I am in the market for a 1/4" drive torque wrench for those low specs like the fuel return lines. Craftsman tools generally fit my needs and budget but I was told the lifetime warranty did not apply when I took my 1/2" in with a broken direction ratchet. I still buy some Craftsman tools but definetly not the torque wrenches.
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Proto makes good mid-budget ones. I think a 3/8 drive will be more versitile and will adjust down low enough for most anything you need. I avoid Craftsman,they aren't what they used to be. What good is a lifetime warranty when a tool breaks on you in the boonies or even in your own garage when Sears is miles away and closed?I prefer Snap-On.
[This message has been edited by illflem (edited 12-14-2000). ]
[This message has been edited by illflem (edited 12-14-2000). ]
I'm very partial to Snap-On Tools! 
#ad
I've purchased their tools for about 25 years now... I've always been very pleased with the quality of their tools and their customer service. I currently have three of their torque wrenches, purchasing the "inch pounder" last year to torque the bands in the automatic transmission. Availability has not always been great for me... as I don't work where a Snap-On dealer frequents, I have to chase them down. In my opinion, it's worth it.
Prior to that, I purchased Craftsman tools..... kind of like owning a Timex (sorry Rob). It's not that Craftsman tools have ever let me down, it's just that Snap-On tools are designed and constructed better. . and subsequently perform better.
Price? Oh well, can't have it all I guess.
#ad
#adI've purchased their tools for about 25 years now... I've always been very pleased with the quality of their tools and their customer service. I currently have three of their torque wrenches, purchasing the "inch pounder" last year to torque the bands in the automatic transmission. Availability has not always been great for me... as I don't work where a Snap-On dealer frequents, I have to chase them down. In my opinion, it's worth it.
Prior to that, I purchased Craftsman tools..... kind of like owning a Timex (sorry Rob). It's not that Craftsman tools have ever let me down, it's just that Snap-On tools are designed and constructed better. . and subsequently perform better.
Price? Oh well, can't have it all I guess.
#adYou might want to consider S-K.
http://www.skhandtool.com/
They offer a wide selection of torque wrenches at reasonable prices. I purchased both of mine ( in. bls. / ft. lbs. ) from a tool wholesaler who specializes in serving contractors and the service industry. They had one torque wrench with a bar 5' long!Even though I qualify as neither of those, the prices were very reasonable.
While researching torque wrenches, I could not find any brand that carries a lifetime warranty though many used to carry that warranty. I was told by two that mishandling and mistreatment of the tools led to excessive claims.
I have to agree that Snap-On is the choice for many professional mechanics. But, I need mine only for those infrequent repairs on my vehicles and the price differential was not one I could justify.
------------------
'01 3500 QC SLT, 5-spd. , 3. 54 LSD, Tow Pkg, Camper Pkg, White w/ Camel. (St. Louis) - Jacobs E-brake, GaugeWorks dual gauge pod, ISSPRO EGT & Boost Gauges.
[This message has been edited by lembaar (edited 12-14-2000). ]
http://www.skhandtool.com/
They offer a wide selection of torque wrenches at reasonable prices. I purchased both of mine ( in. bls. / ft. lbs. ) from a tool wholesaler who specializes in serving contractors and the service industry. They had one torque wrench with a bar 5' long!Even though I qualify as neither of those, the prices were very reasonable.
While researching torque wrenches, I could not find any brand that carries a lifetime warranty though many used to carry that warranty. I was told by two that mishandling and mistreatment of the tools led to excessive claims.
I have to agree that Snap-On is the choice for many professional mechanics. But, I need mine only for those infrequent repairs on my vehicles and the price differential was not one I could justify.
------------------
'01 3500 QC SLT, 5-spd. , 3. 54 LSD, Tow Pkg, Camper Pkg, White w/ Camel. (St. Louis) - Jacobs E-brake, GaugeWorks dual gauge pod, ISSPRO EGT & Boost Gauges.
[This message has been edited by lembaar (edited 12-14-2000). ]
lembaar, I have to agree with your statement regarding Snap-On Tools. In the last several years I've questioned my continued (exclusive) patronage to Snap-On as the purchase price -vs- actual usage is not what it was when I was younger. I'm not saying the price of their tools is comparitively more than what it used to be... just that I don't tend use them as often. I still can't imagine myself purchasing any other brand though...
One thing I found that worked very well (for me) when I was younger; I'd purchase a new tool each payday... after several years or so, I'd amassed quite a collection and didn't break the budget doing so.
I still remember a slogan Snap-On Tools came out with years ago: We would rather explain our higher prices than apologize for our quality (or something close to that).
