Super Low Profile 3/8” Ratchet Options

[The Critic]

I am looking for a super low profile 3/8” dr ratchet - which probably means I need a “3/8” dr in a 1/4” body” ratchet.

These are my requirements:

- Head Depth of 10mm or less
- Quick Release
- Minimum 6” long, prefer 10” if possible
- Comfort Grip

So far, the only ratchet I have found is the new Koken 2726zb-3/8(L160):



Are there any other options that I should be looking at?

 

[assassin10000]

If you can live without quick release, the matco afr98 or afr98lf converted to 3/8" drive.

 

[Fedwrench]

1/4 in, 3/8 in. Drive Long-Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Amazing deals on this 1/4In, 3/8In Long Rch Dual Flex Head Ratchet at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[tamaraw]

Perhaps you could use one of those 13/14mm hex to 3/8 square adapters in a ratcheting wrench. Pretty close to your dimensions I think? https://ktc.jp/catalog/index-category/category-list/bz14-ba3

There are also plate type ratchets that get pretty thin but they wouldn't be quick release.

Or this vessel has a pretty compact head (dimensions in pdf): https://vessel.co.jp/english/product/wrench/162005

What application would this be used on?

 

[JWC86]

Something to keep in mind with Koken is the drive direction selector is “backwards” if your used to snap-on, gear wrench or just about everyone else(80% anyways).

If so you might have to compromise on some of your requirements.

The new Nepros 3/8 in the 1/4 body are on my list but I’m not sure what lengths they come in.

I assume since the koken you shown is a flex head that you have that as a requirement also?

 

[JWC86]

This one is 11mm thick but not a comfort grip.

If they did a flex head version of this I would own it already.

 

[Jack Ryan]

- Head Depth of 10mm or less

As a matter of interest, does the 10mm include the release button and the direction lever?

It is not clear in the diagram

Jack

 

[tamaraw]

As a matter of interest, does the 10mm include the release button and the direction lever?

It is not clear in the diagram

Jack

It appears to be just the body forging not including the quick release or selector. You could compare to the dimensions listed for the non-quick release version to be sure.

 

[xjfish]

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

 

[d.mcfarland]

For how little this ratchet would probably get used, the quick release is irrelevant.

This seems like a case where you are looking to justify the purchase before making it.

However, why is a ratcheting wrench not the choice in this situation?

Last point, they make ratcheting wrench adapters that would make a better choice across a full spectrum of sizes:

 

[evintho]

I love my older Craftsman low profile 3/8" ratchet. It's my main ratchet and pretty much all I use! They don't make 'em anymore so consequently, when you do find one it's usually a little steep in price. Here's one on Ebay......

NOS Craftsman Stainless Steel Ratchet 3/8” Drive model 43762 USA | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for NOS Craftsman Stainless Steel Ratchet 3/8” Drive model 43762 USA at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

 

[dnschmidt]

1/4 in, 3/8 in. Drive Long-Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Amazing deals on this 1/4In, 3/8In Long Rch Dual Flex Head Ratchet at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

I have one of those tools and it's great.

 

[Grokew]

Something to keep in mind with Koken is the drive direction selector is “backwards” if your used to snap-on, gear wrench or just about everyone else(80% anyways).

If so you might have to compromise on some of your requirements.

The new Nepros 3/8 in the 1/4 body are on my list but I’m not sure what lengths they come in.

I assume since the koken you shown is a flex head that you have that as a requirement also?

Is it really that mortifying to have to adjust the selector every once in a while? It's not like it requires a complex maneuver, plus you usually check before applying the tool to the fastener. No beef, I just find it curious that so many people write similar comments about non Snap-On ratchets, and ratcheting screwdrivers. I guess that once you develop an habit, it is hard to break from it.

 

[demarpaint]

I have one of those tools and it's great.

I have one as well, and it came in handy a few times. Well worth the money imo.

 

[KnurledNut]

Consider getting low profile sockets instead and use with your existing ratchets.
Something like Astro Nanos gives you impact use too.

 

[shibertus]

This one is 11mm thick but not a comfort grip.

If they did a flex head version of this I would own it already.

The head on my 1/4" Koken is smaller and thinner than the Nepros.

Picked up one of the new Koken 1/4” 72 tooth ratchets on a recent trip to Japan. Playing with both in the store, the 72t model seemed to have ever so slightly higher backdrag than the old 36t model. The head on the Koken is smaller and thinner than my Nepros. Really tough choice between these two.

 

[JradM]

My Proto J5248s is very short - but I don't have it with me right now to measure. It's not a skinny head in the horizontal dimension, but is low profile. Doesn't have a quick release though - I think that would work contrary to idea of keeping it thin.

 

[619DioFan]

1/4 in, 3/8 in. Drive Long-Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Amazing deals on this 1/4In, 3/8In Long Rch Dual Flex Head Ratchet at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

I have this one and the shorter non flex version. Very helpful in tight locations.

