Which ratchet to choose for car repair

Ratchet wrench test

Nowadays it would be difficult to find a car enthusiast who has never held a wrench in his hands, and many of you probably know how inconvenient it is to use a regular wrench in a narrow space where you have to frequently rearrange it.
This problem is successfully solved by ratchet wrenches: there is no need to rearrange the tool, a special mechanism ensures reliable fixation of the head when rotating in one direction and turning it when the handle is pulled back, as a rule, the direction of rotation is changed by a switch (flag or ring type) or simply by rearranging the connecting square from one side of the key to the other. In previous issues, you were presented with tests of combination wrenches (Avtodela No. 5, No. 15 for 2004, test 1, test 2), based on which everyone could choose a tool to their liking and budget. Continuing the topic of tools, we decided to test ratchet wrenches, such an indispensable tool for any auto mechanic and just an amateur.

HOW WE TESTED

We selected 11 manufacturers for the test, most of whom are known to you from past publications. These are Apelas, Force, Gedore, Jonnesway, Kabo, KamasaTools, King Tony, Tona, Usag, Arsenal, a domestic key made in Novosibirsk, as well as a new product on the Russian market: a key produced under the well-known brand "Techcom" (a large network auto parts stores).

All presented wrenches have the most common connecting square size of 1/2”, but a different minimum pitch of the ratchet mechanism (from 5 to 15 degrees). The latter must be taken into account when evaluating keys, since this affects the design of the mechanism and its power properties. Looking ahead, we note that, contrary to expectations, keys with a minimum pitch turned out to be the most durable.

Based on the type of ratchet mechanism, the presented samples can be divided into two groups. The first includes keys with a small ratchet pitch; their mechanism has an internal toothed ring made in the key body, and a response pawl, which has a toothed notch on one side and a plane slightly rounded at the edges on the other. The toothed part of the pawl engages with the ring in the ratchet body, and the flat part is adjacent to the counter wall of the half-cylinder, which is made as a single unit with the connecting square. Due to the roundings, the pawl can rotate relative to the plane of the half-cylinder, ensuring that the key operates in one direction or the other. The teeth of such a mechanism have a fine pitch, which ensures a minimum angle of rotation of the key. Since the working ring is made in the key body and is integral with the handle, higher hardness requirements can be put forward to the latter. The following examples have this type of mechanism: Tona, Jonnesway, King Tony. "Arsenal".

The second type of mechanism is based on a toothed roller with a connecting square and a spring-loaded response pawl with teeth on two protrusions. With the help of a switch, the pawl is turned to the roller by one of the protrusions, providing engagement when rotating in one direction and scrolling when rotating in the other. On some keys, instead of one pawl, two narrow prisms are installed; the switch has an eccentric, which brings one prism with its end to the roller, and the other with its plane, ensuring the operation of the mechanism. The second type of mechanism is available in the keys Apelas, Force, Gedore, Kabo, KamasaTools, Usag, Tekhkom, Novosibirsk key.

The Russian requirements for the manufacture of ratchet wrenches were taken as the basis from which we started in this test. Thus, GOST 22402-77 (reissued in 1983) establishes geometric parameters, and GOST 25605-83 establishes the material from which the key is made, its strength and hardness.

The strength of ratchet wrenches is determined by the test torque, which corresponds to the standard size of the connecting square. In our case, for a 1/2" square, the test moment is 390 N?m (39 kgf?m).

In many ways, the test methodology is similar to that used in our previous tests, where we evaluated combination keys. Therefore, we present only the fundamental aspects of the tests.

Two keys from each company were tested for strength, except for the keys “Arsenal” and “Tekhkom”, which, due to objective reasons, we had in a single copy.

Strength tests were carried out in two stages. At the first stage, in accordance with GOST 25605-83, each specimen was loaded with a maximum test moment of 390 N?m. After loading, the condition of the surfaces of the connecting square was assessed for the presence of traces. During testing, the key was installed in a special high-hard mandrel with a square hole having the appropriate nominal dimensions. A mandrel made of HVG steel and having a hardness of 58 HRC is installed in the grip of the testing machine. The gripper is connected to a torque measuring device.

