I recently purchased the M12 Fuel 3/8" high speed ratchet (Part #2567-20) with two 5.0 Ah batteries. I started using it last week while working on a car and noticed that, despite its great shape and functionality, it seems to lack the necessary torque for loosening or tightening bolts effectively. When I attempt to loosen bolts that are tighter than what I can easily spin off by hand, the ratchet just clicks and the battery lights flash. While the ratchet seems to handle putting nuts on okay, it often won't loosen them at all, and I'm left having to use a wrench. I've tried multiple battery sizes like the 5.0 Ah, 6.0 XC, and 4.0 Ah, but the results are consistent. I'm wondering if I should return it to Home Depot for an exchange or if this is just how it performs?
3 Answers
Honestly, it doesn't have much power. I've actually found the cheaper black head ratchet works better for me since it fits into tighter spots too. This one just doesn't have the kick you're looking for!
Remember, it’s designed to be a ratchet, not an impact tool. Your experience isn’t uncommon; it's all about speed over torque. So, yeah, it can be a bit frustrating when it doesn’t thread bolts on easily if there’s resistance!
Yeah, that's pretty much how it operates. It can loosen bolts manually first, and then you can switch to high speed for ease. But don't expect it to handle heavy torque on its own.
Exactly! If you have any resistance, it just won’t work right, which can be annoying.