Help me pick a Crowfoot Wrench Set

[Zewnten]

Thanks guys, REALLY glad I posted the pics with the questions!

@2ndGearRubber: Is there a "non-traditional" type that I should be looking at?

Mike

yes look up case extended crowfoots for the 90's close together. You can find similar imports or DIY your own if you can or know a welder.

A good crowfoot should do the rest. Snap on also makes anti slip crowfoots or you can tap them with a blunt chisel in an air hammer. And triple the angle wrenches suggestion.

 

[bwringer]

I have the Sunex set:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002SRJF4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

As I mentioned, in my world they're used for difficult access situations, not for hose fittings. You don't need them a lot, but when you need them, you need them.

 

[mikeinri]

I have a set of the flares.

If you're in a bad situation where you're breaking these things out, there's never enough clearance to the sides for a regular CF to fit.

Also, the 12 point construction is helpful when things get that cramped; more available angles.

My primary usage is tight access to nuts and bolts; I rarely if ever deal with hydraulic lines. YMMV, of course.

I have the Sunex set:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002SRJF4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

As I mentioned, in my world they're used for difficult access situations, not for hose fittings. You don't need them a lot, but when you need them, you need them.

Thanks. You mentioned 12-point in your first post, but I don't see 12-points offered by Sunex.

My experience with 12-point tools is, unless it's a square fastener, be prepared to strip it and fight it...

Mike

 

[mikeinri]

yes look up case extended crowfoots for the 90's close together. You can find similar imports or DIY your own if you can or know a welder.

A good crowfoot should do the rest. Snap on also makes anti slip crowfoots or you can tap them with a blunt chisel in an air hammer. And triple the angle wrenches suggestion.

I'm finding these, but they don't look open to use on a hose. Is there something else?

WRENCH CROWFOOT RATCH SET SAE

WRENCH CROWFOOT RATCH SET SAE-SC24001

www.hoober.com

Mike

 

[mikeinri]

For the ones with hoses, not that I know of. Your limiting factor is always the size of the opening on the crowfoot. And on a flare nut crowfoot, that's rarely more than the width of one flat on the wrench.

There IS a very expensive option which is basically a deep socket milled into a crowfoot. Snap on and koken make them. About $75/ea from snap on.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

That's more for your third picture, to remove and install the inner most line without touching the others.




This is the way. For that application 30/60 angle wrenches, plus your combos, plus open end crowfeet on a 3/8 breaker bar would be my choices.

Thanks. I have access to a mill, but a guy could probably make one of those with a standard socket and an angle grinder!



Mike

 

[mikeinri]

The pricing on these things is all over the map. No one ever said owning a backhoe (especially an older one) was going to be cheap / easy, I guess...

Mike

 

[ihateminimumwage]

The pricing on these things is all over the map. No one ever said owning a backhoe (especially an older one) was going to be cheap / easy, I guess...

Mike

The two sets you posted are ratcheting for hard to reach nuts and bolts, and diesel fuel line nut sockets.

Measure the size of the hose fitting and the hex at the crimp and order some singles from here:

Crowfoot Wrenches | TEKTON | Made in USA

Our crowfoot wrenches are the ultimate access tools designed to fit into tight spaces where other tools can't reach.

www.tekton.com

1/4 Inch Angle Head Open End Wrench | TEKTON | WAE83006

1/4 inch (SAE) angle head wrench with 30° and 60° open ends. Made in USA. WAE83006.

www.tekton.com

 

[mikeinri]

Thanks. I'm more of a set guy, and those look worthy.

Always wondered the point of the 30/60 wrenches, the info on that Tekton page is amazing.

Made in USA is a huge bonus for me!

Mike

 

[Zewnten]

I have these, very handy. Some overseas companies make metric versions but I use a 3/4 dr 12 point socket and a half inch drive extension to make my own.

 

[bwringer]

Thanks. You mentioned 12-point in your first post, but I don't see 12-points offered by Sunex.

My experience with 12-point tools is, unless it's a square fastener, be prepared to strip it and fight it...

Mike

Good point. My Sunex crowfoots (crowfeet? crowfeets?) are six point, but I haven't tried 12 point. They're angled such that you can flip them over if you're in one of those particularly hellish situations where you have to proceed 1/12 turn at a time.