 

[bonneyman]

For how little this ratchet would probably get used, the quick release is irrelevant.

This seems like a case where you are looking to justify the purchase before making it.

However, why is a ratcheting wrench not the choice in this situation?

Last point, they make ratcheting wrench adapters that would make a better choice across a full spectrum of sizes:

I have a set of these and like them.

For even thinner profile, ditch the QR and finger spanner and insert a square-to-hex adaptor in a GW. Long, thin, about as compact a head as you can get. I use some o-rings to take up slack in different ratcheting wrenches but that's just a OCD thing.

 

[JWC86]

Is it really that mortifying to have to adjust the selector every once in a while? It's not like it requires a complex maneuver, plus you usually check before applying the tool to the fastener. No beef, I just find it curious that so many people write similar comments about non Snap-On ratchets, and ratcheting screwdrivers. I guess that once you develop an habit, it is hard to break from it.

Not mortifying at all, slightly annoying is all. Like you said its just what you are used to, when there are great options in the configuration that I prefer that's what I will buy. It's a shame because I like Koken otherwise.

 

[JWC86]

The head on my 1/4" Koken is smaller and thinner than the Nepros.

Ya that Koken is the way to go if your OK with the selector direction.

 

[GirchyGirchy]

Is it really that mortifying to have to adjust the selector every once in a while? It's not like it requires a complex maneuver, plus you usually check before applying the tool to the fastener. No beef, I just find it curious that so many people write similar comments about non Snap-On ratchets, and ratcheting screwdrivers. I guess that once you develop an habit, it is hard to break from it.

I can see it being a PITA if you're a pro who knows the orientation without looking. It's like using a Sigma lens on a Nikon, the zoom ring actuation is backwards and it's frustrating as hell.

 

[Dave455]

I can see why you would think Z Series, especially the compact, but you will be getting a small head ratchet, and it strikes me you need a thin head ratchet.

First that comes to mind is the Snap On. I’ve got one of these, and the low profile sockets to match. I don’t need it often, but when I do nothing really comes close. It’s not quick release, and not the length you want, but in all other respects probably ideal.

The other contender has to be the Wera Zyklop with the metal handle. I don’t know the dimension of the 3/8, but I have the 1/4 drive and it’s very thin.

Quick release too, and a relatively long handle. Wera seemed to have put a lot of thought into this design, and came up with something very. similar to what you are looking for.

 

[threewood]

This one is 11mm thick but not a comfort grip.

If they did a flex head version of this I would own it already.

I've got one. It is pretty small. That is a Wright 3430 next to it.

 

[threewood]

For how little this ratchet would probably get used, the quick release is irrelevant.

This seems like a case where you are looking to justify the purchase before making it.

However, why is a ratcheting wrench not the choice in this situation?

Last point, they make ratcheting wrench adapters that would make a better choice across a full spectrum of sizes:

This site costs me a lot of money lol.

 

[CGarage]

The GearWrench locking flex head 90T ratchets are real thin as well.

 

[Etchase]

My Proto J5248s is very short - but I don't have it with me right now to measure. It's not a skinny head in the horizontal dimension, but is low profile. Doesn't have a quick release though - I think that would work contrary to idea of keeping it thin.

Mine is 0.388” if you ignore the selector switch rivet. 0.415” if you include the rivet. Usually there is enough angular play in everything to **** it enough to not worry about the rivet.

 

[The Critic]

If you can live without quick release, the matco afr98 or afr98lf converted to 3/8" drive.

That's a really good idea. It looks like these can be converted very easily, unlike the TLLF72 which would require machining the faceplate.

1/4 in, 3/8 in. Drive Long-Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Amazing deals on this 1/4In, 3/8In Long Rch Dual Flex Head Ratchet at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

I have one and it is a POS. The gears are extremely rough.

What application would this be used on?

A variety of things, but primarily, Subaru spark plugs. Therefore, having a reasonable length (10" ballpark) would be nice due to the required leverage.

I assume since the koken you shown is a flex head that you have that as a requirement also?

Yes.

The new Nepros 3/8 in the 1/4 body are on my list but I’m not sure what lengths they come in.

I think you are referring to the NBRC390F. I believe it only comes in 150mm.

For how little this ratchet would probably get used, the quick release is irrelevant.

This seems like a case where you are looking to justify the purchase before making it.

However, why is a ratcheting wrench not the choice in this situation?

Last point, they make ratcheting wrench adapters that would make a better choice across a full spectrum of sizes:

Fair questions - it is for Subaru spark plugs. You are correct, the quick release is probably irrelevant but would be nice to have.

I'm not fixated on the Koken at all. In fact, the custom Matco ratchet is appearing to be a equally viable option.

