Tired of scratching your wheels with your impact socket when removing lug bolts?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 250
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From: Charleston, SC
2005 C230K
Tired of scratching your wheels with your impact socket when removing lug bolts?
I'm very **** about scratches and the like, so I was tired of my impact socket lightly scratching the lug bolt wells on my wheels near the lip of the well, so after trying some different things I thought of what I think is a great idea that I've never really seen before. I used some 1" heat shrink tubing, slipped it over the socket, heated it with a heat gun, and got a great snug fit that basically gives it a tough rubberized coating that won't scratch. Best of all, the wrap doesn't move or slide at all, and it was completely free since I had everything lying around at the house. See the photo below for the finished product. Just figured I'd share so others can stop scratching their wheels. You could also maybe give this socket to the dealer or shop and tell them to use it when you get your car serviced for anything that requires removing the wheels.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,105
Likes: 11
From: Toronto, Canada
2019 C300 Wagon; '75 Triumph TR6; previous: 2004 C230 6spd sold after 17 years of driving
I have always for years wrapped my sockets i use for wheels with a electrical tape to prevent what was initially posted. I used either white or yellow tape so that I can see right away if it is torn or wearing out as the black impact socket will clearly show with this contrast. I also tape my cross wrench as well
