Harbor freight flex ratchet modification?

[PT Doc]

Had anyone taken out the middle section of this ratchet in order to make a stubby flex? I looked at it on the store and it looks like it would work but did take any measurements. This would make a sealed head 72 tooth stubby that hf currently does not offer and for $12 bucks.

 

[Lomotil]

Seems like it would work, I almost picked one of those up yesterday. I've been really happy with the swivel-head stubby 3/8" they have, but your idea might be able to take a bit more abuse.

 

[PT Doc]

And it is able to be taken apart and lubed.

 

[3 at 8]

Had anyone taken out the middle section of this ratchet in order to make a stubby flex? I looked at it on the store and it looks like it would work but did take any measurements. This would make a sealed head 72 tooth stubby that hf currently does not offer and for $12 bucks.

I think Moleshot did if you are talking about the same one.

 

[PT Doc]

Holeshot, you've created this mini mutant? Photos please. Do the detents work well?

 

[Aklass]

I have this ratchet and yes you can disassemble the had to lube it, my only gripe with the ratchet is that the selector has too much play and can easily be knocked into the neutral zone or revered. As for making a stubby, it looks ver much possible.

 

[John316]

If you are talking about this:
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-heavy-duty-flexible-ratchet-96369.html

Yes. I have this and removed the section to make a stubby. Took about 90 seconds and is working out great for the money spent

 

[Cheapskate]

I picked up a few when they were $7.99 earlier this year and made a few different sizes with them. Removed the center section for a stubby, used a average length breaker bar handle for an everyday ratchet and used the 3/8" long breaker bar that they were closing out to make a long version.

 

[mrholeshot]

Yes works fine

 

[PT Doc]

Cheapskate, very nice work. I'll have to invest 90 seconds st make up my own. THANKS

 

[freeskier]

you use the rear handle on the head correct? just ditch the center section?

 

[PT Doc]

To make a stubby flex? Yes.

 

[freeskier]

doc, very cool thanks. i need a 1/2inch flex stubby

 

[eborcim]

those look pretty good

 

[Lomotil]

This thread inspired me to buy the original 3/8 ratchet... Only because I actually visited HF today to buy something else, and had the foresight to bring my coupons with me... Ended up getting two pairs of free scissors, one free 12" clamp, and 20% off not only the bolt-cutter I'd gone there for, but also to re-use the same coupon to get the ratchet and another free scissor.

Not a bad day.

I doubt I'll be converting mine into a flex-stubby, as I haven't yet come across anything that my pivoting-head 3/8" Pittsburgh Pro can't handle, but it's nice to know that this is an option...

 

[bsmith80]

Hate to bring up such an old thread but don't have a trip in store planned for awhile so I can't look and figure it out for myself but contemplating an online order and these have caught my eye .... How exactly are these things being taken apart and/or attached together ?

 

[Jarhead0408]

Looks like a Hex-head bolt to me.