Higher Quality 19mm and 21mm Impact Sockets?

[qdeezie]

I realize this might be a strange question, but are there higher quality impact sockets I can buy in just 19mm and 21mm separately? I would like to have impact sockets that I can use solely for the purpose of rotating tires that will not stretch over time.

I have impact socket sets in both SAE and Metric that have served me well over the years, but my 19mm and 21mm sockets will need to be replaced because they have stretched on the side that connects to the impact wrench, causing them to fall off if I'm not holding the wrench upright and I know that the replacements aren't likely going to be any better for regular use.

 

[The_Jeff]

If your impact wrench has a long snout you can get "flip sockets" for just what you're looking for. Though they come with a 3" extension to make it work either way.

Like this (not familiar with the brand): link. Having both 19mm and 3/4 means twice as long before they wear out.

 

[Ramblejam]

Are you sure it's not the wrench itself? Hog/friction ring wore out?

 

[qdeezie]

Originally Posted By: Ramblejam
Are you sure it's not the wrench itself? Hog/friction ring wore out?


I'm going to run out in the garage and check to see if sockets I don't use stay on. I just assumed it was the sockets because I've had it happen in the past.

 

[Leo99]

The metal literally stretches?

 

[bioburner]

Hammering anything with a good impact tool of somewhere of 800ft pounds is going to wear something out. I don't know if NAPA still sells individual sockets anymore.

 

[Popsy]

Facom or Hazet maybe? But they'll probably difficult to find in the US.

Facom come in normal and thin sockets.

 

[qdeezie]

Ok, so I put another impact socket from the same set that don't think I've ever used on the wrench and it had resistance going on and it had resistance coming off. It held like it should.

Also, I did a side by side of the non-used socket versus the frequently used socket and you could visibly see the frequently used socket was enlarged and had wear marks from the impact.

With that being said, I have verified that it is in fact the sockets.

 

[Ramblejam]

Ok, thanks for checking.

What impact, and what sockets have you been using (brand/model)?

Do you need thin wall for lug-nut removal?

 

[qdeezie]

Originally Posted By: Ramblejam
Ok, thanks for checking.

What impact, and what sockets have you been using (brand/model)?

Do you need thin wall for lug-nut removal?


I don't need any thin wall sockets at the moment. All of my vehicles have enough space for standard wall thickness.

This is the impact wrench I use.

As for the sockets, they are standard fare Harbor Freight (Pittsburgh brand) that I bought years ago. I didn't see a parts number on the case they are in.

 

[Ramblejam]

Are they Cr-V sockets, or Cr-Mo construction?

Regardless, I'm a fan of Williams (good stuff at a relatively decent price/"bang for the buck"): http://www.snaponindustrialbrands.com/DS...0CAT3%20341.pdf

http://www.toolsdelivered.com/Williams-1...eep-6pt-Sockets
http://www.toolsdelivered.com/Williams-1...eep-6pt-Sockets

 

[supton]

I have to wonder if "quality" sockets would not just stretch too. Maybe slower, but still.

 

[bioburner]

I don't think much of HF products are more than hobbyist level. The purchase of a couple new sockets isn't going to break the bank. The savings of a couple rotations should pay for them. After coming home with loose lugs the knowledge I can do it right is worth the $$$.

 

[vitez]

SK and Wright are two very good US made brands. Do you have an industrial or auto tool dealer in your area? These type of store will sell individual sockets. OTOH you can stop at any tool truck. Sure the prices are higher, but even at Snap On retail prices you're going to have them for a very long time. Buy quality for the most used sizes.

 

[Rand]

you want cr-mo for impact sockets.. that should be pittsburg pro but not regular pittsburg from HF.

alternatively you can get
https://www.amazon.com/Sunex-284919-2-In...m+impact+socket

type.

 

[totegoat]

Take the worn sockets back to HF. They may warrant them. I'm sure you can spend more money, but probably little to no real gain.

 

[bdcardinal]

You can buy singles from Snap On and Matco.

 

[Chris142]

The made in Taiwan sockets are usually very good. On par with snap on and Mac etc. GP and sunnex are both top quality.

 

[Merkava_4]

Proto. I have a 19mm and 21mm. Look no further.

 

[Thax]

I use NAPA's 1/2 21mm deep impact socket professionally. Its been my go to socket for wheel service for awhile now. Cost me like 11 bucks at the local NAPA. Used with my MAC awp050 , has not deformed or lost its grip on fasteners.