobalt.

 

[f121]

I have both, haven’t used the adapter since buying the 24” ratchet. I’ve got a SHRLF80A which is very nicely made and very strong, typically has me jumping on it to break stuff loose (175lbs), the ratchet is very smooth too. I would have no issues using a cheaper one thou, particularly if it had lifetime warranty.

 

[demarpaint]

If I didn't have the Snap On SSL80A I'd be all over the Proto J5426HTC.

 

[BFHtime]

I have the 24" flex head Snap-on 80 tooth, that came with the free 24" breaker bar.
In my experience when pulling hard, the breaker bar will flex much more than the ratchet. Making the ratchet more convenient most times. If i think something is really stuck, i will use the breaker first, or if i am not sure. The long ratchet is great for high torque situations like suspension or chassis bolts.

I have an adapter that i have used with the 24" bar and although it is low tooth count it works surprisingly smoothly, about as smooth as the 80 tooth, this does not really matter in these high torque situations because the fastener with provide plenty of friction.

I have found that the ratcheting adapter is just as good as the flex head ratchet. Thr adapter does give more offset which can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the situation, meaning what you are going to hit when you swing the long end around. Something to think about, kind of like a short extension, which helps clear knuckles sometimes.

I find the ratcheting adapter to be of better use with the 36" breaker bar. The 36" does not flex as much and has more leverage so you don't need to pull as hard. In my experience because it flexes less, i have better feel use the bigger bar. The 24" breaker bar flexes quite a bit when you start pulling on it hard.

For now,if you have a shorter ratchet you can use the pole of a jack as a pipe for leverage. I used to use a steel pipe but after the steel pipe broke I decided to get a longer bar. It broke around the ratchet head, ratchet was fine.
Good luck.

 

[joshmodelskidoo]

I have the Carlyle long handle locking flex head ratchet with the tiny head for tight spots and I really like it. It’s supposed to be the same as a matco I believe. I have herd good things about the tekton stuff and wouldn’t throw out gearwrench eather.

 

[Mr_B]

The ratchet adaptors are very useful at times, snapon ones can be found cheap like new used so worth having some .
Good long strong ratchet worth having too but if you mainly using for suspension stuff extending length and flex can be beneficial got it fit working space well .

 

[Fly YX]

I have the Husky ratcheting breaker bar and it’s OK it has not broken yet but it does feel like it would in the ratcheting part. I also have the Snap on adapter but don’t use it that much they both are pretty bulky. Usually just use a regular breaker bar.

 

[VolvoRyan]

This may be the deciding question: Do the high-end 24" ratchets have less "shaft flex" than the sub-$100 ratchets? If yes, then that is probably worth flipping the extra $100 bucks at.

I'd like to get a flex-head just to get a little more wiggle room around obstructions.

There's an urban legend that I could try: The LP90 flex-heads supposedly interchange with the SK knurled handle breaker bars. Could be cool! I don't want to lose two tools, though....

Thanks again!

-Ryan

 

[Dakotadadv8]

Always used a 24" breaker bar or impact wrench when appropriate. Sometimes need heat, oil, 1/2 drive socket, universal joint, and a breaker bar together to get access loosen a fastener. I tried to avoid breaking a large fastener, especially rusted ones, with a ratchet.

 

[VolvoRyan]

Always used a 24" breaker bar or impact wrench when appropriate. Sometimes need heat, oil, 1/2 drive socket, universal joint, and a breaker bar together to get access loosen a fastener. I tried to avoid breaking a large fastener, especially rusted ones, with a ratchet.

We're on the same page here. This is why I haven't needed a 24" ratchet before. Per the original post, there's a special use case that I'd like to have the tool for. Plus, it would up my ergonomics in other places.

-Ryan

 

[Firebrick43]

Always used a 24" breaker bar or impact wrench when appropriate. Sometimes need heat, oil, 1/2 drive socket, universal joint, and a breaker bar together to get access loosen a fastener. I tried to avoid breaking a large fastener, especially rusted ones, with a ratchet.

With the new generation of ratchets, breaker bars are dead. I would dare to say the dual 80 ratchet is actuall stronger.

 

[Steve_P]

on the 90T Tekton and SK, the handle diameter is basically dictated by the head height, and the minimum handle diameter is essentially the same between the two on the 3/8 as I had both. So if you compare head height on the 1/2, that'll tell you the approximate handle diameter. I don't have a Snap On, but I believe the dual 80 heads are slightly thicker, so they may have a slightly larger handle diameter than the Tekton.

For the $, I'd get a Tekton. I have several and they work really well, unlike the LP90 that I returned. I took the LP apart and did everything I could to it, and it still hung up. With no cover on it, I watched it happen and couldn't figure out any issues. The internals are almost identical between the Tekton and LP90 except for the Tekton uses two springs and the LP has one.

 

[Rinspeed]

SO ratchet adaptor is one of the best tool purchases I've ever made.

 

[Mgdoug3]

This may be the deciding question: Do the high-end 24" ratchets have less "shaft flex" than the sub-$100 ratchets? If yes, then that is probably worth flipping the extra $100 bucks at.

I'd like to get a flex-head just to get a little more wiggle room around obstructions.

There's an urban legend that I could try: The LP90 flex-heads supposedly interchange with the SK knurled handle breaker bars. Could be cool! I don't want to lose two tools, though....

Thanks again!

-Ryan

This is true. I saw a thread on here that someone did that. I still like the knurling better on the round head ratchets than the LP90s. I can't remember if he used the 17" breaker bar or a larger one. I thought about doing that but my SK breaker bars are older and have a pin instead of a screw.

 

[VolvoRyan]

This is true. I saw a thread on here that someone did that. I still like the knurling better on the round head ratchets than the LP90s. I can't remember if he used the 17" breaker bar or a larger one. I thought about doing that but my SK breaker bars are older and have a pin instead of a screw.

Thanks! I can't recall if I saw it here or in one of the SK social media groups. I picked up a new 24" SK breaker bar a couple years ago when an old Snap-On was down for warranty. I do like the knurled handles a lot. The trick is that I like my 17" LP90 and the 24" breaker bar as they are.

Incidentally, the above Snap-On broken incident is an important factor in this thread. That 40 year-old 24" breaker bar broke (say that 10 times, fast?) its anvil doing an angle-tighten on a big hub nut, and I went flying trying to find my balance again. I don't plan to wail on a ratchet, but I'd like to have confidence in the tool.

-Ryan

 

[Mgdoug3]

I have the 15" LP90 as well. I bought it when it first came out. I wish I had known SK was coming out with a longer version because I probably wouldn't have bought the 15" one. I have only used it a handful of times. The 24" is much more useful. I already have a few other ratchets in that size, 40170 being one of them, but I wanted to support a USA company (at that time).