SOCKET WRENCH

SOCKET WRENCH The socket wrench is one of the most versatile wrenches in the toolbox. It consists of a handle and a socket wrench that can be attached to the handle. The Spintite wrench shown in figure 2-5, is a special type of socket wrench. It has a hollow shaft to accommodate a bolt protruding through a nut, has a hexagonal head, and is used like a screwdriver. It is supplied in small sizes only and is useful for assembly and electrical work. When used for the latter purpose, it must have an insulated handle. A complete socket wrench set consists of several types of handles, bar extensions, adapters, and a vari- ety of sockets (fig. 2-5). Sockets A socket (fig. 2-6) has a square opening cut in one end to fit a square drive lug on a detachable handle. In the other end of the socket is a 6-point or 12-point opening very much like the opening in the box end wrench. The 12-point socket needs to be swung only half as far as the 6-point socket before it has to be lifted and fitted on the nut for a new grip. It can therefore be used in closer quarters where there is less room to move the handle. (A ratchet handle eliminates the necessity of lifting the socket and refitting it on the nut every time a turn is made.) Sockets are classified for size according to two factors. One is the size of the square opening, which fits on the square drive lug of the handle. This size is known as the drive size. The other is the size of the opening in the opposite end, which fits the nut or bolt. The standard toolbox can be outfitted with sockets having 1/4-, 3/8-, and 1/2-inch square drive lugs. Larger sets are usually available in the toolroom for temporary checkout. The openings that fit onto the bolt or nut are usually graduated in 1/16-inch sizes. Sockets are also made in deep lengths to fit over spark plugs and long bolt ends. Figure 2-6.—12-point socket. Figure 2-5.—Socket set components. 2-4