One thing I found that worked very well (for me) when I was younger; I'd purchase a new tool each payday... after several years or so, I'd amassed quite a collection and didn't break the budget doing so.
I still remember a slogan Snap-On Tools came out with years ago: We would rather explain our higher prices than apologize for our quality (or something close to that).
I have used snap-on craftsmen and now husky. Ya I know husky is some new cheesy brand only sold at home depot. But I was amazed with the quality for the price.
Now how many of you guys have ever broke a socket or ratchet. These things are built almost indestructible. I can't see spending the kind of money snap-on asks for a tool that is so strong even in the cheapest form(husky).
Recently I was looking at tool boxes. That is one area that the snap-on is clearly better than say a craftsmen or husky. But a comparably $600-$700 craftsmen or husky box is about $3000. now I can replace a less expensive box 5 times with that amount of money.
On the other side I can see spending for the snap-on's of the world if I was making a living from the tools. But I like many other TDR members only use my tools about twice a week so I buy what makes economical sense.
Now how many of you guys have ever broke a socket or ratchet. These things are built almost indestructible. I can't see spending the kind of money snap-on asks for a tool that is so strong even in the cheapest form(husky).
Recently I was looking at tool boxes. That is one area that the snap-on is clearly better than say a craftsmen or husky. But a comparably $600-$700 craftsmen or husky box is about $3000. now I can replace a less expensive box 5 times with that amount of money.
On the other side I can see spending for the snap-on's of the world if I was making a living from the tools. But I like many other TDR members only use my tools about twice a week so I buy what makes economical sense.
I've broken many open end wrenches,cracked sockets and worn out ratchet mechanisms,but never a Snap-On. Had a Snap-On feeler gauge who's numbers were getting hard to read,they gave me a new one no question. I mainly work on farm equipment which can be tuff on tools. You get what you pay for.
Speaking of over priced tool boxes though,I was admiring a huge anniversary limited edition Snap-On tool box that a local mechanic has. It is truly a work of art with built in alarms and the works. The mechanic wouldn't tell me how much he paid for it,but said it would of been cheaper to buy a new CTD Ram. This was for the box only,no tools.
Speaking of over priced tool boxes though,I was admiring a huge anniversary limited edition Snap-On tool box that a local mechanic has. It is truly a work of art with built in alarms and the works. The mechanic wouldn't tell me how much he paid for it,but said it would of been cheaper to buy a new CTD Ram. This was for the box only,no tools.
Having worked professionally as a mechanic for many years, my toolbox is filled with various brands. Mostly SnapOn. I have Craftsmans, SK's, Mac's, and others.
I have learned that every tool doesn't have to be a SnapOn, but SOME should. Most of my screwdrivers, chiesels, punches, pliers,etc are Craftsman or other brands. I do have a couple of rachet screwdrivers by SnapOn which are most valued, especially the angled version(better torque). All of my sockets/wrenches are also SnapOn, their "flank drive" really works. I do have a set of Craftsmans "PRO" series wrenches that were given to me as a gift. These are well designed, beautifully plated, and I was impressed... . until the 1st time I used the 12mm open end. It bent the end open with moderate torque applied. Ya it's guaranteed, BUT when you need to FINISH the job. Never had the problem with Craftsman's regular series.
TOOLBOXES... SnapOn's are the fanciest/best, BUT IMO... better to buy a Craftsman/Husky box and pocket/invest the difference in other needed tools.
Ah Yes, TORQUE wrenches... IMO the MOST valuble tool in my box. I have built performance motorcycle engines for customers for over 15 years, and still do. If I over/under torque any critical part, the resulting damage can cost over $10K, and/or somebodies LIFE! Same thing goes for your fuel/brake lines, wheels, etc... .
So guess what type of torque wrench I use... the BEST I can afford.
P. S. Sorry for the long post... . talkin tools here.
Dave
I have learned that every tool doesn't have to be a SnapOn, but SOME should. Most of my screwdrivers, chiesels, punches, pliers,etc are Craftsman or other brands. I do have a couple of rachet screwdrivers by SnapOn which are most valued, especially the angled version(better torque). All of my sockets/wrenches are also SnapOn, their "flank drive" really works. I do have a set of Craftsmans "PRO" series wrenches that were given to me as a gift. These are well designed, beautifully plated, and I was impressed... . until the 1st time I used the 12mm open end. It bent the end open with moderate torque applied. Ya it's guaranteed, BUT when you need to FINISH the job. Never had the problem with Craftsman's regular series.
TOOLBOXES... SnapOn's are the fanciest/best, BUT IMO... better to buy a Craftsman/Husky box and pocket/invest the difference in other needed tools.
