12 point vs 6 point sockets

[dparm]

I bought a 12pt 24mm socket to get my oil filter housing off. Sears doesn't make a 6-point version unless I want to get it as an impact socket.

Is it really a big deal to use the 12pt for this application?

 

[Johnny248]

They make an actual tool for this...

 

[mechanicx]

Shouldn't be a problem if the torque level is kept low like it should be anyway.

 

[cchase]

Out of curiosity, what's wrong with an impact-rated socket? It would work fine, unless you have some clearance issue.

 

[Chris142]

Todays 12 point sockets are made so that they grip the sides of the nut and not the corners like the older design did. You will be fine.

 

[Audi Junkie]

I hate 12pt.

 

[mongo161]

For the quick and easy, when not using a K&N oil filter, I use a chain pipe wrench that adjusts to any size filter. There is no slipping over the filter but rather just a wrap around the filter. This makes the job so easy in loosening up stubborn oil filters. I only use my hand to tighten the oil filter when replacing the filter.

This is all you need to remove spin on oil filters. Plus the wrench comes in handy for other handy jobs.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00951663000P?vName=Tools&cName=Wrenches,Ratchets&Sockets&sName=Pipe%20Wrench%20Sets&sid=IDx20070921x00003a&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=00951663000P

The one I have is older than the newer version but still works on the same principal.

 

[dparm]

My filter is just a big tube of paper you drop into a compartment on top of the engine. It's not a standard filter.