Different Types of Ratchets

[HFlashman]

Discovering the world of ratchets has been interesting. As a non-wrencher/mechanic, and at best a dabbler, I started with a new early 1970's Craftsman 3/8 inch when in high school. It wasn't until my work situation changedrecently that more time was spent looking and acquiring additional models. Yes, the old Craftsman were probably of lesser quality and design but when doing research it opened a new world: ratchets of varying sizes and configurations and tooth count. One mechanic advised a 1/4 inch long handled ratchet was his most used ratchet (worked on newer German vehicles). Another talked of the virtues of the long handled 1/2 inch for bigger vehicles and a third praised the stubby ratchet.

Up to now I have found the 1/4 inch long handle flex with a fine tooth count to be the one I use the most on the motorcycle (and scooters) and multiple mountain and road bikes. It is particularly good for tight areas where there is little room or arc. Second is a long handled 3/8 inch because of the leverage on tight and sometimes rusty bolts/nuts--much better than the standard length. A new long handled flex head 3/8 inch is on the list for purchase.

Now that I have used a fine tooth flex head ratchet in a tight space I really see the benefits.

The next step is a long handled 1/2 inch ratchet for lug nuts and bigger nastier bolt/nuts. In retrospect, standard length just doesn't seem enough. I'm debating whether it should have a flex head. Any thoughts

 

[Mgdoug3]

I like a long straight 1/2 drive. Others like a flex so it depends on the user. For the money (~$100) the Gearwrench four piece 120xp flex set is nice. It has a long flex in 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2. It also has a 3/8 stubby I probably use the most. I like my round head SK ratchets the best and use them the most but I am happy with the GW.

I have some complaints with the GW but overall happy. The joint flexes a little more than I like on the 3/8 long and the 1/2 has a wide head. I like knurled handles and the GW are smooth. For the price, I over look these issues and they will get the job done. If you're breaking loose tight lug nuts, a long breaker bar is your friend.

 

[ChaseDE]

If you are asking GJ if buying another ratchet, especially one you don't have yet, is a good idea the resounding response is gonna be a "yes".

Yes, buy the ratchet!

Specifically if you want a long handle 1/2" ratchet for "big nasty" bolts like say lug nuts, you probably want to buy a good breaker bar if you don't have one.

 

[supersaiyan93]

Seconded on the GearWrench 120XP set. I needed a flex head on a stubborn bellhousing bolt on a LS motor recently, and the 3/8" ratchet from the set was the PERFECT tool for it. Fit and finish is good and they turn smooth as butter.

Also comes with the big nasty 1/2" ratchet for bolts that need a little more "motivation".

 

[DadsTools]

Buy them all. Put the inner debate to rest.

 

[5ktq]

Yeah, good idea to have flex handle for motivation, but long 1/2 is very useful after you crack it, esp if rusty / damaged threads, stover nut, etc, that fights the whole way off.

 

[Al Borland]

Get them ALL. (Garage Journal Official Policy)

 

[2000-cvpi]

Get them ALL. (Garage Journal Official Policy)

Then buy a second set for backups. While you are at it start looking at larger tool chests and maybe a tool cart.

 

[Mgdoug3]

Then buy a second set for backups. While you are at it start looking at larger tool chests and maybe a tool cart.

But if you get a bigger tool box, you need more tools. Since you have more tools, you need another toolbox. The cycle then continues.

 

[Mr Ratchet]

By all means get the long flex. I like mine to lock and have the Armstrong in 3/8" and 1/2". There are times when they are too long and I'll use my standard length SO ratchets. I reach for the long ones first though.

These two sets would along with a 3/8 flex stubby and bent handle flex would cover the majority of my uses.
http://www.gearwrench.com/ratchets-...6f-3-pc-full-polish-84-tooth-ratchet-set.html
http://www.gearwrench.com/ratchets-...l-polish-locking-flex-handle-ratchet-set.html

 

[HFlashman]

I might wait for the new SK low profile ratchet in 1/2 inch (long, flex) but who knows when it will be released.

 

[Wamsutta]

Snap-on Dual 80. Nothing else really compares.