Long Flex Double Head Ratcheting Combo Wrenches

[Armatron]

Even as a complete home gamer, I am burning through these tekton wrenches.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F512F7Y/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have a Miata and run a second track Miata. They have a FWD motor installed a RWD car. Tons of stuff is very difficult to reach and essentially requires these long flex head ratchet wrenches. While the tekton wrenches are functional, they don't last. I've warrantied them twice, tekton is great about it, but the hinge part loosens up with even moderate torque and the tightening screw is VERY easy to strip. I need something that either clicks the flex head into place, or has a sturdy mechanism for occasionally tightening up the flex joint.

Snap-On seems to only have blue point, 12 point style. I would prefer 6 point.

Mac has some, but they all have crows foot (edit: open end wrench) on one end which will literally never be used.

Ideally someone makes something similar to the tekton - combo 8mm / 10mm, 12mm / 14mm, etc. If not, I'll go with crows foot (edit: open end style), but any suggestion on brand for these?

 

[Armatron]

Okay, I found these. Thoughts on flank drive? They're a little bit longer than I would prefer, but can always use the tektons if I need something shorter.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

 

[LWB]

If you're breaking them regularly I'd consider something like this.

86112 12mm 120XP™ Universal Spline XL GearBox™ Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 86112 12mm 120XP™ Universal Spline XL GearBox™ Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench here.

www.gearwrench.com

Break it loose with the fixed end and then use the ratcheting end.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Having owned miatas...... what are doing to them with these wrenches?

 

[Cruzan80]

I am still trying to figure out what he means by crowfoot on the end... A standard combination wrench (ratcheting box end)?

 

[retDAC]

It has been suggested you could use electrical tape to stiffen the joints on flex heads. Maybe 2 to 4 stretched wraps.

 

[tamaraw]

I am still trying to figure out what he means by crowfoot on the end... A standard combination wrench (ratcheting box end)?

Crowfoot wrenches do exist... but I don't think that's what they mean either.

 

[Wamsutta]

Snap-On seems to only have blue point, 12 point style. I would prefer 6 point.

They're making their own now. I don't know why you don't like 12 point. I've never had a 12 point Snap-on ever slip on me.

XFRM1214

 

[tamaraw]

Miatas are pretty simple and most were built before these sort of tools were sold, so I can't see much "requiring" them.

It looks like the hinge pin on the Tekton wrenches is torx which shouldn't strip that easily. Most hinge mechanisms on modern tools have an internal spring that maintains tension, so trying to crank the hinge pin tighter won't really do much. Calling it a "tightening screw" and treating it as such may be the issue here.

The Snap-on wrenches could be ok but that's a lot of cash for the set when 2 out of the 5 wrenches are useless for your application. As for flank drive on a box end, it's going to be basically the same as any other modern tool with off-corner loading.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Miatas are pretty simple and most were built before these sort of tools were sold, so I can't see much "requiring" them.

It looks like the hinge pin on the Tekton wrenches is torx which shouldn't strip that easily. Most hinge mechanisms on modern tools have an internal spring that maintains tension, so trying to crank the hinge pin tighter won't really do much. Calling it a "tightening screw" and treating it as such may be the issue here.

The Snap-on wrenches could be ok but that's a lot of cash for the set when 2 out of the 5 wrenches are useless for your application. As for flank drive on a box end, it's going to be basically the same as any other modern tool with off-corner loading.

They were built for the tool he's using. LOL. All the accessories, manifolds, etc seem purpose built for these wrenches.

I'm guessing if it's a track car, the thermostat is rerouted as well closer to its "intended" location on the rear of the head.

Before buying snapon, which I'm sure would last longer, I'm curious what's being done. If the wrench is for snugging turbo hardware on a track car, the solution is/was inconel hardware, not a better wrench.

 

[Armatron]

I am still trying to figure out what he means by crowfoot on the end... A standard combination wrench (ratcheting box end)?

Sorry brain fart. I meant a standard open end wrench

 

[Armatron]

Miatas are pretty simple and most were built before these sort of tools were sold, so I can't see much "requiring" them.

It looks like the hinge pin on the Tekton wrenches is torx which shouldn't strip that easily. Most hinge mechanisms on modern tools have an internal spring that maintains tension, so trying to crank the hinge pin tighter won't really do much. Calling it a "tightening screw" and treating it as such may be the issue here.

The Snap-on wrenches could be ok but that's a lot of cash for the set when 2 out of the 5 wrenches are useless for your application. As for flank drive on a box end, it's going to be basically the same as any other modern tool with off-corner loading.

