Auto mechs, how often do you use deep sockets? Would you miss them?

[WorkDroid]

Got a hodgepodge franken set of sockets from 1/4 to 1/2 drive with gaps. So Im shopping for a complete set. Instead of the traditional shallow/deep set, Im considering shallow and semi-deep.

Other than spark plugs, maybe lug nuts.... the only time Ive used a deep socket is because that size was missing in my shallow line up (the gaps). Otherwise wouldve used a shallow. I cant recall many, or if any times, Ive needed a deep. Seems like overkill to have them.

Disclaimer: Im not a pro, just a DIY home mech

 

[Vinny]

For things that I consider in the realm of a shady tree mechanic, like oil changes, brakes, spark plugs, etc., not often. Doing things like pulling engines, transmissions, working on axles, etc., often. Lots of deep seated nuts. Actually, I find ratcheting wrenches to be more handy for that kind of stuff.

 

[signcrafter]

Got a hodgepodge franken set of sockets from 1/4 to 1/2 drive with gaps. So Im shopping for a complete set. Instead of the traditional shallow/deep set, Im considering shallow and semi-deep.

Other than spark plugs, maybe lug nuts.... the only time Ive used a deep socket is because that size was missing in my shallow line up (the gaps). Otherwise wouldve used a shallow. I cant recall many, or if any times, Ive needed a deep. Seems like overkill to have them.

Disclaimer: Im not a pro, just a DIY home mech

It all depends on how much work and what kind of work you are doing. Short and mid length will get a lot done but I also use my deeps all the time. I have special spark plug and lug nut sockets so don't use them there but use them all the time for a nut way down on a bolt or suspension work or just because it's the right length to get around something.

 

[Rusted Nut]

When you’re changing out a set of shocks, you’ll sure miss having a set deeps.

 

[no704]

I use deep when practical. Its like having a handle.

 

[Dave455]

Seems to depend on the size of the fastener.

In 1/4” drive, I need them relatively often. Long screws, brake bleed *******, etc etc.

In 3/8” drive, much less, but need them occasionally. Not just for the obvious purposes, but for things where clearance is an issue. Starter motors for example, you can sometimes get a thin wall deep socket on to a fastener, but a short one fouls.

If I didn’t have the 1/4” deeps I could probably get by with the popular sizes in 3/8”

In 1/2” drive hardly ever. I have a load, but don’t even store them in my primary box now.

Sometimes when I use them it’s for speed / convenience. Could use a box end but the deep socket is quicker.

Semi deep? Seems like a great idea. I don’t have a lot of these but my portable 1/4” set includes these and they have done most of what I have needed. Standard and semi deep? If I didn’t already have so many deeps I might move in that direction myself.

 

[MovingAlong]

Even my shortest extension with a standard socket is often too long, certainly longer than a deep socket. I like having them for just that little extra reach sometimes.. much less wobbly as well.

 

[vjquan]

I like using deeps instead of pulling out a short extension for the times you need knuckle clearance. Sold off my 1/2" drive deeps since it's my least used drive size except for the lug nut sizes. Never really saw a need for semi-deeps.

 

[Leaflessshadetree]

Why not keep the deep socket you already have? FWIW, I've never had semi-deep or shallow sockets just several sets of standard and deep.

 

[jblnut]

I use my deeps more than the shallows in my farm shop. I have lots of different belt tensioners and pulleys that have nuts on threaded rods that are beyond what a deep will do and have made extra deeps for specific applications.

 

[NHtoolguy]

I use deep sockets primarily for exhaust clamps and studs, sway bar links, shock absorbers, pressure switches, and sensors. And, as has been mentioned, for the occasional extra reach a deep socket provides.

 

[darkzero]

I primarily use deep sockets since I started wrenching on cars since the late 90s & till today. I actually rarely use shallow sockets, only when confined space requires them.

 

[dvblanch]

Semi deeps or deep sockets often just provide a little more clearance for your knuckles when using hand ratchets.

 

[Retired dozer fixer]

I use my deeps more than the shallows in my farm shop. I have lots of different belt tensioners and pulleys that have nuts on threaded rods that are beyond what a deep will do and have made extra deeps for specific applications.

Like t-rail duals on tractors . Made myself a 12” deep socket for the old 1456

 

[Tummler]

This seems backwards from the mechanic perspective. I have always treated my deep sockets as the default with standard length as the fallback when space is tight.

 

[AEAdam]

Got a hodgepodge franken set of sockets from 1/4 to 1/2 drive with gaps. So Im shopping for a complete set. Instead of the traditional shallow/deep set, Im considering shallow and semi-deep.

