Specialized tools / OTC vs OEMTools

[thwaller]

Hello-
This topic is specifically relating to a ball joint press kit, but really applies to the product lines of both OTC and OEMTools, any maybe others.

From what I learned from other topics here, it appears that OTC is the OEM for the tool truck brands, or at least most of them. So this speaks to the quality of the OTC ball joint kit. My question is where does OEMTools fit into the equation? Also, because it is highly talked about, the Astro version.

For reference:
OEMTOOLS 27089
OTC 7249
Astro 7865

I am aware the kits are not identical, but the difference is only included adapters which is irrelevant to my query as you can just consider the basic starter kit adapters only and the C press.

I am aware that some brands like Harbor Freight, ATD, etc might look the same, but the build quality is not the same, especially when it comes to the press. The adapters have been said to maybe be the same or at least closer than the press. So, are the above brands as it relates to this product the same rebranded tool, or are they actually different tools, different manufacturing, and different quality? As stated in title, this question could well relate to the product lines of these companies, not just this specific tool. But in any case, I query specifically this tool, but welcome data beyond.

One thing I wanted to add which caught my attention is that OTC and Astro have a 1 year warranty while OEMTools is lifetime. This does not directly mean anything, but it is a difference in service/support from the brand.

 

[mcmtech]

The otc was always the standard, but now is made overseas like the rest of them, or at least was last I’ve seen. I’ve got the Astro one and a snap on one. Snap on is worlds above the rest and worth the money if you’re using it professionally. The Astro one seems about on par with otc. Most of the adapter sets seem to be the same. Used to work with a guy who had an otc press and the hf adapter set and worked fine. OEMTools is probably ok for home use, I’ve got a few tools from them for low use stuff and holds up fine. The atd one is ok too, my old boss had that set.

 

[thwaller]

The Snap-On one is worlds above the OTC as well? I was with the understanding that Snap-On was simply a rebranded OTC product.

Regarding OEMTools, you are saying the quality level is less than Astro and OTC, but above Harbor Freight and other cheap brands?

 

[B_Bimmer]

I was pretty sure the OTC is US made again. May want to call them and check. I have the snap on one, an old otc and had a few cheap ones. If I didn't have the snap on one and needed to do some tough u joints and such I would find a truck and break out my checkbook. It is that nice.

 

[mcmtech]

The Snap-On one is worlds above the OTC as well? I was with the understanding that Snap-On was simply a rebranded OTC product.

Regarding OEMTools, you are saying the quality level is less than Astro and OTC, but above Harbor Freight and other cheap brands?

Snap on one is made by snap on and in a league of its own, not made by otc. The adapters snap together, press is bigger and heavier, has a grease fitting on the screw, and requires less adapters. I keep the Astro one around for doing joints as it’s much lighter.

Oem makes decent stuff from what I’ve seen and own, but can’t vouch for the ball joint press. It’s decent import stuff.
Some of the atd stuff I have is rebranded Lang made in USA stuff- snap ring pliers, compression and leak down testers and a few other things.

 

[thwaller]

Is this the Snap-On one you refer to?
https://store.snapon.com/Non-Catalog-Items-Ball-Joint-Service-Kit-P880601.aspx
It appears no different. Are you maybe referring to the hydraulic variation? Please note I am just trying to understand. So far the info is great

 

[mcmtech]

Is this the Snap-On one you refer to?
https://store.snapon.com/Non-Catalog-Items-Ball-Joint-Service-Kit-P880601.aspx
It appears no different. Are you maybe referring to the hydraulic variation? Please note I am just trying to understand. So far the info is great

Nope I have the snap on bjp1 set. That one you linked does look otc style.

https://store.snapon.com/Ball-Joint...Joint-Universal-Joint-Press-22pc-P644058.aspx

 

[thwaller]

Ahh, ok. So maybe there is a different manufacturer based on the model. The one you link to looks much different, so I assume that is the one that is worlds above the rest. Is it worth $650 more than the OTC version?

 

[mcmtech]

Ahh, ok. So maybe there is a different manufacturer based on the model. The one you link to looks much different, so I assume that is the one that is worlds above the rest. Is it worth $650 more than the OTC version?

In a professional environment yes it is. DIY you’re fine with an otc or clone. They do pop up used on eBay for $400-500.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Is this the Snap-On one you refer to?
https://store.snapon.com/Non-Catalog-Items-Ball-Joint-Service-Kit-P880601.aspx
It appears no different. Are you maybe referring to the hydraulic variation? Please note I am just trying to understand. So far the info is great

That's a non-catalog item, literally an OTC set your dealer can sell you. It's not a snap-on item, just something you can order through them. Look at the part number.




I use Astro now, having killed 2 OTC presses, along with others.