I think a lot of folks in this thread are thinking about hydraulic hoses and the like, and some, like me, use these for solving nasty access problems in mechanical work. So these will have different solutions.

So, as ever, the true GJ answer for "Which set?" is "Yes. All of them.".

Thanks. I have access to a mill, but a guy could probably make one of those with a standard socket and an angle grinder!



Mike

I've made sockets like these using a cutting wheel, Dremel, etc. and a sacrificial socket.

One handy way to make sure it'll work is to put a good hose clamp around the end to keep it from spreading when you're breaking the fastener free. The hose clamp can also make it fit a little tighter as well.

 

[mikeinri]

IMHO, tools are NEVER a bad investment. Well, maybe poorly made tools, and stuff that's too big to store easily.

Mike

 

[silkman]

IMHO, tools are NEVER a bad investment. Well, maybe poorly made tools, and stuff that's too big to store easily.

Mike

They are, if you're a pro and a tool gets used once or twice a year. At least dont buy a set, buy the size(s) you need.

You don't get return on your investment, maybe bragging rights on GJ.

All IMO of course.

 

[anndel]

I have the Astro-Pneumatic flare nut set. They fit nice and tight. No complaints.

Ditto ↑

 

[mikeinri]

IMHO, tools are NEVER a bad investment. Well, maybe poorly made tools, and stuff that's too big to store easily.

Mike

They are, if you're a pro and a tool gets used once or twice a year. At least dont buy a set, buy the size(s) you need.

You don't get return on your investment, maybe bragging rights on GJ.

All IMO of course.

I suppose if you're looking at it vs. buying stocks or real estate, hiring an employee, sure.

I don't look at tools that way. They save me time and money as a DIY guy. They cost me time and money if I don't have the one I need when I need it.

Obviously, stuffing a storage bay full (if you're renting that space) isn't what I'm talking about here.

Could I make more money over a lifetime by buying a $15 single tool vs. the $75 set (and investing the rest in the market)? Of course. But, I look at it this way: If I'm avoiding 4-8 hours of labor on a car repair, that pays for a lot of tools that I can use later for other repairs (especially if I buy the sets), and eventually I won't need to buy them anymore.

I'm basically there now (at least with basic tools), I only buy specialty tools that make things easier.

But, I also am not attempting to build a career out of a garage, I'm sure that changes things considerably.

Mike

 

[mikeinri]

Long time, but here's a follow-up...

I've slowly been acquiring tools to tackle this (low priority job)...

I bought a set of Sunex crowfoot flare wrenches (for $12.**, currently $21.** on sale):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000LQDBXG?tag=atomicindus08-20

I also just bought a set of Lisle flare nut sockets (under $100 vs. $600+ for Snap-On)...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0DHHD11GP?tag=atomicindus08-20

Looking back through this thread (for my Terramite problem), I probably still need to buy regular crowfoots, as well as angled open wrenches...

Mike

 

[MJD1]

Long time, but here's a follow-up...

I've slowly been acquiring tools to tackle this (low priority job)...

I bought a set of Sunex crowfoot flare wrenches (for $12.**, currently $21.** on sale):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000LQDBXG?tag=atomicindus08-20

I also just bought a set of Lisle flare nut sockets (under $100 vs. $600+ for Snap-On)...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0DHHD11GP?tag=atomicindus08-20

Looking back through this thread (for my Terramite problem), I probably still need to buy regular crowfoots, as well as angled open wrenches...

Mike

Martin and snap on are the only ones I know who make 12 point crowfoot wrenches. The opening on 12 or is larger enabling you to get over most hydraulic hoses. I believe they go up to 1-1/16" in 3/8 drive. I bought the snap on set years ago and they are excellent for lines in a cluster. I bought 2 larger ones in 1/2" drive ( 1-1/4" and 1-1/2") for common to me hose sizes. I have a few of the socket type(3/4" and 5/8") for injection lines. I find uses for all of the types on certain applications. Nice thing about a set of the jumbo ones is the whole set is probably lighter than just 2 of the large wrenches.

 

[iagsxr]

Crowfoot Wrenches | TEKTON | Made in USA

Our crowfoot wrenches are the ultimate access tools designed to fit into tight spaces where other tools can't reach.

www.tekton.com

The Tekton crow's feet look good to me.

I'd like to hear from anyone who actually has them.

