Thorsen open gear design question

[OctoMan]

I'm interested in the Thorsen 77 JC318 ratchet design. I have a Thorsen 1/4" ratchet that I use quite a bit although not an open type. I'm curious about the 3/8" ratchet with the open gear design. Thorsen made a 1/2" ratchet with the same design as well. Is there a reason behind it?

 

[BirdMobile]

I really like my 1/2" drive open Thorsen. It's simple and solid. However, it takes a bit more maintenance - lube doesn't stay put as well as in sealed head designs. I also avoid using it in areas where there are metal chips or a lot of dirt - for obvious reasons.

 

[Conductor562]

You're asking if there is a specific reason they designed it with an exposed gear?

 

[3baygarage]

Maybe designed with smaller ratchet head in mind. Not re-buildable but those are strong course tooth ratchets that lasted IMO.

 

[Davefr]

I'm interested in the Thorsen 77 JC318 ratchet design. I have a Thorsen 1/4" ratchet that I use quite a bit although not an open type. I'm curious about the 3/8" ratchet with the open gear design. Thorsen made a 1/2" ratchet with the same design as well. Is there a reason behind it?

Thorsen made exposed gear ratchets in 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2".

I've used mine many times and they're a "go to" ratchet IMHO. The reason is that they're able to get into some very tight spots. (ie much more compact then traditional pear shaped ratchets).

I've never had a problem with the exposed gears. They're easy to clean and they don't need lubrication.

 

[Hiball]

I really like my 1/2" drive open Thorsen. It's simple and solid. However, it takes a bit more maintenance - lube doesn't stay put as well as in sealed head designs. I also avoid using it in areas where there are metal chips or a lot of dirt - for obvious reasons.

That's is the Exact Opposite Reason that there are Exposed Gear Ratchets, The Wright models in particular where Military Issue to be used over in the Sandbox because even Sealed ratchets don't do well with fine particles.

 

[BirdMobile]

That's is the Exact Opposite Reason that there are Exposed Gear Ratchets, The Wright models in particular where Military Issue to be used over in the Sandbox because even Sealed ratchets don't do well with fine particles.

Interesting. I've often considered this - wondering if it might "clear" any debris out easier. Thanks for the confirmation - I'll be less hesitant using it in dirty environments now.

 

[NoahG]

I've been drooling over those Wright designs for a while now.

 

[Packard V8]

I've got a 1/2"dr Thorsen which has a horseshoe spring metal cover over the gears. Not water or sand protection, but it keeps the larger pieces out of the machinery.

Sort of like bearings which come in open, shielded and sealed versions.


jack vines

 

[OctoMan]

Thanks guys! There was mention in Alloy Artifacts about a military contract. It would make sense they're for confined spaces. Cool.