Ah Yes, TORQUE wrenches... IMO the MOST valuble tool in my box. I have built performance motorcycle engines for customers for over 15 years, and still do. If I over/under torque any critical part, the resulting damage can cost over $10K, and/or somebodies LIFE! Same thing goes for your fuel/brake lines, wheels, etc... .
So guess what type of torque wrench I use... the BEST I can afford.
P. S. Sorry for the long post... . talkin tools here.
Dave
Snap on is definately good all the way round. Quality AND Service.
I'm mad at Sears. Craftsman isn't what it used to be!#ad
I have a Craftsman Torque wrench and didn't trust it. Kaput. Took it back and even though it said "Craftsman" on it they wouldn't exchange it. Technicalities. So I took it to Sears Repair. They couldn't find it in their books. They did find the price to fix it ($25) but with becasue it wasn't listed in THEIR book, they couldn't fix it!
#ad
Go figure. I still have it. Maybe I'll go back again during the Xmas rush and raise cain in front of a mob of people..... Maybe they'll cave just for the P. R. Otherwise I'm gonna heave it onto the scrap pile!
Protos are great but carry a hefty price tag to go along with it. Really is an "investment".
------------------
2001. 5 2500 SLT+, QC/LB 4x4, ETH, 6spd, 3:54 LSD, camper/tow equip. , NV241HD, Bright Silver, Snug Top, Ispro w/3 pod pillar w/tweeter, Pyro, Boost & Mag Hytec cover w/temp guage, "Plain Wrap" (no decals or emblems)
I'm mad at Sears. Craftsman isn't what it used to be!
#adI have a Craftsman Torque wrench and didn't trust it. Kaput. Took it back and even though it said "Craftsman" on it they wouldn't exchange it. Technicalities. So I took it to Sears Repair. They couldn't find it in their books. They did find the price to fix it ($25) but with becasue it wasn't listed in THEIR book, they couldn't fix it!
#adGo figure. I still have it. Maybe I'll go back again during the Xmas rush and raise cain in front of a mob of people..... Maybe they'll cave just for the P. R. Otherwise I'm gonna heave it onto the scrap pile!
Protos are great but carry a hefty price tag to go along with it. Really is an "investment".
------------------
2001. 5 2500 SLT+, QC/LB 4x4, ETH, 6spd, 3:54 LSD, camper/tow equip. , NV241HD, Bright Silver, Snug Top, Ispro w/3 pod pillar w/tweeter, Pyro, Boost & Mag Hytec cover w/temp guage, "Plain Wrap" (no decals or emblems)
illflem, you should see one of the Snap-On limited edition series of tool boxes... . a Plum Crazy combination setup with Mopar graphics! Sweet!
Snap-On must haves:
torque wrenches (peace of mind due to superior accuracy)
breaker bars (if you REALLY use them... they will save your bacon many times over!)
sockets and wrenches (NOTHING beats their Flank Drive!)
ratchets (superior quality)... . although, I REALLY like my Craftsman stainless steel ratchet! (I'm not sure if they sell them any longer or not)
Remember, ALWAYS reduce the torque setting on "clicker type" torque wrenches to the minimum setting after use... this will preserve accuracy.
I've had Craftsman tool boxes in the past... they're ok although, if you are serious about your equipment and demand the very best, Snap-On has no rival. I have Snap-On at work and home.
... . and what self respecting machinist or reloader would be without at least one of the trick oak (or black walnut) Gerstner tool boxes.#ad
Guilty!
... . x2 no less
#ad
#ad
Snap-On must haves:
torque wrenches (peace of mind due to superior accuracy)
breaker bars (if you REALLY use them... they will save your bacon many times over!)
sockets and wrenches (NOTHING beats their Flank Drive!)
ratchets (superior quality)... . although, I REALLY like my Craftsman stainless steel ratchet! (I'm not sure if they sell them any longer or not)
Remember, ALWAYS reduce the torque setting on "clicker type" torque wrenches to the minimum setting after use... this will preserve accuracy.
I've had Craftsman tool boxes in the past... they're ok although, if you are serious about your equipment and demand the very best, Snap-On has no rival. I have Snap-On at work and home.
... . and what self respecting machinist or reloader would be without at least one of the trick oak (or black walnut) Gerstner tool boxes.
#adGuilty!
... . x2 no less
#ad#adThanks for all the replies on this. Tools are always a good subject.
I think I will go ahead and buy a Snap-On. I agree that if I made a living with my hand tools, I would have mostly Snap-On. The ones that I have fit in the hand like a glove. Also, if you think about it, when you get down on that low end you really do want accuracy.
I think I will go ahead and buy a Snap-On. I agree that if I made a living with my hand tools, I would have mostly Snap-On. The ones that I have fit in the hand like a glove. Also, if you think about it, when you get down on that low end you really do want accuracy.
I have a few K-D torque wrenches. I had one go bad, NAPA gave me a new one under warranty.
------------------
Paul A. Schmidt
95, 4X4, SLT 2500, 5 spd. , 4. 10, 270 hp. ,675ft. lb. TST, AFC spring kit,215hp. injectors,16cm2 turbo housing, Pacbrake, Walker muffler,
GearVendor O. D. , CenterForce Dual Friction clutch.
Eastern PA.
------------------
Paul A. Schmidt
95, 4X4, SLT 2500, 5 spd. , 4. 10, 270 hp. ,675ft. lb. TST, AFC spring kit,215hp. injectors,16cm2 turbo housing, Pacbrake, Walker muffler,
GearVendor O. D. , CenterForce Dual Friction clutch.
Eastern PA.
I can't let this go by-I have been a mechanic for 30 years, starting in the USN as a helo mechanic. I bought Snap-on for years until a dealer in Arlington, TX CHARGED me for a split-up the side 3/8" drive, 7/16" six point deep chrome socket that I was using on lawn/garden/construction engines with a 3/8" air butterfly impact. (90PSI max). Wouldn't pro-rate it, wouldn't talk to me-said that I abused the tool. I paid him off, and told the oldboy not to EVER come by my bench again, and with VERY few exceptions, I boycott Snap-on-and will until I quit. They make over-rated, over-priced tools-again, with some exceptions.
I use Mac,and lots of Craftsman... Just my opinion-and we all have one...
------------------
2001 QC,SLT,4x4,Cummins HO,6 spd. ,3. 54 gears,SBox,Dark Garnet/Pearl, all options but leather/snowplow/Sport, the elusive front license plate bracket,"Cup Smoothie" Autometer gauges on A pilar, LineX bed liner, Cobra CB,Westin nerfs, Power tailgate lock,auto on/off headlights, backup alarm, real backup lights. More To Come! Big Dog on the Mountain! Engineer Pass,Co.
I use Mac,and lots of Craftsman... Just my opinion-and we all have one...
------------------
2001 QC,SLT,4x4,Cummins HO,6 spd. ,3. 54 gears,SBox,Dark Garnet/Pearl, all options but leather/snowplow/Sport, the elusive front license plate bracket,"Cup Smoothie" Autometer gauges on A pilar, LineX bed liner, Cobra CB,Westin nerfs, Power tailgate lock,auto on/off headlights, backup alarm, real backup lights. More To Come! Big Dog on the Mountain! Engineer Pass,Co.
If you want to save money on Snap-on wrenches and sockets go with the black finish. I saved about $200 on a $600 set of flank drive plus wrenches. No chrome, but after a couple years use I think the black looks better. I also use to by mostly Snap-on,but can't justify the price of there sockets and screwdrivers. You can buy two socket or screwdriver sets from Craftsman for less than 1/4 the price. Still believe they make the best wrenches and ratchets.
Bob V
------------------
'97 CC 5spd 4. 10 5spd 315/75 16,Bushwacker,TST 280hp.
Bob V
------------------
'97 CC 5spd 4. 10 5spd 315/75 16,Bushwacker,TST 280hp.
Dave,every mechanic should know you don't use plated sockets in a impact wrench even though we do at times. When you do use them with an impact you become your own warranty station,I'm not surprised at all that the warranty wasn't covered. Sears probably wouldn't honor the warranty either if they had anyone working there who could tell.
I have a snap-off 3/8" torque wrench. Every time I use it above 90 lbs the ratchet head gears sheer off. Its been fixed about 5 times now.
About the flank drive, I used to buy Bonny wrenches (made by Bonny Forge). They also had flank drive, I was told that Bonny wase the ones that invented Flank Drive. You can't tell them from the Snap-on except the name on them. Same ring when you drop them. They may even be the company that makes the stuff for Snap-on. but there Only about 1/2 the price.
Now that I have been out of the trade about 13 years, I have not seen them for sale anywhere, used to buy them from a tool guy that was an "independent"
------------------
About the flank drive, I used to buy Bonny wrenches (made by Bonny Forge). They also had flank drive, I was told that Bonny wase the ones that invented Flank Drive. You can't tell them from the Snap-on except the name on them. Same ring when you drop them. They may even be the company that makes the stuff for Snap-on. but there Only about 1/2 the price.
