Long Handled 1/2" Drive Ratchet

[lardy1]

As I wallow in self pity because I can't justify the nearly two hundred dollars for the Proto 90 tooth that I want, I'm researching more affordable options.

The affordable domestic options that are currently capturing my interest are the Williams S-52EHLA and the Proto J5450XL. I've never bought any Williams tools new. But a domestic 1/2" drive ratchet for around fifty bucks sounds good. I have Proto tools and really like them. I have the 90 tooth in 3/8"drive but as I stated above, two hundred dollars is beyond my current budget. The J5450XL is far less tooth count (45) but higher tooth count than the Williams (36). I doubt clearance will be a huge issue so I'm not sure that will make any difference.

Some of you pro's and some of you home gamers know way more about this than I. I'm looking for input from folks that have actually used these tools.

Thanks

 

[sparky 1971]

24" SK LP 90? Epstein has fixed or flex for under $145. Tekton has a 24" fixed head for $45.
I have no experience with the ratchets you actually listed.

 

[Stooge]

For a longer ratchet that you might have interference issues with if its a tight fitting area, I like to have a flex head, since you don't always space to swing a 17+" handle. I have this SK that I bought at Epsteins, and its been an absolute brute. it just has the standard SK round head low tooth count, and for a big 1/2" ratchet, a low tooth count doesn't really bother me, but they have the upgraded mechanism you can buy to convert it to a higher tooth count
https://www.harryepstein.com/ratchets-1-2-drive-26478.html

 

[Mr_B]

The williams is bit clunky after using high tooth count .
Proto be my preference out the two as much prefer the grip and bit higher tooth count, even 45 tooth count can feel/prove awkward when been using 72+ for years .
If you like round heads have a look at williams S-53a and others in the range as think they 72 tooth .
Usual brands of taiwan offerings would be similar cost for higher tooth count, another nice ratchet is facom extendable handle SXL-161, 72 tooth and goes from 10" to 16" roughly, great versatile ratchet and I take that any job out the shop or at the pull-a-part yard . they around 100buck pre covid .

 

[Oil leak]

I have the Williams and as stated it is a bit clunky. I like it though a good solid ratchet. I do like my Proto ratchets more. In fact I use my Proto more than my Snap on and I wrench on heavy equipment/hydraulic for a living.

 

[lardy1]

For a longer ratchet that you might have interference issues with if its a tight fitting area, I like to have a flex head, since you don't always space to swing a 17+" handle. I have this SK that I bought at Epsteins, and its been an absolute brute. it just has the standard SK round head low tooth count, and for a big 1/2" ratchet, a low tooth count doesn't really bother me, but they have the upgraded mechanism you can buy to convert it to a higher tooth count
https://www.harryepstein.com/ratchets-1-2-drive-26478.html

I have that ratchet and I love it. Have it in 3/8" also. Great ratchets. I should have explained earlier that I'm looking for about a fifteen to eighteen inch handle. If Tekton offered it, this would likely be in my candidates even as an import.

I warranted a Gearwrench 84 tooth locking flex and they gave me a new one. I put the Matco 88 in the original and have both of them now. My thinking is a fixed handle, affordable 1/2 drive to not wreck my flex heads by reefing too hard on them. I'm set at regular length fixed handle. SK and Cornwell on board.

 

[DerekV]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/293650935648

Not $50, but not $200 either.

 

[James W]

I have the williams, I think its a nice ratchet for my purposes (mostly heavy equipment) the lower tooth count hasn't bothered me, I find it usually use it for breaking things free and switch to a shorter ratchet if needed. Nice compromise between a breaker bar and regular ratchet.

 

[toddmorr]

that 5450 Proto and it's variants is very strong, well built, clearly made for extremely demanding requirements. the head alone is rather massive. 45 tooth is a non issue if you're using it as intended.

 

[BrandoJames]

I own the 1/2" Williams S-52EHLA, it's my strongest ratchet by far. I use it both as a ratchet and mini-breaker bar. When I'm using my other ratchets and there's a troublesome fastener, the Williams is "big brother"--he'll step in and kick ***.

 

[Jmo371]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/293650935648

Not $50, but not $200 either.

and they won't replace it when it breaks.

 

[ssdave]

....

 

[will335i]

and they won't replace it when it breaks.

I second looking at ebay. I picked up a SHLF80A for a great price.

