New SK LP90 Flexhead and XL ratchets
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- Опубліковано 8 вер 2024
- Some of the new types of SK LP 90's are now available. For the cost though I would buy Proto instead.
Garage Journal thread on these ratchets where others are also having issues www.garagejour...
I purchased the flex 3/8 from SK the day they hit the website for $91.79. I work at an auto repair shop and I have been using it as my main ratchet every single day for about three weeks. The selector switch was stiff out of the box, and it came with very little lube in the mechanism. I lubricated the mechanism with Super Lube and put the ratchet to work. The ratchet has broken in nicely, and it is my new favorite. I plan on buying another 3/8 and the 1/2 and 1/4 in different configurations. The selector switch still has a positive feel for switching from R to L, but it’s not hard to switch by any means. I actually like that it won’t bump itself into the other direction. This ratchet has a floating pawl design that’s different than most manufacturers. It uses fewer parts than the equivalent Snap On ratchet, and the design itself is what leads to a more positive feeling selector switch. I do not believe this is a lack of quality. I’ve lubed the ratchet once a week since getting it, as I always do with my main ratchets, and it performs flawlessly. I have Snap On models FL80 and FLF80A and the SK can easily be considered on par with their quality, and its priced 20% to 30% lower than the Snap On equivalents. I believe SK has one of the best warranty and Customer Services in the business, and I would suggest to anyone that is dissatisfied with their purchase that they should contact SK. I received a lemon from them before and they fixed the issue. Even sent a shipping label. SK seems to be having some quality control issues lately, specifically finish flaws in their chrome tools. If your new tool has a finish flaw, send it back. Hold the company accountable. It’s the only way to fix the issue. I love tools and I am a fan of SK. I plan on purchasing many more of their tools in the future.
How was the flex joint out of the package, did it get extremely stiff at around 40 deg in each direction like both my 3/8 and 1/4?
Mark Fox No my flex joint is consistent throughout its range of motion. I did tighten the screw a bit because I like my flex head a little tighter than the factory. I wonder if you could remove the head and measure the tolerance/consistency on the head and handle. Maybe there is a machining flaw. I wish you the best of luck and I hate that you’re having these issues.
Thanks for the report back. I haven't had the time to mess with these lately after returning from my day job holiday break. I might try messing with them tomorrow and see if I can solve the issue.
@@MarkFoxthey come stiff like that so when they brake on they aren't floppy
Thanks Mark for the honest review because I do make purchases on items reviewed on UA-cam. Keep up the good work!
If I had a local dealer and I could inspect them before purchase I still would consider LP90's.
I’ve got the 3/8 flex LP90. Great ratchet. Has been my go to.
I understand completely, in the seventies, I used go through a lot both SK and Husky Ratchets. When I brought my my first Craftsman Ratchet, I knew, I found a tool to work with. I have used other than Craftsman Ratchets including Snap-on. The question to ask did I break them, the short answer is Yes. But not at the rate of the SK's and Huskies tools. I hope their quality has improved.
I remember back in the 80's when local auto parts stores had SK on the shelves. Not so today and I would not recommend purchasing them without being able to inspect them first.
Thank you for your honest review, sir.
I finally sold those junkers a couple months back.
Glad to see that I'm not the only one with issues with the SK LP ratchets.
Definitely NOT worth the asking price
2.5 years ago lol, SK has unmatched customer service 👌
Besides my issues with the new LP 90 half inch stated in a separate post, I’ve bought a bunch of SK recently including extensions, the old school style ratchets, impact sockets, and line wrenches, and they’ve all been fantastic.
Plus SK will warranty any tool for any reason, from disappointment to actual breakage.
Every other SK tool I own is fantastic, don't know what's up with these LP90's but I hope they get it fixed.
