Is a higher tooth ratchet better?
Ratchet Tooth Count The higher the tooth count, the less the handle has to move to engage the next tooth. That means if you’re in a tight situation you’ll be able to take things apart that you might not be able to with a ratchet that has a larger swing arc.
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What is the difference between a ratchet and a torque wrench?

Torque wrenches are a type of wrench commonly used in automotive work and other tasks where a precise torque setting is needed for a specific bolt. Ratchet wrenches are more simple wrenches designed for loosening and tightening bolts.
Can torque wrench be used as ratchet?
In these applications, a torque wrench is the proper tool to use instead of a plain ratchet. Fortunately, in all but the tightest or most specialized of applications, ratchet torque wrenches can be used.
What does 72 tooth ratchet mean?
It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That (Arc) Swing. For one thing, a 72-tooth ratchet needs a 5° swing arc for the pawls to catch and allow you to turn your bolt, whereas a 120-tooth number will only need 3°.

Is it bad to use a torque wrench to loosen?
A torque wrench is a tightening tool. It is a very sensitive and precise tightening tool, and should never been used to loosen bolts.
How many teeth are Craftsman ratchets?
CRAFTSMAN Ratchet Wrench, 1/2-Inch Drive,, 120-Tooth, Pear Head (CMMT82012)
What is the highest tooth ratchet?
Steelman™PRO 160 tooth ratchets have the highest tooth count available on the market! With 160 teeth, the ratchet only requires a 2.25 degree swing.
What size ratchet is best?
Drive sizes
- 1/4 inch – Used for smaller sockets and precision work.
- 3/8 inch – The middle sized, and in my opinion, most useful size for general use on a car.
- 1/2 inch – 1/2″ sockets are generally used for nuts and bolts from around 10mm and up.
What’s a good ratchet?
Our Top Picks
- Top Pick. DEWALT 3/8-Inch Quick-Release Ratchet. Photo: amazon.com.
- Best Value. ARES 3/8-Inch Drive 90-Tooth Ratchet. Photo: amazon.com.
- Most Versatile. Neiko 3/8-Inch Drive Extendable Ratchet.
- Heavy-Duty Pick. ARES 1/2-Inch Drive 90-Tooth Ratchet.
- Honorable Mention. ACDelco 12V 3/8-Inch Cordless Ratchet.
What’s the difference between a ratchet and a wrench?
A ratchet allows you to apply rotational force on a nut or bolt in one direction and rotate it back without exerting force on the fastener. But the ratchet has no torque control. Whereas, with a torque wrench you can apply force precisely with its ability to set torque.