Why pipe plug sockets instead of just extensions?

[pugglewuggle]

Why pipe plug sockets instead of just extensions? For example, 1/2, 3/8. and 1/4 pipe plugs... can you just use an extension in it or is there a reason to use a pipe plug socket?

 

[plinker]

The pipe plug socket is solid vs the square drive tool having a hole for the detent ball causing it to be weaker.

In my experience, The square drive also tends to only fit about half way in the pipe plug and can twist in a tight plug causing damage to the tool. I've seen a few breaker bars and extension this way.

Some pipe plugs also have different sizes (9/32, 5/16, ete..), so the 1/4, 3/8 & 1/2 drive tools dont work for everything. There are also metric sizes.

 

[larry_g]

What you gonna turn the extension with? Why not just apply that tool direct to the plug?

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Tallpilot]

What plinker said. Because of the detent ball they often won’t fully engage in the hole. For low torque applications like drain plugs and belt tensioners that might not matter but it’s one of those right tool for the job things. Plus a set of pipe plug sockets prepares you for 5/16” and other common square holes.

 

[larry_g]

DUH, I just realized you were probably talking about plugs with a female square and not a male.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Flat-rate]

The sockets also have a slight taper to them. They will go in and bottom out.

Less chance of rounding out the square hole, on the really tight/seized ones.

 

[Shehzada]

I just heard about something new today.....can someone please explain what a pipe plug and pipe plug socket is / used for?

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[jimmyin3D]

I just heard about something new today.....can someone please explain what a pipe plug and pipe plug socket is / used for?

Sent from my mobile device

Pipe plugs are exactly what it sounds like. A lot of cars/machinery have square drain plugs. Most common sizes are 8MM,1/4,3/8,10MM,1/2,13MM which are male squares. A lot of hex sockets are called this as well (17MM) for trans. plugs. There are also female square in various sizes as well.

 

[Shehzada]

Oh ok....got it. My CR-V transmission drain plug is a square female....thanks. All this time I was just using my ratchet.

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[geartow]

a lot of the so called 3/8 plugs are actually 10mm therefore the reaqson for pipe plug sockets

 

[RedneckWelder]

We see mainly 1/2 and some 3/4 drain plugs. I don’t have pipe plug sockets an extension works fine especially with an impact wrench. The only ones that strip out are ones that will strip out even with the sockets and an air hammer takes the stripped ones right out