Snap-on flex head too tight?

[Wamsutta]

When these ratchets are new, is the flex joint supposed to be real tight? I can move the flex head with my thumb, but it still seams too tight. When putting a 7/8'' deep socket on the square drive, the head won't move at all from the weight. I tried loosening the bolt, but that has no effect. Will the joint loosen up over time with use? The ratchet is 3/8'' drive.

 

[BFHtime]

I usually tighten mine, because I like mine stiff. If back out the screw does no work, trying lubing it. I find they loosen up with use. After using it a little, I usually tighten them.

 

[AA/FC]

Be happy..... most guys complain there flex head ratchets are not tight enough, won't stay tight, can't get tight, etc, etc....

I have two fairy new dual 80 SO flex head ratchets. I just tried putting on a 7/8 deep socket on both of them. The head did not move on either of them from just the weight of a socket..... I think it's perfect....

 

[trxrx7]

yes the joint will loosen up after a while. the reason why its stiff when new is because it has a lock washer on one side between the handle and head of the joint, putting pressure against the walls. if you want it to be loose just remove the washer. i prefer the stiff joint over the loose but to each their own.

 

[Wamsutta]

Yes I discovered that spring washer that looks like a lock washer. When I removed the bolt and pulled the handle away from the ratchet head, the spring washer shot across the room! That spring washer is putting a lot of force on the handle. I thought it was the bolt that provided most of the holding power; but apparently, the spring washer is what holds the joint so tight. Maybe I have an extra stiff spring washer; I don't know. Thanks for your replies guys. I appreciate it.

 

[Wakefield]

Does the bolt have a shoulder that butts up against the inside surface of the threaded ear? If so it is supposed to be tight and the axle portion is supposed to be just the right length to accommodate the stuff (head + spring washer) inside the fork.
I think a tool truck man here or at a place in Vienna said something that having the bolt loose might not be good-like maybe contribute to the fork breaking
I think when taking one of those apart best to have a baggie over the ratchet head when you pull it apart