Tool Review: GripEdge Tools 1/4" Drive Flex Head Low Profile Dual Action Driver Ratchet, No. DFRA6572 and 1/4" Dual Action Drive Low Profile Hex Bits

Reviewed by Brin Kline, owner of Assured Auto Works in Melbourne, Florida.

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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time? 

A: I realize that it is obvious, but these two items complement each other so well. The time savings come from the confidence of removing and installing hardware without having to worry about rounding out the bolt. The extremely low profile makes working in tight spaces a breeze as well.  

 

Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop's profitability? 

A: Having to spend time finding and using an extractor to remove a bolt with a rounded head is a profit killer. The products from GripEdge make it so you don’t have to do this. Just get the job done and collect the money.  

 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product? 

A: There’s no setup. Just open the box and get to removing and installing fasteners.

 

Q: How easy was it to use? 

A: The ratchet and socket set are very easy to use. I would argue that they are easier to use than a conventional ratchet and socket.

 

Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories? 

A: Both products are plastic-wrapped and packaged in cardboard boxes branded with GripEdge’s Logo and signature black and green colors. The drivers were also on a nice aluminum 1/4” bit/socket rail. 

 

Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual, and was the manual easy to understand? 

A: There was no manual included with either product, but the features and benefits, as well as some basic instructions, are labeled/listed on the box. The product is self-explanatory. A manual is not needed

 

Q: What features did you like? 

A: Where do I begin? The ratchet and dual action driver bits are designed with tight spaces in mind. I love how small and low-profile the ratchet is. The flexible head and fine tooth make this a new favorite for me. The drivers are very strong and very low-profile, but the star of the show is the dual-action and round-prevention technology that sets these products apart from the competition.  

 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool? 

A: Not really. I would love to see a Made in the USA stamp, though.  

 

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for? 

A: I used these for every hex fastener I came across. Primarily, when performing various diagnostic workSpecifically, I removed and installed some wheel speed sensors, an intake manifold, and some brake calipers. 

 

Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you've used like it? 

A: I have used a traditional ratchet and hex bits/sockets. These are much more versatile and reduce the likelihood of rounded-out fasteners and the additional time needed to remove them.

 

Q: Is there anything you had questions or concerns about in regard to the tool? 

A: don’t have any questions or concerns. do, however, look forward to new product releases from GripEdge.  

 

Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why? 

A: I rate these a 10. Every technician needs to stock their toolboxes with GripEdge's products. There would be a lot fewer stripped-out fasteners and a lot less Tylenol needed.

About the Author

Brin Kline

Brin Kline

Owner of Assured Auto Works

Brin Kline is the owner of Assured Auto Works in Melbourne, Florida, an automotive general repair business with a mobile diagnostic and module programming division. He has been in the automotive industry for 27 years. Kline also teaches for Carquest Technical Institute and Trained by Techs, is a member of the Automotive Service Association’s Mechanical Operations Committee, and president of the Automotive Service Association (ASA) of Florida. 

Kline also reviews a variety of tools for Professional Tool & Equipment News. To read his tool reviews, search his name on VehicleServicePros.com

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