Metric 4-way lug nut tool? Good SAE too?

S

Sid Post

Joined
Oct 14, 1998
Messages
4,675
Okay, my searches for a good Metric 4-way lug nut wrench in a large size has failed. I see lots of 14" models for small import cars but, I'm really looking for a 25" FORGED model. I need something that won't flex or fracture under heavy loads. I would like to keep the price in the $30~50 range but, not at the expense of quality and possibly injury. FWIW, I REQUIRE 22mm for my pickup.

On a related note for a "standard" size 4-way, is the Wilmar W11 a good choice for heavy pickups and light trucks? It seems to be built right but, I can't see one in person out here.

TIA,
Sid
 
If you can't find one Harbor Freight sells a very heavy duty 25" long 1/2" drive breaker bar with swivel head that is a beast and has very good reviews. I have one but have only used it once and it seems to be a true bargain for what they sell it for. I can't see that thing not loosening any nut . That and a short impact extension set and impact 6 point sockets of the metric sizes you need from Harbor Freight would be well within your budget for all of the pieces and can serve double duty for other non tire changing uses.
 
alex said:
If you can't find one Harbor Freight sells a very heavy duty 25" long 1/2" drive breaker bar with swivel head that is a beast and has very good reviews. I have one but have only used it once and it seems to be a true bargain for what they sell it for. I can't see that thing not loosening any nut . That and a short impact extension set and impact 6 point sockets of the metric sizes you need from Harbor Freight would be well within your budget for all of the pieces and can serve double duty for other non tire changing uses.
Click to expand...


I have one of those. For $13 it's hard to beat.
 
17,19,21 and 22 are the most common ones I run into in the shop on a weekly basis. 7/8 also works for the 22, depending if you have the capped type lug nuts or not. The wheel torque on your truck is between 100-150ft lbs depending on what it is. I'm sure the one you linked will be fine. Is it going to be a primary wheel removal tool or just an emergency tool?
 
I have the Toyota factory 20" aluminum wheels which need 97ft/lbs of torque. A lot of people have had them cracked at tire shops with air impacts that were not torque limited. This will also warp the brake rotors. :mad: Ask a current generation Tundra owner if they have had major brake work done after getting new tires or a tire rotation.

This specific tool is for emergency road-side use. At "home", I have good jacks and tools but half-way between here and there I'm not going to have a Snap-On torque wrench or good deep six-point sockets due to past issues with the theft. A good 4-way is something less likely to be stolen, will be there when I need it, won't fracture when I "lean" on it, and has the leverage I need when the going gets tough.
 
I also prefer a 1/2" drive breaker bar and socket.

It fits better, you can slip a pipe over the bar for more cheater leverage and it all stows in a small slim space.

theft? I'd keep it inside the truck, behind the seat, out of sight, not in the bed

No need for a Torque wrench, just a breaker bar, Snap on is nice, but Gray, Husky, craftsman and a dozen other names are fine too, buy one used.
 
Theft for me is a rock through the window or a screwdriver in a door handle or key lock. :(

Warped rotors and cracked aluminum wheels is why I check things with a torque wrench. ;)

I've had a wheel come off a trailer and can't imagine the carnage if the same thing happened to my pickup with that trailer. :eek:
 
Maybe buy a craftsman c3 1/2" impact. They go on sale for 100$ or less a lot. Then a flip flop socket set from harbor freight and you have a more useful tool than just a 4 way
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top