GearWrench Survey

[TheToolMan]

I have the Full metric xl set and the full set of sea standard lenght wrenches, i like to use the ratcheting end to break the bolts loose, I feel that the open end has alot of deflection when applying alot of torque, I have never had a problem with the ratcheting end giving up on me, I like the gearwrench stuff

 

[beardking]

Maybe you should check out our X-Beam wrenches. We have a regular combination wrench, a ratcheting wrench, and in the next few months, we will be adding a reversible ratcheting wrench and a flex ratcheting wrench to the family. You are not alone in complaining about the feel of the wrench!

http://www.gearwrench.com/catalog/wrenches/ratcheting/xl_x-beam/

Ian

Do you take trade ins???

 

[Junkman]

Maybe you should check out our X-Beam wrenches. We have a regular combination wrench, a ratcheting wrench, and in the next few months, we will be adding a reversible ratcheting wrench and a flex ratcheting wrench to the family. You are not alone in complaining about the feel of the wrench!

http://www.gearwrench.com/catalog/wrenches/ratcheting/xl_x-beam/

Ian

I would be willing to accept a complementary SAE set of these wrenches and give you my honest and unbiased opinion of them in a rugged workout on a very old car...

 

[jniolon]

I usually use a boxed end first then the gear wrench for removal. Didn't have these growing up. I love them, they are the first wrench I grab (along with it's boxed end partner) for any work... I'd rather use the gear wrench if possible over a ratchet/socket... lighter and easier to use...

John

 

[Blacktooth Grin]

I voted sometimes, but that is a prediction. I just got my first set of GearWrenches and have only used them once.

 

[1320stang]

I voted never, but on one occasion I have.

My first GearWrench was a 18mm Mr Goodwrench I bought from AutoZone for some front end work on a Chrysler product I had and they didn't have a 18mm regular wrench at the 24 hour store I was at. I couldn't believe the price (expensive, at least to me, around $20) but it was one of those, had to get it done before morning type things and a socket wouldn't work.

I had to use a hammer on the edge of it to get it loose and it worked fine. Also had to use it to torque it down (again with the hammer, don't know the torque specs, don't care as the car is long gone) but I was amazed at how cool of a tool it was.

Now I don't wrench a lot, and my tool expenditures are very limited with 3 kids, a mortgage (and now a second with an addition) and two car payments. They are really more of a luxury to me, but of any tool I could go out and buy now, hand or electric (i.e. battery powered), these are what I would buy. Now recently Ace Hardware had 4 piece sets on sale for $10 in both metric (10-13?)and SAE (3/8-9/16)and I bought both sets and typically go for them before a regular wrench or a socket and ratchet.

Now keep in mind, I voted never because I don't consider under 20 foot pounds 'breaking free or final torque'. If it's a rusted fastener, I don't use them to break them loose and if it's a pretty high torque, I don't use them to set it.

This weekend I had a perfect situation for my 1/2". I was hanging some 8x8 cedar fence panels on some metal pipe gate frames I had welded up. I used a 2x4 vertically spanning the four horizontal 2x4's that the pickets are nailed to and the frame happened to hit the vertical 2x4s between the horizontal ones. I got some 1 3/4" x 4 3/8" u-bolts and drilled above and below the pipe and ran the u-bolts thru and they stuck out about 3/4" into the 1 1/2" space. It would have been a lot of open end wrenching or fixed boxed wrenching on those eight u-bolts and a LOT of hand cramping with my carpel tunneled hands.

The one thing I haven't found and that I wish for would be able to fill out my collection without repeating what I already have. As much as I wish, I just can't afford to buy 12 and 13 piece sets, I'd like to be able to buy the next 3 or 4 pieces above and keep doing that to fill out my collection.

I'm not a big flex head guy and I don't care for the reversables, I'm okay with just flipping the wrench over. I don't need extra long ones, or twisted handles, double boxed ended ones might be nice as it's two wrenches in one, but the reversable quad boxed ones that each side is a different size isn't my bag. I don't even own a flex head ratchet and the only times I've used one, I didn't care for the handle moving in a different direction than I wanted it to and I didn't have the luxury of the room to hold my hand on the head.

I have the Robo-Grip pliers (waste of money) and a few other gimicky tools, usually as a father's day gift or birthday, but of the last 30 years or so, I think this is the greatest idea to come into the hand tool market.

Oh, and if my name is drawn, I'd rather have a few more GearWrenches to help fill up some spots, if it's possible.

 

[musgofasta]

Thanks very much for the feedback. Question - do you own the flex or locking-flex set? As you may know, we offer both, but they may not be available for purchase in the same locations.

Ian

"ADJUSTABLE SET SCREW" - Hey I didn't know that! Guess what I'm doing today? Locking those things down tight!

Thanks!

 

[fourfeathers]

I use the heck outta mine, and have had no issues at all yet. That said, I just picked up a set of the box/box ratcheting and they are SWEET. Zero clerance on one side of the box too. They are SUPER long, slim, and strong. Very nice product, and one I'd recommend to others worried about large amounts of torque.

