Anybody use a Gimbal ratchet?

[wavinwayne]

Came across one of these at work the other day and would like one for myself, but wondered if it would just take up space in my toolbox. Anybody here use one of these regularly enough to justify its place in your toolbox?

 

[D60]

Autozone was clearing these awhile back. Only got it 'cause it was cheap. Never used it -- but SOMEDAY.....and then I'll feel like a genius! [insert evil MWUHAHA laugh]

 

[wavinwayne]

Autozone was clearing these awhile back. Only got it 'cause it was cheap. Never used it -- but SOMEDAY.....and then I'll feel like a genius!

I have a few tools like that. Like my ancient Craftsman pass through socket/ratchet set that I have used exactly once, recently when I needed a 3/4" socket to remove a chainsaw spark plug and realized I didn't have a deep well 3/4" socket (now I do). I also have a tiny Tekton 3/8" stubby ratchet that I'm certain will save me, one day..

 

[dlundblad]

I have a 1/4” one from SK. Great for hose clamps and such where a ratchet is too big and high torque isn’t needed.

 

[demarpaint]

I have them in 1/4" and 3/8" drive. They come in handy on occasion in tough to access areas with a ratchet to get things started or finished up. In all honesty I don't consider them a must have tool, but they are useful.

 

[wavinwayne]

Thanks for your input, gents. I'll probably pick one up the next time I get an Amazon gift card for donating blood.

 

[RyanY]

The gimbal ratchets are great for tight spaces, especially when you find them on sale. I see Amazon has the Gearwrench 3/8" model for $10 right now.

However I also have the $5 set of three palm ratchets from HF that will work in most situations where the gimbal would be used. They are perfect for removing the timing covers from a 4th gen Honda Odyssey.

 

[brages]

I could have used one for the timing belt job I just did on a Pilot... a lot of time spent working in the slot between the "front" of the engine and the body, spinning out bolts that were just a little too stiff to do with the fingers but not a lot of room to swing a ratchet.

 

[wavinwayne]

I just ordered one. I may never need it, but I'll have it just in case.

 

[Hootbro]

I have the 1/4' and 3/8" ones and only recall ever using the 1/4" once maybe 6-7 years ago.

Quite honestly, I forget they are there and have yet to have a situation were only that tool got me out of a jam.

 

[wavinwayne]

I have the 1/4' and 3/8" ones and only recall ever using the 1/4" once maybe 6-7 years ago.

Quite honestly, I forget they are there and have yet to have a situation were only that tool got me out of a jam.

Still haven't used mine for anything but it'll always be there waiting for its time to shine.