How is that warranty working out for you now smart guy 🚽
My SK ratchets have all been wonderful. I have a few 3/8 drive knurled handle types as well as LP90's, as well as 1/2 and 1/4 LP90's. I havent had any of the issues you had. I have a 15" 1/2 drive flex ratchet and the flex is evenly stiff all the way through. I have a similar snap on 1/2 drive ratchet, only difference being it is a comfort grip non-flex 80 tooth, and they are about equal in terms of spinning freely, but the SK is tighter on the selector switch, which I like. As far as how tight your selector is, I think the face plate is too tight.
I'm happy you got a good one on the LP 90. If you read the garage journal .com you will find many other people had the same issues with the their SK LP's as I did with mine.
Thanks for saving me some money. I had high hopes because my sk 3767 has the smoothest action with the lightest back drag of any ratchet I’ve ever had. The selector is just a pain in the ass. I bought an SK 3/8 drive kit #94549 in November. The chrome on some of the sockets is horrendous. Guess I’ll stick with snap on...
I think SK is having some quality control issues lately
Icon 90tooth is super smooth. Identical to the Mac. I swear these the same exact internals inside
Mine have been great, my 1/4 was a little funky out of the box but a warranty repair kit fixed it.
My point is a $75 Made in the USA 1/4" ratchet should be perfect when received and there should be NO reason to warranty it when purchased brand new.
Thanks Mark for the no bull review! I was excited to see these ratchets, but unfortunately I too am disappointed in SK. Thanks Again.
Still a chance they will get them sorted in the future but I'm not holding my breath
I agree Bobby
I think some people had to trim the spring a bit on the selector
Pack it with grease they get really smooth SK put different lube in different lp 90 ratchets for some reason I use grease and oil in mine they are smooth
Packing it with grease will do nothing about the overly stiff flex joint or improve the chrome finish. I use cheap Chinese rachets before these junk SK LP90's.
SK had the strongest ratchets ever made for years and very good sockets
These are not one of their premier products for sure. I hope they get them sorted but I don't see myself purchasing any more of the LP90 products. I do love every other SK tool I own.
To loosen up the selector switch: clip 1 coil off of the selector switch spring. But your right they should be 100% from the factory especially at that price point. I bought 1 when they 1st came out
Not necessary. Add super lube on the mechanism where the ball detent/spring ride upon. This will allow it to shift back and forth with no stuck/gritty transition. Positive detent like a snap on but more low-profile. I did have issue with it being stuck on reverse and forward. Never had an issue with it being too loose though.
Was hoping to see the interinals
Coming to watch this video, I recently made a purchase of the sk 3/8 long flex head for 45 dollars free shipping. I have high expectations. I also have the new mac axis ratchet 1/4 flex comfort grip which is similar/same to the proto. Love that ratchet
Wish I had the chance at the SK flexhead for $45. Amazing
Buy the Pittsburgh Pro from Harbor Freight for less money. The SK is not worth $45 to me.
@@MarkFox wow! I can say they have quality control issues and too much problem. Regardless if it was a steal and deal, I agree it should still be perfect, no issues. For 45 dollars the 11in flex head 3/8 was not worth it. My ratchet binded up when I tried to break fasteners loose. Switch lever was getting stuck or notoriously difficult to switch. I ended up buying the 1/4 flex head and that ratchet is my favorite 1/4 ratchet. It has lock tight on every screw. Something the 3/8 didn't. The back drag is buttery smooth and light. No idea why they are so inconsistent.
They have now sold out to a Chinese company. Regardless for what price you get any of their ratchets/tools. No warranty is guaranteed anymore. Making them to me, kinda junk
@@MarkFox will look into it sir 👍🏻.
Great review mark thanks for the honest review
Thanks for watching and commenting John!
SK has always been a weird one for me, they aren't the highest quality in strength, function or fit and finish, but they are quite a premium price. Not saying they aren't solid tools, but not worth what they charge in my opinion. I have lots of SK, but all second hand, and for the price I got them for they are a bargain. I must be up to 8 or 9 old school SK ratchets now and they are sturdy and reliable.