Oh, and if you guys get a chance to try the flex ratchets, go for it. They are sweet too.

Now about that made in China tag....

 

[JayL]

I would like these wrenches but have second thoughts buying.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/ProductD...reId=10153&productId=40853612&catalogId=12605

However if the ratcheting side is reversible or flex head then it will encourage me to do so.

 

[mankiew]

For small or clean bolts (not rusty) i will use the gearwrench to break them free and torque them down.

Since i live in Wisconsin and drive clapped out cars, most larger bolts are rusty and i use a regular box wrench or breaker bar to get those off.

Craig

 

[Coach James]

To me, loosening a snug fitting is not breaking it loose. Breaking loose is removing a rusted, glued, etc fitting. For those I use a wrench or breaker bar. For anything else, I have no problem using one of my Gear wrenches.

Coach

 

[lauver]

I typically use my GearWrenches only to run the nut/bolt on and off. I break them loose and do final tightening with a boxend or socket. There are occasional exceptions involving low torque fasteners.

Question, what does GearWrench recommend regarding breaking loose and final tightening?

 

[Sundowner]

I have a few sets of gear wrenches. I beat on them pretty hard. Unfortunately, I kinda have to beat on them because the odds are that if I'm trying to bust a nut loose with a gear wrench, it's becuase nothing else will get in there to fit on said nut. I'm not shy about thumping the open end with a 5lb mallet to get the nut to break free, either. I haven't broken one yet, but the 14mm one is getting a little sticky on me.

as far the the flex head models are concerned, I bought a first generation set and loved them until they got loose. then they just pi$$ed me off all the time. I have since bought a set with the toggles on the side that lock-in the angle of the flex. I like those a lot better.

 

[mister honey]

I always use a breaker bar and socket rather than a wrench to loosen fasteners larger than 3/8 UNC.

Mike

 

[Fedwrench]

When is Gearwrench going to update their website? Most of the content is at least a year old. Come on guys, lets see some new products and perhaps more info on existings items. please,

 

[wesreams]

i always use my flex gearwrenches to break bolts and nuts loose, i even use a cheater wrench on em with no problems, and just my 2CENTS the ratchets need something better than snap rings to hold the guts in< i have dropped my ratchet twice with a 19MM deep socket and the guts go flyin across the shop

 

[W-Cummins]

I only have stubby wrenches in the GearWrench brand. So no high torque for me.... BTW the slickest application for my stubbies is to remove fan bolts a job I used to really hate

William....

 

[dxdexter]

I have ratcheting wrenches (not Gear Wrench brand), but actually find that I forget about them and use conventional wrenches. I guess its just what I'm use to. For the few times I have used them, I broke the fasteners free with the wrench. They are quite handy when I remember them.

 

[nissan_crawler]

I've beat the holy hell out of mine for 6 years as an aviation mechanic (1/4-1"set, have 3 other sets at home). I do not, and will not, reach for another wrench to break a bolt loose because it's tight. That's self-defeating and counter-productive.

I have locked up one 9/16" wrench in that time, and after that it always locked up easily, so I exchanged it. I didn't have a problem with that happening, considering a 6' 240 pound gorilla (me) had both feet braced and was yanking on it as hard as he could. Truth be told, I wouldn't have been that surprised if I had broken a box end wrench. That being said, the bolt still came loose.

If I had to reach for a regular wrench to break a fastener loose before I used my gear wrenches, they wouldn't be taking up valuable space in my toolbox.

I would venture to say the get used almost as much as all 3 drive sizes of ratchets combined. If I can easily use my gear wrenches, or my Snap-On ratchets, I'm picking up my gear wrenches.

Considering I've had 3 Snap-On ratchets rebuilt in the same time frame, I don't considering have to replace one out of 13 used and abused wrenches bad at all.

 

[CatfishXpress]

I voted sometimes, it really depends on the situation. I try not to abuse the gearwrenches I know they are not intended to use as a breaker bar replacement. But sometimes I'm in a situation where its much easier to use the gearwrench.

 

[mikeatrpi]

Sometimes.

Do you (or, why don't you) sell a ratcheting / box end wrench? I've never used the open end of my gear wrenches. Has anyone?

Edit, I will google before I comment...
http://www.gearwrench.com/catalog/wrenches/ratcheting/gearbox/

 

[Stanger]

If the length of the wrench provides adequate torque for the application, I use my gearwrench to break it free. I only switch to something longer/stronger when I can't budge it with the gearwrench. I abuse mine and I won't deny it. Like you said, that is what the warranty is for, although I haven't had to use it. I also apply final torque if it is a non-critical fastener.

 

[Crasen]

I will use a ratcheting wrench to break a bolt loose if i do not feel like it is too much. If I need to hang on the wrench or use a cheater wrench I will get a non ratcheting wrench. I have put more weight on them than I though they would handle before though.

 

[PowderKeg]

Break 'em loose with a box end, then ratchet them off. Snug 'em up with a ratcheting one, then tighten down with a box. Use a normal ratchet and socket whenever/wherever it'll fit, reach for the wrenches in tight spots.

