Wrench recommendations

sbeausol · May 17, 2015

I'm getting ready to install an OEM 3rd function kit on a L3240HST. The manual states the removal of the front loader frame and subframe is required. As I began to get into it today, I quickly realized that my Craftsman 100 piece kit doesn't fit the bolts holding the FEL frame. Looks like it is 24mm, my tool kit maxes out at 21mm. It also occurred to me that the hydraulic tube replacements look like they are 26mm, requiring an open ended wrench. I need to add a few of these larger sizes to my wrench and socket collection to get this job done. Will I be fine with whatever I find at Sears in this category? The manual calls for 165 lbs-ft of torque on the FEL frame and 20-40 lbs-ft of torque on the hydraulic lines. It may seem like a naive question (it is), but If can get help making sure I get the right tools for the job, why not? Input is greatly appreciated!

jeff9366 · May 17, 2015

You can buy wrenches and sockets, singles or sets, including 'Craftsman', much cheaper on eBay, delivered, than you can in a Sear's store.

LINK: Metric in Wrenches | eBay

Fawken · May 17, 2015

When you get that big it's been my experience that the Lowes Kobalt or Autozone brands are more than adequate. Not sure about Craftsman these days.

AStanton · May 17, 2015

I bought a set of big sockets in metric and standard from Northern Tool. One set is 6-sided and can be used with air guns. Each set was about $150.00.

Wagtail · May 17, 2015

Whilst you're buying wrenches, I'd also have a look in your set(s) and see if there's a 17mm. If not, get one or three.

For some reason I've discovered that sets tend to skip that size... one of the most common sizes on tractors & implements. :confused3:

MHarryE · May 17, 2015

The DIN (German) standard for a M10 bolt is 17mm hex which is what I find in most wrench sets, but the ISO (international Standards Organization) is M16 which for some reason is hard to find. Fortunately M16 is very close to 5/8" so there is always that alternative. Caterpillar uses a lot of M10 bolts on sheet metal (approximately 3/8" and many Cat designers were old school English system and 3/8" was very common for inch design) so I always need M16. Our John Deere 6230 is German and uses M17. Kubota is of course Japanese and the Japanese standard hex for M10 fasteners is M14. So no matter how many wrenches you have invariably you will not have the right one handy when you need it.

sandyc · May 18, 2015

I found that Amazon sells large metric sized wrenches and sockets at a reasonable price. I bought an impact set of sockets for the larger sizes that are 1/2 inch drive. They are thick wall for strength but my torque wrench doesn't care and for the most part, nuts and bolts on a tractor usually are easy to get to.

SLIMSHADIE · May 18, 2015

I believe in quality tools but you may get away buying stuff from Harbor Freight if you have one in the area, for a single job.

itsjustme · May 18, 2015

I would only buy the wrench / socket needed for the job. After buying a complete set of 3/4 drive sockets for one project I haven't used mine since.
Now they have to be stored, end up in the way often and have to be shuffled around.

if I had to do it over I would have went to Northern or Tractor Supply bought only what was needed

BUT if you like to buy / own tools now is the perfect time to add to your set.

CurlyDave · May 18, 2015

I second that HF suggestion.

Quality has increased a lot in recent years, and prices are very hard to beat.

You do not need the same quality as a professional mechanic.