Which size bit do I need for the most common screws, for instance, clutch cover screws,
And while we're at it..... the smaller one found on points, or timer plate.
After 50 years of pounding a Phillips bit into them, I'm going to go for it 😂
I have some regular JIS screwdrivers, and I believe they are numbered 1,2,and 3.
There are times you will need all 3.
Post a link if you find JIS impact bits, I don't have any - but could use some.
JIS handheld screwdrivers sometimes have better fit in Phillips screw heads, too. But never the other way around. I've lost my appetite to convert to hex key screws after obtaining the correct tool.
I see Vessel impact JIS drivers on eBay. $62, and made in Japan. You'll probably get good quality.
1,2 & 3 are def must haves.
fwiw you can grind about 1.5-2mm off the tip of a regular Phillips and it will bite into a jis almost perfect. this is what i use/do for the onboard tool kit on the bikes, utilizing a 6 into 1 screwdriver.
I got my set from Yambits. Came with T-handle and was fairly inexpensive.
I use the #2 most often, but as said above you'll need all 3 sizes.
Years ago I bought a Motion Pro T-handle set, along with spare bits (#1, #2, #3)
https://www.motionpro.com/product/08-0557
https://www.motionpro.com/c/jis-cross-point-1-4-hex-drive-bits-6682e858-e02d-4c38-9c6d-f26e2facfd52
https://www.economycycle.com/product-category/tools-hardware/screwdrivers-jis-japanese-industrial-standard/
I also picked up a set of inexpensive Hozan screwdrivers
And I have a manual impact screwdriver (don't recall the brand) with JIS bits but it just stays in my toolbox, as I've found that the big T-handle has enough torque/leverage to get most screws out.
You can search "vessel impact jis driver" on eBay.
The good stuff is in Japan, but you could filter to US only and still find what you need.
I have the vessel set w the built-in impact handle. works great
Just remember to go a bit more carefully with the vessel impacta. lol I bent mine wailing on the poor thing with the stuck Suzuki clutch screws.
Quote from: JKV45 on August 18, 2025, 09:14:23 AMI have some regular JIS screwdrivers, and I believe they are numbered 1,2,and 3.
There are times you will need all 3.
Post a link if you find JIS impact bits, I don't have any - but could use some.
I bought a set with 3" long shanks off Amazon and have used them a few times and they have worked great.
Thanks for all the responses, I have some vessel products on the way
I'm looking to buy this starter set. not impact tho
https://www.ebay.com/itm/405369080201
as i mentioned, you can grind the tip down on a regular Philips and it will not damage a jis fastener. ie: you can get an old school impact set or mod one you have laying around, and do that to the bits and you're covered as well. (typically the only impact you'll ever need is a '3')
I would invest in vessel JIS. They are affordable and just great. I have several handheld and the impact screwdrivers as well.
These JIS Impact bits are very good and made in Japan. I have been using these personally.
JIS Impact Bits from Japan on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HCT4KV1?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1)
Quote from: m in sc on August 18, 2025, 04:18:02 PMI have the vessel set w the built-in impact handle. works great
I have a vessel set from Economy Cycle, and after years of struggling with stripped heads and regular philllips they are a game changer.
Quote from: danketchpel on September 25, 2025, 09:36:23 PMThese JIS Impact bits are very good and made in Japan. I have been using these personally.
JIS Impact Bits from Japan on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HCT4KV1?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_1)
I recently bought this set of 4 off eBay. They ship out of Las Vegas and no tariff or other BS. Arrived in 4 days. https://www.ebay.com/ipp/166756370205?
Had previously purchased the same set directly from seller in Japan as some people recommended as it was a little cheaper... but seller in Japan tries to save $ by using Japan Post Airmail with no tracking and it bit me in the ass. Arrived after 3 weeks with extra postage due over $18.00 because it didn't meet US air Mail requirements! I rejected that 1 and still waiting for refund :bang:
Vessel has always been my choice.
I got my JIS Impact Screwdrivers from John @ Economy Cycle.
https://www.economycycle.com/product/vessel-jis-crosshead-impact-type-screwdriver-set-23/
Super nice