When it comes to adjustable wrenches, the Stanley 90-947 6" MaxSteel adjustable wrench is a decent, middle-of-the-road model at an affordable price. It has a comfortable grip, SAE and metric markings, and a max jaw width of just under an inch. It can usually be found for under $7.00.
Below are some current online prices for this wrench.
Showing posts with label wrench. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wrench. Show all posts
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Sunday, June 18, 2017
Thorsen puck wrench for $1.42
Know someone who'd like a puck wrench as a stocking stuffer? Pep Boys sells the Thorsen puck wrench (model #22-333) for just $1.90, but by using coupon code MMJ25 you can get it for even less: $1.42 (through July 3rd).This puck wrench is kind of neat as an "extra" wrench, and might make a good cheap gift for anyone who likes tools. Read a full review of the Thorsen puck wrench here.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Tool Reviews: Thorsen 22-333 Puck Wrench
Key Features:+ 14 different socket sizes
+ Good grip
- Hard to use in tight spaces
Some people might look at a puck wrench as a gimmick tool -- something more for novelty than for functional use. But the Thorsen 22-333 puck wrench can actually be a useful tool. It will never take the place of a ratchet and socket set, but as an extra tool it can have its uses.
The Thorsen puck wrench is a roundish, rubber-wrapped metal tool with seven sockets. The sockets are ribbed on the inside, so they can be used with bolts or nuts of varying designs. The sockets work well with both SAE and metric sizes, and the sizes are clearly marked on the wrench.
There is also a 1/4" hex bit holder, so you can use the puck wrench as a small screwdriver. The bit holder has a small magnet that will hold the bit in place but will not attract or hold fasteners. (The puck wrench does not come with any bits.)
The wrench is small, so you can easily stow it in a tool bag, pocket, or just about anywhere else you keep tools. The shape of the wrench and the rubber coating combine to provide a fairly good grip. The main drawback to the wrench is that it can't be used in tight places where there isn't at least a couple of inches of clearance around the bolt or nut, because of the wrench's shape.For $1.90 at Pep Boys, this puck wrench is a good deal. Or for $2.90, Pep Boys sells a Thorsen ratcheting puck wrench, which looks the same (blue instead of red) but features a 3/8" drive ratchet in the center of the puck.
Thorsen 22-333 Puck Wrench price comparison:
- PepBoys: $1.90
- Menards: $4.00
Monday, February 16, 2015
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Tool review: Neiko 03713A 3/8" Drive Automatic Click Torque Wrench
Key Features:+ Easy to use
+ Comes with a nice case
- Instructions are not very clear
The Neiko 03713A 3/8" Drive Automatic Click Torque Wrench is the first torque wrench I've used, so I can't compare it to other torque wrenches yet. However, it has worked great for what I've needed it to do.
The torque wrench comes in a molded hard plastic case. The case is holds both the torque wrench and the instructions. It's a good case for protecting the wrench, not too large to carry but large enough to keep the wrench from being jarred or damaged.
The instructions that come with the wrench are not very clear. They tell you how to use the wrench, but until you've actually used it the first time, they don't make a lot of sense. Once you've used the wrench once or twice, it's very easy to use.
Like many other torque wrenches, this one "clicks" when you've reached the desired torque setting. The click is loud and easily heard. One reviewer on Amazon stated that he couldn't use hear the click on lower-torque settings, but I've used this wrench for high-torque applications (lug nuts, 80 ft/lbs) as well as low-torque applications (spark plugs, 13 ft/lbs) and the click has been distinctive and easy to hear every time.
At both ends of the spectrum, the wrench functions consistently well. Its stated range is from 10 ft/lbs to 80 ft/lbs, and while I haven't used it at its lowest setting, it definitely does work at its highest setting. It gets harder to adjust the torque at higher settings, but I guess that's to be expected.
The wrench has a lock nut that allows for adjustment of the torque level. This nut spins easily and locks firmly. The 14" shaft is chrome vanadium steel with a textured handle. If I could make one improvement to this wrench, it would be to add a plastic or rubber grip for less slippage, but this is a minor detail that doesn't detract from the wrench's functionality. If you find that you can not grip the wrench securely, grip tape is easy to apply and does the job adequately.
The Neiko 03713A 3/8" Drive Automatic Click Torque Wrench has held up well so far under moderate use. I don't expect it to be a "lifetime" tool, but so far I'm impressed with it. It sells for $24.95 on Amazon.com (it was $28.95 when I bought mine) and that seems like a fair price for this tool.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Tool Review: Jeep H07 Multi Tool
You've probably heard of Leatherman and Gerber multi tools, and possibly some other brands as well -- SOG, Sheffield, etc. But, if you're like me, one company that you definitely would not associate with multi tools is Jeep. Until you meet the Jeep H07 multi tool, that is.
