Head nut under the distributor
 

A while ago a wrench was discussed to get at that pesky head bolt under the distributor. How many of you have the common Ford wrench that has one end for the plugs and the other end for the head nuts. I have several. I decided to make my own version of the reaching wrench to allow torquing the head nut, as well as allowing access to torque the head nuts or bolts under the oil filter on the early V8s. What better tool steel could be found? Pictured is a before and after of how I made my wrench. I did have to cut a 1/2" ratchet extension top off to add the 1/2" drive end of the tool. I used an end of a impact extension from HF. Some quick welding finished off the tool to attach the 1/2" drive end.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I bought a new one from Brattons .

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I don't have one of those original tools, in fact very few over here do so I made one by cutting a socket (I think you guys call them a box wrench) in half and welding a piece between the two halves. Result: a tool to do the job and a 1/2" drive at the top so I can use the torque wrench.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

Arizona Model A have them , great idea , saves pulling the dissy ,

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

Russ, very clever, and well done! Around here those original wrenches usually sell for $5 if your lucky enough to sell it. Think I'll grab one of my spares and do the same as you.
Hope I won't infringe on any copyright you have for the design! :).
Thanks for posting this very handy hint. Jeff

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

A set of crows foot wrenches in 3/8” or 1/2” drive should be in all tool boxes

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I have a bunch of these (genuine Snap-On) if anyone is interested, send me a PM.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

Carl,
Did you ROB a Snap-On Truck?:confused:
I'd visit my Snap-On Friends' Home & he had BOXES & BOXES of USED tools, didn't know where he got them & didn't ASK!
Bill Equipped

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

Have you ever figured out how much a crow's foot changes the actual torque applied to the nut? Maybe not much, but they do make a difference.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

At best, it's a minimal difference, especially if you use the crow's foot and the same torque values on all of the nuts.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I forgot to mention the main reason why I decided to make my own tool. When torquing head fasteners, I prefer to use a 6 point socket.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I have found that this is the best tool for the job. With the others you can't use a torque wrench. http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/he...e-tool-adapter

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

The SnapOn tool uses a torque wrench.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

ALL this for 1 head nut? You're NOT going to torque it 4 TIMES a day! With NO distributor cable clamp, it's a 5 MINUTE job.
Bill W.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I am getting up there Bill, but I'm not yet ready to give up my flathead tinkering.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

I am sure it does. I'll also bet it is much more expensive.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

The point was: "With the others you can't use a torque wrench." is not a true statement.

As to the cost: you get what you pay for.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

If the crow's foot is at a 90° to the wrench, the torque is the same as the wrench setting.

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

That nut can be EASILY "torqued" with a long OPEN END/BOX END wrench, with an " estimated" 55 Ft Lbs force. Example, it's easy to tighten lug nuts to 55 Ft Lbs, using the crank. THAT ONE HEAD NUT IS NOT A BIG DEAL!!!
Bill Commonsense

Re: Head nut under the distributor
 

Bill, no matter how long you beat that drum, the fact is, some people just like tools.