Astro Pneumatic Tool Company

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Speaking of hands tools, what's your guys thoughts on the below?
As you know we don't have an all encompassing line of hand tools but like to pick spots that may be over-looked or have room for improvement when it comes to quality or price.

Below are a couple things we have been working on but have not pulled the trigger.

6pc (12 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- 100 tooth
- Non-floppy heads
- 6-point
- TW made, beautiful mirror chrome finish, stamped sizes ect.
$135-145

5pc (10 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- Same thing but ditching the 9x11 size because it's never used - but would be a dreaded "skip" set
$115-125

Then an SAE set too.

also:

3/8" Drive Ratchet in 1/4" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
8" $17-20 or 12" $20-25

1/2" Drive Ratchet in 3/8" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
10" $19-24 or 15" $24-29

 

[Wrench97]

I used a long 11mm all the time on Haldex slack adjusters(air brake).

Love the long handle sets.

 

[chevy302dz]

Speaking of hands tools, what's your guys thoughts on the below?
As you know we don't have an all encompassing line of hand tools but like to pick spots that may be over-looked or have room for improvement when it comes to quality or price.

Below are a couple things we have been working on but have not pulled the trigger.

6pc (12 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- 100 tooth
- Non-floppy heads
- 6-point
- TW made, beautiful mirror chrome finish, stamped sizes ect.
$135-145

5pc (10 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- Same thing but ditching the 9x11 size because it's never used - but would be a dreaded "skip" set
$115-125

Then an SAE set too.

also:

3/8" Drive Ratchet in 1/4" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
8" $17-20 or 12" $20-25

1/2" Drive Ratchet in 3/8" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
10" $19-24 or 15" $24-29

Eh as much as I like seeing tool lines expand, I feel what you are proposing is of no great advantage when compared to what's on the market when judged either by features or price. Now if you could bring to market some truly heavy duty Torx, Allen, etc that would get people's attention

 

[xlowxyotax88x]

How about a double box end ratcheting set that has double flex matco has a set no one else does and they charge accordingly

 

[jimmyin3D]

Yeah I can see the 6pt working well. There’s a lot of love for 6pt wrenches in general. But I wouldn’t skip the sizes.

 

[RedneckWelder]

Speaking of hands tools, what's your guys thoughts on the below?
As you know we don't have an all encompassing line of hand tools but like to pick spots that may be over-looked or have room for improvement when it comes to quality or price.

Below are a couple things we have been working on but have not pulled the trigger.

6pc (12 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- 100 tooth
- Non-floppy heads
- 6-point
- TW made, beautiful mirror chrome finish, stamped sizes ect.
$135-145

5pc (10 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- Same thing but ditching the 9x11 size because it's never used - but would be a dreaded "skip" set
$115-125

Then an SAE set too.

also:

3/8" Drive Ratchet in 1/4" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
8" $17-20 or 12" $20-25

1/2" Drive Ratchet in 3/8" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
10" $19-24 or 15" $24-29

Make your ratchets flex heads

And I definitely like the ratcheting wrenches stick with the the 6pc Metric and a matching SAE set (even better if you make the SAE sizes go up to 1 1/4”, no skips). Make them heavier duty than the existing ones.

 

[^&right]

As a hobbyist with a decent collection I would not be interested in the line of extra long ratcheting wrenches. Already have those and would not buy long ones just because. I would add though I hate skipped sizes. All too often the time will arrive you need that exact size. I try not to buy sets with skipped sized.

Like the idea of scaled down ratchet sizes and would take a look. I'd pay a few bucks more for a higher tooth count. Good quality at the price you are showing and I'd be in line.