If you are worried about them not warrantying it you can get rebuild kit is 10.50 and if you get a flex head the repair joint is also 10.50 straight from snap on. If you break the shaft I would be impressed but you also might find a Driver that is willing to work with you if you spend some money on the truck.

Also FWIW I have sent in a ratchet that I bought on ebay to snap on and they replaced it for me with no hassle. I wouldn't go buying broken tools just to warranty them out but if you have an occasional claim they might be willing to work with you.

 

[TuxThePenguin]

As I wallow in self pity because I can't justify the nearly two hundred dollars for the Proto 90 tooth that I want, I'm researching more affordable options.

so their ratchets are here https://www.protoindustrial.com/lit...2618_Proto Precision 90 Ratchets Brochure.pdf

Which one is the one that interests you? J5450HTC ("long")? J5426HTC ("extra long")?

J5450HTC seems to be $183 at Zoro; if you had a 20% coupon, that's $146. Is that the ratchet you want? Is $146 more in your price range or is that too far out?

I have the cheaper J5457F round head 72-tooth and it's a pretty nice ratchet. Not going to say it's the best ratchet around but for the price, I really like it. They have a fixed-head version, the J5454F. https://www.zoro.com/proto-hand-ratchet-12-dr-15-l-j5454f/i/G9789561/?recommended=true

For the $250 one above, I just got a long flex (non-locking) 1/2" Snap On hard handle in the mail on Friday and it was like $230 I think. yikes.

 

[lardy1]

The J5450HTC is the one I referred to. I have the 3/8" drive version and it's great. I can't recall what I paid for it. Slightly over a hundred from Zoro after a 10% first purchase discount. The 1/2" is quite a jump from there. Particularly when I am a retiree that really doesn't need it anyway.

 

[sparky 1971]

I have that ratchet and I love it. Have it in 3/8" also. Great ratchets. I should have explained earlier that I'm looking for about a fifteen to eighteen inch handle. If Tekton offered it, this would likely be in my candidates even as an import.

I warranted a Gearwrench 84 tooth locking flex and they gave me a new one. I put the Matco 88 in the original and have both of them now. My thinking is a fixed handle, affordable 1/2 drive to not wreck my flex heads by reefing too hard on them. I'm set at regular length fixed handle. SK and Cornwell on board.

https://www.harryepstein.com/ratchets-1-2-drive.html

https://www.ebay.com/itm/S-K-Wayne-...489546&hash=item4b807227c8:g:8ucAAOSwhBtfSstp

https://www.ebay.com/itm/SK-Hand-To...505117&hash=item5b7b4f198c:g:8CIAAOSw5Z9fOZTq

https://www.harryepstein.com/800740-2-1-2-drive-dx-sk-ratchet-mechanism-for-dt100.html

 

[Downwindtracker 2]

In the same boat as you. I chose a 72tooth Taiwanese made ProPoint , Princess Auto's deluxe brand for $45 Canadian. The spring that locks the flex could be stronger. The action is nice and smooth. For all the use I will give it, I can't speak on durability .

In Canada the official Snap-On policy is warranty for original purchaser only, Proto on the other hand is send it in. I played that one straight up, both were told they were fleamarket finds on the phone.

 

[old_smokey]

In the same boat as you. I chose a 72tooth Taiwanese made ProPoint , Princess Auto's deluxe brand for $45 Canadian. The spring that locks the flex could be stronger. The action is nice and smooth. For all the use I will give it, I can't speak on durability .

In Canada the official Snap-On policy is warranty for original purchaser only, Proto on the other hand is send it in. I played that one straight up, both were told they were fleamarket finds on the phone.

I have a ton of old snap on stuff I inherited from an uncle, and a lot of it was damaged. I emailed snap on Canada inquiring about repair parts (didn’t actually ask them to warranty anything) and they just sent me new stuff no questions asked. This is in Canada. I got ratchet rebuild kits, blue point ball peens, drawer sliders etc. I was really surprised.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Don1357]

It could be that you are planning on misusing the tool... Ratchet wrenches are not intended to apply brute force which is the absolute only reason you would want an extra long handle.

I have a monster breaker wrench with a 3/4" head and step down adapters. This is good enough to break 250-foot pound torqued axle nuts. Once they are loose then and only then I would switch to a ratchet wrench.

