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Question about using a 3/8-inch drive on big flange bolts
Honestly, I was on a shutdown at the PSEG plant in Bridgeport and saw a guy snap his 3/8-inch ratchet trying to break a 1-inch flange bolt. Everyone said it was fine with a cheater bar, but that's just asking for trouble. I only use a 1/2-inch drive for anything over 3/4-inch now, even if it means carrying more tools. Anyone else run into this and stick with the bigger gear?
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mason36114d ago
Seen it happen way too often. That little 3/8 square just isn't made for that kind of torque, cheater bar or not. I snapped the head clean off a socket once on a rusty 7/8. Now my rule is simple: if the bolt head is bigger than my thumb, the half inch drive comes out. It's just not worth the busted knuckles or the walk back to the truck.
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