Lug nut socket
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 134
Likes: 2
From: Boca Raton FL
I've been using a set from Astro Pneumatic (#7835), run around $40 for the set. So far, so good, but don't use them a ton. Includes 17mm, 19mm, 21mm, 13/16in. and 7/8in
Last edited by BocaC6; Jan 31, 2012 at 09:34 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,116
Likes: 5
From: Livonia MI
I swap to track wheels several times a year, and actually just use quality 12 point sockets with no problems. I walk around the car with a 3/4" drive ratchet to break things loose, then spin the lugs off/on with a cordless drill when jacked up. Back on the ground, torque wrench everything, and only takes a few minutes. Think the key is, I'm not using any harsh impacts.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 863
Likes: 3
lugs
4 way lug wrench... and they sell folding ones also.... i wont use a ratchet on mine... it could slip and scratch my wheel. plus the four way provides enough torque to properly tighten the lug nuts down
Last edited by azc62006; Jan 31, 2012 at 09:57 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,116
Likes: 5
From: Livonia MI
Agree the folding 4 ways are nice, as carry one in my daily car, and a very handi tool. Haven't had any problems with the mentioned large ratchet, cordless drill, torque wrench method though, as done this more times than I care to remember.
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CF Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 23,313
Likes: 25
From: Tucson Arizona
I've got air wrenches but rarely use them. I just use a normal Craftsman 19mm solid steel socket with an 18" (flex handle) bar. I generally spin my open-ended lug nuts off/on with a socket attached to a hand drill. I finish up with a torque wrench. 
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 5,504
Likes: 2
From: Sacramento California
This is what I use right now
This is a 25 dollar socket and the insert cracked, just like my other one. The bad thing is the socket is large and barely fits so it is easy to damage the opening in the wheel.
I was looking at this but this one is a bit pricey...
Are there any other sockets like this one (plastic sleeve on the outside)?
This is a 25 dollar socket and the insert cracked, just like my other one. The bad thing is the socket is large and barely fits so it is easy to damage the opening in the wheel.
I was looking at this but this one is a bit pricey...
Are there any other sockets like this one (plastic sleeve on the outside)?
Last edited by petermj; Jan 31, 2012 at 12:21 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 14,071
Likes: 1,589
From: Edmond Oklahoma
If you want to go good but cheap get an19mm six point impact socket and wrap the outsise several times with black electrical tape for a cushion. Works perfect and saves $$ for good mods. 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,116
Likes: 5
From: Livonia MI
Hmm, kinda sounds like a familiar formula, that works very well. Only difference with me, is using the stock SS clad lug nuts. Still look nearly new though, so not bothering to mess with it.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,355
Likes: 12
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,070
Likes: 160
From: Coralville Iowa
I swap to track wheels several times a year, and actually just use quality 12 point sockets with no problems. I walk around the car with a 3/4" drive ratchet to break things loose, then spin the lugs off/on with a cordless drill when jacked up. Back on the ground, torque wrench everything, and only takes a few minutes. Think the key is, I'm not using any harsh impacts.
