Totally agree. I haven't picked up a breaker bar since I bought the 24" ratchet. There's less flex in the ratchet than a breaker bar too
24" ratchet or ratchet adapter?
- Thread starter VolvoRyan
- Start date
sparky 1971
Well-known member
My Gearwrench flexes a lot easier than the Mac, but it's the joint that concerns me. I have used a 24" Snap On that had no perceptible flex to it.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
If you want a flex head, I suggest locking just because who knows what can happen when really cranking on something. The Mac's biggest downfall imo is that it is always locked. You can't just unlock it and let it act like a normal flex head.
I can't speak for the LP90's or 1/2" drive, but I tried to make a 15" 3/8" drive flex head out of a round head and and breaker bar last week. It didn't work. The base of the ratchet head bottomed out against the breaker bar handle before the screw holes lined up. With a little grinding it probably would have worked but it wasn't that important to me. I have an old school 36 tooth 13" 3/8 Mac flex, and an extra 2" wasn't worth it to me. The wife however...
I bought the 15" flex for $60ish when it was on steals and deals. I certainly didn't need it, but it was too good of a deal to pass up. I have to admit that it is my favorite 1/2, and I have a bunch to choose from.
I have the 18" and it's a work of art especially when you're under a wheel well. I was on the fence about going with the long handle but I'm glad I went with the 18".
bubinga
Well-known member
Just ordered the Tekton 24" non quick release ratchet.
Don't "need it" but this is Garage Journal.
Don't "need it" but this is Garage Journal.
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Ton ton
Well-known member
Well said.
OK. You guys have me sold on a Snap-On. Locking flex makes sense for the some of the things I've got to wrestle with. Most of these jobs are more.... awkward... than requiring brute force. Not cheap, but since I was considering an LP90 awhile back, it's not that much more to go Snap-On. I love SK, but I'm going to wait a few months for things to settle down with them. I do like the LP90's, though the only true stand out is the little 1/4" flex.
Snap-On has done me a few solids where they owed me nothing. That means something to me, so I'll continued pay it forward.
The MAC "always locked" was indeed a turn off for other purchases. I have a Matco locking-flex in 3/8"... and I love everything about that tool.
Thanks again!
-Ryan
Snap-On has done me a few solids where they owed me nothing. That means something to me, so I'll continued pay it forward.
The MAC "always locked" was indeed a turn off for other purchases. I have a Matco locking-flex in 3/8"... and I love everything about that tool.
Thanks again!
-Ryan
I've been a huge SK fan for years but it's a simple fact the LP90 is a massive embarrassment compared to the equivalent Snap-On. Not even close to a comparison.
In my opinion, SK's "niche" is providing some quality above the imports and prices less than the tool trucks. Most of my SK tools fit this pattern.
While I like the LP90's, the price on the big ones is much too close to the tool trucks. This is the reason that I didn't get the 24" LP90 in the past. Snap-On was only another $30-40. Of course, then I up-sold myself again to the locking-flex.... and then tax came in.... and then I wasn't feeling so smart.
I'd like to get the GearWrench 90T standard length locking-flex head kit down the road. Those look handy for pick-n-pull missions.
-Ryan
Snapped-off
Well-known member
Doubt you'll be disappointed.In my opinion, SK's "niche" is providing some quality above the imports and prices less than the tool trucks. Most of my SK tools fit this pattern.
While I like the LP90's, the price on the big ones is much too close to the tool trucks. This is the reason that I didn't get the 24" LP90 in the past. Snap-On was only another $30-40. Of course, then I up-sold myself again to the locking-flex.... and then tax came in.... and then I wasn't feeling so smart.
I'd like to get the GearWrench 90T standard length locking-flex head kit down the road. Those look handy for pick-n-pull missions.
-Ryan
sparky 1971
Well-known member
The Snap On 24" locking flex is kick ***. You'll love it. I had a buddy and I used his and decided I needed one. I wound up with Mac because I wired a shop for a Mac dealer. I figured it was only right to buy something from him since he was paying me $10,000. The Mac is just as much of a tank as the Snap On, but the always locked is a pain sometimes. And, mine is a comfort grip and to be honest, I don't care for that. It was all he had on the truck and he told me $200 cash so I took it even though I wanted the metal handle.In my opinion, SK's "niche" is providing some quality above the imports and prices less than the tool trucks. Most of my SK tools fit this pattern.
While I like the LP90's, the price on the big ones is much too close to the tool trucks. This is the reason that I didn't get the 24" LP90 in the past. Snap-On was only another $30-40. Of course, then I up-sold myself again to the locking-flex.... and then tax came in.... and then I wasn't feeling so smart.
I'd like to get the GearWrench 90T standard length locking-flex head kit down the road. Those look handy for pick-n-pull missions.
-Ryan
bubinga
Well-known member
I don't think so either
I've got the older model, think it was $30 on Amazon, but that's been a couple years ago.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
No real reason to spend more on something that'll rarely get used.
Dakotadadv8
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 30, 2021
- Messages
- 1,491
Op thanks for providing attention to the Snap on locking flex, now I have to add it to 2022 tool additions. Thought I was done for awhile with SO 1/2 drive standard ratchet, SO 24" breaker bar, and universal joint.
