Snap-on launches redesigned Flank Drive socket system
In line with the Snap-on Tools commitment to providing technicians with reliable tools for improved productivity, the tool giant launches a brand new, revolutionary socket system. Flank Drive Xtra (FDX) – a reengineered design of the classic tool first established and patented in 1965 – is a once in a generation product and a crucial addition to the modern engineer’s toolbox.
The FDX takes practical components of the original socket design and makes it even better – offering 50% more turning power on damaged fasteners, an optimally chamfered lip and a contoured outer wall for improved socket removal. The FDX is fast-becoming the most sought-after socket for the automotive, marine, aviation and railroad technician – and the results are speaking for themselves!
“Following the official announcement of the product launch at our annual tool show and conference in January, we piloted the product by selling through five of our UK based franchisees. The product sold out completely, in a matter of days,” explained Andy Buxton, National Sales Manager at Snap-on. “As we introduce the tool to the rest of the market, the initial response has been phenomenal – we’ve sold over 13,000 units to date, in just two months. FDX is saving mechanics valuable time, which is always our number one priority when designing new products. For us, this is a real driving factor for our continued investment in creating tools that fulfil a need and provide practical solutions.”
The original Flank Drive design first came into existence over 54 years ago and, until 2019, remained completely unchanged. Whilst still capable of shifting damaged fasteners, the Snap-on product design team took time to reimagine a classic and considered the issues faced by all technicians, despite constant technological developments.
“We’re proud to have designed and released some of the most advanced software solutions and diagnostic equipment in recent years but our hand-tool range is probably the most renowned selection of Snap-on tools on the market, even today. Taking the time to improve our original Flank Drive design offers a solution for those fasteners that are just too damaged to remove – it can even tackle rounded fasteners with 80% surface damage. Although the original flank drive design is more than capable of doing the job, the FDX does it quicker – it’s the next level in socketry and a real essential.”
The infinite benefits of the FDX make it unique from any other six-point sockets. The overall quality of the finish and design offers 25% more strength than the original Flank Drive socket. In addition, the FDX grips damaged or corroded fasteners more closely for at least 50% more turning power – this is down to the angled contour of the socket and the ergonomic design. Both the hex and drive ends of the socket feature an optimally chamfered lip – allowing for more turning power, specifically for fasteners with a shallow head or limited top clearance.
Snap-on continues to be recognised as the world’s number one professional tool brand for putting the customer first and offering the best tools that money can buy. With quarter inch versions about to hit the market, and plans for further releases in various drive sizes and socket types before the year is out, the FDX is well on its way to being classed as the must-have tool of the 21st century.
For more information about the complete range of Snap-on Tools, visit www.snapon.co.uk
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To speak with a member of the Snap-on team, contact Kelly Ayres at Rev PR on 07895 876745 or email kelly@revpr.co.uk
Images available – Hi-res product images of the FDX range, including overview flyer and FDX branded logo.