Magnetize your Sockets?

[bbs lm-r]

I was watching an episode of Gearz (the one where he pro-charges a dodge pickup), and in his quick-tip, he explained how you could use some tiny magnets, and attach them to your extensions and ratchet drives right where a socket would fit over, so any bolt that you're removing/installing will be magnetized and stay held in the socket.

Kinda like this:

What do you guys think? I'm thinking about doing this to my extensions, I can't really do it to my ratchets because they're all quick-release and the magnet would block the release mechanism at the tip of the drive.

 

[NC-Fordguy]

I personally don't like magnetizing tools. To often they attract little metal shavings/splinters, especially if you're doing alot of fab work where you're welding and grinding.

 

[dumper]

I personally don't like magnetizing tools. To often they attract little metal shavings/splinters, especially if you're doing alot of fab work where you're welding and grinding.

I agree, that stuff seems to come out of no where, and before you know it, you need to shave your tools!

 

[LGMechanical]

I usually throw a bit of grease in the socket if I need it to stay put. Works well.

 

[Deltarat]

I just lay a paper towel over the end of the socket and cram the nut in there and rip off the excess. It stays tight until you remove the socket and leaves everything clean.

 

[Givl Reggin]

It's already been discussed here...
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=142252&showall=1

The only problem is that the diameter of the magnet limits the smallest size socket you can use... I think you lose the ability to use like 9-10mm on 3/8 drive. Otherwise it works as advertised.

 

[wreckercologist]

I personally don't like magnetizing tools. To often they attract little metal shavings/splinters, especially if you're doing alot of fab work where you're welding and grinding.

My thoughts exactly. I detest magnetic hand tools..............and my coworkers who borrow them and toss them into a magnetic tray or tool holder.

 

[Skin]

Gearwrench sells magnetic extensions which have a magnet that protrudes into the socket to contact the fastener so the entire extension/socket isnt magnetized. They do have their place.

edit-the picture in the OP is them.

 

[shoturtle]

sears sells a set that fit into sae and metric sockets. When you do not want to use the magnet, they just pop out. As the magnet is embedded into a piece of plastic the sharp and the size of the socket.

 

[davesnothere]

Sounds like someone has a good excuse to buy more ratchets.