Product Specifications
- Holder material: Non-slip grip control design
- Material: Molybdenum steel
- Teeth: 90 teeth
- Swing Arc: 4 Degrees
- Head Rotation: 270 degrees to accommodate a wider range of angles
- 1/2" Drive 11-19/64 Inches Long
- 3/8" Drive 8-15/16 Inches Long
- 1/4" Drive 5-45/64 Inches Long
- Country of Origin: Taiwan
Package Contents
Available Sizes
1/2" Dr. Swivel Head Ratchet
1/4" Dr. Swivel Head Ratchet
3/8" Dr. Swivel Head Ratchet
3pc Swivel Head Ratchet Set - 1/2", 1/4", 3/8"
What Are the Features of the Olsa Swivel Ratchets?
The Olsa swivel head ratchet rotates 270 degrees to reach bolts in cramped engine bays and under-chassis spots where standard ratchets fail. Its 90-tooth mechanism produces a precise 4-degree swing arc to tighten and loosen fasteners with control.
Built from industrial-grade chrome vanadium (Cr-V) steel, these ratchets exceed ASME specification B107.10 by 150%. The 1/4-inch drive handles 56 ft-lb of torque, the 3/8-inch withstands 225 ft-lb, and the 1/2-inch manages 563 ft-lb without failure.>/p>
The fork split in the head flexes under high-torque loads to spread stress across the tool rather than concentrate it at weak points. This build, plus the chrome-plated finish, fights corrosion through years of professional work.
Choose from one of these common drive sizes:
- 1/4-inch for sensitive components
- 3/8-inch for general automotive tasks
- 1/2-inch for heavy-duty applications
You can buy each individually or as a 3-piece set. These mechanics tools include comfort grips and smooth handles for control during low-torque applications.
Olsa Tools backs each ratchet with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. Customer support responds within 30 business minutes for technical questions or warranty claims.
What Ratchet Repair Kits Work With This Olsa Model?
The Olsa ratchet repair kit is compatible with the 90-tooth swivel head ratchet. It contains a replacement flex spring, forward/reverse pawl, compression spring, retention ball, and all necessary screws, plus detailed rebuild instructions. All components meet factory specifications to restore the precise 4-degree swing arc and smooth operation of the ratcheting mechanism. Match the kit to your ratchet's drive size.
Pro tip: A ratchet repair extends the life of your tool at a fraction of the replacement cost. Keep a kit in your toolbox before you need it.
Does the Swivel Head Lock at Specific Angles?
The swivel head moves smoothly throughout its full 270-degree range without preset stopping points. This free movement is useful when your socket position shifts during bolt removal as the head follows the natural arc without catching or binding.
The switch lever maintains precision. This high-quality tool serves a variety of jobs with standard torque requirements.
The socket position adjusts instantly as you maneuver around obstacles in tight engine bays. The ball joint mechanism stays firm yet fluid, so your socket won't flop or slip once positioned. The compact head and internal gears work at odd angles for a solid grip in any position.
Can I Use Impact Sockets With Swivel Head Ratchet?
Impact sockets are compatible with this ratchet, but the thicker socket walls might limit the ratchet's angle or access.
For high-torque jobs, switch to a dedicated impact wrench. The ratchet's Cr-V construction contains force limits of 56 ft-lb for 1/4-inch, 225 ft-lb for 3/8-inch, and 563 ft-lb for 1/2-inch drives.
How Does the Tooth Count Affect Performance?
The 90-tooth mechanism creates a 4-degree swing arc between clicks. This smaller arc requires minimal handle movement to turn fasteners, a significant advantage in tight spots where regular ratchets fail. The arc swing provides control in limited space. Mechanics face clearance issues daily in modern engine bays.
The finer click spacing adds precision when breaking torque on stubborn bolts. Each click moves the socket a shorter distance, so you won't accidentally snap or strip fasteners.
Mechanics understand the value of these small arcs when working on modern vehicles with packed engine bays or hard-to-access body panels. The fine-tooth mechanism grabs fasteners with less wrist movement, which speeds up common tasks such as spark plug changes or manifold work.
What Maintenance Keeps the Swivel Mechanism Smooth?
A light coat of lithium grease applied to the ball joint smooths movement. This grease fights friction and stops corrosion in the swivel joint.
For daily maintenance, wipe dirt and debris from the ratchet head with a tool wipe or a clean shop rag. When debris builds up, spray electrical contact cleaner through the mechanism to flush contaminants. Let the cleaner dry completely before adding fresh lithium grease.
Store your ratchet in a dry toolbox or drawer. Contact with moisture speeds up corrosion in the swivel joint and ratcheting mechanism.
Will the Chrome Finish Hold Up in a Professional Shop Environment?
The chrome plating withstands regular contact with automotive fluids, sprays, and chemicals. The finish resists damage from brake cleaner, carburetor cleaner, penetrating oil, and other harsh shop substances.
Wipe chemical spills from the surface promptly to block corrosion. Oil and grease won't harm the chrome, but acidic cleaners left on the surface create pitting over time.
Road salt accelerates finish wear, so clean your ratchet after winter repairs or undercarriage work. A standard chrome polish removes surface oxidation and restores the original shine.
Does the Swivel Mechanism Feel Loose?
The swivel joint maintains tight tolerances without play or wobble during use. The ball joint stays stiff enough to hold the socket position yet smooth enough to adjust angles with control. If the mechanism loosens after prolonged use, an Olsa ratchet repair kit will return the head to factory specifications.
What’s the Difference Between This Ratchet and the Standard Olsa Ratchet?
This 90-tooth ratchet has a tighter 4-degree swing arc than the 5-degree arc of the 72-tooth model. The swivel head adds 270 degrees of rotation, and the fork split in the head spreads stress more effectively.
Both ratchets use durable chrome-vanadium steel, but the swivel model includes additional capabilities through its split-fork design. The 90-tooth ratcheting mechanism adds 18 more positions per revolution for finer control in confined spaces.
Many mechanics keep a pair of ratchets: one standard and one swivel head for applications that need extra reach.
How Do I Keep My Swivel Head Ratchet Organized?
Olsa offers tool organizers for ratchets. The Olsa Tools silicone magnetic tool holder holds your swivel head ratchet securely. The strong magnetic base keeps your ratchet in place and prevents damage while making it easy to access.
Can the Swivel Head Be Taken Apart for Cleaning?
No. The swivel mechanism contains a ball joint that must stay intact. Any attempt to disassemble the joint voids the warranty and will damage the ratchet.
Does Olsa Tools Offer Micro-Swivel Head Ratchets?
Olsa Tools does not offer mini-swivel-head ratchets. The swivel head ratchet line includes standard sizes only. For tight spots, check out Olsa's micro ratchet.