When loaded with a moment of 390 N?m, all the keys, without exception, passed the tests without noticeable deformations of the working edges; only minor abrasions and marks were noted on some samples.

At the second stage, the magnitude of the destructive moment was determined, which was compared with the maximum test moment according to GOST, and the causes and consequences of destruction were assessed.

After destruction, the hardness of the working elements of the keys was measured: handle, mechanism pawl, connecting square. Note that hardness is the primary determining parameter on which the strength and durability of ratchet wrenches depends.

After all of the above, we tested the key handles for gasoline and oil resistance. For this, we took ordinary motor oil and A-92 gasoline; we kept one sample from each manufacturer in gasoline and oil for 24 hours, after which we washed it and assessed the condition of the working surfaces. It is not difficult to assume that the keys are much more likely to be in constant contact with oil than with gasoline, so we kept the samples that we have in a single copy only in oil. The test results are noted in the further description of the keys.

help me choose a 1/2″ ratchet wrench

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Theme Options

1 — Flag ratchet “Delo Tekhniki” 1/2″ x 250 mm 45 teeth 2 — Flat ratchet “king tony K 4771-10GR” 1/2 x 250 mm 32 teeth.

Doctor

Leksandrych

Andrey72

What exactly is broken? Was it a big reward or was it a matter of quality? I also liked lykota, but I can’t find it on sale.

Added after 1 minute

Doctor

Honestly, I don’t care, if you have money, take something more expensive. And for all ratchets there is a repair. kits, but you can’t break the handle itself. I don't like Likota because of the curved handle. After 4-5 years, the rubber band on the handle of the Jonesway has peeled off; we have to figure something out because the handle is too thin.

The best manufacturers of ratchet wrenches

Leading manufacturers use high-quality types of metal and its alloys when producing ratchet wrenches. They help to easily unscrew a stuck bolt or nut located in a hard-to-reach place, thereby making the mechanic’s work easier.

Our rating presents products from companies that produce the highest quality products.

GROSS

Description. A tool for unscrewing bolts and nuts from a German company is produced at a plant in China. This determines the affordable price of ratchets. Strict production control at the factory allows the company to produce high quality keys.

The material used to make the tool is durable chrome vanadium alloy. Manufacturers produce ratchets with different seating square sizes. For example, a ½" wrench has 72 teeth, a short length of 335 mm and a light weight of 542 g.

The product is covered with protective polypropylene material, which ensures a long service life of the key.

As repair experts note, tools from the company from Germany can be used for five years or more.

1. High-quality metal is used in production.
2. Convenient tool shape.
3. Availability of telescopic handles.
4. Small sizes allow you to work in places with limited space.
5. Easily unscrews “heavy” nuts.
6. Possibility to select the desired ratchet size.
7. Acceptable price.
8. Spectacular appearance.

1. Defective products are received.

In general, consumers trust the products of this German company and recommend them for purchase.

JONNESWAY

Description. High quality and affordable price are the distinctive features of the tool from the Taiwanese company. Ratchets are made of durable chromium-vanadium alloy.

The JONNESWAY range includes keys of various sizes. Quarter- and half-inch products are in high demand among repairmen.

The minimum dimensions provide access to fastening elements located in secluded areas of the car. Light weight makes it easy to repair the machine. The wrenches can withstand heavy loads when loosening bolts and nuts.

Life time. Taiwanese manufacturers are so confident in the quality of their products that they provide a guarantee for the entire life of the product.

1. Large selection of sizes and number of teeth.
2. Attractive appearance.
3. Reliable metal.
4. Low price.
5. Comfortable handle.

1. There is a marriage.
2. Big reversal.

Users are satisfied with the company's products, given their affordable cost and good quality.

FORCE

Description. The mechanism consists of three power parts, two support springs and a switch. The handle of the key is made of a material that is tactilely pleasant to the touch and fits comfortably in the hand. It absorbs dents that form when you press the handle and eliminates minor scratches.

The coating is not afraid of moisture, resistant to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, and mechanical deformation. The company produces these keys in various sizes: ½, ¾, 3/8 inches, as well as other options.