I bought this tool off a Cornwell truck and have used it in spots a ratchet would not reach. I would buy a 3/8 version. Skip the 1/4" hex end and install a breaker bar swivel. A 3/8" slim lined, swivel, compact ratchet on one end, breaker bar on the other. Fine tooth for those hard to reach spot and a breaker when you need to lay on it. 14"-16" long, 100 tooth compact ratchet on one end (lockable swivel like the Cornwell, VERY nice feature), Breaker bar on the other. I really like the quality feel of the Cornwell. Make that happen and let me buy the first one!

http://corporate.cornwelltools.com/...-1{47}4”-Combination-Locking-Bit-Driver.html#

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Can't currently make the 100 tooth work in the "3/8" in a 1/4" body" ect ratchets.
Extra long, and lockable index flex-head not a problem and already made a prototype.

 

[bigworm85]

I would be interested in the extra long flex head wrenches. I have a set of the Carlyle / mountain wrenches and they're my go to when doing calipers and caliper brackets. i sometimes am a little wary as even the big 19mm feels a little thin or flexible when really cranking on it.

Would the astro wrenches be flat on both sides or have any extra protrusion?

 

[CobraRed]

Where are you guys finding 6pc 90+ tooth double flex ends for $140?

Would the astro wrenches be flat on both sides or have any extra protrusion?

I hope flat, I've gotten my Mountain wrenches stuck in a few places

 

[Fedwrench]

I think the market is covered on extra long ratcheting flex head boxed end wrenches. However, there's always room for more. Please use common sense wrench sizing like 8x10, 9x11, 12x14, 13x15, 16x18, 17x19, etc.

You really need to make is a set like this:

https://www.sptoolsusa.com/product-...-gear-drive-wrench-sets-flex-head-metric-8pc/

These are standard length with a fine toothed ratcheting flex head boxed end on one side and a fixed 12 point boxed end on the other side. The flex head locks in different angles. The beauty of these wrenches is that they're standard length. Often, those extra long ratcheting boxed end wrenches are just too long to use in some situations.

I'm interested in the 3/8 in a 1/4, and 1/2 in a 3/8 body ratchets but, I prefer no quick release, and would like to see 80+ teeth. Are they a floating pawl design?

 

[cptn_zippy]

I think the long is covered by others as well.

What I'd really like to see stubby flex heads in 8x10, 10x12, 13x15, 14x16, 16x18, 17x19...whatever...keep them non-reversing. Nobody makes them as far as I know and they'd be damn handy.

Could do the same with SAE, pairing up the sizes.

J

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Would the long wrenches be reversible? I use 11mm on Ford? driveshaft bolts.

 

[Pontiac787]

6pc (12 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- 100 tooth
- Non-floppy heads
- 6-point
- TW made, beautiful mirror chrome finish, stamped sizes ect.
$135-145

5pc (10 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- Same thing but ditching the 9x11 size because it's never used - but would be a dreaded "skip" set
$115-125

Then an SAE set too.

A 6 point reversible set would be great. Right now the only non-spline set that I'm aware of is not reversible.

 

[toolmutt]

(snip)

You really need to make is a set like this:

https://www.sptoolsusa.com/product-...-gear-drive-wrench-sets-flex-head-metric-8pc/

These are standard length with a fine toothed ratcheting flex head boxed end on one side and a fixed 12 point boxed end on the other side. The flex head locks in different angles. The beauty of these wrenches is that they're standard length. Often, those extra long ratcheting boxed end wrenches are just too long to use in some situations.

(snip)

What Fed said!

 

[2ndGearRubber]

What Fed said!

Also interested in standard length. With the slight offset fixed side of the mountain/ez-red/gearwrench gearbox.

 

[M6erfan]

i think the market is covered on extra long ratcheting flex head boxed end wrenches. However, there's always room for more. Please use common sense wrench sizing like 8x10, 9x11, 12x14, 13x15, 16x18, 17x19, etc.

You really need to make is a set like this:

https://www.sptoolsusa.com/product-...-gear-drive-wrench-sets-flex-head-metric-8pc/

these are standard length with a fine toothed ratcheting flex head boxed end on one side and a fixed 12 point boxed end on the other side. The flex head locks in different angles. The beauty of these wrenches is that they're standard length. Often, those extra long ratcheting boxed end wrenches are just too long to use in some situations.

