Can you remove mac soft handles on ratchets?

[13raden]

Would like to remove comfort grip handles to replace with a hard handle. Heres what the handle looks like.
http://www.mactools.com/shoponline/...-12-drive-12-comfort-grip-swivel-ratchet.aspx

 

[13raden]

please

 

[Farmer Joe]

I've. Been wondering the same about my SO 72 tooth 1/4" locking flexhead ratchet. I love the ratchet, but I don't really care for comfort grip. Aleayswondered what it looks like under the "comfort" grip.

 

[13raden]

ya im the same way, might just try pull/cut it off we will see

 

[Skin]

Yes they can be removed as a modification. They're press fit and generally meant to be permanent.

 

[yasha32]

If I remember correctly they 'pinch' the handle to create these little wings to help secure the handles.

 

[YZ Rider]

I had a buddy of mine put his in a vise and use prybars to push the handles up and off the shaft.

 

[canuckian]

I had a buddy of mine put his in a vise and use prybars to push the handles up and off the shaft.

^^^this. I've done many that way. just be sure to wrap the chrome with something so the vise doesn't marr it. there are many tutorials with pictures posted on this forum.

 

[Subyroo651]

Actually I read here somewhere a much easier and IMO better solution.

You bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then insert the handle end for about 2-4mins. After that you should be able to remove it by hand. I also boil the new handle to make it easier to install.

This is on Snap-On Comfort Grips however, Mac could be different

 

[13raden]

suby, you 100 percent right, set the handle side of the ratchet into boiling water for between 5-10 minutes, then put on leather gloves and pulled it off in about 5 seconds. And yes they pinch the metal to create the tabs to prent handle spinning.

 

[Farmer Joe]

Great to hear!! I'll have to bring my SO 1/4" ratchet home tomorrow and do the boiling water thing