The number of teeth can also vary.

Life time. The products of this Taiwanese company stand out among analogues by their long service life: 4-5 years of intensive use.

1. Variety of key options.
2. Convenient telescopic handle.
3. Acceptable price of the goods.
4. Presentable appearance of products.
5. Wide range of ratchets.

1. They don't always support heavy loads and break.

FACOM

Description. The keys of the company from France, using a rotating handle, allow you to ensure high-quality fixation of the fastener in the tool head in a matter of moments.

This method allows you to securely grab a nut or bolt while in cramped working conditions. The company produces tools in sizes ½, ¼, ¾, 3/8 inches.

All Facom products comply with international standards, which is confirmed by certificates ISO 2725-1, ANSI B 107-1, DIN 3124.

A special tool production technology ensures that the nut or bolt is held by the entire length of the surface, and not by the corners.

The product is perfectly protected from counterfeiting: on the head housing there is information about the country in which the product was manufactured, the company, and its logo is indicated.

Life time. Car enthusiasts who use these ratchets note that the tool works for more than five years without damage.

1. Excellent quality product.
2. Long service life of keys.
3. Attractive appearance.
4. The metal is coated with a durable anti-corrosion coating.
5. Ability to work in cramped conditions.
6. Comfortable handle.

Ratchet wrench: principle of operation and advantages

An indispensable tool in the arsenal of every home craftsman is a wrench.
The domestic industry produces them for every taste and budget: from the lightest and smallest (for working with electronics and household appliances) to large and heavy (these are often used when repairing machines and other equipment, as well as during the maintenance of ground transport). As a rule, they are made from high-quality solid metal or an alloy of several metals. Recently, new models equipped with additional devices that greatly facilitate the work of the home craftsman have become very popular. Tools for tightening nuts, equipped with a so-called ratchet, are in great demand in specialized stores. However, it would be more correct to use the following name: “wrench with built-in ratchet .

Professional tools

Auto hand tools are an indispensable thing in the garage and car. Using it, you can quickly change a wheel, oil, or unscrew this or that part. And if standard kits allow you to carry out minor repairs, then professional kits expand the range of possibilities.

Berger Hof BG108-1214

Cost 6999 rub.

The case is impressive not only in the quality of the tools, but also in their quantity - 108 pieces. There are bits, sockets, extensions, adapters, adapters, screwdrivers and much more. If you are a home craftsman who is accustomed to having everything you need at hand, then you should definitely pay attention to the products.

Reliable closing of the suitcase is ensured by 2 latches.

Berger Hof BG108-1214

Advantages

• durable material;
• variety of details.

Flaws

• high price.

Kraftool 27888-H108

Cost 6700 rub.

A set of tools from a famous German manufacturer. The main distinctive feature of the case is that it opens in two directions, providing immediate access to 4 shelves and a lower compartment.

Compared to other suitcases, this one is large and massive - 14 kg. There is room to add additional elements.

Manufacturers have equipped the case with everything necessary: ​​screwdrivers for installation, bits, hexagon sockets, side cutters, pliers and much more. There are also universal tools - a hacksaw, an adjustable wrench, a hammer.

Kraftool 27888-H108

Advantages

• steel packaging;
• many mounting elements.

Flaws

• large mass;
• high price.

OMBRA OMT131S

Cost 12400 rub.

Perhaps the best set from Taiwanese manufacturers, with advanced functionality and high quality. Extended equipment, ergonomic case, impact-resistant plastic, metal locks - what could be better?

The kit is universal and will be useful for amateur motorists and experienced craftsmen.

Includes hammer, chisels, metal scissors, pliers and much more. Each nozzle is made of alloy steel, the handles are made of high-quality plastic.

OMBRA OMT131S

Advantages

• good equipment;
• ability to carry out repairs of any level of complexity.

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Disadvantages

• high price;
• small heads and hexagons periodically fall out.

BERGER Munich BG148-1214

Cost 16290 rub.

A set consisting of the most necessary tools. For secure and long-lasting storage of parts, they are supplied in a case with durable latches. Inside there are 148 items made of chrome vanadium steel.

Comfortable operation is ensured by rubber-plastic handles.

