A very dumb tool question

[Sigarms]

Looking at getting my son a birthday present.

I have my Klein socket/ratchet set now over 25 years, served me well.

Son was talking about a electric ratchet his Sergeant has that he really likes, seems to make things much easier (I guess) when they work on cars together.

Here is the dumb question...

What is the difference between a battery operated ratchet and a batter operated wrench?

Seems like the ratchets are either 1/4" or 3/8", and you can get the wrench in 3/8" or 1/2"

Example of ratchet

Example of wrench

I love the kid, but I'm not getting him both (LOL), and was wondering the pros and cons of both working on cars.

I'm also assuming if you go with the ratchet, you don't need impact sockets?

 

[MapleLeafFarmer]

generally their wrenches have higher rpm and torques.

 

[Sigarms]

generally their wrenches have higher rpm and torques.

That's why I was wondering if you actually need impact sockets with an electric ratchet.

 

[oldnslo]

Electric Ratchet is similar to hand operated ratchet in design and function so impact sockets are not required.

 

[grsthegreat]

But for small bolts, can overtighten easily and break stuff.

 

[Rockbadchild]

• Electric Wrench (Impact Wrench):
  • Designed to apply high torque for loosening or tightening large, stubborn bolts and nuts.
  • Often used in automotive, construction, and heavy-duty applications.
  • Uses a hammering mechanism (impact) to deliver bursts of torque.
• Electric Ratchet:
  • Used for fastening or loosening smaller bolts and nuts in tight spaces.
  • Ideal for low to medium torque applications.
  • Mimics a manual ratchet but is powered, saving time and effort.

• Electric Wrench: High torque output, often ranging from 100 ft-lbs to 1,000+ ft-lbs depending on size and model.
• Electric Ratchet: Lower torque output, typically around 30 to 60 ft-lbs, which is enough for smaller fasteners.

• Electric Wrench: Higher speed and more power, suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
• Electric Ratchet: Slower but provides consistent turning power, often used for assembly or disassembly in confined spaces.

• Electric Wrench: Larger, bulkier, and heavier.
• Electric Ratchet: Smaller, compact, and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

 

[etpm]

I know some guys who repair cars for a living. They have both kinds but use the ratchet the most. The ratchet is not strong enough much of the time to break a bolt or nut loose but that can be done easily by hand. Then the ratchet quickly removes the bolt or nut. The big advantage of the ratchet is that it fits in confined spaces. They also only rely on torque wrenches for final tightening of anything where it matters. This may be because of the place they work, the owner is really fastidious. But I think that's part of the reason they work there.
Eric

 

[bigtiller]

During the moment of highest torque...

A ¼" ratchet may give you a bruise.

A ½" wrench will draw blood if your not paying attention.

I have used both but they were both air powered.

 

[ruffdog]

During the moment of highest torque...

A ¼" ratchet may give you a bruise.

A ½" wrench will draw blood if your not paying attention.

I have used both but they were both air powered.

Thanks for the memories....I too came from the air powered era.

 

[jaxs]

So the question you have to ask is whether he does mostly large,high torque fasteners or small but numerous fasteners(the latter for me).
Don't be fooled when you see someone using a device to r&r lugnuts, it's probably fuel canister powered and all battery does is supply ignition.