[Dannov4v]

Just thought I'd share a couple things I've learned from my former career that may help.
I've watched several youtubers do maintenance on their cars and Vanderhalls, and I always see them using 3/8" drive tools. I know most guys have that from years ago etc. but 1/4" drive will produce a good amount of torque needed for most fasteners, it's easier to store (smaller) and isn't as heavy to use, hold on to, manipulate etc. If you need to really torque something of course you may need 3/8 drive but for most things a 1/4" drive set is plenty.

I'm attaching pics of what worked for us on aircraft when we couldn't hold a bolt or sometimes a screw to install in an out of reach place, simple gluestick from any craft store. Dab a bit on the head of whatever, put it in the socket or driver etc and it will stick for as long as you should need it to. You can always wipe off excess.
Hope this helps
Danno

           

[J Patrick]

Nice tip! Thanks.

[coolwhip]

Just thought I'd share a couple things I've learned from my former career that may help.
I've watched several youtubers do maintenance on their cars and Vanderhalls, and I always see them using 3/8" drive tools. I know most guys have that from years ago etc. but 1/4" drive will produce a good amount of torque needed for most fasteners, it's easier to store (smaller) and isn't as heavy to use, hold on to, manipulate etc. If you need to really torque something of course you may need 3/8 drive but for most things a 1/4" drive set is plenty.

I'm attaching pics of what worked for us on aircraft when we couldn't hold a bolt or sometimes a screw to install in an out of reach place, simple gluestick from any craft store. Dab a bit on the head of whatever, put it in the socket or driver etc and it will stick for as long as you should need it to. You can always wipe off excess.
Hope this helps
Danno

---

I agree that too much force on a fastener is bad; however, the size of the drive (3/8" vs. 1/4") has nothing to do with the force. The length of the handle is what determines force. Granted, a 1/4" drive ratchet wrench is usually much shorter and all that's needed. Using an adapter to go from 3/8" ratchet to a 1/4" socket won't change anything.

Good tip on the gluestick.

[J Patrick]

Actually, for the same length handle, the 1/4" would generate more torque _at the drive_ than the 3/8", but then the same torque for the same size socket. FWIW.

[Dannov4v]

Not trying to debate the physics of the tip/trick...in general, my 1/4 drive fits in my hand, and when I install something I don't use the "length" of the ratchet handle, only my one hand force, like using a screwdriver per se.

Danno