Yes I've never heard a complaint of the old SK roundheads but there are plenty of issues with these new LP90's
Thanks for the review. I am a big fan of SK sockets, screwdrivers and wrenches but never really cared for their ratchets. That is disappointing for sure, I would expect more from SK. Good video
Maybe they will get them sorted in the future but I would not purchase these again unless I could inspect them in my own hands first.
I have the original 3/8 standard size sk 90 tooth ratchet and I had so much issues with it seizing up on me and I sent it in and got a replacement and it was the same issue, so I just stop using it. Thanks for the video
I won't be purchasing any more of these thats for sure.
I got the non flex 3/8 at 1st was solid mehh then the flex recently and Imo They addressed issues beside the torx / Allen situation but chrome finish in general is flawless the flex is stiff how I prefer tho the selector is real nice
Oh ya on my mom's account and also smoother gear then my 1st 3/8 sk also... lol prolly shouldn't go with the logic that a first release of anything is going to be perfect of the bat pretty sure its usually opposite bugs get worked out over time
From what I'm reading on recent garage journal posting it doesn't sound like SK has gotten any better over the past 2 years. Now that a Chinese company bought them who can guess what's going to happen to SK .
Proto have the same usa switches that the mac axis have. Great ratchets, I have the 18inch locking flex head in half inch and is a absolute boss of a ratchet.
Yes I agree MAC/Proto are one of the best available today.
I had same reaction after convincing myself to purchase their X Frame ratcheting wrenches....just didn’t have what I expected for the price, finish especially disappointed me.
I never heard of any issues with the X-frames but I don't own (or need) them so maybe they are having quality control issues.
Its like SK just put them out as is because they knew they had a hype built up and the Christmas sales season was happening. Try the Capri flex head ratchets they have really nice tools especially their bits and bit sockets are on par with vim I know people that warranty their snap on bit sockets all the time and they still have the same Capri tools in perfect shape. I wish these SK ratchets had knurling on them and the qtr inch models are nice that they are longer.
These weren't actually delivered until after Christmas but I do think they had plenty of time to get all the issues sorted. It was 2 1/2 years ago when the first LP90' was released.
No Capri tools for me, Capri is a "Fruity" name to me so I would never purchase them.
we like S K but no dealers near us, and we have a ton of garages here. so we have to go to Snap On , matco, craftsman
Should have stuck with the Taiwan made tools. I really like my made in Taiwan Gearwrench 120xp ratchets. I have the 1/4 & 3/8" flex head ratchets and 1/4" extended ratchet and they are great
Proto/MAC got them right first try, don't know why SK can't.
The 1/2" drive 15" long flex head version of this on sale now on SK's website for 61.99. I grabbed one.
I hope you receive a good one with no issues.
Yeah the Proto and Mac are fantastic. I had to exchange the 1/2” flex SK because it actually lost tension past the halfway point in either direction and became floppy. Talk about a knuckle destroyer.
I’m going to cross my fingers the replacement ratchet works fine. I’m not a big fan of metal handles, especially without knurling, but Epstein’s promotional price made it a good deal cheaper than Proto 90, Mac Axis, Snap On, and Matco, at least in 1/2”, so I’m willing to give it another shot.
I hope your replacement works out.
Thanks for the honest review. I always enjoy your videos
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I just received an LP90 in each drive size. Quality control on the mechanisms must just be non existent. I had high hopes. But all three just feel horrible. Not a single one is representative of what SK should be putting out as their flagship 90T mechanism. Smh.
I'm sad to hear that 2 years later so many people are still having issues with SK LP90 ratchets.
My latest SK purchases have been disappointing. Machining is horrendous on their wrenches and sockets.
They won't be my 1st choice for sure.
The chrome on my gearwrench is much smoother. But can't you polish the pin detent just a bit to make the switch easier to flip?
Sad state of affairs! Sk was good quality at one point I own 2 lp90 3/8 ratchets one works perfect other it jams up! Fixed it with new rebuild kit but very disappointed with sk tool.. should work right out the box! Wrenches also chrome peeling! Really sad..
