Why are there different ratchet drive sizes?

Ratchet sizes vary. Common ratchet sizes include 1/4-inch drive, 1/2-inch drive and 3/8-inch drive. Different ratchets have a different tooth count. A higher tooth count can make it easier to move the handle when working on projects with little room to operate.

What is the most common socket drive size?

⅜-inch
⅜-inch drive size sockets are the most common and most available.

What is the difference between imperial and metric spanners?

This is because imperial is measured in inches and there’s very little crossover between imperial measurements and standard metric ones. What this means in terms of hand tools is that there’s no exact equivalent for a 9/16” spanner in metric units.

What is the difference between metric and imperial tools?

You see, whereas the Metric system uses whole numbers with a letter denotation, the Imperial system uses fractions and, sometimes, symbols – a single set of quotes for inches and a single apostrophe for feet. For example, a quarter-inch wrench will appear as 1/4″.

What is a 1/4 drive ratchet?

1/4 inch – Used for smaller sockets and precision work. 1/2 inch – 1/2″ sockets are generally used for nuts and bolts from around 10mm and up. A 1/2″ drive socket can apply enough force to undo all nuts on a car. There are also 3/4″ and 1″ ratchets but these are used on trucks, tanks and industrial machinery.

What are the 4 socket drive sizes?

These drive fittings come in four common sizes: 1⁄4 inch, 3⁄8 inch, 1⁄2 inch, and 3⁄4 inch (referred to as “drives”, as in ” 3⁄8 drive”).

What are metric sockets?

Metric sockets and wrenches use the metric measurement system. This is when millimeters are used to describe the size. So you’d get a 20mm wrench in the metric unit of measurement. Both the SAE and metric fasteners have six-sided heads that are turned using open-end, boxed or socket wrenches.

Is there a 10mm socket?

In fact, the 10mm socket is one of the most commonly used metric size sockets of all. It’s no secret that the majority of parts under the hood and in the car require a 10mm. The applications may vary from car to car, but the 10mm is absolutely vital to complete a project.

Are metric and standard ratchets interchangeable?

Yes, you can use some sockets on both metric and SAE sizes. However, you need to be careful, as most times they are not exactly the same, and you can strip a bolt by using an SAE socket on a metric bolt and vice versa.

Are European cars metric or standard?

5 Answers. To directly answer your question: GM cars are primarily (if not entirely) Metric these days (probably since the mid-to-late 90’s). The Korean/Japanese/European cars are all going to be Metric as well. You should be able to get a small ratchet set which contains both SAE and Metric sockets in it.

Are UK cars metric or imperial?

Britain is officially metric, in line with the rest of Europe. However, imperial measures are still in use, especially for road distances, which are measured in miles.

How much torque can a 1/4 drive take?

If you assume a reasonable quality tool steel that can handle 100K psi, a 1/4″ drive can take about 30 ft-lb, 3/8″ about 100 ft-lbs, 1/2″ about 230 ft-lbs, and 3/4″ about 800 ft-lbs. Really good steel will bump this up, while special tools like a wobble extension may cut it to half.

What is the best Ratchet set with three drive sizes?

This Husky ratchet set comes with the three main drive sizes, a stubby 3/8ths drive ratchet and a gimbal ratchet. This Tekton ratchet set also comes in the three major drive sizes, but it sports a very useful swivel-head construction. Another inexpensive store brand, Kobalt from Lowe’s is another affordable way to snag the three main drive sizes.

What are the different sizes of ratchet sockets?

Available in standard (SAE) and metric sizes; some are color coded to help you quickly distinguish between the two types Fits either a 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch ratchet; smaller sizes fit smaller fasteners, while larger fasteners usually need sockets with larger drive sizes

What are the different types of ratchets?

Commonly used for fastening nuts and bolts, there are a few different types of ratchets available. Here are some important things to note: Ratchet sizes vary. Common ratchet sizes include 1/4-inch drive, 1/2-inch drive and 3/8-inch drive.

Why do different ratchets have different tooth counts?

Different ratchets have a different tooth count. A higher tooth count can make it easier to move the handle when working on projects with little room to operate. Sockets connect to your ratchet to help you make adjustments quickly and easily. Depending on the job at hand, you’ll need a certain type of socket.