*snip

+ 1,000

 

[rtz]

Hey Astro; you know these battery powered fans everyone makes?



I wish there was one about that size or potentially even smaller that ran on shop air(~100psi).

I've spent a lot of time in places where either paint was being sprayed or used; or fiberglass resin was being used; or inside of a fuel tank of some sort. And it was hot! And an electric fan was out of the question. In all those places we always had abundant and unlimited compressed air.

 

[ptgarcia]

I think the market is covered on extra long ratcheting flex head boxed end wrenches. However, there's always room for more. Please use common sense wrench sizing like 8x10, 9x11, 12x14, 13x15, 16x18, 17x19, etc.

You really need to make is a set like this:

https://www.sptoolsusa.com/product-...-gear-drive-wrench-sets-flex-head-metric-8pc/

These are standard length with a fine toothed ratcheting flex head boxed end on one side and a fixed 12 point boxed end on the other side. The flex head locks in different angles. The beauty of these wrenches is that they're standard length. Often, those extra long ratcheting boxed end wrenches are just too long to use in some situations.

I'm interested in the 3/8 in a 1/4, and 1/2 in a 3/8 body ratchets but, I prefer no quick release, and would like to see 80+ teeth. Are they a floating pawl design?

I'd be interested in these, also. I can see this style being my go to wrench.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

I'd be interested in these, also. I can see this style being my go to wrench.

We would probably be able to do 12-pt box end one end and reversible ratcheting fixed box end the other.
Or 12-pt box end with flex head ratcheting on the other.

But flex head, indexable, reversible for every MM size we would need to tool up for in a major way and would cost a fortune across a whole set of these - so i can see why they aren't cheap.

Hey Astro; you know these battery powered fans everyone makes?

I wish there was one about that size or potentially even smaller that ran on shop air(~100psi).

I've spent a lot of time in places where either paint was being sprayed or used; or fiberglass resin was being used; or inside of a fuel tank of some sort. And it was hot! And an electric fan was out of the question. In all those places we always had abundant and unlimited compressed air.

A fan that's powered by air? Doesn't that beg the question, why you aren't just using the air itself to cool you?
But in all seriousness, we used to make compressed air power fans for paint booths tailored for water based paint. But they are expensive to make compared to s cordless one believe it or not, and loud.

 

[Fedwrench]

We would probably be able to do 12-pt box end one end and reversible ratcheting fixed box end the other.
Or 12-pt box end with flex head ratcheting on the other.

But flex head, indexable, reversible for every MM size we would need to tool up for in a major way and would cost a fortune across a whole set of these - so i can see why they aren't cheap.

The SP set I linked are not reversible. You have to flip the wrench over to change direction. The spring loaded switch on the flex head boxed end is to lock the flex head in one of several different angles, or positions.

If you can release a standard length set in the two styles you describe above, I think you would have a winner-winner-chicken dinner.
Please just don't skip any sizes 8-19 mm.
Thanks for thinking about it

 

[Pontiac787]

If you were to bring something like the XL ratcheting wrenches to market what would be the lead time? I’m in the market but not in a huge hurry.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

The SP set I linked are not reversible. You have to flip the wrench over to change direction. The spring loaded switch on the flex head boxed end is to lock the flex head in one of several different angles, or positions.

If you can release a standard length set in the two styles you describe above, I think you would have a winner-winner-chicken dinner.
Please just don't skip any sizes 8-19 mm.
Thanks for thinking about it

100 tooth 6-point or 12-point ratcheting flex head
The opposing end would be fixed box end 12-point
Standard length
Polished chrome
Roll pouch

A set with

8pc
12,13,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 would be around $90 - 100
(Adding 10mm would then need to add an 11mm, which would increase this set like $20)

And then doing an SAE set at the same time would be more difficult than the other's I've talked about, as none of this tooling exists yet. We'd have to sell these sets to pay for an SAE set

Seems pricey, the benefit of a ratcheting double box end is you get two sizes per wrench which scales well.

Thoughts everyone?

