toolstools
Banned
I'll make this short, is This square is a rectangle but a rectangle isn't a square type thing?
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torx sockets tamper vs. not
- Thread starter toolstools
- Start date
Mohawk Dave
Well-known member
deciphered...
I'll make this short, is this a "This square is a rectangle but a rectangle isn't a square" type thing?
EDIT: what's the Q again?
I'll make this short, is this a "This square is a rectangle but a rectangle isn't a square" type thing?
EDIT: what's the Q again?
OP
toolstools
Banned
Sorry and thanks.
Can you use a tamper proof torx as a regular torx? Need to replace A set I have and the tamper proof set has more pieces for a few bucks more.
Can you use a tamper proof torx as a regular torx? Need to replace A set I have and the tamper proof set has more pieces for a few bucks more.
Last edited:
06 DIESEL
Well-known member
You can use a tamper proof torx in a regular torx if that is what you are asking.
OP
toolstools
Banned
Simply... Yes the only difference is a small hole in the middle for the security pin, however I am not sure if this compromises the strength of the tool (I assume it would)
Wonder how much if it would? Looking at getting the gear wrench set.
If anyone has these, (either set) do they get surface rust on them over time? Or are they coated pretty well?
Murphy4570
Well-known member
I have twisted off tamper torx under conditions in which standard torx would not have twisted off (T20, hand tight).
You can use tamper torx bits on standard torx fasteners, but I would only do so under light torque applications.
I agree with this guy. I have had the same issue sometimes.
Can you use a tamper proof torx as a regular torx?
Yes, but not visa-versa.
Sick Puppy
Well-known member
I was told when purchasing my Koken security torx bits that this was the one type the NZ distributor would not warrant, specifically because they were not for high torque fastenings. I did get an eyebrow raise when I said I understood, and that I already had the normal torx bits too lol
Dusty61
Well-known member
Cornwell carries a nice little set made by Astra I think for 20.00, has both types plus some real odd ball stuff too. If you are thinking higher touque HF has a set of regular non security torx bits in impact steel 1/2 drive t-30 to T-70. Hold up pretty decent too. I've used my 1/2 Nitrocat to hammer on a t30 and it held up just fine. But those bits are for REALLY high torque, brake caliper bolts, intake manifolds, bell housing bolts, ect. BMW, VW and Mercedes Benz love Torx and triple square fasteners.
Cornwell carries a nice little set made by Astra I think for 20.00, has both types plus some real odd ball stuff too. If you are thinking higher touque HF has a set of regular non security torx bits in impact steel 1/2 drive t-30 to T-70. Hold up pretty decent too. I've used my 1/2 Nitrocat to hammer on a t30 and it held up just fine. But those bits are for REALLY high torque, brake caliper bolts, intake manifolds, bell housing bolts, ect. BMW, VW and Mercedes Benz love Torx and triple square fasteners.
Yup i work mostly on vw and audis and they are chuck full of hex, torx, and triple square xzn fasterners. The worst is when the hex bolts get so filled with dirt and grime the socket doesnt want to go into the bolt and you wind up stripping it out. Wish they would just use regular fasteners!!!
I have a set of kobalt torx sockets that seem to hold up fine. I usually only use them in low torque applications. I would recommend get a set of impact rated torx sockets for high torque applications.
OP
toolstools
Banned
I never would if thought the little bit of material would make a difference in strength.
stonesfan68
Well-known member
My Gearwrench Torx bit sockets have rust on the bits. Of course, I live in Houston where plastic will rust eventually.
I never would if thought the little bit of material would make a difference in strength.
It may not on the larger sizes, but on the smaller ones, there's not a lot of meat left on the bit (proportionately) once an appropriate sized hole is left for the tamper stub.
When I was in the market I skipped the regular torx and just bought a great set of tamper proof torx. I got the blue point set. They where reasonably priced and they are lifetime warranted.
Are the tamper proof weaker? Clearly the answer is yes but common sense should kick in here. For one the torx socket design was flawed from the start the thing has several little weak ends coming off of it in the shape of a pointy star. Those ends are weak so don't try over torquing them to begin with. Also If this sockets going to fail its not going to be because there is a hole in the center of it. Its more likely to fail because its a cheap socket and those little star ends are made of a weak material. Also its good to note that torx sockets are rarely ever used on heavy duty applications.
Most importantly use the socket that fits perfectly not just close. If the fit seems tight but the next size down seems to loose, go back to the tight fit and hammer it in if needed.
Are the tamper proof weaker? Clearly the answer is yes but common sense should kick in here. For one the torx socket design was flawed from the start the thing has several little weak ends coming off of it in the shape of a pointy star. Those ends are weak so don't try over torquing them to begin with. Also If this sockets going to fail its not going to be because there is a hole in the center of it. Its more likely to fail because its a cheap socket and those little star ends are made of a weak material. Also its good to note that torx sockets are rarely ever used on heavy duty applications.
Most importantly use the socket that fits perfectly not just close. If the fit seems tight but the next size down seems to loose, go back to the tight fit and hammer it in if needed.