Tamper-Proof Torx on the Cheap

[methomas70]

So I may have to change out a Mass Airflow Sensor on a GM 3800 V6.
The tool I'll need to do this is a Tamper-Proof Torx T-20 socket or driver.
While I have a pretty good assortment of Torx bits, I have none that are of the tamper-resistant variety. Since I don't work on cars for a living, but do 99% of my own repairs and maintenance, I don't have a need to spend a few hundred bucks on a Snap-On set, but I also don't want anything "Cheapenese".

While checking around online, I noticed that Advance Auto Parts sells SK Tools.
At $115, the SK set is probably one-third of the price of Snap-On, but it's something I may or may not use again. And my hundred bucks might be better spent on some sort of Craigslist treasure. The single SK socket is about 10 bucks, so I was just about to click on that, when I noticed that I can purchase the SK Tamper-Proof T-20 Bit only (without the socket) for $3.89. I already have a Craftsman bit-holding socket, so I went ahead and ordered it.
Shipping and tax brought the total to ten dollars and change.

Keep this in mind the next time you need a bit size or configuration that you may not use a whole lot.

Mitch

 

[Major Ramifications]

I got a whole set of Made In USA Lisle tamper proof Torx insert bits from Sears for not much money.
They are $21 now.
http://www.sears.com/lisle-8-piece-...p-00901891000P?prdNo=6&blockNo=6&blockType=G6

 

[eric_koski]

Or u could take a punch , break the center pin out and use a regular torx....just a thought.

 

[Brownsfan]

The USA made craftsman set is 40. I just bought it a few days ago. Just check the package before you buy to make sure

 

[mayday0017]

Or you can spend 99c at harborfreight for the security torx set.... not top knotch quality but how often do you use them?

 

[djb2]

The 33pc security bit set at H-F will work for this application.

The 100pc set at H-F has the same security bits as the 33pc set, adding non-security versions of the same bits and a handful of other standard bits e.g. slotted, square. Mine stays at home, while the much smaller 33pc sets go into tool bags.

There are two part numbers for the 100pc set, which suggests they source from two different factories.

I broke the 4mm bi-pin driver on my 100pc set on its first use, with very little torque. The 5mm driver finished the job. So they aren't consistently strong, but most security fasteners aren't used in highly demanding applications.

 

[General Geoff]

I picked up the Bondhus 32432 L-wrench set for under $20 several months back, just in case I encounter a security torx fastener. Made in the USA w/lifetime warranty too.

 

[volpster31]

dont cheap out and go to harbor freight..i bought a cheapo set online and shredded them after one use...went with wiha and never looked back

scroll down for the sets:
http://www.wihatools.com/700seri/701serie.htm

 

[grogthegreat]

http://www.vimtools.com/store/page7.html

$28 on sale for good quality bits. As good of a deal as I think you'll ever find.