A tool question

[Moose97]

I'm a weekend warrior from a mechanic point of view. I keep my families 3 older-high mileage vehicles rolling with mostly Craftsman tools and generally get done what I need. Today I ran into a dilemma and thought I might pick the brains of the garage journal guys as ya'll always seem to have good information. I was replacing the pressure and return power steering lines and attaching them to the pump. I had little room to turn a wrench and for the first time ever thought about Craftsmans "dang lobster claws". My question is , was I using the proper tool? Would a different brand of wrench give me more room? What do you use when your in a tight spot and a socket isn't an option?


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[RECox286]

Flare Nut, or Line wrenches are a good investment, especially

since they reduce the chances of ruining a perfectly good part.

If your needs are b/c of close clearance or interference fits,

then look for a set of flare Nut sockets, or get a couple extra

wrenches of the particular sizes you need so you can make a

bent wrench for that particular job.

I stock all the above in SAE and Metric in my box, and am glad

I do, more often than not, b/c something is always getting in

the way anymore. Having the right tools makes a job go sooo

much quicker and easier on the ears ($%^&*# !).

Aren't you glad you asked ?

Uncle Bob

 

[Moose97]

Let me add I was using a 16mm wrench.


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[Jbullfrog]

Power steering lines are usually standard size 11/16 and 5/8 are common. 16mm is a size I have yet to use much on anything.

 

[bczygan]

Would a crowsfoot have helped?

Bill

 

[Greg85mcss]

16mm is about dead on 5/8 if you have to buy one. I'm not sure what your clearance issue is but a line wrench, crow foot or stubby would be my guess. I've also detached the pump to put it in an easier place to access. Even moving it up or out an inch can make all the difference. Really depends on the application.


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