I am replacing the EFE/EGR vacuum switch (ported vacuum valve), but to get it out, you need a special "thermal vacuum socket" as my textbook calls it. It looks like an O2 sensor socket except I measured this new switch at 1.25" inches so none of the parts stores had anything that was big enough for this switch. Does anyone know where I can find a tool like this, Schucks, NAPA, and a neighborhood parts store didn't have anything. THey said to look at Snap-On so I looked online but I couldn't find anything under the specialty socket section. I saw some o2 sockets, and they are like 50 bucks. So if that's the case, I guess I'll just have to retrofit or try to cut a window in to one of my sockets. There isn't any clearance down there, and the car has a vacuum leak I gotta fix. Are snap on tools really worth the money? Here is what I'm working with.
Nothing wrong with Snap-on tools. That takes a special socket that looks like a deep-well with one side cut out. Probably wouldn't be cheap, and you may never use it again. I would just take off anything else in the way and use a regular wrench or adjustable (Cresent) on it. Reid
A guy I work with tells me if you use the specialty tool once it was worth the cost. I like to get at least 5 uses out of a tool before I think it's worth the cost. Snap-on tools are worth the extra cost when it comes to end wrenches and their sockets and wrenches, in my opinion. Other than those few things, Snap-on is the same quality as Craftsman. If the one on there is broke, then break is some more and put a regular socket on there. When putting the new one on use some Permatex or Locktite thread sealer and use a line wrench on it. If you can't get that on then use an end wrench. Make it tight (the factory made them ball buster tight) and let the thread sealer do its job.
There's another brand of tool???? No offence, but Craftsman is hardly the same quality as Snap On. Not even on the same playing field. Craftsman tools are not proffessional quality. When you rely on your tools everyday for your livelyhood, only Snap On will do. :TU: There is a difference
Rob, My company wont even allow me to carry Craftsman tools in my truck. Only Snap on, Mac and Matco are of approved quality. Craftsman and other brand tools are against company policy....period. Many a time when working on a piece of automotive equipment, the shop owner will casually look over my tools to see if Im a "proffessional" technician. Ive gotten many comments about that. Dont get me wrong, theres nothing wrong with Craftsman for the average do it yourselfer or weekend machanic. But in the industry, you need to rely on your tools to get the job done. I wasnt always a die hard Snap on guy. I started off using Craftsman like everyone else. But you learn early on that those tools just dont cut it. And Im not new to this, Ive been in the automotive industry for close to 20 years. But, getting back on topic....Joe Kelch is right on the money. Break off the vacuum nipples and put a regular socket on it. They are quite tight arent they?
That would work, but I need to be able to get a new part in as well. I need the car to be in running order until I have everything I need to fix it so I can't just take it out and wait until I can track down the tool. I have tried using some various wrenches in there but it is in a position to where I can't get a good angle, and yes it is very tight in there.
I'd still bust the thing off and use a socket. Getting it on will be a breeze in comparison. If you have a stubby wrench that would be great. If not you can angle your end wrench and still get it on tight enough for the sealer to do its majic. My 2 cents about vacuum lines: Those vacuum lines aren't the most important things to that engine. The only vacuum lines that I think are needed are the heater controls, power brakes, vacuum advance and the vacuum break. Other than that, plug them off. Unless you have to get an emissions test in the next couple of days. But surely there is a way to make a 27 or 29 year old car exempt from emissions where you're from?? Good luck!!
OK I'll try that. I agree, as soon as I put the new valve in, I'm gonna put caps onto some of the lines.
that is what i did on my 75 le sabre 's 350. i broke off the old one,and used wrench at an angle to put new one in.
