Cheapest/Easiest way to change SO handles ?

[Rosso]

Hi,

I have a set of SO instinct screwdrivers, all with red handles which i would like to replace with green.

The SO supply chain isn't as good here in the UK as it is stateside, my dealer can't find the part number for green handles to fit. He tells me he thinks it would be cheaper to buy a whole new set when they are on promo and sell my red on to recoup some costs.

Anyone done similar ?

 

[MattPersman]

Definitely cheaper to buy a new set and resell your old ones.

 

[Cope]

Definitely cheaper to buy a new set and resell your old ones.

I agree. Back in the seventies and eighty's, Snap On had some defective handle material that started oozing a foul smelling liquid. Mine started oozing around 1990. I was a Matco dealer, and was on good terms with a Snap On dealer whose territory covered part of mine. I asked him if he would warranty the bad handles for me and he said no problem. Two weeks later he brought me all new screwdrivers. He said it was easier than driving the handles off and driving new ones on.

 

[Rosso]

My dealer has said he will change them all over FOC if i can get them, it's just the cost and actually getting them vs buying a new set and selling the red ones.

Bit sad SO would price the handles so high. It's a piece of plastic after all.

 

[firebox40dash5]

Instinct handles are easy to swap out anyway, put the shank in a vise and put a rolling head prybar under, they pop off. Reverse with a mallet to install.

But, I think the handles were something like $10 a pop, so unless he's going to offer to take your red handles for at least a partial trade, screw that. I think there were some sellers with various handles on ebay, so you could try that and see if anyone would so a kinda-bulk discount.

 

[rsanter]

You have a math question there.
What's the new set cost?
What's your set worth
What's the handles going to cost?

Now, which way is cheaper

Bob

 

[Rosso]

Looks like i'll be buying a new set.

New green set is £140

Dealer has said he will give me £50 for my red ones.

So effectively £90. The handles cost £14 each x 8 is £112

 

[Spudland_Dave]

I'm kinda confused...to the best of my knowledge the Instinct Handles are NOT available seperately. The only way to do the swap from Red Instinct to Green would be to Green Hard Handles.

Either way, IMHO still much cheaper to buy a whole new set in the color you want.