Blue Spot Tools Individual 20mm Shallow Hex Socket (1/2" Drive) 01732

Blue Spot Tools Individual 20mm Shallow Hex Socket (1/2" Drive)

MPN: 01732

Barcode: 5028734017328

Size: 20mm

Weight: 0.08kg

Overview:

The Blue Spot Tools 20mm Shallow Hex Socket is a chrome vanadium, 1/2" drive socket for high-torque hand tool work. The six-point hex opening engages the full flat face of the fastener head, giving the socket firm contact under load.

Chrome vanadium resists deformation under repeated high-torque use. The mirror-polished surface stays clean and corrosion-resistant, while the knurled band at the socket's midsection lets you pick up and position it confidently - useful when working in an engine bay or a cramped workshop space.

The 38mm shallow depth keeps the overall socket height short, so it works in locations where clearance above the bolt head would prevent a longer socket from seating square. It pairs with any standard 1/2" drive tool.

Key Features and Benefits

• Chrome Vanadium Steel: Resists deformation under repeated high-torque hand tool use
• 569Nm Torque Rating: Handles a wide range of mid-to-large metric automotive fasteners
• Six-Point Hex Profile: Engages flat fastener faces throughout the arc of rotation
• Mirror Polished Surface: Corrosion-resistant and straightforward to clean after use
• Knurled Midsection: Lets you pick up and position the socket in confined or greasy spaces
• 1/2" Drive Connection: Works with any ratchet, torque wrench, or breaker bar
• 38mm Short Depth: Keeps the socket usable where overhead clearance is restricted

Specs & Attributes

• Size: 20mm
• Drive: 1/2"
• Type: Hex (6-point)
• Material: Chrome Vanadium (CrV)
• Finish: Mirror polished with knurled grip band
• Max Torque: 569Nm
• Depth: 38mm
• Weight: 0.08kg

Typical Applications

• Driveshaft and CV joint bolts
• Subframe and body mount fasteners
• Engine mount and gearbox bracket fasteners
• Steering component and rack mounting bolts
• Mid-size metric bolts on plant and agricultural equipment

How to Use

• Measure the Fastener: Confirm the bolt head measures 20mm across the flat faces before fitting the socket.

• Fit to the Drive Tool: Attach the socket to a 1/2" drive ratchet, torque wrench, or breaker bar.

• Seat Correctly: Set the hex opening onto the fastener head and verify it is fully seated with no play before applying force.

• Apply Rotational Force: Drive the fastener in the required direction - stay within the 569Nm limit.

• Remove the Socket: Disengage the drive tool, then grip the knurled band to pull the socket free by hand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is a 20mm socket commonly used for?
  A 20mm socket covers driveshaft bolts, subframe fasteners, gearbox brackets, and a range of mid-size metric bolts across automotive and workshop applications. It is a practical size for general vehicle maintenance and mechanical work.

• What is the difference between a shallow socket and a deep socket?
  A shallow socket has a shorter internal depth, suited to bolt heads and accessible fasteners where clearance above is limited. A deep socket is significantly longer and is designed for fasteners where the threaded section protrudes well beyond the nut, such as wheel studs or suspension bolts with long shank lengths.

• Why is 1/2" drive the right choice for high-torque fasteners?
  The 1/2" square drive transfers force across a larger contact area than smaller drive sizes. This distributes load more evenly through the connection between tool and socket, reducing the risk of slipping or failure when significant torque is applied to stubborn or heavily loaded fasteners.

• Can a socket be used with a universal joint extension?
  Yes. A universal joint fits between the socket and the drive tool, allowing the socket to work at an angle when a fastener is off-axis or obstructed. Note that working at a significant angle reduces effective torque transfer and may not be suitable for the highest-load applications.

• What is the risk of using an oversized socket on a fastener?
  An oversized socket will not engage all six flat faces of the fastener head correctly. When torque is applied, it contacts only the corners, which concentrates the load and rounds them off. A rounded fastener becomes significantly harder to remove and may require extraction tools. Always confirm the socket size before driving.

Summary

The Blue Spot Tools 20mm Shallow Hex Socket is a 1/2" drive CrV steel socket rated to 569Nm for high-torque hand tool applications. The 38mm depth suits bolt heads in access points where overhead clearance rules out a longer socket. This socket is backed by the Blue Spot Tools Lifetime Guarantee.