I haven't heard of chrome peeling in a few years. A while ago many American tool manufactures were having issues when they had to switch to a water based process. At least that what I was told by Wright Tool when I toured their factory.
HI MARK I HAVE THE SAME SK 3/8 FLEX HEAD MINE WAS GIVING ME PROBLEM'S RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX TOO. I SEPERATED THE FLEX JONIT AND THE CHROME WAS PEELING OFF. I SMOOTHED IT UP AND IT WORKS A LITTLE BETTER BUT I WOULD NOT BUY ANOTHER FLEX HEAD RATCHED FROM SK.
I know I won't be purchasing any more SK tools period. I might consider it if I had a local stocking supplier and I could inspect them prior to purchase.
I own several sk ratchets and they are great and work great. Honestly seems like most of your complaints have little to do with how well they work. I mean do you wear gloves as you work so you don’t get finger prints on your tools? put them to work and let us know what you think.
I've been using them since I received them in Dec 2019. Today 9-Apr-2020 the selector switch is still way to stiff, The flex joints have not free'd up at all, and the back drag is higher on all of them then any other 90 tooth ratchet I own and I own a LOT of them.
These don't even compare to Harbor Freight's Icon series of 90T ratchets, the Icon's are 4 times better then any SK 90T ratchet and Wright Tool makes a much better round head ratchet then SK.
Everyone at my place of employment wears latex gloves as required, fingerprints look like mountains when we run a surface finish gauge across finished product.
They had issues with the initial ratchet they released. Garnett tools reviewed the first one.
And it appears they are still having issues today....
You may have re tighten the cover plate screws to tight, that made my switch alot harder to select R or L. Maybe use locktight but loosen the plate screws a lil. Good luck
I just reach for something else instead.
I could not disagree more. They break in....they are meant to be used and not stared at. I love the new SK ratchets.
Almost a year later now and they haven't improved at all, I'm still calling them not worth the asking price.
Great video, the camera micro lens is working great. I got a great price on a new MAC axis 3/8 flex comfort handle on eBay.
Thanks, MAC's are great ratchets as well
Wish I would have watched this before I ordered the 3/8 flex head. Looks like I might be sending it back when it comes in. ... Stick to Wright Tools I guess or Proto.
Maybe you will get lucky and it will be fine. Another guy from the garage journal just received his and says it (3/8 flex) was fine out of the package.
Sam how did you like your 3/8s ? I’m thinking of getting one
I would send them back for a refund the finish looks poor on them for brand new, i seen other you tube videos on the chrome finish on new SK sockets and the finish was very poor for the price that was paid, they seem overated sk tools even though they are USA made....
I like to keep tools I'm not pleased with as a reminder the next time I go to purchase something sight unseen from the same manufacture.
The price difference in the 1/4" flex head and non is way too much.
I think I paid $108 for my Proto 1/4 flex
It's been so freaking long since they announced these I had completely lost intrest. And I only own about 3 sk tools and I have to say that the quality is definitely not up to par with the price, in my opinion it's only a matter of time before sk goes down the tubes.
Agreed, after 2 1/2 years you think they would be well sorted by now. I won't be purchasing any more of these.
I have a Titan 90 tooth 12" 3/8 drive with an aluminum blue anodized handle for 40$ been good so far. Part number "Titan 12161"
And in sure it a better product then this $100++ SK...
My SK, the same exact things. But i like it.61$ for the 3/8 8inch reg ratchet. No flex head
Not worth the price to me with all the issues, if they were same price as comparable Harbor Freight items then I would no complaints. When they are charging a premium they should be delivering a premium product with zero issues/defects.
@@MarkFox i dont see what the big issues are. You got a floppy head. Its suposed to be like that. And yes the switch is hard to move but were men not wimps !
@@MarkFox the switch will flip back and fourth easy if you kinda put your finger nail under it and pull up as you push the selector lever. Then it's really easy