 

[mikey03]

Been two years I wonder if @AJHD bought either kind and if he ever used them yet

 

[AJHD]

Been two years I wonder if @AJHD bought either kind and if he ever used them yet

No. I still don't own a crow foot style set.

I have a 10mm Tekton that hasn't been used, but it's very nicely made. I'd like to pick up a set from Tekton if I can afford it when the time comes.

 

[Miss the Pontiacs]

 

[mikey03]

No. I still don't own a crow foot style set.

I have a 10mm Tekton that hasn't been used, but it's very nicely made. I'd like to pick up a set from Tekton if I can afford it when the time comes.

Sounds like you prob don’t need them

 

[LeeG]

I have a full set of the Tekton’s. Never used one, but, just in case.

 

[WillyBoy]

I bought these about 50 years ago.



Last year I found an extra socket holder in a drawer and now they're proudly displayed on the wall where everyone who sees them can be impressed with my tool collection. I have absolutely no idea why I bought them in the first place other than maybe "Hey, I don't have a set of those". Taking them down to photograph is the first time I've touched them since then. I'm surprised at how shiny they still are since they've never been used.

 

[Firebrick43]

I have both types and I don't need to use them often but when I do, I reach for the regular crow foot first. 90 percent of the time I need a crows foot its because its in tight spot and the bulk of the flare nut crows foot can't get in there.
There have been times where nothing but the flare nut type will work.

If I only had one choice it would be the regular type.

I have both types and I agree. I needed them quite regularly working on CNC machines and hydraulics. Flared ones I use much less, so much so I cant remember the last time. I use the 3/8 drive size ten to one compared to the 1/2" drive size as well

Mine are proto's.

Best way I have found to store them. A small section of 3/8 keyway stock with a short section threaded on each end. Small brass thumb screws with one side permanently loctite on. The square key need draw files slightly as the fit is to tight if you dont

 

[larry4406]

I bought these about 50 years ago.



Last year I found an extra socket holder in a drawer and now they're proudly displayed on the wall where everyone who sees them can be impressed with my tool collection. I have absolutely no idea why I bought them in the first place other than maybe "Hey, I don't have a set of those". Taking them down to photograph is the first time I've touched them since then. I'm surprised at how shiny they still are since they've never been used.

I’ve never bought a set either and seem to have managed somehow as well.

I still look at them as maybe a one day buy.

 

[Dakotadadv8]

I have the cheap CMan sets from Lowes as a bday present. Collecting dust have not used it once.

 

[AJHD]

Sounds like you prob don’t need them

Yeah, probably not. Then again, I already own too many tools I will never need.

 

[mikeinri]

Looking back through this thread (for my Terramite problem), I probably still need to buy regular crowfoots, as well as angled open wrenches...

Mike

Still on the hunt for a few tools for the Terramite (everything hydraulic appears to be SAE)...

Trying to find (current) USA-made regular (not flare) crowfoots, not finding much (at least not ones that are reasonably affordable). I'll probably start looking for older / used ones.

I haven't had much luck searching for the angled open wrenches someone mentioned earlier in the thread (30, 60, 90 degrees?). Is there a standard name for these?

Thanks.

Mike

 

[Firebrick43]

Still on the hunt for a few tools for the Terramite (everything hydraulic appears to be SAE)...

Trying to find (current) USA-made regular (not flare) crowfoots, not finding much (at least not ones that are reasonably affordable). I'll probably start looking for older / used ones.

How about Tekton, they are USA made

3/8 Inch Drive Crowfoot Wrench Set, 13-Piece (Key) | TEKTON | WCF94102

Includes: 5/16 - 1 in. (SAE). 3/8 inch drive crowfoot wrenches with no skipped sizes. Comes with key. Made in USA. WCF94102.

www.tekton.com

I haven't had much luck searching for the angled open wrenches someone mentioned earlier in the thread (30, 60, 90 degrees?). Is there a standard name for these?

Thanks.

Mike

They are usually called angle head wrenches or hydraulic wrenches

Tekton is making these in Michigan for a reasonable price, still expensive in comparison to a standard combo wrench but these have the same angle combo as snap on for much cheaper price.