Now that I have been out of the trade about 13 years, I have not seen them for sale anywhere, used to buy them from a tool guy that was an "independent"
------------------
- 98 ISB,QC,5spd,2wd,3:54lsd. Stock with Gauges!
- 2000 Terry 305G 5th wheel
I guess it all depends on your dealer. Just like our trucks.
We used to crack the 14mm deep sockets ALL the time when using air(non-impacts). And the dealer ALWAYS replaced them NO PROB. Yea we had the black(impact) sockets, but they were too large to fit into certain places.
And if the tool wasn't broken bad enough to warrant replacement, my DEALER would make sure it was. They sure are expensive, but if you work with them for a living...
Never saw the Bonny tools. 1/2 price too?
Dave
We used to crack the 14mm deep sockets ALL the time when using air(non-impacts). And the dealer ALWAYS replaced them NO PROB. Yea we had the black(impact) sockets, but they were too large to fit into certain places.
And if the tool wasn't broken bad enough to warrant replacement, my DEALER would make sure it was. They sure are expensive, but if you work with them for a living...
Never saw the Bonny tools. 1/2 price too?
Dave
TowPro-I have had a set of 3/8" drive 6 point deep sockets (chrome) for about 20 years now-
used them on and with EVERYTHING, nary a problem. There is a independant tool guy around here, I'll check to see if he still carries Bonney if you wish. Sears' policy has
always been to replace a broken tool, no matter abuse/misuse, even if they cared!
------------------
2001 QC,SLT,4x4,Cummins HO,6 spd. ,3. 54 gears,SBox,Dark Garnet/Pearl, all options but leather/snowplow/Sport, the elusive front license plate bracket,"Cup Smoothie" Autometer gauges on A pilar, LineX bed liner, Cobra CB,Westin nerfs, Power tailgate lock,auto on/off headlights, backup alarm, real backup lights. More To Come! Big Dog on the Mountain! Engineer Pass,Co.
used them on and with EVERYTHING, nary a problem. There is a independant tool guy around here, I'll check to see if he still carries Bonney if you wish. Sears' policy has
always been to replace a broken tool, no matter abuse/misuse, even if they cared!
------------------
2001 QC,SLT,4x4,Cummins HO,6 spd. ,3. 54 gears,SBox,Dark Garnet/Pearl, all options but leather/snowplow/Sport, the elusive front license plate bracket,"Cup Smoothie" Autometer gauges on A pilar, LineX bed liner, Cobra CB,Westin nerfs, Power tailgate lock,auto on/off headlights, backup alarm, real backup lights. More To Come! Big Dog on the Mountain! Engineer Pass,Co.
QRTRHRS:
I had the rachet fail on my Craftsman 1/2" torque wrench a coupl of years ago. I had only used it a few times and only 180 ft lbs of the 250 ft lb max rating, but had more than two years (warranty period on them). So, I took it back to Sears where the salesman told me he couldn't help me. I asked to see the manager, told him I was a 20 year plus customer and how I'd used the tool. He went ahead and approved giving me a new one.#ad
Sometimes, it's just good old customer service that make the difference...
#ad
Wiredawg
------------------
2000 4X4 SLT QC 8' bed; 6 spd, 3. 54 ; BD exhaust brake and 4" exhaust syst; TST PM2; Airlift Super Duty rear air bags; RS 9000 shocks; pyro/boost gauges in 2 gauge a-pillar mount; back preasure gauge mounted under dash; KN air filter; Brown's Welding brush/grill guard, rear bumper & headache rack; nerf bars and aluminum roll top rear cover, Warn front receiver and Hadley air horns, 20K Reese hitch.
I had the rachet fail on my Craftsman 1/2" torque wrench a coupl of years ago. I had only used it a few times and only 180 ft lbs of the 250 ft lb max rating, but had more than two years (warranty period on them). So, I took it back to Sears where the salesman told me he couldn't help me. I asked to see the manager, told him I was a 20 year plus customer and how I'd used the tool. He went ahead and approved giving me a new one.
#adSometimes, it's just good old customer service that make the difference...
#adWiredawg
------------------
2000 4X4 SLT QC 8' bed; 6 spd, 3. 54 ; BD exhaust brake and 4" exhaust syst; TST PM2; Airlift Super Duty rear air bags; RS 9000 shocks; pyro/boost gauges in 2 gauge a-pillar mount; back preasure gauge mounted under dash; KN air filter; Brown's Welding brush/grill guard, rear bumper & headache rack; nerf bars and aluminum roll top rear cover, Warn front receiver and Hadley air horns, 20K Reese hitch.
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