 

[markhm]

I bought the OTC set a few months ago. The press is made in the USA and prominently labeled so. It is a good HD set at a very competitive price. You can't go wrong with it.

 

[thwaller]

That's a non-catalog item, literally an OTC set your dealer can sell you. It's not a snap-on item, just something you can order through them. Look at the part number.

I use Astro now, having killed 2 OTC presses, along with others.

So you would suggest Astro over OTC and OEMTools, based on experience with the product?

 

[thwaller]

I bought the OTC set a few months ago. The press is made in the USA and prominently labeled so. It is a good HD set at a very competitive price. You can't go wrong with it.

Thank you. Can you compare it to OEMTools at all? The trade between OTC and OEM is my main query, so I hope you can add some input.

 

[L.Cheapo]

Ahh, ok. So maybe there is a different manufacturer based on the model. The one you link to looks much different, so I assume that is the one that is worlds above the rest. Is it worth $650 more than the OTC version?

As a DIYr, yes, the Snap-on is worth the price, especially on promo. I see YouTube videos of guys far more skilled than I struggling with the other presses because the C is too small, it spreads, the adaptors fall off when they try to maneuver them into position, or they have to find scraps of metal because there is no combination of adapters in their kit that will work for the job.

The first time I used my BJP-1 set, I broke even on what a shop would have charged for the job. The second time, I saved $600. At that point, to me, it doesn't matter what the tool cost, as its already paid for itself, with zero frustration. Could I have done those jobs with cheaper tools and saved more? Maybe. Or maybe I would have regretted trying.

 

[Fedwrench]

OEMTools is a division of Great Neck Saw. They make pretty good mechanics tools overall. However, some things are made better than others so, you really have to try it out to see how well it's made. Often, many auto parts stores use OEM tools in their loan a tool program. If that doesn't kill them nothing will.

OTC owned by BOSCH was the maker of most Kent Moore special tools for GM, as well as some of the Rotunda tools for Ford. their stuff is generally well made. OTC had a cheaper all imported line named stinger that was usable but, not the greatest.

Astro's tools seem to be getting better all of the time as they continue to launch new products and get quite a bit of exposure on you tube in actual working situations.

An old German vehicle tech once told me long ago, if you think you might get hurt using a tool, buy the more expensive tool.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

So you would suggest Astro over OTC and OEMTools, based on experience with the product?

Over OTC, absolutely. OTC has really soured me with difficult warranty and mediocre "stinger" tools. I have an OEM tools inner tie rod tool, which is fantastic, after I filed a touch of overspray off the locking tab.


My tool buying strategy is "buy 'till I'm burned". Astro has yet to burn me. The products are solid IMO, I can tell you the low-profile impacts and their ball joint press/adapter set have made me a lot of money. They also make an extra deep version, Goliath, which is great. No more making adapters on the fly, cutting ball joint studs flush for clearance, etc.


Actually astro has failed me once, a pair of snap ring pliers. I got the set on amazon warehouse deals for less than $20 because the package was damaged. Then I used the aforementioned pliers to attempt to budge a rusted snap ring which was too large for them. I'm still happy with astro.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

As a DIYr, yes, the Snap-on is worth the price, especially on promo. I see YouTube videos of guys far more skilled than I struggling with the other presses because the C is too small, it spreads, the adaptors fall off when they try to maneuver them into position, or they have to find scraps of metal because there is no combination of adapters in their kit that will work for the job.

The first time I used my BJP-1 set, I broke even on what a shop would have charged for the job. The second time, I saved $600. At that point, to me, it doesn't matter what the tool cost, as its already paid for itself, with zero frustration. Could I have done those jobs with cheaper tools and saved more? Maybe. Or maybe I would have regretted trying.

I looked into BJP1 when it came out - "one set of adapters for everything!" - not really. Still need honda/dodge/sprinter/4wd/euro sets added on. They had the gall to brag about their coverage, and NOT include adapters for honda. I've played with them, nice tool for sure. But when I need another $500+ to have the identical coverage as a $90 astro add-on set, I question the value.

 

[markhm]

The consensus on this forum and others seems to be that the Snap-on is by far the best and none of the others are even in the same league. If you got the $ for it, buy it and don't look back.

The 3 other brands are all good. You may want to decide on which to purchase based on which comes with the right adapters for you.

I own a ton of OTC stuff and am very happy with it. All of it is USA made (except for my tie rod puller kit) but some is old. The only dealing I had with their customer service under Bosch was to request replacement manuals and they were excellent in providing them. So I will continue to purchase OTC. But as mentioned, do NOT buy their Stinger junk.

