Socket wrenches work differently than more common wrenches, as you don’t need to tighten the connection multiple times to tighten or loosen a bolt or nut. These wrenches operate by means of a ratchet system and a collection of different size disconnectable sockets, which increases the ease of use without losing the effectiveness of the wrench. These popular and affordable tools are easy for anyone to use, regardless of strength or experience level.
Select the correct size socket attachment for the bolt and nut you are using. Most accessory sets contain regular and metric size taps to facilitate mounting of specific screws, and the size is usually printed or engraved on the side of the part. Make sure the socket fits snugly to prevent it from slipping and damaging the bolt or nut.
Connect the socket to the handle of the faucet. Each socket head is designed with an opening at one end to match the size of the bolt, and a small square-shaped hole at the other to connect to the square joint in the wrench handle. Once connected, a protruding button on the connector holds the socket in place. A small button on the outside of the ratchet head, where the socket connects, releases the socket and allows for easy removal.
Adjust the wrench to tighten or loosen the screw. Located on the side of the socket, a small lever sets the direction the key turns. If you set it to the right, the key tightens, and to the left, loosen. On most keys, this lever is conveniently positioned so that it can be easily operated with the thumb to speed up sudden adjustments as needed.
Place the socket over the head of the bolt or nut, and begin turning the wrench handle in a back and forth motion to tighten or loosen depending on the need. Pulling the lever back brings the gears back into alignment and the movement of the socket stops until the handle moves forward again. This allows the creation of a tight connection or release of a stem without requiring the wrench operator to apply significant force.
Tips
These keys are ideal for areas with little maneuvering area. There are extension sockets and adapters so that any faucet will plug into almost any type of socket and will serve many projects.
Warnings
In some cases, if the nut does not link with the ratchets immediately, it is necessary to keep the socket steady by hand so that it does not rotate back until the bolt begins to tighten.
If a socket is too large or not positioned correctly to make a good connection, the wrench can slip and damage the bolt or injure your hand when it separates.
