Sockets fasten to the ratchet using a square-drive connector.
Lock: Most ratchets include a button or similar locking mechanism that keeps the socket on the ratchet until the button is pushed. Flipped one way, you tighten a nut flip it the other way and you loosen it. Switch: There should be a switch of some sort on the ratchet so you can change the direction. Of the two, the roller-bearing ratchet is usually capable of smaller motions, making it a better option for working in tight spaces. Some specific features of a ratchet include the following:ĭrive: Ratchets include either a geared drive or a roller bearing. You need to use the right size socket with the compatible ratchet or use an adapter between the two. Ratchet sizes vary, and the most popular SAE sizes are 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/8 inch. One end of a socket snaps onto the ratchet, while the other end goes over the nut or other fastener.
Think of the ratchet as the handle of the socket wrench. Any ratchet set you purchase should resist rust and corrosion. While most have a shiny chrome finish, some have black chrome or some other finish such as black phosphate, which improves durability. SAE ratchet sets are based on inches and are made to work with US automobiles and other domestic goods.Ī socket wrench is the combination of a ratchet and socket.īoth ratchets and sockets are typically made of chrome-plated steel.
Metric ratchet sets are based on millimeters and are typically used to work on imported cars and other machines from overseas. If you want to use your set on the widest variety of projects, consider buying one that includes both standards. There are two primary standards to consider when purchasing a ratchet set: metric and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers). This is something to watch out for if you’re in search of a portable ratchet set. Also, remember that the more pieces a set has, the heavier it is. The more pieces you have, the more you’ll be able to do with your set.īut be careful about overspending for a set with dozens of pieces you’ll never use. The average is typically between 30 and 50 pieces. Ratchet sets range from around a dozen pieces up to more than 300, depending on the set. It’s important to know exactly what you’re buying when you purchase a ratchet set. While some ratchet sets include ratchets, sockets, and other bits - basically everything you need to tighten or loosen a range of fasteners - other sets, such as a sockets-only set, include a limited number of pieces. One benefit of owning deep sockets is they’re often the only way to tighten or loosen recessed nuts and bolts.
0 kommentar(er)