Here is a standard 1/4"-1-1/4" SAE set

19-Piece Angle Head Open End Wrench Set with Organizer | TEKTON

Set includes 1/4–1-1/4 inch (SAE) angle head open end (four-way) wrenches with 30º and 60º open ends and modular wrench organizers. WAE91503.

www.tekton.com

Many of the sizes will not be used. I always suggested to my apprentices that speciality wrenches like these just to buy the open stock sizes you use all the time. Most of them had about 6 different sizes that were commonly used on hydraulics for the work we did. I would bet if you bought them for most small mobile equipment that it would be just 2 or 3 different sizes.

15/16 Inch Angle Head Open End Wrench | TEKTON | Made in USA

Size: 15/16 inch (SAE) angle head open end (four-way) wrench with 30º and 60º open ends and smooth, satin nickel finish. WAE83224.

www.tekton.com

I wish tekton was making these when I bought my set. While snap ons are great and maybe slightly more comfortable in the hand, they are eye watering expensive. And many of the other brands were not the desirable 30/60 angle combo. The 15/60 wrenches are not nearly as handy as the 30/60.

 

[mikeinri]

Outstanding reply, thank you @Firebrick43!

I tend to prefer sets to individual tools, and like I said, I'm not opposed to buying used ones ("if the price is right" LOL).

But it's great to see that new ones are available (and the pricing isn't too ridiculous).

When I get some time (and dry weather, I'll crawl back under and try to itemize specific sizes. From rough memory, there was quite the variety due to the multiple diameters of the hydraulic and steering lines, etc.

Mike

 

[Vinny]

Only time I ever seen crows feet as a necessity was when I worked in aerospace and there were fasteners that needed to be torqued down but you couldn't get a socket over them, so used a crow foot on a torque wrench. Used only with the non click type, as the foot had to go on a certain way and torque value based on extended distance.

 

[Steve_P]

Still on the hunt for a few tools for the Terramite (everything hydraulic appears to be SAE)...

Trying to find (current) USA-made regular (not flare) crowfoots, not finding much (at least not ones that are reasonably affordable). I'll probably start looking for older / used ones.

I haven't had much luck searching for the angled open wrenches someone mentioned earlier in the thread (30, 60, 90 degrees?). Is there a standard name for these?

Thanks.

Mike

If you want USA made crowfeet, search Ebay for Craftsman, KD, Easco, Proto.... KD should be common and might not get much attention. Obviously also Mac, Snap On...

Tekton makes the angled head open end wrenches, and Capri also sells a set; both are 30/60*. Ideally you want 30/60 because a standard open end is 15*, so you already have that, and the 30* also improves access. I'm not sure who else makes them in 30/60 besides Snap ON, but since Capri is selling a set, there may be other import options.

 

[KnurledNut]

Trying to find (current) USA-made regular (not flare) crowfoots, not finding much (at least not ones that are reasonably affordable). I'll probably start looking for older / used ones.

Craftsman V 3/8 drive 3/8-7/8 $40 shipped. Look nice. Not my listing.

 

[Ohio Andy]

I haven't had much luck searching for the angled open wrenches someone mentioned earlier in the thread (30, 60, 90 degrees?). Is there a standard name for these?

Thanks.

Mike

So you mean like these

27-Piece Angle Head Open End Wrench Set with Holder | TEKTON

Set includes 3/8–1 inch (SAE), 10–27 mm (metric) angle head open end (four-way) wrenches with 30º and 60º open ends and holders. WAE93202.

www.tekton.com

These are made in the USA and they have a decent animation showing why you want them.

I've been pondering them for a little bit now, but I don't usually need that, but when you do....

 

[Junkdrawer Dog]

Only time I ever needed a crowfoot was to torque down the cylinder base nuts on an old air cooled Yamaha YZ490. I contemplated buying a set but since I had lived half my life without ever needing them, I passed on the idea. I bought the one single wrench I needed, finished the job and never used it again.

 

[four.cycle]

^ That "angle head" wrench referred to above went by a few other names in the past. Indestro called them an "Obstruction Wrench" and made them in SAE sizes from 3/8" up to 3/4". (No metric sizes, unfortunately.)
Other U.S. tool manufacturers offered them as well. If you're only looking for one or two sizes, you might want to check the second-hand market on ebay. (Pretty sure they were also made by NB, Blackhawk, Proto, and others.)

And like many of the comments above, I've only run into ONE instance where I thought I needed a crowfoot, and I got the bolt out with a 7/16" obstruction wrench and some creative language.

NOTE different angles on these than the Tekton models show above: