Deep Sockets?

[acalabro]

I am relatively new to working on outboards. I have rebuilt a fuel pump, carb, replaced water pump & seals. I am planning on resealing my LU and am in the market for a complete tool set. I have done hours of research and narrowed my decision down to a few craftsman socket/wrench sets at sears. My question to you all is do you find yourself using deep sockets a lot when working on your outboard or boat? I am trying to decide if I should buy a set complete with deep sockets as well as std but can't think of any time that I would use one on my boat or outboard. Have any of you found yourself using deep sockets or are they used more in the automotive repair world? Just so you know, I am looking for a set I can use on my motor and boat that doesn't contain a lot of tools that I won't need basically

 

[Georgesalmon]

Re: Deep Sockets?

If you do need a deep socket a regular one won't work. But often a deep socket can be used even when all you need is a regular one. If I had to choose between i would opt for all deep sockets. For example most lower units need at least one deep socket to get it off to change a water pump impellor. Just say'in.

 

[tomhath]

Re: Deep Sockets?

I'd consider a minimal set. "Complete" usually means a bunch of sizes you don't really need. I always use a deep socket to remove spark plugs but you only need one size for that.

 

[acalabro]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Well the sets I'm looking at come with all metric to 22mm and sae equivalent. They come with standard size and deep size and a specific one for spark plugs. Short sockets are good for small spaces so I definitely want standard size sockets. The question is, is there situations when working on outboards that a deep socket is the only way to get to a nut/bolt, that even a std size with extension and swivel won't work? Wondering if it is a common thing that an experienced outboard mechanic or DIYer can say they absolutely had to have a deep socket as I obviously haven't worked on them enough to know.
Thanks for the replies guys!

 

[Grub54891]

Re: Deep Sockets?

In my opinion,you need both sets,there are many times you wish you had them.

 

[Wind dog]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Get the whole set, you'll need them someday for something. I commend you on picking Craftsmen tools, For many years I wrenched for a living & found I like Craftsman better then Snap-off, Mac or Matco.

 

[F_R]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Well, 24 years as a professional outboard mechanic, and a Lifetime of doing all sorts of mechanical work, I'd say I use deep sockets ten times as often as shallow ones. In fact, if one or the other was to be considered "special", it would be the shallow ones. Deep sockets give you something to hang onto, and knuckle clearance. If a shallow one is necessary, you probably can use a box end instead.

 

[acalabro]

Re: Deep Sockets?

10 4 that is a good point.
makes sense, Thanks guys

 

[boobie]

Re: Deep Sockets?

One thing you don't want to forget is 1/4 " drive flex sockets, some different length extensions and a ratchet.

 

[matt167]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Just a side note. Danaher dropped the Craftsmen line and is now made outside of the USA. Danaher makes Mac, Proto and Stanley hand tools, Craftsmen until last year, and I have found Stanley are just as good as Craftsmen at a much lower cost.

 

[Mohawkmtrs]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Two things come to mind:

You can't have too many tools;

Only a rich man can afford cheap tools.

 

[sublauxation]

Re: Deep Sockets?

One thing to look at with the Craftsman sets is whether they are 12 or 6 point sockets. I'm sure there are advantages to 12pt but some of those sets will have few if any 6 point sockets.

 

[Wind dog]

Re: Deep Sockets?

I'm sure there are advantages to 12pt

Yep, like stripping bolt heads.

 

[sublauxation]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Yep, like stripping bolt heads.

Yup, that would be the big advantage! It gives you an excuse to go to the hardware store and look around at all the other cool stuff you can buy in addition to the bolt extractor and new bolt.

If I remember correctly it's usually the deep sockets in those sets that are 12 point but I could be wrong.

 

[matt167]

Re: Deep Sockets?

I do not buy anything but 6pt sockets. I got a Stanley rotator ratchet that for those times it's tight and a 12pt might work better, just pull out that ratchet and give the handle a twist to line up the socket. I have a few 12pt sockets, but they are mostly shallow or mid length, no true deep sockets are 12pt in my box

 

[acalabro]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Yeah it's always the large 19mm+ sockets that are 12pt so I'm not sold on any one of the sets yet.
It's between the cftsm 309pc and smaller cftsm and Stanley has a 69pc with that I'm almost sold on bc of the reviews and I can always add to it (its only $69 compared to $100+ sets). As y'all say, those bigger 12pts don't sound like they'll be too useful in completing a job.
Although budget isn't an issue(my max is $300-400 though), I am leaning towards one with a case as well so still doing my research. Thx for replies.

 

[V153]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Hard to say anything bad about Craftsmen tools, probly got some that are older'n I am. I've broken a few due to misuse, not the tools fault. Never had a problem getting a free replacement.

Having said that I got this lil set of 'Kobalts' from Lowes a couple months ago. Appear to be good quality & have a lifetime guarantee. All 6 point. My only complaint is the 'shifter' on the ratchet seems to be backwards. or mebbe they gave me a lefthanded ratchet?

Btw the only thing 12 point sockets are good for is hammering the next smaller size onto the bolt you stripped with the correct size ...

 

[boobie]

Re: Deep Sockets?

As I said in another post, don't forget the 1/4 " drive stuff. I still use mine all the time for " tight spots ".

 

[V153]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Oh absolutely. Pays to have some 1/4" stuff on hand. Along with a universal & some short extentions.

 

[Grub54891]

Re: Deep Sockets?

Ya gotta start somewhere,get the 6 points',in all drive sizes,then go on to buy what you need as you move on.been buying tools for many years,still am buying!