Sockets and Ratchets

Can I use chrome sockets on an impact wrench?

No. Chrome sockets are hard and brittle and can crack or shatter under impact; use impact sockets made of tougher steel and designed for impact tools.

Should I use 6-point or 12-point sockets?

Short answer: Use 6-point sockets for most work because they grip the flats of the fastener and are less likely to round it; 12-point sockets are useful for tight spaces and for 12-point fasteners.

A 6-point socket contacts the fastener on its flat sides, away from the corners. That spreads the load and reduces the chance of rounding, especially on tight or corroded fasteners. That is why most impact sockets are 6-point.

A 12-point socket can be placed on a hex fastener in twice as many positions, which helps when swing room is limited. It is also required for 12-point fasteners, common on some engine and driveline parts. The trade-off is less contact area and a greater chance of slipping on worn heads.

For stubborn fasteners, start with a quality 6-point socket, apply penetrating oil and give it time. If a fastener is already rounded, specialty extractor sockets can help. Wear eye protection when breaking fasteners loose, since sockets and tools can slip.

What sockets do I need for a basic automotive set?

Short answer: Start with 3/8 inch drive metric and SAE sockets in standard and deep lengths, add 1/4 inch drive for small fasteners and 1/2 inch drive for larger ones, plus extensions and a swivel.

Most automotive work uses 3/8 inch drive sockets in metric sizes, though older domestic vehicles and some trucks need SAE sizes. Deep sockets reach nuts on long studs. 1/4 inch drive fits tight spaces and small fasteners. 1/2 inch drive handles suspension and larger bolts.

Extensions, swivels and adapters help reach awkward fasteners. Six-point sockets grip better on tight or rusty fasteners.

Buy quality sockets that fit snugly to avoid rounding fasteners. Use impact-rated sockets for impact tools, and wear safety glasses when using power tools.

Why do impact sockets have thicker walls?

Short answer: Impact sockets are made from tougher steel with thicker walls so they absorb repeated hammering from impact wrenches without cracking, while chrome hand sockets are harder and more brittle.

Impact wrenches deliver repeated torque blows. Chrome hand sockets are designed for steady torque and can crack or shatter under impact loads. Impact sockets use tougher steel with a black finish and thicker walls to absorb those loads.

Thicker walls can make impact sockets harder to fit in tight places, so thin-wall impact sockets exist for lug nuts and tight spots.

Always use impact-rated sockets, extensions and adapters with impact tools. Inspect sockets for cracks regularly, and wear safety glasses.

What are wheel bearing locknut sockets used for?

Short answer: Locknut sockets fit the slotted or multi-point nuts that hold wheel bearings and pinion gears on trucks and some vehicles, which standard sockets cannot grip.

Many trucks and some vehicles use large spindle or pinion locknuts with slots, lugs or special profiles. Standard sockets do not fit these nuts. Locknut sockets are made to match these designs.

Sets come in many sizes and profiles. Choose sets matching the vehicles you work on, and check service information for the correct nut and torque.

Follow the maker's procedure for bearing adjustment and preload. Wear safety glasses, support the vehicle safely on a lift or rated jack stands, and use torque wrenches where specified.

When should I use universal joint sockets?

Short answer: Universal sockets have a built-in swivel that lets you reach fasteners at an angle, which helps in tight engine bays where a straight extension cannot line up with the bolt.

Some fasteners sit at awkward angles behind brackets, hoses or other parts. A universal socket combines a socket with a swivel joint so the ratchet can stay at an angle to the fastener.

Universal sockets work best at moderate angles. At extreme angles they can bind, slip or lose turning force, so use the straightest approach you can. Impact-rated universal sockets are made for use with impact tools, and magnetic versions help hold small fasteners.

Keep the swivel clean and lightly lubricated. Wear safety glasses, apply steady force, and use the correct size so the socket does not slip and round the fastener or skin your knuckles.