Switched from my old impact to a stubby Milwaukee for tight spaces

Always thought my full-size was fine, but after struggling with a starter bolt on a Ford in a cramped bay for 45 minutes, I grabbed a buddy's M12 stubby. Got it out in like 10 seconds flat, so I bought one the next day. Anyone got other go-to tools for those impossible spots?

3 comments

3 Comments

fiona_clark16d ago

Gotta disagree a little here, @the_drew. I get that the stubby makes life easier, but I think people jump to those too quick without trying to work smarter first. A universal joint or a wobble extension can make your full size impact fit in most tight spots just fine without spending extra money. Not saying stubbies are bad, they are great for the right job. But I see too many mechanics buying a tool when a different technique or socket setup wouldve solved the problem just as fast.

the_sam3mo ago

Sounds like you fought that bolt for 44 minutes and 50 seconds longer than you needed to. The right tool really does make all the difference, even if you feel silly buying something new. Welcome to the stubby life, it only gets better from here.

the_drew3mo ago

Man, that feeling of finally getting the right tool after a long struggle is SO real. Spent what felt like forever on a simple job last month because my regular wrench wouldn't fit in the tight spot. Felt like a total genius when the stubby showed up, and also a little dumb for not getting one sooner. That "stubby life" is a game changer for sure, no more skinned knuckles and bad words.