I can see why you would think Z Series, especially the compact, but you will be getting a small head ratchet, and it strikes me you need a thin head ratchet.

First that comes to mind is the Snap On. I’ve got one of these, and the low profile sockets to match. I don’t need it often, but when I do nothing really comes close. It’s not quick release, and not the length you want, but in all other respects probably ideal.

The other contender has to be the Wera Zyklop with the metal handle. I don’t know the dimension of the 3/8, but I have the 1/4 drive and it’s very thin.

Quick release too, and a relatively long handle. Wera seemed to have put a lot of thought into this design, and came up with something very. similar to what you are looking for.

Interesting options - didn't know they existed. Thanks for sharing.

This site costs me a lot of money lol.

Quite true.

 

[assassin10000]

I really like my converted matco's. I have all 3 lengths.



They have a longer afr128 if the extra length will help. My brother in law now has my 1st one, specifically for doing spark plugs on his twin turbo mustang. Went from a 2 day job to 3 hours once he had the right tool(s).

 

[lardy1]

I have no experience to offer but I saw this in an ad this morning.

VIM Tools HBR1046 Dual Flex Head 1/4" & 3/8" Ratchet With Removable Drives

Buy VIM Tools HBR1046 Dual Flex Head 1/4" & 3/8" Ratchet With Removable Drives with an everyday low price and fast shipping! JB Tools

www.jbtools.com

 

[Brandon_Lutz]

Just saw this on Amazon. I'd pick one up myself if I didn't already have the Snap On low profile kit. It's only got 60 teeth though, so I don't know if that is a deal killer or not. $25 bucks though before tax is not bad.

Powerbuilt Low Profile 3/8 Ratchet

 

[ecotec]

1/4 in, 3/8 in. Drive Long-Reach Dual Flex Head Ratchet

Amazing deals on this 1/4In, 3/8In Long Rch Dual Flex Head Ratchet at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

I have one, and love it.

I have used it on so many different things. It is awesome for the serpentine belt tensioners on cars with a 3/8” female square on the tensioner. It cannot go in my “good” ratchet drawer, because I have not figured out how to open it up.

 

[CGarage]

I can see why you would think Z Series, especially the compact, but you will be getting a small head ratchet, and it strikes me you need a thin head ratchet.

First that comes to mind is the Snap On. I’ve got one of these, and the low profile sockets to match. I don’t need it often, but when I do nothing really comes close. It’s not quick release, and not the length you want, but in all other respects probably ideal.

The other contender has to be the Wera Zyklop with the metal handle. I don’t know the dimension of the 3/8, but I have the 1/4 drive and it’s very thin.

Quick release too, and a relatively long handle. Wera seemed to have put a lot of thought into this design, and came up with something very. similar to what you are looking for.

You always post good info.

 

[Dave455]

You always post good info.

Thank you!

I try to do something with all the “useful” information that my brain retains.

Unfortunately, it’s generally regarded as “useless” information by just about everyone - apart from some of the readers of this forum..!

The requirement for a “low profile” ratchet seems to be one that’s coming up more and more. The only thing I’m not convinced about is ”quick release”. So often I seem to need to get a finger behind the tool to hold it in place.

 

[CGarage]

Thank you!

I try to do something with all the “useful” information that my brain retains.

Unfortunately, it’s generally regarded as “useless” information by just about everyone - apart from some of the readers of this forum..!

The requirement for a “low profile” ratchet seems to be one that’s coming up more and more. The only thing I’m not convinced about is ”quick release”. So often I seem to need to get a finger behind the tool to hold it in place.

I completely agree, on all points!

Not a fan of the quick release for reasons you mentioned as well.

These are specialty application tools, so the need to save a fraction of a second of time swapping out sockets really isn’t a reality for 99% of applications because the tool’s use will be limited to hard to access fasteners.

Folks do not seem to understand this. You need different tools for different applications- and situations.

 

[The Critic]

Folks do not seem to understand this. You need different tools for different applications- and situations.

Exactly - and it is great to have options.

Anyway, in order to get the length I need in conjunction with head compactness, I am leaning towards a 1/4" Matco ratchet with a 3/8" drive conversion.

 

[CGarage]

Exactly - and it is great to have options.

Anyway, in order to get the length I need in conjunction with head compactness, I am leaning towards a 1/4" Matco ratchet with a 3/8" drive conversion.

Try the Gearwrench.
The handle is thinner on the Gearwrench as well.

 

[Draftpick1]

Exactly - and it is great to have options.

Anyway, in order to get the length I need in conjunction with head compactness, I am leaning towards a 1/4" Matco ratchet with a 3/8" drive conversion.

I have the matco BFR58 3/8 ratchet in 1/4 body and converted some Armstrong maxx ratchets all have done well and would recommend the conversion or matco ratchet

 

[d.mcfarland]

 

[The Critic]

Subaru spark plugs.