Tip
- Insert the shank of the bolt into the holes in a bolt-sizing gauge.
- Locate the printed bolt size to the side of the correct hole on the gauge (for example, 1/2, 3/4 or in mm for metric bolts).
- Locate the socket head in the socket set that has this size printed on its side.
How socket sizes are measured?
Socket sizes are measured based on imperial system inches and fractions. Some of the commonly used SAE sizes are 3/8 in., 5/8 in., and 11/16 in. sockets. Metric sockets: Ideal for working on imported vehicles, metric sockets’ sizes are measured in millimeters.
How do I know what size socket wrench I have?
Socket sizes are determined by the size of the socket head and the size of the drive socket. An example of a typical socket size is a 13mm socket with ¼” drive. Although socket heads are available in both metric and imperial sizes, the ‘drive socket’ size of a socket is always imperial.
How do you measure bolt nut size?
Stretch the tape measure to the other side of the inner threads of the nut. Count the lines to find the diameter of the threaded hole. Measure across the widest opening the threads make. This measurement will help you match the thread diameter of the nut with the thread diameter of the bolt.
How are 12 sockets measured?
In the current market, socket sizes are divided into two systems: SAE (imperial, measured in inches) and metric (measured in millimeters). Both 6-point and 12-point sockets are measured using these two systems. The popular range is 5.5~24mm.
What are the standard socket sizes in order?
There are four common socket sizes: 1/4 inch (0.6 centimeters), 3/8 inch (0.9 centimeters), 1/2 inch (1.3 centimeters) and 3/4 inch (1.9 centimeters).
Are 6 or 12 point sockets better?
Answer: It’s true that 12-point sockets are fine for most lightweight repairs, but heavy wrenching calls for a six-point socket. A six-point socket is much less likely to slip off a stubborn fastener or round over the corners. Here’s why: (1) Six-point sockets have thicker walls, so they’re less likely to flew.
Whats bigger 3/8 or 1/4 socket?
You will note that a 1/4″ socket set will usually have up to a 1/2″ or 9/16″ socket. 3/8″ drive will usually go to 3/4″, and sometimes to an inch. 1/2″ drive sockets can start at about 1/4″ in some cases and range up to well over an inch.
What’s smaller than a 11/16 socket?
SAE to Metric Conversion Chart
| SAE Size | Metric Size | Inches Decimal |
|---|---|---|
| 11/16″ | 0.688 | |
| 18mm | 0.709 | |
| 23/32″ | 0.719 | |
| 19mm | 0.748 |
How can you tell if a bolt is metric or standard?
Telling the difference between a metric and imperial bolt is easy. If the bolt has lines on the head its standard or imperial. If the bolt has numbers on the head then its metric.
What are 12pt sockets for?
The additional points make these sockets easier to connect with the heads of fasteners. This is ideal if you are trying to work on a fastener that is hard to see or you cannot see at all. 12 point sockets are also great for use in tight spaces as they allow you to connect to a fastener at more angles.
What size socket wrench should I buy?
While 12-point sockets are fine for most light work, choose six-point sockets for larger hardware or applications that demand serious torque. Six-point sockets are less likely to slip in this situation.
What are 8 point sockets used for?
What is an 8 point socket used for? Our range of 8 point sockets are perfect for use on our range of Pyramid Head Door Screws, Lag Bolts and Square Headed Machine Bolts. 8 point sockets take away the need for the use of a shifter and will stop you rounding off the head of a square bolt.
What size is a 33mm socket in standard?
A 33mm metric socket is 1.29921 inches in size which most closely matches a 1 5/16 standard size socket.
Whats bigger 3/8 or 1/2 socket?
3/8 is the smaller version ratchet, and 1/2 is the larger version ratchet.
What are metric socket sizes?
Metric / Standard Wrench Conversion Chart
| Bolt Diameter | Metric | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 1/8″ | 8mm | 5/16″ |
| 3/16″ | 10mm | 3/8″ |
| 1/4″ | 11mm | 7/16″ |
| 5/16″ | 13mm | 1/2″ |
Why are impact sockets black?
Impact sockets are typically black. This is because the surface is carbonized in order for it to harden. Ensuring that the surface is hard allows the sockets to absorb sudden torque changes i.e. “impact” a lot better.
Why is there a hole in impact sockets?
That hole has a very specific purpose. It’s called a retaining pin and it is integral in making sure an impact socket and impact gun/wrench work perfectly together. The pin prevents the socket from coming off the end of the wrench or gun as a result of vibrations.
Which socket drive size should be used on large bolts or lug nuts?
The torque range of the wrench will dictate the drive size. 1/2 inch is pretty standard for larger fasteners like automotive and truck lug nuts.
What is bigger half inch or 3 8?
0.5 is greater than 0.375 which also means that 1/2 is greater than 3/8.
What is a 12mm socket in standard?
12mm. Just short of 1/2 Inch. 0.47244 Inches.
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