 

[JeepsAreBuilt]

I voted sometimes.. handles are too short for high torque. I'd like to see xtra long reversible ratcheting wrenches 15 deg. offset. I'll add I never hit a gearwrench with a hammer to break a fastener loose. Oh, I already have the 2 price gear wrench pliers in needle nose and 45 deg bent needle nose.. can I get the hose pliers instead ?

 

[Deafautotech]

I am glad that i have ratcheting wrenches(lot of set) because i am always get in tight area which i have to break loose with box end wrench then use ratcheting wrench to loose it and run it down when i replaced the parts then tight with box end wrench. i am always seen many techs keep use gearwrenches no matter what jobs is but they use it and sometime they cracked the grearwrench's gear or froze inside... i own Gearwrench XL metric. i like the surface drive which it make more contact if i have to use open end wrench while i am doing the front end alignment.

 

[l_bilyk]

I'll be honest, if I can apply enough force on the gearwrench to break a fastener free, then I do it. I switch to something else when I have to apply so much force that i start to think about the wrench slipping off and me skinning my knuckles

 

[mickeyone]

For rusty,stubborn stuff breaker bar or impact The gear wrenches are great but more light duty,Great for driving multiple fasteners.For high torque bring out the artillary.

 

[RJS]

I'll use my 8mm or 10mm to break stuff loose. The larger ones usually don't offer enough leverage to easily break things loose though and I just use a long handled ratchet or breaker. I do occasionally use them for re-assembly though.

 

[eschoendorff]

When is Gearwrench going to update their website? Most of the content is at least a year old. Come on guys, lets see some new products and perhaps more info on existings items. please,

I was wondering the same thing. Nice website...just needs updated content!

GearWrench brand ratcheting wrenches were originally an item that I bought at Lowes on clearance because I was willing to spend a few bucks on something that might be a gimmick. I think it's safe to say, though, that the GearWrench-style ratcheting wrenches are probably one of the most significant tool developments of the late 20th century.

The other thing that I really dig about GearWrench, though, is that just about every other tool that I have used with the GearWrench brand on it is consistent in quality. Regardless of country of origin, regardless of place of purchase. Makes me more confident when shopping for tools.... so congrats on that...



One of these days, I gotta try out a GearWrench 3/8 long-handled flex head ratchet.....

 

[Itzkwik]

Keep one set in my shop box and another in the toolbox in the van for work. Beat the hell outta the ones at work and no problems so far.
If you send me the 3/8" flex head, I'll be sure to let Ed know how they hold up.

 

[danc333]

I have been using GearWrenches for about 3 years now. I have had not problems with them at all. As a mater a fact I just purchased 2 sets of Stubbys (SEA and Metric) . Two weeks ago. I don't do alot of heavy duty work but I have used the ratcheting side for loosening fasteners that where not "stuck".
Things like oil drain plugs, and interior nuts and bolts have been no problem. I also have had no problem tightening those same fasteners. I like them and will continue to expand my tool collection.Next purchase....Flex head!!!

 

[DarrenF]

I beat mine up pretty good and haven't had any trouble. I'm on the lookout for a set of stubby's to round out my set.

 

[speed bump]

I voted sometimes since at work I will use them mostly when I need to speed off a nut or a crescent or rachet wont fit (or isn't handy). At home I have stubbies so I just them to speed up the process.

As far as buying more I wish they were USA made otherwise I am probably going to pick up the Craftsmans or Armstrongs whenever I decide I need more of them.

 

[Bud_Man]

All of my tools are crank till they break. If it breaks make it bigger!

 

[Merkava_4]

Well when you think about it, the correct way is to use the box end for breaking the fastener free; not the open end; but it's okay to final tighten with the open end if you have to.

That being said, if you have a combination wrench with an open end on one end and a ratcheting box on the other end, that ratcheting box end SHOULD be able to do everything that a regular fixed box end can do; with the exception being the clearance issue.

In the case of the Armstrong fixed box / ratcheting box, then yes, I'd use the fixed box end to break the fastener free and then tighten it back up with the ratcheting end.

 

[spencerian]

If I'm not sure of the torque needed to free a fastener I will always use a regular wrench to break the fastener free.

 

[Mugenlude]

I voted sometimes.

If I know the nut/bolt has been off in past then I have no problem putting the ratcheting wrench on it, however, if it's rusty (common here in WI) then I'll use something without a ratcheting action.

That being said, I've never had any of my Gearwrench stuff skip on me while removing anything, so maybe I should give it the benefit of the doubt and start using them in that manner....

 

[klswvu]

I voted never.

I use a 6 pt. box end wrench to break fasteners loose. I was under the impression that ratcheting wrenches should not be used in that manner. If that is not true, I would probably use them more often.

 

[Jokeman]

I use them sometimes for breaking bolts loose. Only in a pinch if I am out on the snowmobile trail or on the boat where I don't have anything else available. I have hung on a few of them pretty hard and they didn't show any sign of weakness.