One of the most mundane tasks in a car repair is undoing fasteners. Yet choosing the correct wrench or socket for the job is vital. Using an inappropriate or incorrect tool could lead to a cramped hand, a rounded fastener, or even a broken tool.
One important facet to consider when choosing the right tool to loosen a fastener is the shape: the 6-point versus the 12-point wrench or socket. There is a time and a place for both of them, but there are important differences to be aware of when stocking your toolkit.
The Fastener Shape
Of course, the shape of the fastener should be your first consideration. Some fasteners actually have 12 edges. These are rare, but when you come across them, only a 12-point wrench or socket will be able to loosen them.
Fasteners with 6 points generally work best with 6-point wrenches and sockets, but there are special circumstances when a 12-point wrench may still be the best choice.
Rounded or Damaged Fasteners
Fasteners with rounded corners or other damage often benefit from a 12-point socket. The additional edges of the double-hex shape create more points of contact with the fastener, making it easier to turn.
Hard-To-Reach Fasteners
Is there anything more frustrating than an important fastener being in a place that requires an awkward pose to reach? In these cases, a 12-point wrench or socket may add an advantage.
The increased surface area provided by a 12-point wrench makes it easier to catch the edges of the fastener. This means that you should be able to turn the wrench fewer times — quite an advantage when each turn puts your body in an uncomfortable position.
If you often find yourself struggling with hard-to-reach fasteners, a Flex-Head Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set may provide you with the additional flexibility you need.
Rusted, Tight, or Seized Fasteners
For fasteners that require extra elbow grease to loosen, a 6-point socket or wrench is almost always the preferable choice.
The thicker walls of the hex shape allow for greater leverage and make the tool less likely to break. A 6-point wrench or socket is also less likely to strip bolts, given that it typically offers a tighter fit on the more common 6-point fasteners.
An important note is that impact sockets, which are useful for loosening the toughest fasteners, tend to have 6 points due to the increased durability.
Lightweight Repairs
For lightweight repairs or simple jobs around the house, you may find a 12-point wrench to be more comfortable. It has more positions for engaging fasteners, which makes it less likely to slip. When you work on cars for hours at a time, this may save your wrists a few dozen turns.
Still, other mechanics may favor the 6-point wrench for its better leverage and versatility. When it comes to light, non-specialized work, it is usually best to use whichever wrench you are most comfortable with.
The next time you need to loosen a fastener, take a moment to consider the right wrench for the job. No matter your needs, Capri Tools has wrenches, ratchets, and sockets in a variety of sizes, points, and styles. Browse our selection of wrenches today.