BERGER Munich BG148-1214

Advantages

• multifunctionality;
• safe storage.

Flaws

• high price.

Delo Techniki 620851

Cost 8440 rub.

A suitcase from Taiwanese manufacturers, inside of which ratchets, knobs, heads and other elements are made of durable chrome vanadium steel. Head sizes range from 4 to 32 millimeters. All accessories are in a durable case.

Delo Techniki 620851

Advantages

• everything you need in one place;
• quality.

Flaws

• poor head fastening;
• fragile universal joint;
• The foam pad between the two parts of the case wears out quickly.

Arsenal C1412P132

Cost 12220 rub.

The main thing that captivates all car enthusiasts and professional craftsmen with this set is its rich equipment and the presence of really necessary items. In addition to standard heads, bits, and drives, there is a magnetic telescopic handle, screwdrivers, pliers, an autotester, and much more.

Wiping the metal with a rag after each use helps prevent corrosion.

Arsenal C1412P132

Advantages

• spacious suitcase;
• the quality of each instrument.

Flaws

• high price.

JONNESWAY S68H5234111S

Cost 16510 rub.

A universal set consisting of 111 items. A large assortment allows you to carry out any work in a short time. Chrome coating protects the attachments from premature corrosion and extends service life.

Convenient transportation is provided by a case with handles.

JONNESWAY S68H5234111S

Advantages

• several ratchets with different drives.

Flaws

• high price.

Ratchet wrench

A tool equipped with a ratchet consists of the following elements:

Main advantages and disadvantages

Here are the main advantages of a ratchet wrench:

However, the device also has disadvantages. In particular, due to the presence of a ratchet at the auxiliary end of the tool, holding it is sometimes not very convenient . If the home technician holds the key incorrectly, he may injure the soft tissues of the palm. In addition, the presence of a ratchet increases weight and length. And finally, ratchets on foreign-made wrenches do not always fit domestic bolts and nuts. Therefore, when purchasing products from well-known Western companies, the home master risks paying money in vain.

Key purpose

Wrenches come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Many home craftsmen often use them during renovation work in an apartment or house. For example, a large tool is very convenient when you need to open an old valve, rusted from time to time, to bleed air from a steam heating radiator. Plumbers often use this tool when repairing sinks and toilet cisterns. Also, tools equipped with an additional mechanism are used:

The largest and heaviest wrenches are used to repair cars, while the smallest and thinnest are used to repair a variety of household appliances and electronics. In order to select the appropriate size wrench, you need to know the size of the fasteners. Experienced repair specialists determine it by eye and immediately select the right one.

How to choose tools for cars

Not all drivers decide to repair their vehicles themselves. But as statistics show, from time to time everyone repairs one or another breakdown in the garage without the help of professionals. There are several reasons for this: lack of funds for the salon, a banal malfunction, the desire to gain experience.

Most often, men repair cars from the domestic automobile industry. And it’s unlikely that what you started will end in success if you don’t have the right tool at hand. But how to choose it among all the variety?

One option is to purchase everything separately, but traveling to different stores and looking for the right key or something else is not very convenient. It is better to buy a ready-made car kit.

Modern suitcases contain not just a standard set of keys, but also auxiliary parts.

Before purchasing something, ask yourself what it will be used for. Below are several types of kits that will definitely come in handy:

• Slesarsky . This includes hacksaws, cutting and sawing devices. Many people will ask why all this is in the car, it’s simple, to restore rusty threads.
• Electrics . Everyone should understand that no vehicle will operate without proper wiring.
• Universal . As a rule, this is a professional kit used to solve any problems. Without a doubt, this is the best thing you can buy, but you should immediately understand that the cost will not be small.

The most advanced sets are those that contain 100 or more items. Pay attention to the availability of highly specialized tools; they may never be useful, but their mere presence is reassuring.

Material of manufacture

Whatever case you purchase, the main thing is not the purpose, but the quality. The higher it is, the more reliable the repair, as well as the guarantee of safety. The best that manufacturers can offer today is chrome vanadium steel. The parts are durable, resistant to mechanical damage, and not subject to corrosion.