Maybe not strictly required, but there are wiring harness and other mounts/clamps on the back of the motor against the firewall. There’s a dipstick tube bolt where one of these is 100% required. There are downpipe flange bolts where it’s required. Alternator/ps stuff where it’s not required but helps a ton. Some of these applications you can access with a regular length ratcheting wrench but it’s easier with a long version.

I think you might be correct about the tektons not designed to stiffen up using the bolt on the yoke. It’s a tiny bolt and only captured by about 4 engaged threads. There is no spring or other method to give tension.

 

[Armatron]

They were built for the tool he's using. LOL. All the accessories, manifolds, etc seem purpose built for these wrenches.

I'm guessing if it's a track car, the thermostat is rerouted as well closer to its "intended" location on the rear of the head.

Before buying snapon, which I'm sure would last longer, I'm curious what's being done. If the wrench is for snugging turbo hardware on a track car, the solution is/was inconel hardware, not a better wrench.

The primary purpose is a mid pipe clamp that can be accessed through the wheel well with the car in the ground, but it absolutely requires one of these wrenches. 12mm bolt and has to tightened fairly often. It’s a common Miata issue, not limited to track prepped cars.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I would buy the snap ons you need for those applications then. You could also use a combo wrench with a flex head reversable if you wanted a similar length.

I'm with you, all the brackets, alternator, it all just begs for these wrenches.

 

[mhejl]

Having owned miatas...... what are doing to them with these wrenches?

Same question, owning and tracking NA, NB, and NCs (the latter with a Cosworth SC). There's not one bolt anywhere that these are "100% required." Even manifold bolts or anything around the bell housing. Even though I do have SO ratcheting and Kabo-style long flexes.

I do use a ratcheting wrench for the rear manifold bolts on the NC using an "S" or "C" style ratcheting obstruction wrench, but not necessary. I also use Saltus style SO wrenches on manifold bolts.

 

[stonesfan68]

Astro Pneumatic Tools has a ratcheting tool that is designed to use with their low profile sockets. They have two different size handles as well. It might work for your application.

Astro Tools 78318

 

[Armatron]

Same question, owning and tracking NA, NB, and NCs (the latter with a Cosworth SC). There's not one bolt anywhere that these are "100% required." Even manifold bolts or anything around the bell housing. Even though I do have SO ratcheting and Kabo-style long flexes.

I do use a ratcheting wrench for the rear manifold bolts on the NC using an "S" or "C" style ratcheting obstruction wrench, but not necessary. I also use Saltus style SO wrenches on manifold bolts.

Ironically, I just did some front sway bar work today to prep for the next track day. Removing thefront lower end link bolt, no way you are doing that with a regular wrench. You can't use a socket since you need an allen key to hold the stud from moving. I was actually at a buddy's house, who has a little more than basic hand tools, and had to run home and grab my flex head ratcheting wrenches.

 

[Armatron]

I would buy the snap ons you need for those applications then. You could also use a combo wrench with a flex head reversable if you wanted a similar length.

I'm with you, all the brackets, alternator, it all just begs for these wrenches.

I'm just going to cave and get the snap on set. Crazy expensive, but honestly these things are my most used tools for these miatas.

Is there any benefit (cost, customer service) over chasing down a truck and paying cash vs buying from the website?

 

[demarpaint]

I'm just going to cave and get the snap on set. Crazy expensive, but honestly these things are my most used tools for these miatas.

Is there any benefit (cost, customer service) over chasing down a truck and paying cash vs buying from the website?

Chasing down a truck can vary. I got lucky and got a few nice cash deals finding a SO guy that appreciates my occasional business.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I'm just going to cave and get the snap on set. Crazy expensive, but honestly these things are my most used tools for these miatas.

Is there any benefit (cost, customer service) over chasing down a truck and paying cash vs buying from the website?

Me personally? I would not go through the hassle of chasing down a truck, to hope he has these in stock and available. Unless you know someone with a driver, I'd just buy online.

 

[roofdweller49]

Always search eBay to see if you can get a deal first on the snap on item you want first

 

[assassin10000]

Do you have or have you tried the Kabo made ones?

You can pick them up at harbor freight under the Icon line if one is local to you. Stronger than the tekton and slightly longer as well.

 

[Samuel D]

Check the price of the individual Snap-on items you need before buying a set.

Although Snap-on’s sets have more thought put into them than most companies’ sets, there isn’t much price saving over buying the items individually – unless the set is on sale as it sometimes is. So unless you really need all the items in the set, you can save a lot by just buying what you need.

 

[VolvoRyan]

Miatas are pretty simple and most were built before these sort of tools were sold, so I can't see much "requiring" them.

I find modern tools work miracles on my old cars, yet I can somehow get away with a 40-tooth SK round head for too many things on my modern cars. Really a head scratcher.