 

[Professional Tool User]

It really depends on the tool when we are talking about rebranding. OTC is the trusted brand when it comes to specialty tools. OEM, not so much.

 

[Wamsutta]

OTC = Owatonna Tool Company
OEM = ?

 

[Toothaker]

OTC = Owatonna Tool Company
OEM = ?

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEMTools = a brand of tools. http://www.oemtools.com/


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[thwaller]

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEMTools = a brand of tools. http://www.oemtools.com/


Sent from my mobile using The Garage Journal mobile app

Well, no. It is oem-tools.com. The www.oemtools.com you speak of appears to be different, although I cannot speak for things like ownership.

 

[Toothaker]

Well, no. It is oem-tools.com. The www.oemtools.com you speak of appears to be different, although I cannot speak for things like ownership.

My mistake, sorry. I searched and found one OEMTools and stopped searching. Who know there was more than one?

 

[thwaller]

It really depends on the tool when we are talking about rebranding. OTC is the trusted brand when it comes to specialty tools. OEM, not so much.

Could you clarify your stand on that? Where has OEMTools failed where OTC has not? Trusted I understand, but is there any fact?

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEMTools = a brand of tools. http://www.oemtools.com/


Sent from my mobile using The Garage Journal mobile app

Well, no. It is http://www.oem-tools.com. Maybe they both are same in some way, not sure.

The consensus on this forum and others seems to be that the Snap-on is by far the best and none of the others are even in the same league. If you got the $ for it, buy it and don't look back.

The 3 other brands are all good. You may want to decide on which to purchase based on which comes with the right adapters for you.

I own a ton of OTC stuff and am very happy with it. All of it is USA made (except for my tie rod puller kit) but some is old. The only dealing I had with their customer service under Bosch was to request replacement manuals and they were excellent in providing them. So I will continue to purchase OTC. But as mentioned, do NOT buy their Stinger junk.

I have heard/read the avoid OTC Stinger before. Thank you for mentioning that. Point taken and noted.

 

[thwaller]

My mistake, sorry. I searched and found one OEMTools and stopped searching. Who know there was more than one?

The name is confusing enough. "OEM" has a meaning on its own. Then you say "OEM Tools", and then "OEMTOOLS" and it just makes it all hard to understand as an amature.

 

[WWheeler]

The otc was always the standard, but now is made overseas like the rest of them, or at least was last I’ve seen. [...]

I was pretty sure the OTC is US made again. May want to call them and check. [...]

It is true that the OTC 7249 Ball Joint Press was made outside the US for a brief period (circa 2013/2014?) when a lot of the rest of their product line also started moving that direction, but has been back to 'Made in USA' ever since. I'd be really surprised if any place that sells very many of them still had any of the offshore ones in stock. IMHO it's a great press. The same exact press set also sells rebadged as the Matco BJP7025C and as the Mac BJ7025MA (and as pointed out by thwaller, can be bought through Snap-on too. That was news to me) for about twice the price.

I bought mine a little over 2 years ago from ToolTopia for just under $100. I think they can be had for just a tad more than that today.



FWIW, the OTC press we had at my old job used by MANY techs for 10 years on ball joints and semi Brake Anchor Pins, and on the latter they were putting a 3/4 impact on it regularly. Anchor pins are a LOT tougher than any ball joint you're likely to run across.

I can't offer a comparative opinion between it and the OEMTools, Astro, or a Snap-on BJP (I'm sure the Snap-on is better, but boy are you going to pay for it - too much for this home-gamer), but I did buy my OTC to finish the job, which it did easily, after I completely killed an Alltrade Powerbuilt press.

IF COO matters to you, the OEMTools 27089 is made in China as is the Astro 7865.

No matter what brand press you buy, just make sure you keep the threads lubed.

 

[Wamsutta]

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

OEMTools = a brand of tools. http://www.oemtools.com/


Sent from my mobile using The Garage Journal mobile app

My point is "OEM" has no meaning on its own. It's not abbreviated for anything. The only thing I can think of is they're trying to spin off the term "Original Equipment Manufacturer" because OEM auto parts are widely thought to be better quality than aftermarket.

 

[vssjim]

The OTC has only added back the US made press frame the other parts are imports and Astro has added a stronger Press frame in the last time a couple years ago. OEM is just a generic tool importer as stated above from Great Neck line of tools. I have OTC and Astro and use which ever tool fits the best have not had trouble with any of them and please lube the screw with oil or ep lube of some type.

 

[Bigblue&Goldie]

It is true that the OTC 7249 Ball Joint Press was made outside the US for a brief period (circa 2013/2014?)

Not sure on exact dates, but I bought one around that time frame and I was pissed when it showed up Hecho en China. I will say, it's done a couple of sets of Dana 60 balljoints with no damage.