Apparently there are a lot of branded Jeep products, including multi tools and knives. (I never knew this.) I came across the H07 multi tool on eBay one day, and thought it looked neat so I bid on it. I ended up winning the auction but didn't think much about it.
Several days later, the multi tool arrived, and the first thing I noticed was that it was a lot smaller than I thought it would be. The H07 can actually fit in your pocket somewhat comfortably, and it's not significantly heavier than other multi tools. It's very compact for everything that it offers.
The obvious draw to this multi tool (at least for me) is that it has both an adjustable wrench and pliers in the same tool. That by itself is unique. Both tools are very functional. The wrench opens to half an inch -- pretty good for a small pocket tool -- and the wheel spins freely. The pliers handle is held in place by a flip lock, so it doesn't get in the way when not in use (though on occasion it will pop open in your pocket). The pliers have good spring action and are easily gripped, and the plier jaws open to a good inch and a quarter.In addition to the wrench and pliers, the H07 has a swing-out knife with a 2.5" blade and a very sharp tip. The knife can be opened and closed one-handed (right hand only) and does not lock in place. The only improvement I would like to see on the knife is a partially serrated blade.
The H07 also has three small screwdriver bits stored in its handle. These bits can be inserted into hex holes at the pliers head or on the side of the jaws, to make either a straight screwdriver or an offset screwdriver -- another cool function. There are two slotted bits and one Phillips bit, all unmarked. The black plating on the bits chips off quickly, but the bits themselves seem durable. They fit snugly into the hex holes, so you don't have to worry about them falling out during use.
When not in use, the bits are stored in holes in the side of the handle, which is another example of how the H07 makes use of all possible room to provide an optimal amount of usefulness while requiring a minimal amount of space. The bits are held in by a slight spring tension that keeps them from falling out, but still allows for removal. Removing the bits can be a hassle sometimes, especially if you have big fingers and no fingernails. (On a side note, if you ever remove the plastic handle where the bits are stored, be very careful because the springs will pop out. Without the springs, the bits will slide right out of their slots.)There is a belt clip on one side, which can be removed if you don't want it. The H07 also comes with a Jeep-branded black storage pouch, and the pouch has loops so you can fit it onto your belt either horizontally or vertically.
I would have liked if the designers could have worked a saw blade into this tool somehow, but that wouldn't be possible without making the tool thicker, or reducing some other functionality. As it is right now, this tool is very versatile, and offers a lot in the way of performance. A bottle opener somewhere would have also been nice, but certainly not necessary.
The Jeep H07 multi tool is pretty cool when you first use it, I think mainly because of the combination of pliers and wrench, and because of how functional the driver bits are. It's almost as cool, in my opinion, as the DeWalt MT16, though slightly more awkward in your pocket. It gets 4 out of 5 stars. It is a neat little tool, and very handy to have around. I would recommend picking one up if you can find it for about $15 or so. (They often go on sale on eBay.) Amazon currently lists the H07 at $21.97 -- a little high in my opinion, but not extremely over-priced for what you get. For Jeep owners, it may be worth paying slightly more. Before buying the H07 I was considering buying Columbia River Knife & Tool's Guppie multi tool, but the Jeep multi tool is such a good tool that I have no problem keeping the Guppie on my wish list.Thursday, July 10, 2014
Tool Review: Good Vibrations Spark Doctor Spark Plug Tune-Up Tool
Key Features:+ Multiple sockets for common spark plug sizes
+ Tool tension is easily adjustable
- Slightly too bulky to carry in a pocket
There are a lot of multi tools on the market that are useful for many things. Some multi tools are designed for fishing, others for camping or hunting or gun maintenance, and still others for sailing. There are countless multi tools designed for general repair or installation work. However, there are not a lot of multi tools aimed at spark plug repair or replacement. One multi tool that fills that void is the Good Vibrations Spark Doctor spark plug tune-up tool.
You can find combination spark plug gappers and gauges just about anywhere, but the Spark Doctor multi tool comes with many other tools as well as those two. This is a good multi tool to have if you work with spark plugs, whether they are plugs for lawn mowers, chain saws, or other power equipment. (For auto spark plugs, you will probably want something more robust, with longer reach.) It is especially handy for anyone who works on the go and might not have access to a full toolbox all the time.