. Thought I was done for awhile with SO 1/2 drive standard ratchet, SO 24" breaker bar, and universal joint.I'm really looking forward to it. The more I thought about it, the more places I realized it'd be useful.
It's interesting that there's a number of folks here (myself included) who prefer metal handles. I always thought I was a weirdo.
Op thanks for providing attention to the Snap on locking flex, now I have to add it to 2022 tool additions
I'm getting older, and my tool buying has slowed down a bit as well, so it's easier to justify big sticker prices.
-Ryan
My uncle stopped by a Pawn Shop this morning and told me the place had some Snap-on ratchets. I just walked out of the store with a 24" locking flex for $159. I like my SK still but I couldn't pass this one up. They had a 3/8 extra long ratchet but I don't like the metal handles on the 3/8s (I much prefer the hard handles like the 3/8 I bought last week) and the face plate was bent. Someone wasn't easy on that ratchet and I passed up on it. For $140 before trying to bargain, it was too rich for me and I already have plenty of 3/8s.
Just in case anyone wants to see a comparison. The Snap-on is about an inch longer. The beam on the Snap-on is 3/4" while the SK is 5/8. The SK with a socket attached is 2.27" vs around 2.3" on the SO so basically the same thickness on the head. SK is 0.005" smaller in width so also basically the same.
The teeth seem to engage better on the SK but the SO is probably well used. I'll try out both ratchets today but I'm happy with both of them. For the value, I still like the SK. Based on the thickness of the beam, the SO should have less flex. I prefer the handle of the SK over the SO. I have heard of problems with the SK but I haven't experienced any of them that a rebuild kit didn't fix and none with the 1/2 drive.
Bottom line, I think both will suit me well.
The teeth seem to engage better on the SK but the SO is probably well used. I'll try out both ratchets today but I'm happy with both of them. For the value, I still like the SK. Based on the thickness of the beam, the SO should have less flex. I prefer the handle of the SK over the SO. I have heard of problems with the SK but I haven't experienced any of them that a rebuild kit didn't fix and none with the 1/2 drive.
Bottom line, I think both will suit me well.
Attachments
Badgerstate
Well-known member
Harbor Freight and Home Depot have ratcheting 24" breaker bars. Im somewhat skeptical about the longevity of a ratcheting breaker bar but it does have a lifetime warranty, so you could always just get it replaced if it ever breaks.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
There's a Snap-on driver that stops near me every Monday morning so if I need to buy a rebuild kit, tools or warranty tools I bought new it's not a problem. That's one reason why I like Snap-on because two miles down the road I can get anything I need. A rebuild kit for my SLX80A is only $11.
I had planned on using my big 1/2 drive ratchets today but instead I only needed to use my new 3/8" ratchet. The bolts were smaller than I thought and not that tight. To be honest, I was a little bummed.
I had planned on using my big 1/2 drive ratchets today but instead I only needed to use my new 3/8" ratchet. The bolts were smaller than I thought and not that tight. To be honest, I was a little bummed.
Wrench97
Well-known member
That's fine if you have a back up to use when it breaks and need to get something apart.
bubinga
Well-known member
Got my Tekton 24 inch today.
That thing is sleek.
Fast shipping too.
Need to open it up and lube it though. Sounds dry.
That thing is sleek.
Fast shipping too.
Need to open it up and lube it though. Sounds dry.
Lucid Moments
Well-known member
I have that same one and it is very useful. I do wish it had a flex head on it though.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.
CGarage
Well-known member
Where did you buy the SK 1/2” drive x 24” long?
It's interesting that there's a number of folks here (myself included) who prefer metal handles. I always thought I was a weirdo.
This is probably a thread in itself, but for me it depends on the size of the ratchet:
- 1/4” Chrome - soft grip or hard handle is just too big compared to the size of the ratchet and fastener.
- 3/8” Chrome, unless its really cold.
- 1/2” Soft grip - having a bit of give to absorb the crack when the fastener goes is nice
I dont see the point in hard handles for ratchets.
I got my SK ratchet directly from SK when it was on sale. Harry J Epstein will probably have the best price once it's back in stock. I believe there's a discount for garage journal members too.
On handles I prefer SK knurled handles or SO hard handle. Soft grip holds onto grease and dirt too easy. Chrome handles are usually on the small side for my hands. I like the SK LP90 handles better than the SO chrome handles.
On handles I prefer SK knurled handles or SO hard handle. Soft grip holds onto grease and dirt too easy. Chrome handles are usually on the small side for my hands. I like the SK LP90 handles better than the SO chrome handles.
We just finished moving from Ohio to southern Indiana. Snap-On guy is very present out here. Nice big truck. I've crossed paths with him at a local shop, and one of his stops is a block from me. I just don't buy enough tools nowadays to want to bother him, and he looks like he's got a full plate. When I've needed to warranty tools in the past, I've just pinged Snap-On via email. They usually will put a rebuild kit on my doorstep in 2 days. I like this warranty style. SK used to do it. I think Tekton does it as well. Easy peasy.
