Ball joints - sockets?

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Jul 25, 2018 | 05:54 PM

KC8QVO

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Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2008

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Ball joints - sockets?

It looks like I need both a 1-1/8" and 1-5/16" socket for the ball joints (smaller upper, bigger lower). I have a 1-1/8" chrome 12pt, I do not have a 1-5/16". What would you recommend getting for the job? Would the chrome 12pt I have work? Or should I get impact grade 6pts for each? I have been spraying everything with penetrating oil for a while so that should help. I've never torn in to the wheel assemblies before so I am not sure what to expect on how hard the nuts are to break free. I did break the pitman to drag link nut free this afternoon with a long handle 1/2" drive ratchet. I expected that to be a bear but it budged without much force at all. I am not sure if the ball joints will behave the same... I hope, but no guarantees there.

Thoughts? What is your experience?

Jul 25, 2018 | 06:44 PM

Djosbun

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Oct 2017

Posts: 1,704

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From: Southwest Ohio

Personally, I would never use a 12-point socket on any high torque/large fasteners. If you are using an impact gun, use 6-point impact sockets. If you are using a breaker bar, you can probably get away with a standard non-deep socket. Shallow sockets have more strength than deep sockets.

— Dave

Jul 25, 2018 | 07:36 PM

KC8QVO

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Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2008

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Thanks for the reply. I split a few chrome sockets on manifold bolts on my last job. They were much smaller though - 5/16".

I don't have a very powerful pneumatic impact wrench so if they are hard stuck I will have to use the armstrong wrench to break them free regardless.

I will see about getting a decent set of 6 point chrome sockets.

Jul 25, 2018 | 08:20 PM

KC8QVO

Thread Starter

Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2008

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Edit - I did some looking online and I could buy individual sockets, but I think the 8 piece 3/4 drive SAE standard socket set from harbor Freight for $43 overall is a decent buy. Plus they are lifetime warranty. That has both sizes I need and then some.