Socket-wrench set

A socket wrench set, was a kit of tools containing a socket wrench and assorted sockets. The socket wrench, more commonly referred to as a ratchet wrench, was a type of wrench, or tightening tool, that used separate, removable sockets to fit many different sizes of fittings and fasteners, most commonly nuts and bolts. The socket wrench included a ratcheting mechanism that allowed the nut to be tightened or loosened with a reciprocating motion, without requiring that the wrench be removed and refitted after each turn. Typically, a small lever behind the socket switches the wrench between tightening and loosening mode. The sockets were attached to the ratchet through a square fitting that contains a spring loaded ball detent mechanism to keep the sockets in place. The advantage of the socket wrench system was speed - it was much faster than a conventional wrench, especially in repetitive bolt-on or bolt-off usage.

A breaker bar was often included in a socket wrench set. A breaker bar was a long non-ratcheting bar that was used with socket wrench style sockets. Breaker bars were used to 'break loose' very tight fasteners because their additional length allowed the same amount of force to generate significantly more torque than a standard length socket wrench. The use of a breaker bar also prevented damage to the ratcheting mechanism of a socket wrench.

Appearances

 * Lando Calrissian and the Flamewind of Oseon