I did buy a rebuild kit to have on hand for the new 1/2" ratchet. That showed up yesterday. Impressive chunks of metal in there. The new ratchet itself shipped a day later and should arrive tomorrow. Just in time for Xmas.
I'm a big fan of the SK knurled handles. LP90's, I could give or take. I tend to pull more with my fingers locked around the handle, so the chrome handles fit better.
-Ryan
Handyandy23
Well-known member
+1 on this. I've got a 24" Pro Point 72T flex head ratchet, and I haven't touched a breaker bar in forever. I think breaker bars were maybe useful a long time ago when ratchet tech wasn't up to the job, but even off-brand ones now can hold up to a lot. I had an even cheaper Powerfist one before this that I abused and never broke.
And to be completely honest, even the 24" ratchet barely gets used, because why should I do the work when an impact can do it for me?
And therein lays the rub. I feel like owning 10% of the tools will let you do 90% of the things: An impact, a standard 1/2" ratchet, and a breaker bar will do nearly everything.
It's that 10% of the situations, where having different ratchets lets you do the jobs a little easier, but also (more importantly) will up the ergonomics.
-Ryan
Ton ton
Well-known member
I agree with you.
I'm in the same boat with you, but the LP90 is an embarrassment even compared to the Tekton 90T, which is a fraction of the price. I have thousands of $ in SK that I've bought in the last 10 years, and I really want them to succeed; and I really wanted to buy most of the LP90 line. But my LP90 was a total POS. It's embarrassing that SK, a company that's been around for 100? yrs, cannot make a 90T LP ratchet that works as well as a Tekton. The fact that someone at SK didn't actually care to address the fact that their design has issues is a total fail; the LP90 issues are not 100%, some buyers are happy, but complaints are very well documented here. This is why I don't mind that Ideal sold SK off: SK can either improve or die at this point IMO. There are still a few Americans that are willing to pay a premium for a US made SK ratchet, but it needs to actually work right out of the box; like a Tekton does
Edit: on my post above about the minor diameter on the handle being dictated by the head thickness, that was on non-flex head ratchets.
TheToolEnthusiast
Well-known member
Long 1/2” Discussion here covers a lot
I've got this and love it when I need it; https://www.tekton.com/1-2-inch-drive-x-24-inch-quick-release-ratchet-srh11224
It's cheap enough if I break it but so far, so good.
It's cheap enough if I break it but so far, so good.
seber
Well-known member
It is a rarely used item for most, so getting the most versatility is going to be more important than how fast it works. The tight flex of a breaker bar can get you out of a lot of bad situations that a ratchet cannot address.
I'm in the same boat with you, but the LP90 is an embarrassment even compared to the Tekton 90T, which is a fraction of the price. I have thousands of $ in SK that I've bought in the last 10 years, and I really want them to succeed; and I really wanted to buy most of the LP90 line. But my LP90 was a total POS. It's embarrassing that SK, a company that's been around for 100? yrs, cannot make a 90T LP ratchet that works as well as a Tekton. The fact that someone at SK didn't actually care to address the fact that their design has issues is a total fail; the LP90 issues are not 100%, some buyers are happy, but complaints are very well documented here. This is why I don't mind that Ideal sold SK off: SK can either improve or die at this point IMO. There are still a few Americans that are willing to pay a premium for a US made SK ratchet, but it needs to actually work right out of the box; like a Tekton does
Edit: on my post above about the minor diameter on the handle being dictated by the head thickness, that was on non-flex head ratchets.
Another similar boat... I've spent big bucks on SK in the last few years. I think I own every metric tool they sell.
I've not had any trouble with the LP90's, but I also realize that I grab an SK round head 90% of the time despite there being an equivalent LP90 right next to it. The 1/2" standard handle LP90 feels heavier than the round head. The exception is the 1/4" flex head LP90. I *love* that one.
The LP90 may have just been ill-conceived. Ideal probably gave SK zero money for R&D. SK needed a teardrop ratchet to help land industrial accounts. The result wasn't perfect, and was priced too high, IMHO.
I got all of my LP90's on sale. They work pretty well for me and I do like them a lot, but I'm not in love with most of them. When not on sale, the LP90's are priced too close to the tool trucks.
-Ryan
The big 24" Snap-On showed up on Friday. Just in time for Xmas.
Very, very nice indeed. It's a beast. The handle is right at 19mm/3/4". My old Snap-On breaker bar is a smidgen under 16mm. The new SK breaker bar is a smidgen over 16mm.
Volvo does a lot of angle tightening in awkward places. This ratchet should be very handy. Rebuild kit is dirt cheap, so I've got one on hand should trouble arise.
Thanks, all!
-Ryan
Very, very nice indeed. It's a beast. The handle is right at 19mm/3/4". My old Snap-On breaker bar is a smidgen under 16mm. The new SK breaker bar is a smidgen over 16mm.
Volvo does a lot of angle tightening in awkward places. This ratchet should be very handy. Rebuild kit is dirt cheap, so I've got one on hand should trouble arise.
Thanks, all!
-Ryan
Snapped-off
Well-known member
Raineman
Well-known member
I’m waiting for them to come out with a flex head, then I’ll be a player.