The Spark Doctor multi tool includes a ramp-style gauge that is marked in both inches (0.01" to 0.06") and millimeters (0.4mm to 1.5mm). The gauge extends upward from the body of the tool and can be pushed back down when not in use. The numbers are clearly marked but can be hard to see in certain light.
In addition to the gauge, this tool includes a spark plug gap adjuster (similar to the gappers found on many other gauges), a pick, a file, a spark plug wrench that can accommodate three different standard sized plugs (5/8", 3/4", and 13/16"), and a cleaning brush. Except for the gauge, each of the tools swivels outward, and the tension on the tools can easily be adjusted with a Phillips screwdriver to make them easier or harder to pivot out. The tension on the gauge can also be adjusted, so each person can set this tool up with the pressure that they like best.
The wrench is sturdy and the socket locks on securely, but it can also be easily removed. The tool can be folded up and stored either with the socket attached to the wrench, or with it unattached. The brush is strong, and should last a long time. This tool is large—larger than a standard pocket knife or multi tool—and heavy enough that most people probably won't want to carry it around in their pocket. It does have a hole punched into the bottom so you can hang it from a hook, post, or nail. Most of the tool's weight comes from the wrench body and the metal casing, and when you heft it you can quickly tell that it's not made of cheap plastic.
The Good Vibrations Spark Doctor spark plug tune-up tool is a good buy for anyone who routinely works on spark plugs and engines, or for anyone who thinks they might need to. It's a great tool to keep in a glove box, trunk, or shed, so you'll have it close by when you need it, especially when you don't have convenient access to other tools. The Spark Doctor is currently listed on Amazon.com for $16.54 (eligible for free shipping).
(Originally posted in a similar version on Helium.com, January 2013)
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Tool Review: Husky 179 681 19-Piece 1/4" Mini Socket Set
Husky makes many different tools and tool sets. One of them is the 19-piece 1/4" mini socket set (model# 179 681), which I saw sitting on a shelf in Home Depot and bought because it was only five bucks or so and the only socket set I had at the time was a free one I got when I opened my checking account.
This Husky set comes with everything you need for a basic starter socket set. It has a stubby ratchet (with a comfortable rubber grip), eight different-sized metric sockets, nine different driver bits, and a bit holder that fits onto the ratchet. And it all comes conveniently stored in a small plastic case with a spot for everything, which makes the set easy to transport. The only problem with the case is that it does not latch; a sliding plastic tab opens and locks the case. The tab is sufficient if the case remains stationary, but if you put it in your trunk or somewhere else where it will move around, the case could work its way open. Everything inside the case is reasonably secured, however, so even if the case opens inadvertently nothing should spill out (unless you hit a big bump or the case drops on a hard floor). There is a little bit of room in between the wrench, bits, and sockets so that you can fit an extension bar or two.
The sockets range from 4mm to 12mm, and each one has its size imprinted on the side. The screwdriver bits include three Phillips bits, three slotted (flathead) bits, and three hex bits. Unlike with other socket sets, none of these sockets lock onto the ratchet's 1/4" head, but they all fit snugly enough that you don't have to worry about them falling off by accident. As is typical with Husky products, this set comes with a lifetime warranty.
Being a mini socket set, it may not provide enough torque or force for large jobs, but it works great for most tasks around the house. The ratchet turns smoothly, and its rubber grip makes it easy to hold on to. The only limitation I've come across so far with this set is that the sockets are too small to fit the bolts on my lawnmower wheels, but for everything that it fits it works great.
Unfortunately, you can't find this particular set on the Home Depot website anymore, but you may still be able to find it on a store shelf for a few bucks. Amazon.com had it for sale, but it's listed as unavailable right now. I give this socket set 3 out of 5 stars. If you can find it for $5 or so, it's a good deal.
