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Which tool choice is my best next purchase or should I save my $$ for parts?
I can make one purchase. Either a Gearwrench 120xp 3/8 flex ratchet or a 51 piece craftsman Max Axess mechanics tool set. (I have a full compliment of deep and shallow sockets and standard and flex ratchets in all sizes).
I am a novice working on a 2005 WK Jeep Grand Cherokee doing basic maintenance and repair. What I have noticed recently in changing four O2 sensors is that sometimes I need to work in very tight spaces. While I have a Gearwrench standard 3/8 flex ratchet I did notice I only had enough space for a one click turn of the ratchet to get off two of the four O2 sensors. The 120xp Gearwrench ratchet will give me more clicks in the same tight space.
On the other hand the Craftsman Max Axess tool set will give me an extra 1/2 inch of depth space compared to a traditional thin ratchet and socket.
Future work is likely spark plugs, water pump, starter, fuel pump, CV axle boots, evaporator core (removal of dashboard), heater core, fluids – transmission, axles, transfer case.
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[quote=”DaFirnz” post=118590]Links please. Or some pics/details.[/quote]
Here are the links:
http://www.sears.com/craftsman-51-piece-max-axess-chrome-plated-alloy/p-00929309000P
http://www.amazon.com/GearWrench-81215P-Polish-Teardrop-Ratchet/dp/B00BTEXQP2
I opted for the Gearwrench 120xp tool because of the 3 degree turn per click. I read that the Sears Max Axess socket to ratchet fit is a little loose and one needs to be careful not to strip a bolt when using that setup.
As a professional technician I swear by flex head fine tooth ratchets. I prefer quick release but, that is just me and it can get in the way at times if you don’t have a low profile button. From what I have heard and seen in reviews the 120xp is a really good ratchet it is a dual pawl meaning you still have strong tooth engagement. The head is rather thin allowing for greater access. With flex head ratchets and regular sockets, swivels and extensions I find it rare that I cannot get on a bolt.
If you don’t have any fine tooth and/or flex head ratchets I would get them. If you do get the max access but, the max access is pretty much the same as using a ratcheting wrench to me. Only difference is you can buy flex ratcheting wrenches where I haven’t seen a set of flex max access. Also you limited by the barrel size of the max access where you have a lot more room with ratcheting wrenches. Though you can put an extension on the max access so….
I stand corrected it has two alternating single paw engaged but, still a very good ratchet though. Here is a good review on them. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZvFOAkaI8Q
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