23 replies to this topic

[surfblue]

Got a big Draper 1/2" socket set that I must have had 20 + years covers a multitude of AF and MM sizes, great quality used and abused on everything.

Also have a 1/4" drive B&Q own brand kit, cheapish but great selection of sockets and torx / allen bits, only had to replace 1 10mm socket which broke and the ratchet itself over much use. 

I have a variety of random deep sockets, 3/8 sockets with adapters, spline sockets bought specifically for various jobs on more modern cars.

I really fancy this Teng tools kit as an all purpose 3/8" set, maybe I'll treat myself.

 

 https://www.ebay.co....LgAAOSwoJhdsvGc

[Icey]

I used 1/2" drive for years (good quality set) and never had too many problems but then I bought a 3/8" drive set about three or four years ago and it was a revelation

Same here. Mostly because I started on more modern vehicles which seem to have every fastener wound to a gazillion torques. Now I tend to buy new sockets in 3/8" drive if I need something and then add smaller or larger later if needed. For example, hex-drive sockets - I started with those in 3/8" drive but needed a larger size for the crank pulley (as I have the extended one for a trigger wheel) so bought a 1/2" drive set.

 

I do have a 1" drive breaker bar and a couple of sockets that I inhereted. I think my Dad used them on his Landy, and as I have one they'll stay in the toolbox! I also have a few weird sizes and a set of Whitworth sockets for the same reason (including some box-spanners).

[And again]

I second the Halfords pro set covers everything and lifetime guarantee I’ve had mine 20+years only needed to have 1/4 ratchet replaced with no quibble or receipt needed as it’s all stamped up Halfords

Edited by And again, 16 September 2020 - 10:31 PM.

[nicklouse]

3/8" isn't much cop on very tight bolts.

Never had any issues other than the big nuts on the Mini. That is anything over the size of the sockets in the set.

[nicklouse]

I used 1/2" drive for years (good quality set) and never had too many problems but then I bought a 3/8" drive set about three or four years ago and it was a revelation;

Agreed.

[Ethel]

I think you'd struggle with a 3/8" ratchet on some of the bigger fittings & a 1/2" torque wrench is needed to cover the fasteners where using one really matters.

 

But you may well find a mixed set that's better value.

[nicklouse]

 

 

 

As MrBounce says - you can get carried away.......

Very easily.

 

Edited by nicklouse, 16 September 2020 - 11:38 PM.

[Maccmike8]

Ive got all all 3 and rarely use 1/4.

3/8 is my automatic go to.

[Cooper Mac]

I've got 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 and 3/4 for various jobs on various cars, but for the strip and rebuild of the Cooper, 95% of it has been done with 3/8 sockets, ratchets and extensions etc.

 

I do find that the 3/8 stuff is small enough to get in tight spots, but also big enough to get most stubbon bolts undone! I have gone over to using 6 point (sided) sockets now, as they are less likely to slip on tight and / or corroded heads.

 

As always, buy the best you can afford at the time, and it should last your lifetime!