Snap-On Soft Handled Ratcheting Screwdriver Owners

[ChevyEFI]

I've asked this in a couple related threads without a concrete answer.

When I disassemble my hard handle ratcheting SSDMR4B, the female square drive has straight, flat, smooth walls.

Are the walls of the soft-handled ratcheting drivers divoted for spring-loaded ball retention?

Thanks.

 

[Fcvapor05]

I've asked this in a couple related threads without a concrete answer.

When I disassemble my hard handle ratcheting SSDMR4B, the female square drive has straight, flat, smooth walls.

Are the walls of the soft-handled ratcheting drivers divoted for spring-loaded ball retention?

Thanks.

I don't know if the socket has tapered/divoted walls. but a lot of people have converted their hard handles over to interchangeable shanks without issue.

 

[ChevyEFI]

Yep.
I tried the A/C hose seal retention method (in another thread.)
I have purchased a new interchangeable shank from SO.
I own a hard-handled driver.
I've made fairly lengthy posts regarding why my use of the interchangeable style shanks was less than ideal.
I've been called a liar on here over shank material.

I've covered my bases. I've done my due diligence researching. I have no interest in a whole soft-handle driver however.

I just want someone else to, if they know, answer whether:

Are the walls of the soft-handled ratcheting drivers divoted for spring-loaded ball retention?

Thanks.

 

[Adam.C]

If they are it's pretty subtle. The shafts with the friction ball provide some extra friction over the shafts with no ball such that either handle retains the shank about the same.

 

[plinker]

On mine, it does not have any divots for the detent ball. They are relying on the shank to stay in place with just the ball (I have a few older sockets that are the same way), and I assume the idea was to use the rubber washer in the reverse cap to help keep it in place as well.

 

[matt stott]

certainly looks that way...

I am at work, so I am not going to dis-assemble my screwdriver, but it looks to have detents for the ball. (Snap-on soft handle ratcheting, red) The yellow arrow points to the location (hard to photograph with a phone!)

Matt

<a href="http://s4.photobucket.com/user/mstott/media/tools/sohandlearrow_zps3sj8iudr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/mstott/tools/sohandlearrow_zps3sj8iudr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo sohandlearrow_zps3sj8iudr.jpg"/></a>

 

[ChevyEFI]

Thank you Matt!