Universal Question
- Thread starter Neodogg
- Start date
Outlawmws
Well-known member
I would say 3/8 drive for the average Joe.
Swivel/Flex/Universal sockets, I have heard them called all 3. I put together a mix-matched SAE and Metric sets for myself. I will say that they are probably about the most useful purchase I have ever made. Sometimes a regular socket and universal adapter just won't fit in the confined space (too long) and these sockets work well for that. 3/8 drive seems to be the most useful drive size for them although I have seen some in 1/2 drive. 1/4 drive just didn't have all of the sizes I wanted.
Now as to what brands work best? Hard to say, there are a lot of good choices out there. The Craftsman ones work just fine. I like Mac and Proto because they have allen screws in the joints that you can tighten if needed. Snap On ones seem to have the best clearance and can work at more extreme angles. I have both 6 point and 12 point sockets. There are times when the 12 point sockets make access even easier, especially when it's hard to first get the socket on the bolt. Any way you look at it, when you really need that type of socket, there are few other tools that will work in that situation.
Now as to what brands work best? Hard to say, there are a lot of good choices out there. The Craftsman ones work just fine. I like Mac and Proto because they have allen screws in the joints that you can tighten if needed. Snap On ones seem to have the best clearance and can work at more extreme angles. I have both 6 point and 12 point sockets. There are times when the 12 point sockets make access even easier, especially when it's hard to first get the socket on the bolt. Any way you look at it, when you really need that type of socket, there are few other tools that will work in that situation.
kc-steve
Well-known member
I have heard them called all three as well but it irritates me especially when someone is selling some and doesn't get specific about what he is selling.
A universal is the joint between two pieces. A flex socket is chrome and has a pivot limiting its ability to truly swivel around. And then a swivel socket is an impact with a center point that allows it to swivel in all directions EASILY.
Steve
Ah, that makes sense, I guess my question pertains more towards the flex then.PinkLinc
Well-known member
If you're building a set one at a time, get the smaller sizes in 1/4 drive and larger sizes in 3/8. A 1/4 drive 1/2 flex is much smaller and more compact than the 3/8 drive equivalent and if you're needing a flex socket, it's obviously because access is an issue. I would also recommend 12 pt. for this application to make engaging the fastener easier in tight quarters.
kc-steve
Well-known member
And then there are the people that like to call 'em "wobblies." That's when I flip out and go postal. (just kidding)
Steve
Steve
bcradio
Well-known member
Sounds like you hit up a sale for $0.97 swivels at Sears recently and are contemplating completing your set. Is this correct?
I would say get them if you do much work on automobiles, otherwise no need.
Shipfittin
Well-known member
I would recommend probably getting the 3/8 set, both SAE and Metric. They can come in real handy, there are times where they are just about the only way to get to the nut/ bolt. I used some at work not long ago, it was either use it or cut out a bunch of metal to get a deep well in there.
If you do enough wrench turning your going to end up needing them pretty much no matter what your trade.
If you do enough wrench turning your going to end up needing them pretty much no matter what your trade.
ajchien
Well-known member
Guess I would prefer to use the flex sockets over a universal joint adaptor. Seems like when I need to use some kind of flex to avoid an obstruction, a socket+universal joint+drive tool never seems to fit.