The second type is chromium-molybdenum. Just like the previous type, it is durable and wear levels are low. The most expensive parts are those made of titanium, but repairing them will definitely not cause difficulties.

Common mistakes

When choosing a set of tools for their car, many drivers make mistakes. The thing is that manufacturers offer a lot of things, in different price categories, differing in quality. The main thing to remember is that the more parts in the kit, the more money you will have to pay.

Experienced car enthusiasts recommend taking a closer look at your vehicle before making a purchase.

If this is a domestic auto industry, large wrenches and sockets will be useful. Foreign - cue balls with figured edges, hexagons. American - inch instruments, rare.

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It wouldn’t hurt to ask the seller if the case you like is suitable for your purposes. Remember the importance of quality.

How to choose a ratchet wrench

If a DIYer often uses wrenches, it is best to purchase a tool set. Typically, such a set includes 10-12 keys of various sizes. The larger the key, the larger the ratchet at the end, and vice versa. Very small instruments are not equipped with a ratchet, because this is not necessary. Unscrewing and tightening small nuts and bolts is easy and does not require physical effort to turn the key.
When purchasing a set of tools, you should pay special attention to the manufacturer. It is better to give preference to domestically produced tools, since in this case the diameter of the key will not diverge from the diameter of the fasteners. In addition, the factory packaging of domestic tools clearly indicates the main technical characteristics: the length of the key, its width and thickness, the diameter of the ratchet and working surface, the material from which the tool is made.

The surface of the wrench should be shiny. If there are signs of incipient corrosion on the surface (brown spots), it is better to refrain from purchasing. When turning, the ratchet wrench should not make squeaking or other extraneous sounds. A high-quality tool rotates around its axis quickly and calmly, and there is no need to apply additional physical effort to the rotation.

If a tool is made of high-quality metal, its service life is practically unlimited. However, recently a lot of Chinese products made from low-quality alloys have appeared on the domestic market. Typically, such sets are sold at low prices at stalls, on trains and in underground passages. Don't be tempted by the low price. Firstly, dubious metal alloys quickly rust, and the tool becomes unusable. Secondly, these alloys can be toxic.

A ratchet wrench is a very handy thing . Even a beginner or high school student can easily handle this tool. A ratchet is a device that makes work much easier and helps tighten nuts quickly, efficiently, and tightly. In order for the key to serve the household for many years, you should give preference to models from well-known companies and purchase the tool only in specialized, preferably branded, stores. You can also order this “magic wand” via the Internet, with delivery via courier or by mail.

How to choose the right ratchet

To help you understand which ratchet to choose, let’s look at the important parameters of these tools.

Standard size

To choose the right ratchet, you need to pay attention to this parameter first. It affects the size of the socket heads available for fastening. According to this criterion, ratchet wrenches are divided into 4 types.

1. 1/4. Ratchets of this type are suitable for sockets from 4 to 14 mm. Such tools are used when working with small-sized threaded connections in hard-to-reach places.
2. 3/8. Devices of this type are the least widespread on the market. This is strange because they fit sockets with sizes ranging from 8 to 22 mm. If you find one, feel free to choose such a ratchet. It is perfect for household needs and car repairs.
3. 1/2. The most popular type of device. Such ratchets are equipped with attachments with sizes from 8 to 32 mm. But there is an important nuance here. The 8-10mm nuts and bolts must be tightened carefully. You may miscalculate the force and break the thread or bolt head.
4. 3/4. This type includes the largest ratchets. They are equipped with nozzles with sizes from 19 to 46 mm. Such keys are used in the production and maintenance of heavy equipment and large structures.

Image No. 3: main types of ratchets

Number of teeth in ratchet mechanism

This parameter directly affects the ease of working with the tool in hard-to-reach places, as well as the speed of tightening and unscrewing nuts and bolts.

Let's give an example. Let's take two ratchets with 24 and 72 teeth and make one turn back and forth on the same nut. As a result, we will see the following.

1. When using a 24-tooth ratchet, the nut turned further, but the handle had to be moved back and forth with an amplitude of 15 cm.
2. In the second case, the opposite is true. The nut turned a short distance, but the handle had to be moved only 6 cm.

