Tool Review: Gray Tools 25-pc 1/4" Drive 6 & 12 Point SAE and Metric, Standard Socket Set
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Q: How did the tool function as far saving you time?
A: The assortment of sockets, along with the ratchet, made working on a high-voltage vehicle safe and easy.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop's profitability?
A: It's been time-saving since the sockets and ratchets are in one case.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: None.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: Good packaging with no accessories included.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I liked the quality and the insulation of the sockets, ratchets, and extensions. Working live means that the high voltage is still on, and special precautions must be taken, like using PPE (personal protective equipment) and most of all, the proper insulated tools. Gray has made the tools that fit the job, keeping technicians safe while performing the task at hand.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: Adding wrenches and screwdrivers to the set.
Editor's note: Gray Tools offers other insulated tool sets featuring wrenches and screwdrivers.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: I used the set when working on an inverter, removing the inverter covers and the capacitors. The insulated tools should also be used when the circuit is off, since there are capacitors that may still have an electrical charge in them.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you've used like it?
A: This set has better sockets. It’s no surprise to technicians that hybrid and electric vehicles have high-voltage circuits that they need to protect themselves from and stay safe. They understand that they need PPE such as Class 0/1000V gloves with HV cover, along with glove dust, a holding bag, a special flash face shield, and a rescue pole. But how about when it comes to working live on a high voltage vehicle when tools need to be used. Well, that's where Gray Tools comes into play to prevent arcing and, most of all, to protect the technician.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall?
A: Eight. Safety matters, and Gray Tools has done a good job of protecting the user from high voltage. The 25-piece socket set, extension, and ratchet work well while protecting the end user. I recommend that if you’re working on high-voltage vehicles that you make the investment in Gary Tool’s socket set. Gray Tools prevents the shock factor, protecting the tech.
The Gray Tools 25-pc 1/4" Drive Insulated Socket Set, No. 15025-I, includes 12-point SAE sockets ranging from 3/16" to 9/16" and 6-point metric sockets from 4mm to 15mm. The sockets are stored in a dual-color foam organizer with imprinted size markings on the top layer for quick identification. Each socket is individually insulated to 1,000V and tested to 10,000V, in compliance to ASTM F1505 standards. Insulation features an orange top insulation layer (orange), and a second layer (yellow) that also serves as a visual safety indicator: should the yellow layer be visible through the outer orange layer, the tool is no longer safe and should be discarded. Made in the USA.
About the Author
G. Jerry Truglia
Jerry Truglia, also known by "G," is an automotive instructor and author whose work with the US Environmental Protection Agency, Society of Automotive Engineers, National Automotive Service Task Force, Council of Advanced Automotive Trainers, Motor Age and Motor Age Training, Professional Tool and Equipment News, and the not-for-profit Technicians Service Training has made him nationally recognized in the automotive repair industry. G. is an ASE World Class Triple Master Technician Auto, Truck & School Bus, L1, L3, F1, A9, X1 C1. Connect with him at LinkedIn.