Socket sets

In many situations a socket ratchet is much faster and easier to use than an open-ended or ring spanner because of its versatility in use,and in some body repair applications it is absolutely essential. A basic socket ratchet set consists of a ratchet,bar extensions, a universal joint and a set of sockets (Figure 3.39).

The barrel-shaped socket fits over and around a given size of nut; inside it is shaped like the ring spanner,having a set of teeth to grip the points ofthe nut. Sockets are available with 6 pointed teeth and 12 pointed teeth. A 6-point socket gives a tight hold on a hex nut,minimizing slippage and rounding of the nut’s points. The 12-point socket does not have the holding power of the 6-point socket,but its numerous positions maximize the possible turning radius (Figure 3.40a).

The closed end of the socket has a square holeinto which the drive shaft of the ratchet fits (Figure 3.40b). Socket sets can be purchased in ,, and in drive sizes. The smaller drive sizes are used for turning small fasteners,badges and trim where little torque is required. The larger drive sizes with the corresponding longer handles are used where greater torque is needed. A body repairer will need sets of ,and in drive sockets.
The size of the individual sockets in a set depends on the drive size of the set as well as the number of sockets in the set. The socket size isthesame as the face-to-face dimension of the bolt it fits. A in set has sockets ranging from to in (5to 18mm),whereas a in socket set has sockets ranging from to in (13–40mm).
Sockets are available not only in standard face-to-face diameters,but also in various lengths or bore depths. Normally the larger the socket size,the deeper the well. Deep well sockets are made extra long for reaching nuts or bolts in limited access areas (Figure 3.40c).

Socket set accessories
Socket set accessories multiply the usefulness of the socket set. A good socket set has a variety of accessories such as: Ratchet Ratchet attachment Extension bars Speed brace Long-hinged handle with universal joint Sliding T-bar Universal joint Flexible spinner Flexible extension Coupler.

Screwdriver attachments
Screwdriver attachments are also available for use with socket ratchets. These attachments are very useful when a fastener cannot be loosened with aregular screwdriver owing to lack of access andspace. The leverage that the ratchet handle provides is often all it takes to move a stubborn screw.