(Originally published on Helium.com, Sept 2010)
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Husky tool reviews
Drivers:
- Husky 74460 2-Piece Micro Screwdriver Set
- Husky 74500 7-Piece Nut Driver Set
- Husky HD-74502 8-in-1 Torx Screwdriver Set
Pliers:
- Husky 1066 2-Piece Pistol Grip Pliers Set
- Husky WS-24-10 10" Self-Adjusting Groove Joint Pliers
Socket Sets:
- Husky 179 681 19-Piece 1/4" Mini Socket Set
- Husky 74460 2-Piece Micro Screwdriver Set
- Husky 74500 7-Piece Nut Driver Set
- Husky HD-74502 8-in-1 Torx Screwdriver Set
Pliers:
- Husky 1066 2-Piece Pistol Grip Pliers Set
- Husky WS-24-10 10" Self-Adjusting Groove Joint Pliers
Socket Sets:
- Husky 179 681 19-Piece 1/4" Mini Socket Set
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Friday, May 9, 2014
Tool Review: Performance Tool W54045 Oil Filter Wrench
If you change your own oil, you need an oil filter wrench. (Or oil filter pliers, or an oil filter socket, or a similar tool.) There are many different oil filter wrenches on the market, a lot of which are alike in quality. One wrench that fits in around the middle of the pack is the Performance Tool W54045 Oil Filter Wrench.The Performance Tool wrench is not expensive at all. I found it for $6.99 at Advance Auto Parts. Anyone who has read my tool reviews knows that Performance Tool is not a brand I've come to trust, but this wrench looked okay and had the ability to swivel, and the price was definitely right.
The one feature that makes this wrench stand out is its pivot point. The wrench can swivel 90 degrees, letting you get into some tight spaces that you might not otherwise be able to reach. However, its pivoting action is very flimsy, so unless you have a really good grip, the wrench very well might swivel right back to its original position.
Speaking of grip, this wrench comes with a plastic sleeve handle that a middle-schooler could improve upon. The plastic handle is contoured, making it look like it provides a good grip, until the first time you go to use the wrench and you put any pressure at all on it. The whole plastic handle slides right off, leaving just the metal frame of the wrench.
The plastic handle is worthless, and without it the metal frame has no grip. However, if you have some good grip tape, you can wrap the metal handle and give the wrench a much better grip than it had before, even with the plastic. I used GT-5000 Glock Grip Tape
on mine, and the grip is a thousand times better than it was out of the package.One of the descriptions online says this wrench has a safety button so that it can lock into different positions. That would be a nice feature, but there is no safety button on my wrench.
This wrench is not a top-of-the-line wrench by any stretch. If you need an oil filter wrench and this is the only one around, you could do worse. But if you do a lot of oil changes, I would invest in something sturdier and made with higher quality standards. I can't afford either of those things, so I'm sticking with this one until it breaks. I'd give the Performance Tool oil filter wrench 2.5 out of 5 stars.
I got this wrench for $6.99 from Advance Auto Parts, but Amazon.com currently lists it for $6.34, eligible for free shipping (marketed as Wilmar but it's the same wrench).
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Tool Review: Black & Decker RRW100 Ratcheting ReadyWrench
There's something reassuring about holding a dogbone wrench in your hand. The Black & Decker RRW100 Ratcheting ReadyWrench is a solidly-made dogbone wrench that also features ratcheting capability. It is a great wrench to have in your tool bag, car, or garage, and I give it 4 out of 5 stars.The RRW100 is the most useful wrench I've ever owned. It looks like a dogbone-style wrench, with several sockets on each end, but unlike a typical dogbone wrench it ratchets. There's no switch to flip or anything to adjust to enable ratcheting -- if you hold the wrench one way, it ratchets for loosening, and if you hold it the other way, it ratchets for tightening. It's simple to use.
There are 16 different size bolts or fasteners this wrench can handle, including both SAE and metric sizes. Each socket is marked with its size, and switching to a different sized socket is as simple as turning the socket.
This is a sturdy, solid wrench that has held up great so far and looks like it will continue to do so for a long time. The paint on the wrench is another story, however. The black paint on the wrench's body started flaking as soon as I took it out of the package, and the orange plastic around the wrench ends are already chipping off. But neither of those things affects how the wrench works.
The way the sockets are positioned, you can twist the wrench slightly when using to get a little bit of extra leverage, something you can't do with a standard socket wrench. If anything serious ever happens to the wrench, just contact Black & Decker, because it comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Black & Decker RRW100 Ratcheting ReadyWrench is a great addition to any toolbox. It's versatile, sturdy, and easy to use, and for around $20 or so, it's a really good deal. If you do a lot of work on your car or around the house, you won't regret buying this wrench.
The RRW100 is sold in many hardware stores for varying prices. Sellers on Amazon.com currently list it for $18.49 and up. Under $20 is a steal for this wrench.
(Originally posted on Bubblews.com, April 2014)
UPDATE: As of 9/28/14, Amazon.com currently lists the RRW100 for $12.99 (eligible for free shipping). If you were considering buying this wrench, or if you need a holiday/birthday present for anyone who likes tools, this is a GREAT deal. I don't know how long this price will last, but it is by far the lowest I've ever seen this wrench sold for.
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