Ball end torx bits/sockets

[vdt1977]

Has anyone used/had any luck with them? I'm looking for a STRONG low profile T30 ball end, the shorter the better, in bit form or 1/4" drive. Closest one I've found is made by Wiha, but it's 50mm long.

Thanks!

Apply the same question to triple squares too while it's somewhat on topic

 

[jjjrmx5]

May I ask what type of application are these being used for?

In my many many years of servicing German cars and machinery I've never seen or had the reason to need a ball end triple square (or double hex even) as it defeats the purpose of engagining the fastener head at many contacts in teh first place as a ball end tool is not meant for highly torqued fasteners (such as CV bolts, engine bolts, brake bolts, etc.). Same with torx. Anything above a T20 or so should have a significant torque on it making a ball end not a particularly good tool choice.

If me, i;d buy the 50mm and cut it down to your needed length.

I;ve seen ball end t-handle torx, but again, what they service is usually lower torqued fasteners.

 

[vdt1977]

Yeah...Vw has an IMRC motor nestled extremely tightly underneath the intake manifold, and there is a recall on it so we are replacing about a bajillion of them. The intake mani is plastic, not exactly a whole lot of torque on them.

I'll probably end up with the 50mm and cut it down if nothing else, just wanted to do my research first. It isn't an absolutely essential tool...but anything that could potentially shave even 10 seconds off a repair that's so common is worth it to me.

 

[blasto9000]

If you find the standard bit in the length you want, can you make a ball end with a lathe?

I've tried making my own ball drivers before by cutting standard sintered drivers on my lathe. It was a no-go. Couldnt' machine the stuff successfully. It took a lot of feed to get the cut started, and when it did, the driver crumbled.

Haven't tried doing this with regular steel drivers but the idea seems feasible.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

Here you go:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BALL-TORX-S...Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item2a188cee03

 

[tjmonsen5]

What about a Snap-on FTX30SE? Its a stubby 3/8 drive Torx, not ball end though.
A little over 1 inch long.

 

[tjmonsen5]

Or, a Blue point BLPTS1430, which is 3/4 of an inch long, 1/4 drive. Not ball end though.