What Sockets Do You Prefer?

I am sure my approach to the bolt was lacking. I have not had good luck with stuck bolts. I didn't realize this would take so much torque. I stopped and noticed the bolt edges had very slight rounding at the edges-the other bolt which I didn't attempt was pristine. I assumed it was my socket, but again, my technique I am sure was to blame also. I just want to eliminate any tools I have that would make things worse.

Others have suggested soaking with penetrant-PB Blaster, WD40 and let it soak. I shouldn't need longer than an 18" breaker would you think? No rust on bolt or caliper FWIW.

 

^I had a 17" ratchet and the caliper bolts wouldn't budge.

The caliper bolts have loctite from the factory. Whoever did your brakes last may have also put some loctite on the threads. Penetrant doesn't work on loctite. Heat does. If you don't have a good impact wrench, you'd need to heat the bolt up with a propane torch.

 

Ah, this makes sense. How long do you apply heat? Any risk of ruining the caliper seals that way?

 

^Figure 2 minutes per bolt? The flame tip should be directed on the bolt heads and caliper lugs. They are far enough from seals. Though the seals can withstand high brake temps anyway. Wipe the area free of grease and oils. (Most penetrants are flammable.) Cover your CV boot with tinfoil if your aren't confident in your torch skills.

Fun fact: one guy in my off road club had to use a M18 high torque (1200 ft-lb) to loosen the caliper bolts on a Nissan Versa. That's a Corolla-sized economy car.

 

Socket and wrench tests.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pX4uHYEPOuY

 

Thank you for the tips.