Keep your wrench short and listen when it is trying to tell you to pull out the breaker wrench.

 

[Downwindtracker 2]

That was nice of them. I think there is a lot of judgment involved, that why I explained the conditions on my experience.

If there is such a thing as a standard millwright 1/2" ratchet, it's the long handled Proto is it. Millwrights don't baby their tools.

 

[d.mcfarland]

On a longer 1/2" ratchet I think the best attributes would be a flexible head and high tooth count. Those might add to the cost, but when you need it, you need it.

 

[JiminAZ]

Plenty of nice options mentioned above. One that hasn't been mentioned is the Wright 4425 which is a 15" long 1/2" drive with knurled handle, double pawl design round head.

Or you could go for the 4494 which is the same but a traditional polished handle 15" "long" 1/2 drive.

Both US made and well under $100 from epsteins, amazon, etc. I own and very much like the 4494.

With that said, like others I have a flex head in my long 1/2 drive - which is an SK 24" LP90 model.

 

[Jmo371]

I second looking at ebay. I picked up a SHLF80A for a great price.

If you are worried about them not warrantying it you can get rebuild kit is 10.50 and if you get a flex head the repair joint is also 10.50 straight from snap on. If you break the shaft I would be impressed but you also might find a Driver that is willing to work with you if you spend some money on the truck.

Also FWIW I have sent in a ratchet that I bought on ebay to snap on and they replaced it for me with no hassle. I wouldn't go buying broken tools just to warranty them out but if you have an occasional claim they might be willing to work with you.

I get really skiddish about buying used hand tools....In my previous life I had the luxury of having access to a SO truck and he would work with us to swap tools out when we broke them, and come to us, half the cost of snap-on seems to be the convince of it all.

But i'm not sure a SO truck would work with a random guy who happened to have snap-on stuff he sourced second hand.

Its why I like DIY/pro-Lite brands, that it seems to be as of late, are just as good as long as you do your research and pick the brands strengths, not just go with one brand to keep it all the same color.

 

[richfinn]

Open to a Wildcard option?

https://www.primetools.co.uk/produc...lease-fine-tooth-flexible-head-ratchet-416mm/

 

[65k10]

I have both the J5450XL and the S-52ehla, but with more time on the Proto. The Proto has the advantage of a slightly higher tooth count, a nicer handle (personal preference), and somewhat lighter backdrag. Although in reality, I haven't noticed the backdrag on the Williams ratchet to be all that much of an issue in use. The Williams does have an advantage in being somewhat cheaper. Rebuild kits are also little cheaper and will hopefully be available for some time being a descendent on the Snap-On 936 series ratchets. Overall, I do like the Proto a bit better, but I'd have no issue going with the Williams.

I do prefer my SL80A and SX80B due to the higher tooth count coming in handy at times. I do think the Dual 80 ratchets are worth it if you can justify the cost. However, usually the low tooth count ratchets work just fine and I'd be good with either the Proto or Williams most of the time.

 

[Tallpilot]

I second looking at ebay. I picked up a SHLF80A for a great price.

If you are worried about them not warrantying it you can get rebuild kit is 10.50 and if you get a flex head the repair joint is also 10.50 straight from snap on. If you break the shaft I would be impressed but you also might find a Driver that is willing to work with you if you spend some money on the truck.

Also FWIW I have sent in a ratchet that I bought on ebay to snap on and they replaced it for me with no hassle. I wouldn't go buying broken tools just to warranty them out but if you have an occasional claim they might be willing to work with you.

I used to agree with this. Buy one on eBay and just rebuild it. I can't imagine breaking a Snap-on S series shaft before the anvil. The problem now is shipping isn't free so unless he chases down a truck the rebuild parts plus shipping are probably ~$50.

It could be that you are planning on misusing the tool... Ratchet wrenches are not intended to apply brute force which is the absolute only reason you would want an extra long handle.

I have a monster breaker wrench with a 3/4" head and step down adapters. This is good enough to break 250-foot pound torqued axle nuts. Once they are loose then and only then I would switch to a ratchet wrench.

Keep your wrench short and listen when it is trying to tell you to pull out the breaker wrench.

I agree. I have a SHX80B for the flex head goodness. If it isn't long enough I try my 24" Tekton, if that starts flexing I just go get the 40" 3/4" drive breaker bar.

...

