The SK Hand Tools DT Series 1/4” Ratchets, Nos. 40970 and 800700, feature Double-Tooth technology designed to provide users with half the swing arc of a standard ratchet. These ratchets feature a traditional SK ratchet body with the DT mechanism. This mechanism can also be used on traditional SK ratchets, allowing users to upgrade their current ratchets. These ratchets are available to purchase as a new ratchet or as just the mechanism for an existing ratchet body.
The review
When it comes to performing routine maintenance, a quality ratchet is an essential tool for technicians to have. Lou Fort, lead technician at K.A.R.S. Inc. in Huntingburg, Indiana, appreciated the quality, high tooth count and familiarity of these ratchets.
“My very first memory of working with a ratchet is my father’s 1/4” drive SK Hand Tools set,” Fort says. “That set is in a green metal case, held a set of standard sockets, two extensions and a ratchet. My dad still has and uses that very set. While I can’t say how many teeth that old workhorse has, I am sure both of these [DT Ratchets] have more, especially the 800700.”
Fort used these ratchets for a variety of repairs, including changing valve cover gaskets, timing belts, alternators and more. He also used the 800700 to replace a camshaft in a Ford 6.4L Powerstroke.
He found that using these ratchets was straightforward and easy, and the 800700 saved him time on a few repairs.
“I really like how the SK ratchets still come with a knurled handle,” Fort notes. “The 40970 is an old school solid [ratchet], and the 800700’s 120-tooth count is insane.”
Fort has been using slim teardrop head ratchets with a flip switch for years, so he found going back to ratchets with a rotational switch an adjustment. However, he did appreciate that switching directions with these ratchets was smooth and easy each time. This style of ratchet is not his personal preference, but he found the DT ratchets to be high quality and had no suggestions for improvement.
Overall, Fort says, these ratchets are well built, durable and smooth.
“Even though they are not my favorite style, I think anyone should be happy to own either,” Fort concludes. “I am expecting them to be great starter ratchets for my kids. Maybe in 50 years, they will have some memories [of them] just like I do.”
