Few questions on tools

[Titanium_Alloy]

Hi everyone,

I'm not a very big expert then it comes to choosing a right tool. I have a few questions for hardcore mechanics, professionals, and experienced DIYs. Questions are mostly related to Craftsman brand, although they can be applied to any major tool manufacturer.

What's the difference between regular and professional series of tools? I've always been very pleased with regular series tools. Professional series are just fully polished. Is there any other difference like special metal use, difference in design, and etc.? Are pro tools more durable or just look better? What would be a situation where you’d recommend professional series instead of regular one?

What's the difference between regular and impact sockets? As I understand impact sockets are made from special metal which can take more abuse. Impact sockets have black finish (for Craftsman). Is this finish more durable? In what case someone would want to buy impact sockets instead of standard ones?

I've just ordered a big set of 12-point sockets. Is there a real difference between 6 and 12 point version? I know that 6 point supposed to be tougher in some situations. I don't really like 6-point version. Have you ever been in a situation where 6-point socket did job better than a 12-point. Have you ever had 12-point fail on you (or physically break) and 6-point didn’t? Which version would you recommend in what situation? Is there specific preference?

Thank you,

 

[seotaji]

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What's the difference between regular and professional series of tools?

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To me? Nothing, the warranty is the same, but the finish might be diferent. Sometimes they even have slightly newer/different designs.

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What's the difference between regular and impact sockets?

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Impact sockets are thicker because they are made from softer metal to help prevent shattering. They can be used for other than impact but don't stand up well, especially with cheater use. The thicker wall also limits access.

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In what case someone would want to buy impact sockets instead of standard ones?

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When using them with impact wrenches

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Is there a real difference between 6 and 12 point version?

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I've found that 6pt sockets and wrenches are less likely to round off the heads of nuts and bolts. They also seem to be more expensive than their 12pt brethren. The head of the bolts fit the walls better and have more of a contact patch with the socket.

 

[TooManyWheels]

There are definitely places where a 6 pt. socket will save your tail. The one I remember was trying to reach the top bolt holding an automatic trans to the engine. Couldn't reach it from the top with anything, could just barely get a socket on it at all from below. Because it was hard to get the socket seated on the bolt, I started with a 12 pt, and promptly did some rounding, as the bolt was very tight, and the angle was very severe. Tried it again, did some more rounding.

At that point I knew I had one more chance, and had better make the best of it. Went to a 6 pt socket, and with a little effort and "holding my mouth right" I was home free.

But otherwise, it would have been very nasty.

 

[labman]

I don't have enough Craftsman tools to do real apples to apples comparisons. If you did, I think you would find the impact sockets are slightly larger to have more beef to take the impact wrench.

I am a big fan of the 6 point sockets. They definitely are the choice when you must work with very tight or rusted nuts and bolts. Not everything I have to work on comes with quality nuts and bolts that won't round with a 12 point. They are also much better for things you loosen and tighten frequently, such as drain plugs. They fit the whole flat, not just the corner.

We are definitely talking about a marginal difference. A 12 point usually will do the job. Usually you will be able to get an impact socket on the nut. Still, sometimes the regular 6 point is the only one that will do the job.

 

[Smoky14]

The professional tool is good if you work with the tools all day long. That smooth finish is easier on the hands, regular Craftsman wrench will give you sore hands at the end of a day. For the home mechanic the regular Craftsman stuff is good enough.
I have mostly Snap-on etc and have both 6pt and 12pt and impact socket sets as they each have their uses, and you may need 2 of the same size at the same time.
Tool boxes are like gun safes, get a bigger one that you think you'll need as they fill up fast.

Smoky the wrench

 

[Amkeer]

I try to avoid Craftsman tools. I only buy them if I absolutely don't have a choice. That being said, Home Depot and Lowes carry socket sets, etc.. I have had quite a few bad experiences with the Craftsman brand of tools.

Daily Drives:
-2003 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner XtraCab, 2.7 Liter , Mobil1 Synthetic SS 5w30.
ODO 8900 Miles.
-1995 Toyota 4-Runner 3.0 V6, Mobil1 Synthetic SS 10w30.
ODO 90800 Miles.
http://community.webshots.com/user/amkeer

[ June 19, 2004, 07:57 AM: Message edited by: Amkeer ]