Tool Review: GearWrench 84-Tooth Long Handle Ratchet
The GearWrench 84-Tooth Long Handle Ratchet has a low-profile GearWrench teardrop head and a flush-mount on/off. The 84-tooth gear offers a 4.3-degree swing arc making it easy for technicians to start fasteners in the most confined spaces. Like many GearWrench ratchets, 84-Tooth Long Handle Ratchets exceed ASME torque performance specifications. The longer handle provides technicians with increased reach and leverage. The 84-Tooth Long Handle Ratchets are available in either full-polish or cushion grip in the following drive sizes: 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2".
The review
Lou Fort, lead technician at K.A.R.S. Inc. in Huntingburg, IN, tested out the 3/8” Long Handle Ratchet, No. 81265, from GearWrench. He found that he saved varying amounts of time using this tool and it was as easy to use as almost any other ratchet.
One of the features that Fort liked about this tool was the smooth 84-tooth head because it “is slimmer than most of its competition,” he says. He also liked the recessed directional lever, which is level with the tool’s top surface. “The ratchet can be used in tighter spaces with less of a chance of accidental directional change.”
Because of the ratchet’s slim head, Fort was able to remove the front engine support bracket on a Camry, from the top. He notes that he wouldn’t be able to do that with any of his other ratchets.
In addition to removing engine support brackets, he also used the ratchet to remove reluctant caliper stand hardware. He also says, “Just for fun I even took a few lug nuts off a 3/4-ton Dodge Ram just to see how well it would hold up to abuse.”
Fort has not used previous versions of this tool. In fact, this was the first time he had used a GearWrench ratchet. He noticed that on the back of the packaging, GearWrench provides information on the tool’s lifetime warranty and a phone number, should a customer want to contact them about the product.
Fort says he had no suggested improvements for this tool. “They do feel and look like having a high quality product was a prime goal for GearWrench.”
On a scale of one to 10, Fort gives this tool a 10. “The smooth spinning gears, slim head, long handle with soft grip and ability to take abuse make it a quality tool worthy of any tool box.”