If you were to bring something like the XL ratcheting wrenches to market what would be the lead time? I’m in the market but not in a huge hurry.

4 months

 

[Trucky]

just wanted to pop in and say thanks for supporting eric @ SMA.

 

[Bighead38]

Make the fixed end and the ratcheting end both 6 point. 12 point is pretty much useless in the rust belt if you work on anything more than a few years old.

Was in the garage the other day and showing somebody some tools, noticed I had a few Astro tools. Never thought about it because i got them before I saw you were in this site. After seeing your interaction with customers I was glad that I had them.

 

[Pontiac787]

100 tooth 6-point or 12-point ratcheting flex head
The opposing end would be fixed box end 12-point
Standard length
Polished chrome
Roll pouch

A set with

8pc
12,13,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 would be around $90 - 100
(Adding 10mm would then need to add an 11mm, which would increase this set like $20)

And then doing an SAE set at the same time would be more difficult than the other's I've talked about, as none of this tooling exists yet. We'd have to sell these sets to pay for an SAE set

Seems pricey, the benefit of a ratcheting double box end is you get two sizes per wrench which scales well.

Thoughts everyone?



4 months

Thanks! I’ll be anxiously waiting to see if the wrenches make the cut.

 

[MattT]

100 tooth 6-point or 12-point ratcheting flex head
The opposing end would be fixed box end 12-point
Standard length
Polished chrome
Roll pouch

A set with

8pc
12,13,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 would be around $90 - 100
(Adding 10mm would then need to add an 11mm, which would increase this set like $20)

And then doing an SAE set at the same time would be more difficult than the other's I've talked about, as none of this tooling exists yet. We'd have to sell these sets to pay for an SAE set

Seems pricey, the benefit of a ratcheting double box end is you get two sizes per wrench which scales well.

Thoughts everyone?

12 point. 6 point wrenches are a PITA.

Include 10mm but skip the 11mm. No 10mm is an epic fail, but no tool user is gonna care about the 11mm. Plus it'll push the OCD polisher types a little closer to the edge

From what you've said about your metric vs. SAE sales probably not worth tooling up for an SAE version. And majority of SAE equipment doesn't really need the newer restricted access hand tools.

 

[CobraRed]

Reading over this page:

- Plenty of XL ratcheting box ends already out there
- When are these coming out, I want them

- Make something people don't already
- Here's a link to a set, make this

- Don't skip any sizes
- Leave out the sizes no one uses

- Make the wrenches 6-point
- 6-point are a PITA

I guess it's a good thing GJ isn't a tool company

 

[toolmutt]

I would vote for locking flex. I know this topic has been discussed ad nauseam in many threads but occasionally there are situations where, due to restricted access and reach, I simply can't get my other hand onto the working end of the wrench to keep the flex from bending and slipping off the bolt. The lock can be unlocked if the wrench needs to *flex* during its use. Thanks for listening, Chris!

 

[Pontiac787]

A lot of the XL wrenches have certain features, none have all and most are spline drive. If I had my way I would say to go with double box end reversible locking flex heads. 6pts have the edge for me but I would buy 12pt if that is how they were offered. No skips in the sizing. I kinda like the protruding socket style but it wouldn’t be a deal breaker for me one way or the other.

 

[DerekV]

Speaking of hands tools, what's your guys thoughts on the below?
As you know we don't have an all encompassing line of hand tools but like to pick spots that may be over-looked or have room for improvement when it comes to quality or price.

Below are a couple things we have been working on but have not pulled the trigger.

6pc (12 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- 100 tooth
- Non-floppy heads
- 6-point
- TW made, beautiful mirror chrome finish, stamped sizes ect.
$135-145

5pc (10 size) Extra Long Flex-Head Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set up to 19mm
- Same thing but ditching the 9x11 size because it's never used - but would be a dreaded "skip" set
$115-125

Then an SAE set too.

also:

3/8" Drive Ratchet in 1/4" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
8" $17-20 or 12" $20-25

1/2" Drive Ratchet in 3/8" ratchet body
- Full mirror chrome polish, solid handle
- TW, chrome push button release
- 72 teeth
10" $19-24 or 15" $24-29

As much as I love tools and a company’s eagerness to bring something new to market, none of these sound appealing or “ah, finally!” to me [emoji2369] There’s nothing that doesn’t exist already that doesn’t fill my need. Just my honest opinion.

