I'm a DIY'er and have got 6 or so Craftsman and other similar ratchets. I'm looking to buy 2, maybe 3, Snap On ratchets (used). I think I'd prefer 80 tooth versions due to the smaller engagement arc. I'd like to know what style/model you'd recommend as a first purchase and why. I'm looking to start with a 1/4 and a 3/8 drive for starters.
Snap On ratchet recommendation(s) wanted
- Thread starter mbatarga
- Start date
Merkava_4
Banned
The F936 lubed up with Permatex #81950. 
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olds88
Well-known member
You really don't need the 80 tooth version for DIY work. I don't have any and I use my tools every day to make my living. Hell, I have a Snap-on 3/8 ratchet from 1947, with 20 teeth, and for what I use that particular ratchet for (light duty stuff when it's convenient to have 2 different size sockets ready on a ratchet), it's fine. My other 3/8 ratchet, from 1959, actually originally had a 40 tooth gear, but the rebuild kit I got from snap-on had 30 teeth... again, nothing missed.
In other words, if money is an issue, don't waste it on 80 teeth... and use the money saved to buy high-quality Snap-on sockets, if you don't already have any!
In other words, if money is an issue, don't waste it on 80 teeth... and use the money saved to buy high-quality Snap-on sockets, if you don't already have any!
CAT_serviceman927
Well-known member
I'm with Merkava, stick with the 936 series 3/8 ratchets. Even the 830 3/8 ratchets are great. I have an F830, FLF936, and FL936. I would recommend all three for a nice complete set of 3/8 ratchets. Maybe through in a stubby flex-head for good measure.
Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
If you're only going to buy a couple, I would get a 1/4 and 3/8 drive flex head ratchets. They're very versatile and you can wait and shop for the best deal. I have not had good experience with the new 1/4 drive 72 tooth series ratchet but, your results may very. I would not go below 36 teeth though. The 30 tooth ratchet just don't cut it for me.
Merkava_4
Banned
I switched my F936 and FLF936 over to Permatex #81950 Saturday night. They're so smooth now, I don't think I'll ever need an 80 series. 
olds88
Well-known member
I switched my F936 and FLF936 over to Permatex #81950 Saturday night. They're so smooth now, I don't think I'll ever need an 80 series.
I will probably buy a new 80 series long flex head FLF80... in situations where I need a flex head, I would probably benefit from the extra teeth as well.
I switched my F936 and FLF936 over to Permatex #81950 Saturday night. They're so smooth now, I don't think I'll ever need an 80 series.
The 80's are alway's smooth.
nissan_crawler
Well-known member
The 80's are alway's smooth.
No, they aren't.
I would get the fine tooth round heads. They go for cheap, and they're smoother than the 80 series.
nissan_crawler
Well-known member
Agreed. the 1/4" and 3/8" 80 series don't hold a candle to my round heads, IMHO.
Merkava_4
Banned
If I got an 80 series, I'd have to start all over again with the long drawn out experiments on which lube to use; I don't want to go through that again! 
Merkava_4
Banned
I guess maybe I'd start out with some Tri-Flow for those itty bitty teeth, but I'm not going to get one!
Why don't I just leave them alone? I don't know!
Why don't I just leave them alone? I don't know!
wantedabiggergarage
Member Emeritus
The teeth count is your choice (budget verses need), as it could at some point, but not normally affect how much you had to remove. (or wether you had to use a wobble, etc)
But I would start by telling us what style of ratchets you have. IMHO, I would fill in with specialty ones first, if your comfortable with the ones your using.
But I would start by telling us what style of ratchets you have. IMHO, I would fill in with specialty ones first, if your comfortable with the ones your using.
If I got an 80 series, I'd have to start all over again with the long drawn out experiments on which lube to use; I don't want to go through that again!
Why wouldn't your Permatex work on any ratchet?