Next sizes up and where to purchase?

[Belboz]

I have a small Stanley socket set which goes up to a half inch socket. I need to remove 3 bolts which are housed in a tight space. They are impossible to get at with normal spanners so need either a socket or a box spanner.

The half inch is just too small to fit. I am assuming that I need a slightly larger size - even if that is a metric size.

Can someone tell me what the next size from half inch is (in metric and imperial) I am guessing 9/16ths and 13mm??

Next question is where I can purchase them without having to buy another full socket set.

Thanks people.

B

 

[Burnerman]

There's a very good chance indeed that you need a 14mm socket - very common! Failing that, 9/16".
Individuals are available from Laser Tools, courtesy motor factors.
This will be for the blade carrying shoe, no doubt?
John

 

[Belboz]

Thanks BM.

Actually it's for the 3 bolts holding the engine/engine mount to both housings. The bolts are recessed in moulded hard plastic holes so only room to get a socket or box spanner in.

Will have a look at Laser.

 

[Burnerman]

Ah yes....still the recommended sizes though!
John

 

[Belboz]

Things can never be easy can they?...

Just measured my socket set and they are 1/4 inch fittings.

Laser don't do them...

I assume I need to buy a converter (1/4 inch female to 3/8ths male?)

Where do I get one? Fleabay (please say there's an alternative)

 

[Burnerman]

A converter probably exists somewhere, but really you are expecting 3/8th gear to be turned by smaller stuff, that will overstress ratchets, drive bars et al.
How about a Kamasa socket set as a bit of an investment?
John

 

[Belboz]

In all honesty BM, the set I have was bought years ago and very rarely gets used. In fact, it's so long ago, I can't even remember why I bought it but I suspect it was for some IKEA shelving. It comes in handy for hard to budge screws and for the odd task where bolts are fitted to appliances etc.

I don't own a car and I rarely use bolts as a construction method so wouldn't really get the use out of a new socket set.

Appreciate the idea but it's not really an option.

I do realise the reasoning you listed about the sizing is very sound.

Thanks,

B

 

[gram1980]

Try eBay around £3 for a 14mm deep 1/4 dr socket

http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/191178178450?nav=SEARCH

 

[Belboz]

Thanks gram.

Bought a cheap box spanner for this task but it's proving a bu**er. Got one of the 3 bolts out and, as I type, the other two (which I couldn't budge yeterday) have been sitting in WD-40 overnight. I am going to give them another go today. If that doesn't work, I'll look to use your suggestion.

Cheers.

B

 

[Belboz]

UPDATE

Well chaps, after much swearing and sweating, the box spanner did the job (albeit I broke a cheap screwdriver turning the last bolt...) Okay, cost me £3 for the boxy but the job is done.

Thank feck for that.

Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

Kind Regards,

B