Photo #2: 72 tooth ratchet

This suggests that ratchets with a large number of teeth are best for working in hard-to-reach areas, while small-tooth tools are great for working on easily accessible bolted joints.

46 Replies to “Which ratchet to choose. Differences between ratchet wrenches”

I have these: “Gross” telescopic. The telescope is very useful.

"Stanley" with a rotating ratchet handle. The rotating handle sometimes helps, but very rarely. The downside is the ring-shaped switch.

“Scrub” with a socket for hex bits.

"Johnnesway" with rubber handles for 48 teeth. Regular good ratchets.

"Matrix" is oddly normal.

There are also stepless ratchets (ratchets with an overrunning clutch) and Likota. Anyone who tried it, please let me know how they did.

There is an even better one: Licota, without micron steps, you can unscrew it and it will also work as a power one

I have both Force and John - I think they are the same in quality!

Posts 1 page 17 of 17

Share12012-07-05 12:43:58

Good day, grass growers, I want to buy a repair kit, but the problem is there are so many of them that I don’t know which one to get. I looked at the tests and reviews on the internet, there are a lot of opinions. So I decided to consult with you. I want to take a good one right away so that I don’t have to worry about it later. What are your opinions?

Share22012-07-05 13:45:59

It doesn’t matter how much money you spend!))) I have such an Arsenal. In principle, everything is there, I just bought an 18 key for the walker.

Share32012-07-05 16:25:35

The manufacturer is, of course, an important question (of the affordable and quite tolerable ones, I would take Apellas, although there are many other brands). But a very important question is what should be in the set. Firstly, I would probably take a combination set of 1/2, 3/8. Moreover, the emphasis should be at 3/8 - the most popular size when repairing a car. There is no way without 1/2 either - since large 3/8 nuts are difficult to open. 3/4 is clearly excessive for a passenger car. Only needed in a few operations and can be completely replaced by 1/2. 1/4 is good for very small bolts. In most cases, 3/8 is easily replaced. But sometimes, with poor access, it can be irreplaceable. Therefore, my choice is either 3/8+1/2, or 3/8+1/2+1/4 (in both cases the emphasis is on 3/8). Next, for a travik it is necessary not only to have an internal torx, but also an external one. Without this, buying a kit for a grasshopper is money down the drain. There must be exotic sizes - 15, 18, 20. Elongated heads are very welcome. Especially 10,12,13,15,18. Hammer, open-end wrenches, pliers, etc. You can also buy it separately - so I wouldn’t pay much attention to this.

Share42012-07-05 16:28:44

It doesn’t matter how much money you spend!))) I have such an Arsenal. In principle, everything is there, I just bought an 18 key for the walker.

The lack of torx significantly spoils the impression of such a kit. Although hexagons of this shape cope quite well with torx. The lack of carobs on 15 and 18 sucks.

Share52012-07-05 16:45:19

Here's an example set. YATO is Taiwanese with a claim to professionalism. More than enough for an amateur. There are torx, socket wrenches for 15 and 18. Of the minuses, there are no small torx (E5 for example). There is no need for inch heads, except as a reserve in case the metric ones are lost.

Share62012-07-05 16:55:06

Here is a set - a set. I bought it and forgot it. And there are all torx heads, elongated heads, and no idiotic inch ones, and any kind of bits. And all the carobs. The only thing is that there is no carob for 20, there are no large carobs - 24,27,30,32. But you can still look for them on the grass. On 30, I think there is a wheel drive nut, but there is no need for a horn nut. 32, 27, in my opinion, is nowhere to be found. Well, the price tag is hefty.

Edited by coloboc (2012-07-05 18:01:51)

Share72012-07-05 21:06:18

Here is a set - a set. I bought it and forgot it. And there are all torx heads, elongated heads, and no idiotic inch ones, and any kind of bits. And all the carobs. The only thing is that there is no carob for 20, there are no large carobs - 24,27,30,32. But you can still look for them on the grass. On 30, I think there is a wheel drive nut, but there is no need for a horn nut. 32, 27, in my opinion, is nowhere to be found. Well, the price tag is hefty.

