Recommended 1/4" Square Drive Ratchets as compact & light as Prestaratchet?
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Recommended 1/4" Square Drive Ratchets as compact & light as Prestaratchet?
Are there 1/4" square drive ratchets as compact as the Prestaratchet? The small size and light weight are nice. Can anyone recommend a quality 1/4" square drive ratchet model that fits the bill?
Also can you recommend any quality durable bit sets available online that should cover most bike needs?
Also can you recommend any quality durable bit sets available online that should cover most bike needs?
#2
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Well.... because a 1/4" drive is made to handle more torque than a hex bit the ratchet unit won't be quite as compact. And if it were you'd be paying big bucks for one.
If you simply want the shorter handle then simply zip disc off a piece and grind the end back to smooth.
If you simply want the shorter handle then simply zip disc off a piece and grind the end back to smooth.
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If you want a quality ¼" ratchet, get either a Snap-On, MAC, or NAPA Balkamp. In most cases, one can find these at any flea market or auto parts swap. Yes, they hold their value because they're worth every penny.
Craftsman is second by a couple lengths; the others trail the field.
Craftsman is second by a couple lengths; the others trail the field.
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This may come close; double-ended, it takes both 1/4" square and hex drive without adapters so good for bike use: Robot Check
I have three of them and use them all of the time. It has a 48- or 60-tooth ratchet as I recall and an intelligent thumb-able reversing switch. The thumb wheel is usable but not great for spinning fasteners down quickly.
I have three of them and use them all of the time. It has a 48- or 60-tooth ratchet as I recall and an intelligent thumb-able reversing switch. The thumb wheel is usable but not great for spinning fasteners down quickly.
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To carry with your bike? Chances are, your bike only has a few different sizes of fasteners, and the largest ones won't be involved in roadside repair (crank bolt, etc). So you can carry just two or three small Allen keys and a tiny screwdriver, or something like that.
To have in the shop? I'd rather have full size tools, thanks.
To have in the shop? I'd rather have full size tools, thanks.
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Topeak make a neat one which comes in a little pouch with all the bits. Handle very slightly longer than the presta ratchet but otherwise very similar product, just tidier package.
- joel
- joel