A ratchet spanner uses a mechanism which allows an open-ended, flare or ring head to turn a fastener in one direction but not the other while remaining fitted to the fastener head.
Is a ratchet the same as a spanner?
The spanner head is usually set at a 15 degree angle, allowing a wider turning arc. Choose a single tool, or buy a set of open end wrenches in different sizes. Ratchet spanners have a ratcheting mechanism. They only turn nuts or bolts one way, so you don't have to keep adjusting your grip.
A ratchet allows you to reposition the handle just by moving it backwards whereas a socket wrench without a ratchet means that you must lift the socket of the bolt/nut and move the whole tool combination to reposition it.
Are wrench and spanner the same thing?
In North American English, wrench is the standard term. The most common shapes are called open-end wrench and box-end wrench. In American English, spanner refers to a specialized wrench with a series of pins or tabs around the circumference.
What do Brits call a spanner?
' In British English, spanner is the standard term. The term wrench is generally used for tools that turn non fastening devices (e.g. tap wrench and pipe wrench), or may be used for a monkey wrench - an adjustable spanner. In American English, wrench is the standard term.
Do they make an open end ratchet wrench?
GEARWRENCH 12 Pt. Open End Ratcheting Combination Wrench, 3/4" - 85584.
What is a open-ended spanner used for?
The open-ended spanner fits around two parallel sides of nuts and bolts, while a ring spanner grips the whole fastener from all sides. Unless you're working with one size of nut, you may want a combination spanner set! Flared nut open end wrenches are ideal for loosening nuts and bolts that are attached to tubes.
How does an open end ratcheting wrench work?
A ratcheting wrench works virtually identical to a socket wrench it has ratcheting pawls inside that lets it spin in one direction and turn the bolt in the other. At the same time, it has the relative profile of a combination wrench that you turn to when a socket won't fit.9 Jan 2019