Edited by coloboc (Today 18:01:51)

Yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the price tag isn’t too bad I can’t afford it

Share82012-07-05 21:11:41

The manufacturer is, of course, an important question (of the affordable and quite tolerable ones, I would take Apellas, although there are many other brands). But a very important question is what should be in the set. Firstly, I would probably take a combination set of 1/2, 3/8. Moreover, the emphasis should be at 3/8 - the most popular size when repairing a car. There is no way without 1/2 either - since large 3/8 nuts are difficult to open. 3/4 is clearly excessive for a passenger car. Only needed in a few operations and can be completely replaced by 1/2. 1/4 is good for very small bolts. In most cases, 3/8 is easily replaced. But sometimes, with poor access, it can be irreplaceable. Therefore, my choice is either 3/8+1/2, or 3/8+1/2+1/4 (in both cases the emphasis is on 3/8). Next, for a travik it is necessary not only to have an internal torx, but also an external one. Without this, buying a kit for a grasshopper is money down the drain. There must be exotic sizes - 15, 18, 20. Elongated heads are very welcome. Especially 10,12,13,15,18. Hammer, open-end wrenches, pliers, etc. You can also buy it separately - so I wouldn’t pay much attention to this.

This is valuable information, thank you very much.

Share92012-08-02 20:07:48

DJA spent a long time choosing a set and bought today OMBRA OMT108S OMT108S

except open-end wrenches and reinforced long TORX bits, there is everything. competitors with ratchets 1/2 and 1/4 with 72 teeth (namely, these are the ratchets I chose) cost about 1 thousand more. In Omsk, not far from home, I found such a set for 3,300 rubles, there are two more left in the store. Tomorrow my father will change the timing belt))) we'll check it in action)

I also liked the suitcase made of thick plastic and with metal fasteners.

Share102012-08-03 09:08:00

DJA spent a long time choosing a set and bought today OMBRA OMT108S OMT108S

except open-end wrenches and reinforced long TORX bits, there is everything. competitors with ratchets 1/2 and 1/4 with 72 teeth (namely, these are the ratchets I chose) cost about 1 thousand more. In Omsk, not far from home, I found such a set for 3,300 rubles, there are two more left in the store. Tomorrow my father will change the timing belt))) we'll check it out) I also liked the suitcase made of thick plastic and with metal fasteners. Author's signatureOPEL - THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO! Omsk SUBARU TRAVIQ 2001, Z22SE, automatic transmission

Nice set. All possible sizes of hex and torx bits are available. And open-end wrenches and everything else can be purchased separately. This would also include a nice long hinged knob. Otherwise, the knob is also an extension cord. And it often happens that you need to tear off the nuts with an extension cord. So what should we do? Well, there is no ideal in this life.

Inexpensive options

Below is a rating of universal suitcases containing a minimum of accessories. There is everything you need to repair a basic breakdown.

Stels 1410

Cost 2850 rub.

If you are looking for a standard kit to fix minor breakdowns, then this is what you need. The case contains about 100 items: 16 bits of different sizes, keys, ratchets, and sockets.

Manufacturers have thought of every detail by adding an adapter and articulated extensions for the heads.

Stels 1410 set

Advantages

• affordable price;
• high-quality equipment.

Flaws

• no open-end wrenches;
• plastic ratchet switches.

Arsenal C1412K82

Cost 3800 rub.

The set is captivating because it has a rich set of components designed exclusively for motorists. In addition to standard heads, keys, bits, drives, there are pliers, screwdrivers and even an autotester.

Speaking about instruments, one cannot fail to note their quality, which is above average.

Due to the fact that the manufacturer has proven itself to be the best, their products are popular with all men.

Arsenal C1412K82

Advantages

• spacious suitcase;
• Suitable for minor and more complex repairs.

Flaws

• high price.

Performance Tools PTL94

Cost 3099 rub.

A budget set of tools from a famous American brand. The main purpose is installation and removal of threaded fasteners. Suitable for various repairs. The products in question include 94 accessories made of chrome vanadium steel.

The main goal in production was to reduce cost, as a result - a model from the middle segment.