Yup, I’d do that, I did that. The snap on/icon form factor has pretty shallow shallows, which is nice. Semi deeps are an outstanding all around length.

Then good set of extensions. I think again, icon copied snap on lengths, which are outstanding.

Other than spark plugs, maybe lug nuts.... the only time Ive used a deep socket is because that size was missing in my shallow line up (the gaps). Otherwise wouldve used a shallow. I cant recall many, or if any times, Ive needed a deep. Seems like overkill to have them.

Disclaimer: Im not a pro, just a DIY home mech

A set of deep impacts is a good idea for several reasons.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

I always grab deep first. Very rarely do I use shallow unless it’s all that will work. I don’t know any auto tech that grabs shallow first. It’s always deep or semi deep that gets grabbed first in my shop.

 

[Yarpo]

Yeah, I agree with Blake, I almost never reach for shallow.
My semi deeps are my most used, followed by deeps, followed by shallows.
Obviously depends on what you're working on, automotive for me
I'd never go without, but you know your use case better than any of us.

 

[Mr_B]

I primarily use deep sockets since I started wrenching on cars since the late 90s & till today. I actually rarely use shallow sockets, only when confined space requires them.

+1
pretty much my scenario except I been at it since start of the 90's
deep sockets are super useful & do everything besides confined height scenario .
I even have set of extra deep sockets in 3/8 drive and they a life saver at times.
Semi deeps in 3/8 super nice too.
Do you need all these variations, no but when doing auto repair daily it sure helps make things possible and faster and over 36 years it saved me days of time & got a lot of jobs done that wouldn't of been possible without them .
Socket rail sets are so cheap these days no need over think it, just find a great deal match your preferences on price and socket design .

 

[swsman]

They all have their place.

I primarily use 1/4 and 3/8 drive sizes - often reach for deep sockets vs shallow. Have mid set for 3/8 drive that is used plenty.

Metric user for the most part, have fractional on hand in the case of a need.

1/2 drive stuff comes out for suspension work mostly.

 

[AEAdam]

I doubt people use deeps because they need deeps because (like a battery hold down) there are threads beyond the nut. I encounter very few situations like this. You sometimes see extra long threads on starter motors or alternators, or other places were electrical terminals attach.

So the question becomes, do the people using deep sockets have flex head ratchets? Are they using ratchets or power tools?

I personally almost never use deeps, almost never use power tools and have almost all flex head ratchets. I think I almost never use my fixed head ratchets without extensions. If all I had were fixed heads, I’d probably use my deeps more.

Point is, this is a question one must ask “do you?” and ”why do you?” and try to imagine the circumstances. Despite being a tool forum, we don’t always think that deeply about our tools. When pushed, many GJ members will say something to the effect “I do it this way because it works” or “because that’s how I’ve done it for 45 years as a Ferrari F1 mechanic”. There can be really insightful info here, but sometimes you need to work for it

 

[zimman]

Every day. I actually like them more than shorts.
Zim

 

[hailwood1965]

I'm slowly becoming of the opinion that very select few here actually use their tools with any regularity. It's more about collections.

 

[jbltwin1]

Use mine almost every day, and I'm retired! You have any equipment at all for outside, it's GOING to break. Just finished putting new bearings in a deck just an hour ago.

 

[rust in the eye]

Always reach first for deep sockets, keeps your hands away from the work without need for an extension.

 

[redsqwrl]

Sometimes deeps provide the correct length thus creating another option to getting in there.

For what its worth. I feel short 12 pt and long 6pt is the best starting point to build your socket arsenal. Mid length is simple man fancy

 

[NitroExpress]

Some interesting perspectives here, especially from the pro’s.
I typically reach first for a shallow 6 point with mid-length being a close second. If I’m unsure of what will be needed, a rail of mid-length might be my first grab. I don’t usually grab long unless necessary.

The real answer here is to have as many arrows as the quiver will hold:
Super short, shallow, mid, long, extra long. Full sets in each drive size. 6 and 12 point. Chrome and impact.

Oh, full sets of swivel sockets too. Don’t forget hex and torx…

 

[danielbuck]

I like using deep sockets because once the nut is free, (if I'm not using air or impact) I find it easier to spin the nut off the rest of the threads with the deep socket (still attached to the ratchet) with my thumb and index finger spinning socket. For me and my hands, the deep sockets are easier to do this with than regular/short socket. I'd say I use the deep sockets about 1/2 the time. If I know space will be tight, I grab the regulars. otherwise, I usually grab the deeps.

 

[SouthernIllinois]

Why not keep the deep socket you already have? FWIW, I've never had semi-deep or shallow sockets just several sets of standard and deep.

Off topic but your profile pic had me trying to knock a fly off my screen.....lol