Kobalt ratchet works opposite w/ normal ratchet ?

[HTSS_TR]

The Kobalt ratchet I got from Lowes seems to work opposite with other Sears Craftman ratchets. To loosen a nut or bolt I set the Craftman ratchet's switch to the right position as shown on the Kobalt rachet in the picture below, but with the same position the Kobalt rachet is in tighten position which is reversed from all Craftman ratchets I have.

Will any of you check the Kobalt rachet that you bought from Lowes last week or so to see if it works as it should be.

Thanks In Advance.

 

[bubbatime]

I have the same ratchet. It is identical to the $10 Harbor Freight plastic ratchet and I assume made by the same manufacturer in Taiwan. And yes, both of them are "backwards" as far as the lever is concerned compared to my other ratchets.

Composite harbor freight ratchet mechanism is identical

 

[Chris142]

That makes them stronger. They have 2 pawls instead of one like the craftsman does.

 

[HTSS_TR]

I thought about going to Lowes to exchange for another set, but if the lever of Kobalt's ratchet is designed that way(backwards) then I just live with it.

Thanks.

 

[bubbatime]

Originally Posted By: Chris142
That makes them stronger. They have 2 pawls instead of one like the craftsman does.


Having a backwards lever has nothing to due with strength. If having a backwards lever increased strength, all the tool brands would have a backwards lever.

 

[67lemans]

Originally Posted By: bubbatime
Originally Posted By: Chris142
That makes them stronger. They have 2 pawls instead of one like the craftsman does.


Having a backwards lever has nothing to due with strength. If having a backwards lever increased strength, all the tool brands would have a backwards lever.


No, but dual pawls will.
My Proto 5449 has a "backwards" lever on it. Since getting it my Craftsman has been collecting dust.

 

[HTSS_TR]

All backwards lever ratchets have dual pawls ?

 

[stephen9666]

There isn't any grand arbiter that decides what is considered "backwards."

I would submit that all your other ratchets were backwards and this one goes the right way.