Thread: Whitworth tools

You need to realise that for Whitworth spanners, the sizes are the size of the bolt, not the spanner opening. And even here, there is opportunity for confusion - for virtually all bolts and nuts manufactured since early WW2, the nut and bolt head size is for the bolt next size down (which is the size specified for BSF). This means, for example, that for a 1/4" bolt, you need a 3/16W spanner. There may be some sets that use these BSF sizes instead of the standard ones.

However, with this caution, looking at the spanner sizes you list, the smaller set covers the smallest you are likely to need, 3/16W, needed for 1/4" bolts, and 1/2" will cover 9/16 bolts. About the only one I can think of that may be larger is the nut on the transfer case output shaft, but you certainly will not need the three largest, so perhaps getting the smaller set and a single socket to fit this nut might be the way to go.

Also, be aware that there are almost certainly UNF bits on it by this time (one likely one is replacement tie rod ends) which will require AF spanners. And it would be surprising if there are not some metric ones as well.

John

Best investment on my project by a country mile...

A good quality Whitworth socket set from Tradetools and a hand full of second hand ring spanners off e-bay.

https://www.tradetools.com/product-r...th-socket-sets

Cheers,

Lou

Thanks for your input John and Lou - very helpful.

Cheers

Andrew

Andrew, I'd agree with the advice you've already received, but add searching at swap-meets or second-hand tool sellers at local markets. I've built up a double set of Whitworth sockets that way, plus numerous ring/open-enders.
You actually see and handle what you're laying out your readies for.......
Cheers, Rob Shackleton

Originally Posted by JDNSW

Also, be aware that there are almost certainly UNF bits on it by this time (one likely one is replacement tie rod ends) which will require AF spanners. And it would be surprising if there are not some metric ones as well.

John

Not on Wombat there aren't, I know I pulled her apart. Mind you, considering I had to use the angle grinder here and there, there isn't a full set anyway.

Can't comment on the 109.

Depending on what you're spending on the spanner sets, you can't go wrong having a few extras. Keep an eye on ebay for cheap sets (my set of Whitworth sockets cost $35 from Sydney). I was lucky enough to have inherited enough spanners to do the job so can't comment on spanner prices but you see stupid prices on ebay for second hand ones. I'd certainly be checking out the tool stalls at markets.

saw these and thought of you.


If you require any parts (small) let me know and I'll get the Mrs to knit me up a nice black Balaclava and will pay them a visit in the dead of night.
cheers,
D