Drive sockets are heads for tools designed for mounting and dismantling threaded fasteners with a polygonal profile. They are small tubes with the inner surface having the shape that corresponds to the shape of the fastener. They are extremely useful when repairing vehicle assemblies in hard-to-access areas.

Drive sockets: 7 important facts and tips

1. Drive sockets are usually made of chrome vanadium or chrome-molybdenum steel. Often, to make them corrosion resistant, they are coated with nickel or phosphates.
2. The most common drive sockets are designed to mount and dismantle hexagonal fasteners. There are also dodecahedron (bi-hexagonal) devices that provide a more secure grip and can be used both for 12-pointed and 6-pointed fasteners. The SuperLock model can even work with damaged parts. Some socket drives have a working part shaped like a six-pointed star which are used to loosen Torx fasteners. Spline drive sockets are considered to be universal and fit most bolts and nuts.
3. The drive sockets in our online shop differ by design and intended purpose. Along with standard devices, there are deep and swivel (flex) drive sockets. They are very useful if the fastener is placed at an angle, in a recess or between other parts. The models intended for spark plugs allow, due to the magnets, to securely grip a spark plug. Pass-through devices are necessary for fastening nuts screwed on long threaded studs, and tools with a cut-out section – for working with components of an irregular shape, for example, some kinds of sensors. Impact drive sockets are characterised by high durability and are used together with special tools such as an air impact wrench.
4. It is best to read the manufacturer’s instructions before you start working with drive sockets. For example, swivel devices can’t be used together with pneumatic tools, and standard heads – with impact wrenches.
5. Before you start, it is advised to make sure that there are no defects on the device. Also, check if it is reliably secured in the holder of the tool.
6. The drive socket should grip the fastener tightly. This will minimize the risk of damaging its edges.
7. All drive sockets should be stored in a special case or closed toolbox, as to avoid them coming into contact with moisture or chemicals.

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