Tool Review: Makita 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion 3/8" and 1/4" Square Drive Ratchet Kit
From removing and reinstalling bolts for brake calipers, to A/C repairs and almost everything in between, there wasn’t much this reviewer didn’t use this cordless ratchet on. For Brin Kline, owner of Assured Auto Works in Melbourne, Florida, his only concern after using the Makita 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion 3/8" and 1/4" Square Drive Ratchet Kit, No. RW01R1, is “not having more.”
“If we’re working on a vehicle, it’s likely that we’re using this tool,” Kline says. “We used this tool a lot.”
In addition to using the tool on bolts and A/C repairs, Kline and his technicians also used the cordless ratchet on steering systems, like tie rod clamps, suspension work, and underwood repair.
“I absolutely loved the weight, balance, size, and feel of the tool,” Kline notes, adding that it is “very comfortable.”
The Makita cordless ratchet delivers 35 ft-lbs of maximum torque, and when not engaged, it can be used manually – a feature Kline enjoyed in addition to the product’s speed and long battery life.
“The torque is great, the speed is great, and the battery life is fantastic,” Kline states. “In scenarios where we needed more than 35 ft-lbs of torque, we [would] break the fastener loose manually and then use the power of the tool to remove the fastener.”
When the tool arrived, the only setup needed was to install the preferred drive. The battery was already charged for immediate use. The tool came packaged with two drive choices (1/4” and 3/8”), battery, battery charger, canvas bag, and a manual.
“I love the fact that it has two different drive options,” Kline says.
Changing out the drive size wasn’t as easy as Kline had hoped, but he understands that if this were extremely easy to change out, it might increase the chances of the drive falling out during use. He added, changing out the drive could possibly get easier over time; however, he would have to use it for a few more months to see how it performs with more wear.
As a recommendation, Kline would like to see a quick interchange function on the tool, such as a quarter-turn lever that would lock and release the drive for a quick yet secure interchange.
Overall, Kline found the Makita 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion 3/8" and 1/4" Square Drive Ratchet Kit, No. RW01R1 easy to use, adding this is one of the most widely-used tools in his shop.
