Triple Square drivers

[matthew]

I'm looking for some Triple-Square (XZN) tools, and they probably won't see much use (just my own car). At this point I just need the 10mm size, but I usually prefer to have as a set. For only using it once or twice, the Snap-On or Hazet stuff is a bit pricey. So I've got a couple of choices:

One option is for Lisle http://www.lislecorp.com/divisions/products/?product=371&division=1&category=11 which would probably work, but would be nicer in socket form. There's also a similar PowerBuilt that Canadian Tire sells, which doesn't look great but at $12 is economical.

I'm leaning more towards my second option right now, which is the UltraPro line sold by NAPA here in Canada. Haven't priced it with them yet, but I have some UltraPro sockets which are really nice.

I've also noticed on eBay there's a Vim tools set http://cgi.ebay.ca/VIM-TOOLS-8-PC-T...tZMotors_Automotive_Tools?hash=item53def0a380 at about $40 with the shipping. Anyone have these - are they any good? Any other recommendations / options???

 

[Hlidskjalf]

I have a Genius set that I use. They are in socket form and about 4" long. The length has been really helpful, I never needed a short one.

Are you in Toronto? Check out Variety Tools, if so. They have triple square by a few different manufacturers and a few different styles.

 

[l_bilyk]

The ultra pro XZN bits are actually made by lisle - at least they were when I worked at napa a few years back.
Where are you located? Take a look around to see if anyone carries unitool. Most small jobbers in the GTA can order from them. Unitool has 2 nice sets that may fit your budget:

http://www.unitool.com/product.cfm?Category=143&ProductTypeID=1534

http://www.unitool.com/product.cfm?Category=143&ProductTypeID=1497

 

[jeepnut24]

I just bought the higher end version in the sizes I needed for the head bolts. No need for a set of something so obscure. Not to mention I haven't had much luck with Lisle. I have their torx bits and so far they have broken more then they have worked.

 

[Stick Figure]

I have a set that i'm 99% sure were Lisle, and they rounded out pretty easily. I know its hard to want to spend snap on money on something that isn't going to be used daily, but these bits like this (tripple square, double hex, torx, allen, etc) are the place you really should spend the money. The Snap on bits just don't round out, and if that saves you from having to remove one stripped head bolt, its worth the money.

 

[matthew]

I'm out west, but there is a Unitool distributor in town, might have to give them a try. Too bad I didn't post a few days ago, I was in Toronto and would have tried to visit Variety Tools.

The reason I'd like a set, although not too large of one, is that although I just need to take apart door latches right now, I know there's a few other XZN sizes used on the car. And I'd rather have a few bits that are good enough to use if I ever do the clutch, rather than the disposable ones to get me through this job. That, and I don't like running out for tools or parts in the middle of the job...

 

[48548]

I would think wera bits would be pretty strong... Also you can try toptul if they make some, I have never broken any wera stuff or toptul bits/sockets bits I have.

 

[mrshaun]

blue point makes a set for about 51 bucks and they hold up real well. they are 3/8 drive and short start at 6 i think and go to 18 and the 16 is tamper proof.

 

[Danglerb]

The best are Stahlwille, Snapon isn't as good, but easy to warranty when it breaks.

 

[mrshaun]

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=83411&group_ID=22127
these are good in tight spots. and you can put an extension on them to get the deep stuff

 

[pmohr]

A few guys at work have the Vim set, they seem to be of pretty good quality. I haven't had the chance to use any yet (don't work on many Euro cars, or see many triple square fasteners at all) though.

 

[wbclassics]

Autozone, 4 piece set for about $13. "OEM" branded. Needed these buggers to remove / install the CV axles on my old VW Jetta. They worked fine, especially for a one or two time use tool.

 

[matthew]

Not a bad idea, 48548 - Toptul has "spline" sockets that look very similar to triple squares, I don't think they're the same but where would these be used? http://www.wrenhandtools.com/sockets/1-2_bit_sockets_specs.html

Shaun, that Blue Point set looks decent - thanks for the suggestion. (Doesn't break the bank, either, so I can buy some Snappy stuff I'd be able to use more regularly...)