Performance Tools PTL94

Advantages

• compliance with ISO standards;
• comfortable ratchet handles;
• strong fixation of each element in the case.

Flaws

• steel bits are not resistant to rust;
• plastic switches.

STELS 14105

Cost 3590 rub.

The Chinese brand never ceases to amaze, and the new set that went on sale meets all the requirements. It is not recommended to use sockets or ratchets every day, they will not last long, but as a travel case, the case is considered the best, justifying the amount spent.

STELS 14105

Advantages

• reliability;
• Suitable for “quick repairs”.

Flaws

• poor fixation of small heads.

2FORCE 4941-5

Cost 5000 rub.

Taiwanese manufacturers have been on the sales market for a long time and are respected not only by drivers, but also by craftsmen. In addition to standard tools, the set includes 6-point sockets, 32 mm long bits and much more.

It wouldn’t be superfluous to say that this is the best case, and most importantly of high quality. Heads and cranks may be loaded frequently and heavily. In all the years of sales, not a single customer has complained about broken bits or drives.

The main advantage is the well-organized internal space of the case, clear fixation of parts, and metal latches.

2FORCE 4941-5

Advantages

• quality steel;
• every detail is thought out.

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Disadvantages

• rapid appearance of rust.

OMBRA OMT94S

Cost 4290 rub.

The second name of the suitcase is amateur, with only one feature: high quality steel is used in production. The attention of many users is drawn to the shock-resistant case and proper selection of tools.

The only point that many people focus on is the mode switching tab, the location of which is not very good.

OMBRA OMT94S

Advantages

• used independently and in a car service;
• 48 tooth ratchet with quick release;
• Each tool is treated with chrome.

Flaws

• lack of open-end wrenches.

Thorvik UTS0082

Cost 4950 rub.

The parts in the set are made of chrome vanadium steel, ensuring quality, reliability, and resistance to mechanical stress. Rich equipment allows for amateur or professional use.

Carrying the case becomes convenient thanks to the plastic handle.

Thorvik UTS0082

Advantages

• 82 items;
• socket heads and bits included.

Flaws

• no screwdrivers or hammer.

VORTEX 73/6/7/3

Cost 4259 rub.

The well-known brand produces many products, the main focus of which is industrial. Products are among the best due to their quality, positive reviews from experts and ordinary users.

Delivery in a plastic case simplifies the process of storage and transportation. There are metal latches and 2 separate hinges. Each element has its own position.

VORTEX 73/6/7/3

Advantages

• high-quality assembly;
• compact dimensions;
• rich equipment.

Flaws

• ratchets require periodic lubrication;
• uncomfortable shape of the handles;
• tight fastening of every part.

Ratchet wrench with hex head set for car repair

To perform simple car maintenance operations, a screwdriver and a standard set of wrenches are usually sufficient. But this is until the need arises to unscrew tightened bolts in a hard-to-reach place, for example, to remove a seat or change the battery. Such a need, of course, does not arise often, but I believe that it is still better to have such a tool at hand than to go to a service station for a trivial reason. Actually, this set was ordered for this reason.

The 12-piece set includes a ratchet wrench, an extension and 10 sockets in sizes 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22 and 24 mm.

The product was provided for writing a review by the store. The review was published in accordance with clause 18 of the Site Rules.

Source

Areas of application of ratchets and their advantages over wrenches

Ratchets are actively used in the following areas.

1. Production and maintenance of cars, trailers, buses, carriages, locomotives, aircraft and other vehicles.
2. Construction of buildings and structures for various purposes.
3. Production and maintenance of machine tools and other units.
4. Installation and repair of engineering systems.
5. Manufacturing and repair of furniture and electronics.
6. Finishing work, etc.

Using ratchets gives craftsmen a number of important advantages.

1. To tighten or unscrew the fastener, simply turn the tool slightly. This is important when working with large and critical bolted connections (where large forces are required).
2. Using ratchets instead of wrenches significantly improves productivity.
3. Ratchets are much better than traditional analogues for working with bolted joints in hard-to-reach places. These devices will cope with their tasks even when there is no possibility of throwing keys.