A ratchet are a tool that is used to tighten or loosen fastener. The ratchet that is used with the fastener must be matched with the correct socket to teh tool. If a person uses the incorrect type of ratchet or socket, the edge of the bolt may become rounded and the gears of the tool may become stripped.
A ratchet works in the same way than a socket; therefore, a person must ensure that they selects the ratchet correct. There are several factor to consider when selecting the proper ratchet for a given task. One of these factors is the drive size of the ratchet.
How to Choose the Right Ratchet and Socket
The drive size of the ratchet is the square connector located at the head of the ratchet. The drive size of the ratchet must match the drive size of the socket that a person will use with that particular ratchet. For example, a 1/4 inch drive ratchet is a small tool that is often used in tasks in which delicate fastener are to be tightened or loosened, such as in the case of electronics or bicycle repairs.
Another example is 1/2-inch drive ratchets, which are large tools use in heavy tasks, such as those involving suspension nut or truck axles. Mechanics often have several ratchets of each drive size so that they are able to complete a variety of tasks, and to avoid buying a tool that will not match with the fastener or socket required to perform a specific task. Another factor to consider when purchasing a ratchet is the tooth count of the ratchet gear.
The arc swing of the tool is the angle through which the tool must be turned before the gear of the ratchet tool engage with the next flat portion of the bolt or nut. A tool with fewer teeth will have a larger arc swing than a tool with more teeth; it will also be more useful in open space. Similarly, a ratchet with more teeth will allow the tool to turn with a smaller arc swing and will often be more useful in tight space, such as within the engine compartment of a car.
Thus, a ratchet with more teeth is often preferred when working on automobiles, though they must construct the teeth more precise so that they do not skip when heavy load are applied to the ratchet. Yet another factor to consider is the head style of the ratchet. For instance, a fixed-head ratchet will not pivot with the turning of the tool, and is, therefore, useful in tasks that require the application of great force to the bolt; a flex-head ratchet will have the capability to pivot, which makes it useful when the ratchet tool must be position around other components of the machine.
Finally, the length of the handle of the tool will impact the amount of torque that can be applied with the tool. For instance, a longer handle will allow the user to apply more torque. However, extending the handle of a ratchet with a pipe will shear the teeth off of the ratchets length.
Another consideration is the purchase of sockets that will work with the ratchet tool. For example, six point sockets have flats on the side of the socket that help grip the bolt and allow for loosening of often rusty bolts. Twelve-point sockets have more starting angle than six-point sockets, and allow a person to quickly position the socket into the bolt, though they do not have as great of a grip as six-point sockets.
A person often purchase adapters to allow them to connect a small ratchet to a large socket, for instance. However, the torque limits of the ratchet will decrease when using an adapter. It is important for a person to avoid overtightening the components with the ratchet tool.
Ratchets has a maximum amount of torque that the tool can place into the component; if the ratchet is overtightened, the head of the ratchet may break off from the fastener. A ratchet can only be used to loosen the bolt or to snug the bolt; the torque wrench is the tool that should of be used to reach the final torque that is specified by the component. Finally, a person should always first match the drive size of the ratchet to the socket, and then match the tooth count to the available space.
By following these steps, a person will be able to ensure that both the ratchet and the socket will work together efficient to perform the task that is required of the worker.
