ratcheting wrenches vs pass through sockets

[atownmack]

As tool junkies I'm sure many have both, but it seems that they both can do the same job, and pass through sockets sets are generally cheaper for a more complete set. Can they be used as substitutes for one another? If you had to choose just one which one?

 

[Lyptix]

I have a gear wrench pass thru set. Biggest problem I have with the pass through is the socket falling or getting knocked off in tight spaces, so for me I like the ratcheting wrenches better in spots where a dropped socket isn't worth the time.

Maybe there's a better pass thru set that the sockets actually lock in?

 

[Robbie UK]

My pass-thru Vortex sockets do double duty as low-profile ultra shallow sockets. They also fit on fasteners that are recessed or with little clearance either side, which can challenge ratchet spanners.

If I had to pick one it would be my Vortex, but I guess it depends on what you work on and what other tool combinations you have to achieve the same task.

 

[rodsnratfinks]

I'm not sure what pass through sockets do that ratcheting wrenches do not, but I've never needed them. Ratcheting wrenches on the other hand, are wonderful.

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[BaMaDuDe87]

Ratcheting wrenches can get in tighter spots as they are slimmer.

Pass through sockets, I find, are easier on the hands. So if I need to hit a bunch of screws/nuts/bolts I'd head for them.

If I had to get one over the other, I'd go with the wrenches first. Mostly for their slimmer profile and most of the time you can get them with an open end to go along with the closed wratcheting end. So not only do you have a slimmer tool to do the same job, but you also have an open end just in case.

 

[atownmack]

I have a gear wrench pass thru set. Biggest problem I have with the pass through is the socket falling or getting knocked off in tight spaces, so for me I like the ratcheting wrenches better in spots where a dropped socket isn't worth the time.

Maybe there's a better pass thru set that the sockets actually lock in?

Thats something I haven't factored in. Good point.

 

[lightning02]

Not sure how there the same. The wrenches are so much thinner. I own both. So far I never found a reason to use the pass through sockets. Actually wish I never bought them. I'm guessing here but maybe the ratchet insides can withstand more TQ then the ratcheting wrenches can. But still when your grabbing a tool like either of these it's bc of limited space so in that sense the wrenches win hands down.

 

[thool]

I found that the pass-throughs are easy if I have a few nuts of varying size. Just pop off the one size and snap in the other, keeping my hand on the ratchet. But then, you have a single point of failure...lose the ratchet and you are SOL.

 

[toddacimer]

I really like reversible ratcheting wrenches

 

[Loscaldazar]

I'm not sure what pass through sockets do that ratcheting wrenches do not, but I've never needed them. Ratcheting wrenches on the other hand, are wonderful.

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They have a few advantages. When installing things like sensors (that have wires sticking out of them) into recess (like on an engine block when you don't want to remove the intake manifold and instead reach in between the tracts of it), a ratcheting wrench won't work. A pass through you can use multiple extensions to reach down there, and still install the sensor with wires sticking up through the hollow middle of the pass through.

Subaru and VW struts are another application. They need an Allen key stuck through the middle to hold shaft still when the nut is removed. Ratcheting wrenches don't go deep enough for this (including the deep box ratcheting wrenches). Fixed box ends (except for a Gedore set I've seen) also don't go deep enough.

It's not worth spending a ton on them, even if you really need them. I got a 1/4 and 3/8 equivalent from Napa when they were on sale for $35 (and then used a $10 off coupon on each set). Worth it for how much I work on Subarus.