I do prefer my SL80A and SX80B due to the higher tooth count coming in handy at times. I do think the Dual 80 ratchets are worth it if you can justify the cost. However, usually the low tooth count ratchets work just fine and I'd be good with either the Proto or Williams most of the time.

It's hard to go back to 36 teeth after using modern stuff. I particularly like the locking flex head in 1/2" for knuckle saving reasons.

 

[Iowafox]

If it was me I would go with the Proto but I very much want to get a Williams ratchet sometime. I have a soft spot for Proto tools as I work for Stanley Black and Decker. I was introduced to them here and have since gotten alot of use on there stuff.
I personally like long handled 1/2 ratchets as for many years I used them as a breaker bar as I didn't have one. I now own 3 long 1/2 breaker ratchets. I is a MAC tools Axis fixed head (same as the Proto I believe) and the other 2 are MAC tools round head flex heads and those are my go to's. I use them to do tires as well as other high leverage needs.
Back to your question if it was me I would go with the Proto. It is one I would get if mine go walking off or if I need one to stay in a car.

 

[Firebrick43]

I have the 15” Williams (cat branded), a 15” wright 4425, a 15” sl80a and a 24” slx80a. I also have used somewhat a proto at the plant.

Without a doubt I use the slx80a the most and my 245 lbs a$$ has bounced on it more than once without fail. Of my 15” ratchets for some reason I like the wright the best and the sl80a right behind it. The wright is ugly in comparison but the dual pawl heads feel the best to me and have been pretty bullet proof. Same for the 3425 wright in 3/8.

The cat branded Williams (same kit as a 936 if I recall) I have broken the pawl once even though I haven’t used it nearly as much as the others.

I never have liked proto ratchets (or anything except their hex bits) much.

 

[Plombob]

ebay has it new for $50:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Proto-1-2-Drive-Long-Handle-Ratchet-5450/383657756232?hash=item5953c8c648:g:46QAAOSw5XxecqU-

Or used for $30:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Proto-Professional-Ratchet-1-2-Drive-Long-Handle-Pear-Head-16-Long-5450/174405359690?epid=1611873543&hash=item289b5e984a:g:ZAUAAOSwEndfHZtE

Even if the ratchet is worn, you can get a repair kit for it from Proto.

Those rats are really tough. I picked one off of the junk pile at an estate sale. It was really rusty, and a couple of parts were broken. Cleaned it up, replaced the broken parts and it worked like new.

 

[Wamsutta]

The williams is bit clunky after using high tooth count .
Proto be my preference out the two as much prefer the grip and bit higher tooth count, even 45 tooth count can feel/prove awkward when been using 72+ for years .
If you like round heads have a look at williams S-53a and others in the range as think they 72 tooth .
Usual brands of taiwan offerings would be similar cost for higher tooth count, another nice ratchet is facom extendable handle SXL-161, 72 tooth and goes from 10" to 16" roughly, great versatile ratchet and I take that any job out the shop or at the pull-a-part yard . they around 100buck pre covid .

"Clunky" implies that it's loose. We need a different word. If you've ever taken one of those Snap-on 936 series apart, they are anything but loose. Those parts fit together so tight, there's absolutely no room for a gnat's ***.

 

[KnurledNut]

lardy1,
I would consider a gently used old Williams S-53 Superratchet on the ‘bay before a new Williams S-52EHLA.
(Be aware the current new stock S-53a offering is not the same mechanism, rather a FACOM-like design with the internal heart spring. A solid ratchet none-the-less, but the old mechanism is proven to be very reliable and has a better action. These new ones do have a more refined crisp chrome finish.)

 

[Hal]

It could be that you are planning on misusing the tool... Ratchet wrenches are not intended to apply brute force which is the absolute only reason you would want an extra long handle.

Brute force isn't the only reason for a long handle. I don't have the arm and hand strength that I did when I was younger, and long handled ratchets/wrenches are my go to choice any time they will fit and swing.

 

[BrandoJames]

It could be that you are planning on misusing the tool... Ratchet wrenches are not intended to apply brute force which is the absolute only reason you would want an extra long handle. I have a monster breaker wrench with a 3/4" head and step down adapters...Keep your wrench short and listen when it is trying to tell you to pull out the breaker wrench.

