Bi-hex socket set thoughts
 

Just ordered a nice 3/8 socket set and realized that it's a bi-hex and not standard hex.
Sizes 8-22mm

Any issues using the bi-hex sockets on standard hex bolts/nuts?

Or are the 12point sockets meant to be used on 12 point bolts/nuts?
The only 12 point screws I recall are on the shocks where they mount to the LCA

Thx

You can use 12-point sockets on 6-point nuts/bolts. Just don't use them on anything rusty or you run a much greater risk of rounding the head off. For that reason I never use 12-point sockets, I live in the last of rust :rolleyes:

You're in California so you have no idea what I'm talking about, and as such 12-point sockets are fine :D

X2. 12-point sockets give you a little more flexibility in situations where access is poor, where a handle has little room to turn. But 6-point sockets are stronger.

good info
thx very much.
I guess i'll hang on to the bi-hex set for light/regular duty.
maybe get hex sockets for 1/2 drive on bigger nuts&bolts.

By the way, other than the axle nut on a w-124 I'm not aware of any bi-hex (12 point) bolts or nuts on the mercedes chassis... All 6 point afaik...

The front lower shock bolts are 12 point units.

A set I bought came with a 3/8 drive thin walled socket.

On W201 I've found loads of torx headed disasters as well as a few 12 pointers such as axles to hub, differential pinion and gearbox output shaft.

I've said it before and I'm sure to rock the boat but I always grab a decent made 12-point in preference to a 6 sided bugger!

...and I live in a place where rust is a way of life...

...and I dislike those 6 sided things because they are more often than not as well made as the 12 points.

The best sockets I have are the type that drive on the sides of the nut / bolt head => corner gripping things are just asking for trouble.

See for example these =>

Metrinch-tools - IF THIS CAN'T DO IT, NO TOOL CAN

(I'll keep on saying it!)