Ratcheting wrench preferences in particular seem to be highly personal and you’re going to get (and have already) a million and one strong opinions on what you should make. For example, I won’t even entertain an option that isn’t a traditional-ish reversible style and 12pt. I prefer saving 6pt-anything for sockets. But that’s just me.

How about a double open end “Dolphin wrench” set (also similar to GW X-beam) with the thin open ends for tight access situations? Polished or satin finish and stamped sizes, TW produced. 8x10, 9x11, 12x14, 13x15, 16x18, 17x19, 20x21, and 22x24. That wrench style is really comfortable, especially for a thin wrench, and there’s not a ton of thin style options out there. At least not like ratcheting wrenches. The DOE will also save drawer space which is nice since it wouldn’t be a set that’s used ALL the time...more of a life saver set.

 

[nichocha33]

100 tooth 6-point or 12-point ratcheting flex head
The opposing end would be fixed box end 12-point
Standard length
Polished chrome
Roll pouch

A set with

8pc
12,13,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 would be around $90 - 100
(Adding 10mm would then need to add an 11mm, which would increase this set like $20)

And then doing an SAE set at the same time would be more difficult than the other's I've talked about, as none of this tooling exists yet. We'd have to sell these sets to pay for an SAE set

Seems pricey, the benefit of a ratcheting double box end is you get two sizes per wrench which scales well.

Thoughts everyone?



4 months

Do it and Ill get rid of my Gearwrench set and purchase from your company asap. Ratchets sound like a go as well, minus the quick release.

 

[Fedwrench]

My vote is for 12 point, add the 10 mm at least (the whole world is held together by 10 mm fasteners), thanks

 

[signcrafter]

Chris, I was using my hub puller kit today and saw on the instructions you sell a #78830CBA Caliper Bridge Brace Bar Assembly. I searched online and can't find it for sale anywhere. Do you know where I might be able to find one at?

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Chris, I was using my hub puller kit today and saw on the instructions you sell a #78830CBA Caliper Bridge Brace Bar Assembly. I searched online and can't find it for sale anywhere. Do you know where I might be able to find one at?

Sure.
As it's classified as a "part" it's not universally stocked. But Astro can sell parts direct by calling in.
In your case just drop me a PM and i'll get you sorted.

 

[M6erfan]

My thoughts are that they need to be locking, 12pt/6pt on the ratcheting end doesn't matter, prefer 12pt on the box end. Not having 10mm in the set is a non starter.

Thanks Chris.

 

[Mr_B]

8 to 19mm pretty much range you want go for .
sure price goes up but least it a full range set which gives it some advantage from lot of what currently available, plus your prices very reasonable for quality you tend source so extra cost for more piece set not a big deal .

 

[2ndGearRubber]

My thoughts are that they need to be locking, 12pt/6pt on the ratcheting end doesn't matter, prefer 12pt on the box end. Not having 10mm in the set is a non starter.

Thanks Chris.

Definitely 12 point box end. Has to have 10mm, I'd prefer 11mm too for obscured bleeders.

 

[M6erfan]

8 to 19mm pretty much range you want go for .
sure price goes up but least it a full range set which gives it some advantage from lot of what currently available, plus your prices very reasonable for quality you tend source so extra cost for more piece set not a big deal .

8mm would be nice

 

[M6erfan]

Definitely 12 point box end. Has to have 10mm, I'd prefer 11mm too for obscured bleeders.

I thought of that too, but i'm only 'cracking' bleeders, so my regular box end has no issue.

But yeah, a full/no-skip set would be nice. For what I work on, the sizes in that SP kit Fed linked to is fine.