Is there any benefit (cost, customer service) over chasing down a truck and paying cash vs buying from the website?

There is a benefit to buying from the website, IMHO: little more ease of warranty. When your name is in the computer at the home office, you're clearly not a guy trying to warranty yard-sale purchases. I've had to warranty a now-obsolete tool through email once, and Snap-On had replacement parts on my doorstep, like, next day... or the following day.

Plus, as said above, you can just buy what you need instead of a set. I have a number of almost single-purpose tools from Snap-On.

-Ryan

 

[Armatron]

Thanks all. I bought the snap-on set. Appreciate the advice

 

[Dakotadadv8]

OP it is a nice set. Looking at 8 10, 12 14 mm ones.

 

[richfinn]

The bolts shouldn't be that tight/seized on a track car that is getting worked on so frequently?, I use the Mountain branded versions as a roadside tech and they are good tools, not had any issues and wouldn't ever want six points (too hard to index in tight spots).

If I ever break one I would just buy an individual to replace it.

I can't remember if 12mm and 14mm are "partners" on the same wrench, but potentially you could get away with just two wrenchesto cover those four sizes

 

[Armatron]

The bolts shouldn't be that tight/seized on a track car that is getting worked on so frequently?, I use the Mountain branded versions as a roadside tech and they are good tools, not had any issues and wouldn't ever want six points (too hard to index in tight spots).

If I ever break one I would just buy an individual to replace it.

I can't remember if 12mm and 14mm are "partners" on the same wrench, but potentially you could get away with just two wrenchesto cover those four sizes

With all the random stuff I do on these cars, the tektons just aren't made for it. I'm not exaggerating, I use these flex head ratchets 90% of the time - even when not absolutely needed.

After some thought, I really was using the tektons for more than they're made for. Suspension stuff, exhaust stuff, and remember that miata fasteners rust up if you just look at them funny. So it's not like a "break it loose and it spins off" sort of deal.

I also was tightening the pivot screw, and it's really not designed to be tightened to stiffen the joint up. This post is not a knock on the tektons. I will keep and continue using them. I just have a need (want) for a set of wrenches designed for more hard use.

Snap on set is ordered, pretty excited about it.

 

[Cruzan80]

I think you are over-expecting in general, and the Snap On stuff will also be getting warrantied. That is, if you continue to use it for the items you mentioned above. Just not there yet in materials/design for anyone...

 

[LWB]

Break them loose with a fixed end before spinning them off. I do it all the time with suspension stuff and have yet to break a Tekton or Mountain.

 

[Armatron]

I think you are over-expecting in general, and the Snap On stuff will also be getting warrantied. That is, if you continue to use it for the items you mentioned above. Just not there yet in materials/design for anyone...

Maybe so, but it has a pretty logo

 

[joel63]

I'm just going to cave and get the snap on set. Crazy expensive, but honestly these things are my most used tools for these miatas.

Is there any benefit (cost, customer service) over chasing down a truck and paying cash vs buying from the website?

Do you need to buy the whole set?

 

[Armatron]

Do you need to buy the whole set?

I mean technically I don't really need any of them, it's a splurge purchase. I use 10 and 12mm the most, which are two wrenches. I use 16mm and 17mm quite a bit, which are another two wrenches.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Does anyone make a double ended flex wrench with a regular boxed end on one end and a same-size ratcheting box end on the other?

 

[roofdweller49]

Shop Double Box Ratcheting Wrenches from Gearwrench

Shop GEARWRENCH Double Box Ratcheting Wrenches for your next job. Get things done and find the right product for your needs here.

www.gearwrench.com

These guys

 

[joel63]

I mean technically I don't really need any of them, it's a splurge purchase. I use 10 and 12mm the most, which are two wrenches. I use 16mm and 17mm quite a bit, which are another two wrenches.

I get what you're saying.
Sometimes getting the complete set is the only way to go.
Good luck in finding what works best for your needs.
More tools has a way of making one feel good.

 

[threewood]

The Snap Ons are nice. I kind of wish they had indexing heads but I tightened up the pivot bolt so they stay in place.

 

[Armatron]

The Snap Ons are nice. I kind of wish they had indexing heads but I tightened up the pivot bolt so they stay in place.

Dang, my understanding was they had the detent style indexing

 

[AEAdam]

Dang, my understanding was they had the detent style indexing

I think detents are cheesy and don’t hold well. Snap on flex heads are typically pretty stiff and better than detent. You can fine tune them and make them floppy if you want that. I never have. I like them stiff.

 

[pl_silverado]

I bought the Snap-on ones like 5 years ago. I use them all the time now, only wish they had 21, 22, & 24 mm offerings to compliment that set.