We have learned that Milwaukee will be releasing the above-pictured heavy duty M12 Cordless Ratchets as part of their new Automotive Solutions lineup. These ratchets will be available in 1/4″ and 3/8″ square drive sizes, and will be powered by Milwaukee’s new higher performing M12 RedLithium batteries.
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Milwaukee M12 Cordless Ratchets Common Specs
- Field-repairable head kits for minimal downtime due to maintenance
- LEDs for work area illumination
- Low-profile heads (3/4″)
- Relatively lightweight at only 1.9 lbs
- Available as kits with tools, charger, and single M12 RedLithium battery or as bare-tool
- 5-year warranty
- Battery fuel gauge
- Variable speed metal trigger
Milwaukee M12 1/4″ Ratchet 2456-21
- Torque: 30 ft-lbs max
- Speed: 250 RPM (variable)
Milwaukee M12 3/8″ Ratchet 2457-21
- Torque: 35 ft-lbs max
- Speed: 250 RPM (variable)
Many thanks to Mobile Tool Distributors, for permission to use the above photo and for sharing early information with us. You can also “like” ToolGuyd on Facebook for access to exclusive previews, photos, and discussions.
And here’s a quick demo video of the ratchets in action.
Dan Richards
Gotta have it. I’d be happier to see an offset head, but anything that gets me to put down the cold air ratchet is welcome.
Stuart
I’m really liking the looks of it as well, and am very curious about what else Milwaukee will release as part of the Automotive Solutions lineup!
rob
I am curious to see this when it launches in the fall. Will it compare to the old Skil Powerwrench. I bought one and found it quite useful but didn’t like the battery issues it has/had. I still use mine and noticed you can’t find any in the market and if you do they are used at about double the cost when they were new.
I would think this version will be a nice addition to the M12 lineup! They may market it towards the automotive industry but this actually seems like a great DIY tool for just about any homeowner.
Bob
I gotta have these! I have a jobmax with the ratchet head to fill this niche in my box already. However, I am heavily invested in the m12/ m18 lineup, and Milwaukee tools seem more durable.
Some of the guys in my shop made fun of the Jobmax upon initial inspection, but that didn’t last long once they witnessed it in action. They now have dubbed it “The Tool.”
These battery powered ratchet tools cut down task times dramatically.
For instance: I changed out an industrial water pump in approximately three minutes, instead of the usual ten. Multiply that by ten or so pumps, and numerous other bolt fastened parts daily, plus the added convenience and portability of battery vs. air, and the speed difference is incredible.
The boss takes good notice too!
Love the nifty gadgets. Keep it up Milwaukee!
P.S. don’t change the battery platform!
Thanks Toolguyd.
mobile tool distributor
This tool is going to be the “next big thing” in automotive. The primary draw to this tool in automotive is interior work. Imagine working on a BMW M3 and having to drag a greasy air hose inside of a $60k vehicle, high end mechanics love cordless tools because there is no mess. When the Florida Pneumatic FP105 was released we sold thousands/yr. I imagine the sales on this tool will be 10x the best year of sales on the FP105. Good job Stuart on a well written article.
Jay A
Stuart, nice work getting the spy photos. I agree I like that they are calling it “automotive solutions” which implies more similar tools we might see in the future.
Dan Richards
They have a small profile head/lead (9mm I think) inspection camera that carries the automotive solutions banner too. It’s spec’d identically to the other high-end cam they have, just with a smaller lead.
I use my M12 compact impact driver for disassembly all the time, it speeds interior jobs without the hassle of air tools but you can’t always fit it in places like seat mount bolts. I’ve been trying to avoid the Rigid tool a while since I don’t want to invest in yet another charger and battery system to clutter my work area. I’ll probably pick up the M12 grease gun and one of the ratchets when it comes out.
Peter
I recently purchased the 3/8″ drive Milwaukee ratchet to replace the Skil Powerwrence I purchased on a closeout from Lowes for $20.00. WOW, what a tool! I’d recommend this to anyone that needs a Skil replacement, or just wants a great cordless ratchet. It’s nice and compact and offers a larger capacity battery in the M12 configuration, which I also purchased. I use mine about every other day in an industrial environment. It cuts changeover times by about 1/3. I wouldn’t be without it!
F.Campbell
Does it lock into standard ratchet mode?
Francisco Linera
Hello
I been using the 1/4″ drive model for a year now. My air ratchets have been collecting dust ever since. Without a doubt it is one of the best tools I have ever purchased. For the most part, I brake fasteners loose with a socket or a wrench and then use the tool to get them out. You better be careful when using it to install the fastener. It has quite a bit of power! The battery lasts a long while, the only issue I have had was the retaining ball fell out. My tool dealer said tough luck, you have to buy another one! Needless to say, I have not purchased anything else from him!!!