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How To Use a Socket Wrench

Sep. 27, 2022

One of the most convenient and useful tools that every professional carry is a socket wrench. Socket wrenches are easier to use and the nuts can be loosened and tightened faster than regular wrenches. Probuilt is a quality wrench manufacturer and wrenches wholesaler that produces quality wrench and wholesale wrenches in large quantities.

If you also have a socket wrench in your kit, but you don't know how to use it properly. Don't worry. You have come to the correct page. We'll show you how to use it in the easiest and most convenient way to make your job easier than before.

94 PC Socket Wrench

What is a socket wrench?

Let's start by explaining what a socket wrench is and how it works. A socket wrench is an upgraded version of a normal wrench with a ratcheting mechanism that helps tighten and loosen nuts without having to adjust the wrench every time you push or pull.

Unlike standard wrenches where a nut socket holds the nut in place, the ratchet mechanism allows the wrench to be changed without losing grip on the nut. This makes tightening and loosening the nut very quick and easy.

Are ratchets and wrenches the same thing?

Both ratchets and wrenches are tools for loosening and tightening nuts. However, a ratchet is just a type of wrench, so they are usually not the same.

There are also standard wrenches on the market, the ratchets are just an updated version of them. So when we use the word ratchet, we usually mean a socket wrench. On the other hand, if someone uses the word wrench, it can be any wrench.

Best way to use a socket wrench65 PC Socket Wrench

If you're wondering how to best use a socket wrench, here are some of the most important steps to getting the job done right with a socket wrench.

1. Choose the right socket

Using a socket wrench is much more convenient because, unlike a standard wrench, you don't need to carry a whole set of keys of different sizes. Easy to manage and use as one socket wrench fits all nut sizes. So, if you need a socket wrench to tighten the nut, make sure you choose the right size socket to tighten and loosen the nut.

If you choose a socket that is larger than the stand, you won't be able to use the wrench because it won't hold as well. Also, if you decide to use a smaller socket, the nut will not fit the socket. So choosing the right size socket is one of the most important and basic tasks you should be aware of.

2. Connect the socket

After determining the correct size socket to tighten or loosen the nut, attach the socket to the wrench. Most socket wrenches have removable sockets, so replacing your current socket with the one you want isn't a big deal.

3. Inspection tools

Before using a socket wrench, make sure that the socket to be installed is properly closed. Also, make sure that the tool is tight against the nut for tightening. Also, don't forget to check that the ratchet mechanism of the socket wrench is working properly.

4. Slide the socket over the nut

After checking the tool, place the tool on the nut and push the wrench over the nut to secure it. Now make sure the tool is tight and grips the clamp firmly. Also, make sure the socket wrench is set to tighten or loosen the nut. This can easily be done by turning the knob on the socket wrench.

5. Turn the zipper

Now that the wrench is in place, it's important to understand how it works. When you move the handle of the socket wrench clockwise, it turns counterclockwise. So the wrench tightens the nut. On the other hand, if you turn the handle clockwise and move it counterclockwise, the tool will loosen the bolt.

6. Keep spinning

If you want to use a socket wrench to tighten or loosen the nut, you have to turn it until it stops moving forward. When the nut is fully tightened, you will feel resistance when you move the wrench. On the other hand, if you use a wrench to loosen the nut, keep turning until the nut is loose and can be easily removed by hand. Do not loosen it all the way, as it may get caught in the connection.


This article explains what a socket wrench is and how to use it properly. If you haven't started using a socket wrench, be sure to buy a new set of socket wrenches. It's one of the most convenient and simple tools out there, perfect for all your important family members.