For mechanics who need tiny ratchets to fit into tight areas, Omega Technologies has developed the new Reversible Roller Ratchet. The key feature of the Roller Ratchet is a zero-backlash clutch, similar to a one-way sprag clutch, that takes up much less space than a conventional ratchet's teeth and provides turning power with a small degree of rotation.

Omega makes the Roller Ratchets specifically for installation of Hi-Lok and Hi-Lite fasteners, but they are useful for any kind of maintenance. A convenient feature of the Roller Ratchets is the ability to pop the square drive out of the ratchet head using thumb pressure. This allows a mechanic to reverse the ratchet using one hand. For applications where the ratchet is used in just one direction and risk of loss of the square drive is critical, users can install a snap-ring on the square drive to grip it tightly.

Omega sells a variety of configuration of the Roller Ratchet, with maximum torques ranging from 150 to 600 inch-pounds, with a one-quarter-inch square spindle for standard sockets or a bit-holder spindle, and with integral low-profile sockets. Standard lengths are three or six inches, and according to Omega, prices are competitive with standard ratchets.

Omega is offering special introductory prices on the newly designed Roller Ratchets. Omega Technologies, Westlake Village, California. Phone: 818-264-7970, www.omegatec.com.

Gorgonz Gear Protects Techs

Extreme weather conditions are not a problem for people who wear Gorgonz's Performance Work Gear. The company makes a variety of products to help technicians keep warm or cool in the worst weather conditions. Ear warmers wrap behind the head for a more comfortable fit. Cold-weather gloves feature a unique Exhale Heating System, which allows the wearer to breathe warm air directly inside the glove to keep hands toasty. For warm weather, the EvapCool Hat doesn't trap heat near the head but allows it to escape, thanks to a special fabric called Hydroweave. Gorgonz's warm-weather gloves are made of breathable fabric that isn't bulky and stiff. Gorgonz, Clarksville, Maryland. Phone: 410-964-2571, www.gorgonz.com.

New Cleaners from LPS Laboratories

LPS Laboratories has introduced a number of new products:

• VOC-Free Contact Cleaner. This contact cleaner evaporates quickly and doesn't leave a residue, and it contains no volatile organic compounds.
• BFX All-Purpose Cleaner. BFX is biodegradeable and removes dirt, grease, and oil. Water-based BFX is ideal for parts cleaners, according to LPS, and comes in a purple color with sassafras fragrance. Sizes are 28 fluid ounce trigger bottle, one or five gallon concentrate, or 55 gallon concentrate.
• HDX II Heavy-Duty Degreaser. HDX II has a high flashpoint (plus 140 degrees Fahrenheit) so is useful in potential high flammability areas. Drying time can be speeded up by wiping with an absorbent cloth or spraying with compressed air.
• Citrus Degreaser. This degreaser has a flashpoint of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit and can remove adhesives, oil, grease, wax, tar, and dirt. It is safe on all metals and plastics, according to LPS.

LPS, Laboratories, Tucker, Georgia. Phone: 770-243-8800, www.lpslabs.com.

PMA for LEDtronics GE387 Bulb

The FAA granted Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) to LEDtronics for its BSD-1884-0CW LED lamp as a direct replacement for the GE387 incandescant lamp. All models of the Boeing DC-9 are covered by the PMA, and approval is pending for the Boeing 737, 747, 767, MD-11 and MD-10. The GE387 lamp is typically found in no smoking/fasten seat belt signs and for lavatory location and emergency exit signs. The LEDtronics lamp uses up to four times less power, operates at a lower temperature (40 degrees Fahrenheit), and carries a five-year guarantee. LEDtronics, Torrance, California. Phone 310-534-1505, www.ledtronics.com.