Recommended Mechanic Tool Set

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Mar 20, 2009 | 07:06 PM

#11

dragonle87

Thread Starter

Member

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 125

From: Atlanta, GA

Quote:

Originally Posted by finch13

There are too many variables to say that one brand will strip bolts easier than another... if you use the tool properly, you won't strip anything.

I have a 260 pc. Craftsman at the moment, with a few Snap-On ratchets in the mix. I used to use a Snap-On/Matco/Craftman mix that we bought from a helicopter tech/instructor/friend. The only thing I can say Snap-On is superior to other brands is with their ratchets and possibly screwdrivers. Their ratchets are one of a kind and I've broken Craftman 1/2" ratchets only to go grab the 3/8" drive Snap-On and watch it take the bolts off with ease. A socket is a socket, most Craftsman sockets are laser cut now and fit perfectly. I've never broken a Craftsman socket, even when using an air impact and regular socket.

I also bought a 36mm wrench for $10 to take off axle nuts, there's no need to go all out on tools you use 4 times in 10 years.

Yes, laser cut are new nowadays
My dad's Craftsmen weren't laser cut & always felt loose even though the socket is the correct size. My dad doesn't like Craftsmen due to the quality & he never bought Craftsmen products again.

A while back, we were trying to fix the tractor lawnmower & was having trouble taking a bolt off & broke the ratchet (boy, was he ****) & he went digging in his tool chest for a K-Mart brand 3/8" ratchet. Took the bolt off like nothing.
Well the Craftsmen was back then...I haven't experienced any of the new ones. (I think once but don't recall)

I tried my friend's Pepboys' brand (Powerbuilt) & works great.
http://www.alltradetools.com/3757-1.htm
And love the portability of the Powerbuilt.
I need to test out the Craftsmen ASAP.

Mar 21, 2009 | 11:08 AM

#12

19Accord97

Unregistered

Posts: n/a

If you are worried about breaking tools, just get the sockets and w/e else designed for air tools(usually black). I promise you those suckers wont break when removing stuff by hand tools.

Mar 24, 2009 | 02:59 PM

#13

bdmlilburn

Member

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 21

Quote:

Originally Posted by finch13

Craftsmen, they have some pretty good sales (like $219 for a 219 pc. set recently). Lifetime warranty and you canbring a broken tool to any Sears and walk out with a brand new one. I would never buy tools online, shipping 40 - 60 lbs. is going to cost you more in the end than buying quality, in-store tools.

this man knows his stuff. Craftsmen is the only way i go unless it is specialized. Learned from my father and use his craftsmen hes had forever. Never had one bend or break on me. just great tools

Mar 24, 2009 | 03:23 PM

#14

JimBlake

Super Moderator

Joined: May 2006

Posts: 18,398

From: Wisconsin

Nostalgia story here (I'll apologize up front...)
My dad worked maintenance in a foundry, & one day they had to remove a die-casting machine that had been bolted to the floor forever; using a 2-inch open-end wrench, 10 foot pipe & 4 guys. They managed to spread the wrench open.

Dad got voluntold to take the wrench back to sears & see if they would replace it...
Sure thing, they gave him a new one.