Sorry, but there's a wide range of options between a "short wrench" and 3/4" breaker bars. Limited clearance often eliminates the use of a breaker bar. Most of the guys here have a wide variety of ratchets in various sizes, and there's nothing wrong with applying some force with a quality ratchet. You need to choose the right tool for the job. Maybe it's time to upgrade your ratchets.

 

[richfinn]

Sorry, but there's a wide range of options between a "short wrench" and 3/4" breaker bars. Limited clearance often eliminates the use of a breaker bar. Most of the guys here have a wide variety of ratchets in various sizes, and there's nothing wrong with applying some force with a quality ratchet. You need to choose the right tool for the job. Maybe it's time to upgrade your ratchets.

Ratchet equipped Torque wrenches for example

 

[lardy1]

It could be that you are planning on misusing the tool... Ratchet wrenches are not intended to apply brute force which is the absolute only reason you would want an extra long handle.

Brute force isn't the only reason for a long handle. I don't have the arm and hand strength that I did when I was younger, and long handled ratchets/wrenches are my go to choice any time they will fit and swing.

This nails it. I'm wanting longer handles due to age and a body weakened by chemotherapy and radiation. I'm nowhere near as strong as I once was. The length isn't about using a ratchet as a breaker bar.

With so many replies about flex heads, I'm reconsidering the purchase. I already have three long handled 1/2" drive ratchets with flex heads. I'm getting the impression from the responses that I'm not in danger of overstressing the flex joints. Maybe I'm throwing away my floor jack money on a ratchet I don't need. One of my Gearwrench flex heads is basically a free unit because it came as a warranty replacement and I upgraded (successfully) the original one with a Matco 88 guts kit. I wouldn't be out much if I did wreck one of them (BTW, it was my first and last Gearwrench purchase. I'm aghast that they left that 84 tooth ************* on the market with all the problems it has).

Appreciate all the helpful responses. Maybe I'll just wait until I'm better off financially and then buy the Proto 90 that I so desire, anyway.

 

[Djosbun]

Last year I bought the Hazet 916HPL from Jens Putzier's website and it is my main ratchet for suspension/under car work. For the $99 price it is a steal (in my opinion). A smooth 90 teeth and slightly over 16" long.

-- Dave

 

[Outwest]

I too have the Proto J5450 HTC on my list to get at some point. Here’s what I currently have in long 1/2”; Proto J5454F and J5457F- good 72 tooth action once lubed and with correct screw tension; Williams S-53A- I find to have a better feeling 72 tooth mechanism than the Protos and a good round head ratchet; Williams S-52EFA- 36 tooth stout ratchet, needs broken in or the springs trimmed for a smoother action, but the tried and true Snap-on mechanics; Snap-on SL80A- mine has been well used (bought second hand) and has very smooth action and low back drag; Craftsman rhft flex- no longer available, but my first long handle 1/2 and no complaints; SK 90 24” Flex- I’m not yet convinced by the ratchet mechanism, I cleaned and lubed it on arrival and have spun it a bunch, but it will still lock up on occasion. There’s some others, but not worth mentioning. For me, all those mentioned have been adequate for equipment, farm machinery, and suspension work. I’m not a professional fwiw. For a round head, I like the Williams S-53A. For pear head, the Snap-on dual 80 is nice. But I too like my 3/8 Proto 90 and will at some point have one in 1/2”. Good luck!

 

[Ton ton]

Skip the channel lock brand flex head ratchet. Too heavy and clunky.

 

[Samuel D]

For flex-head ratchets, small differences in the hinge location have a great effect on how much force goes through the hinge.

For example, doubling the distance from the axis of rotation of the fastener to the centre of the hinge (e.g. from 1 inch to 2 inches) would halve the force at the hinge for a given torque.

I think this may be why some manufacturers seem to make no effort to shorten the pear shape of the head. Some of these ratchets have pretty bulky heads as a consequence.

 

[visionguru]

... The J5450XL is far less tooth count (45) but higher tooth count than the Williams (36). I doubt clearance will be a huge issue so I'm not sure that will make any difference.
...

On a long ratchet, high tooth count and flex head are more important than on a shorter one. Both ratchets you mentioned seem to have fixed head and low tooth count.

My "long" 1/2 ratchets are Snap On SHFL80A (25")and Gearwrench 120XP flex(17"). I found that when working on a car, low tooth count and fixed head could have been a problem.

Regardless of brands, I'd focus on those two features.