SK previews 2015 ratcheting wrench at SEMA

Professional auto technicians and mobile dealers both received a sneak peek and a hands-on test-drive of SK's X-Frame ratcheting wrench at the 2014 SEMA show. THe SK X-Frame provides technicians with power and precision in tight spaces, according to Joe Saganowich, general manager of SK Professional Tools. SK will launch its X-Frame wrench early in 2015.

"Professional technicians told us they needed more power and precision in very tight, hard-to-get-at-spaces," said Saganowich. "We've listened to their feedback and re-invented the ratcheting mechanism itsef by using six dual-opposing pawls (instead of one) on a re-engineered 72-tooth wheel. This alows for more strength an precision in any of the 216 positions our wrench offers."

In fact, the new ratcheting mechanism is so strong that SK re-engineered the geometry of the handle to allow the technician to deliver maximum torque. THe SK X-Frame will help professional technicians handle tough jobs with more speed and confidence, according to the company.

The distinctive x-frame look of this ratcheting wrench comes from opposing triangular structures that help make the wrench stronger than the world standard by dispersing the stress on the handle across two beams. THe power is maximized in one-third of the arc swing of any other ratcheting wrench on the market. The SK X-Frame will available spring 2015 in a full range of sizes.

SK X Geometry is stronger than conventional wrench frames

SK conducted a comparative FEA stress analysiss of the SK X-Frame against the Best-selling competitive ratcheting wrench at equal input force. The company's heat map provides startling and visible evidence of the SK X-Frame's handle strength. THe SK X-Frame offers 72-teeth and 216 positions compared to 72 for the leading competitor and 120 for the newest competitive wrench in the category, according to the company.

"We believe the SK X is going to appeal to the pro's pro among auto technicians," said Saganowich. "These are the guys who out-think the problems they face. The guys who love high-performance machines and high-performance tools.

A Precision Tool

According to SK design engineers, the "best-in-class" handle enables the superior ratchet mechanism to deliver smooth, efficient power - even in the tightest, hardest-to-reach places of any technician's job. The ratcheting mechanism's 72 teeth and six dual-opposing paws enabe the user to turn nuts in 2.1 degrees. The increased control allows technicians to work in tighter places.