Best Pass Through Socket Set

The Mechanic’s Quick Guide for Selecting the Best Pass Through Socket Set!

If you work on cars, trucks, or farm equipment you need the best Pass Through Socket Set to make your job easier. A pass through socket is a unique design that enables the user to access hard to reach nuts on long threaded rods, studs, or bolts that a deep socket can’t reach.

As the name suggests, this type of socket allows a long protruding threaded rod or stud to passes through the socket as well as a special ratcheting wrench. And, as with a standard socket wrench set you can choose to tighten or loosen by activating a selector lever or button.

There are a lot of pass through socket sets available that typically cost from $25 to $60. But price alone isn’t a good indicator of quality when it comes to choosing which one is best. Its also important to consider the materials the tools are made from as well as the features.

My Background

As a veteran tool maker and machinist my job depends on having quality tools that will not fail when I need them most.  Quite often the work I do requires me to assemble/disassemble, or trouble shoot large tooling or machinery.

And when I’m not on the job I prefer to do most of my own auto mechanical work to save a few bucks.

I have learned which tool brands I can trust and what to look for before spending my hard earned money.  When I recommend a tool to someone I feel confident it will do the job they want it to do.

What are the Best Pass Through Socket Sets?

My RECOMMENDATIONS

I have done the foot work and narrowed these 5 sets down to my short list.  Each one is professional grade and comes with a lifetime warranty.  I believe these are the five best pass through socket sets currently available.

Product	Included	Sockets	More Info
Crescent CX6PT20	(20) Piece w/ 3/8" Drive Ratchet Wrench, Adapter, Storage Tray	(18) Sockets - Metric: 10 to 19mm, SAE: 3/8" to 7/8"
Gearwrench 893823	(23) Piece w/ 3/8” Drive Ratchet Handle, 3” and 6” Extensions, 3/8” Sq. Drive Adapter, Storage Case	(18) Sockets – Metric 10 to 19mm, SAE 3/8” to 7/8”
Craftsman 9-31088	(19) Piece w/ 3/8″ Drive Ratchet Wrench, and Storage Rack	(18) Sockets – Metric 10 to 19mm, SAE 3/8” to 7/8”
Channellock 39100 Ultra Access	(16) Piece w/ 13 Sockets, Pass-Thru Reversible Ratcheting Handle (72 teeth), 3 inch Pass-Thru Socket Extension, 3/8 inch Drive Quick Release Ratchet Adaptor, and Molded Carrying Case	42 SIZES w/ (13) 3/8" drive Sockets SAE and Metric Sockets: 5/16" to 7/8"; 8mm to 22mm; TORX E10 to E28; SPLINE M12 to M22
Sata ST09134SJ	(21) Piece w/ 3/8” Drive Ratcheting Wrench, 3” Extension, (2) Quick-Release Adaptors, Storage Case	(17) Sockets - Metric Sockets: 10 to 19mm, SAE Sockets: 3/8 to 3/4-inch

#1   Crescent CX6PT20 Pass-Thru 3/8” Drive 20 Piece Set

What’s Included?

• 3/8” Drive Ratchet Wrench, Adapter, Storage Tray
• Metric Sockets: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 19mm
• Fractional Sockets: 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16 and 7/8-inch
• Warranty: Standard Limited Lifetime to original purchaser

For those involved in the mechanical trades the Crescent brand has long been synonyms with quality tools. The Crescent 3/8” Drive Pass Through X6 Mechanics Tool Set CX6PT20 upholds that long tradition.

There is no need for deep sockets if you own this set of tools. The CX6 adaptability fits the (6) most commonly encountered fastener types including Hex, Rounded Hex, Square, 12 Point, Ex.TORX, and Spline.

And when it comes to those tough jobs the Crescent CX6PT20 Socket Set is up to 40% stronger than standard ratchet sets. When you are in those difficult to reach places you will appreciate the 5° ratcheting arc. With 72 clicks per revolution you can loosen or tighten a fastener in the tightest places. And because the ratchet wrench is up to 50% thinner than conventional ratchets you have even greater access.

Another important feature is the included Adapter that enables you to use the wrench for any traditional 3/8” drive sockets.

Because of the rounded handle with the no-slip knob the ratcheting wrench feels good in your hand. The reverse lever is easily accessible with your thumb for those jobs where you can’t see what you’re working on.

Each of the sockets is deep laser etched with the size for easy identification.  The manufacture’s model No. is etched below the size to make ordering a replacement easy in case you loose one.

With a name like Crescent you can feel assured the their CX6PT20 Pass-Thru 3/8” Drive 20 Piece Set will last a lifetime. Also Available in SAE or METRIC Only

 

 

#2   GEARWRENCH 23 Pc. Pass Thru Socket Set, 3/8″ Drive – 893823

What’s Included?

• 3/8” Drive Locking Flex-Gear Ratchet Handle, 3” and 6” Hollow Extensions, 3/8” Square Drive-quick release Adapter, Plastic Storage Case
• Metric Sockets: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18 and 19mm
• Fractional Sockets: 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16 and 7/8-inch
• Warranty: Standard Limited Lifetime to original purchaser

GEARWRENCH has been in business since 1996. They have become the go-to Company for many professional mechanics who demand innovative quality tools.

Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of the GEARWRENCH 893823 Pass Thru Socket set is the Flex-Gear Ratchet Handle with 11 locking positions. This enables the mechanic to access those hard-to-reach places where other wrenches can’t get to. The lock release button is conveniently located for easy access while working in dark, hard to see places.

GEARWRENCH introduced the first ratcheting system that needs as little as 5° clearance to drive a fastener. While many other brands require a 30° arc to be able to reverse direction and grab another bite to move the nut.

Included with the 893823 set are Fractional Size Sockets from 3/8″ to 3/4″ and Metric Sizes from 10 to 19mm

Two extensions allow even further reach to those troublesome deep-recessed nuts. A 3/8” Square Drive Adapter with a Quick Release allows you to use your conventional sockets with the flex ratcheting wrench.

Each piece of this set is hard chrome finished for lasting protection and is deep etched for easy identification. A plastic locking storage case keep all the pieces separated and ready to use.

The GEARWRENCH 23 Pc. 3/8″ Drive SAE & Metric 893823 is one of the best pass through socket sets available! And the price is surprisingly affordable.

 

 

#3 Craftsman 19 Pc. Universal Max AXESS Pass-Thru Socket Set, 9-31088 3/8” Drive

What’s Included?

• 3/8″ Drive Ratchet Wrench, Socket Rails and Storage Rack
• Metric Sockets: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, and 19 mm
• Fractional Sockets: 3/8 , 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16, and 7/8 in.
• Warranty: Craftsman’s Lifetime Guarantee

For those of us who spend a lot of time under the hood the Craftsman brand is synonymous with quality tools. A lot has changed since I bought my first set of Craftsman tools but you can still depend on them to deliver top performance. They still back all their hand tools with their famous Craftsman’s Lifetime Guarantee. And after all, isn’t that what really matters!

The Craftsman 19 Pc. Universal Max AXESS Pass-Thru Socket and Ratchet Set 9-31088 features a 3/8” Drive Ratcheting Wrench and 12 Point Sockets. Because of the pass through design, this wrench is up to 40% stronger than conventional ratcheting wrenches.

The sockets in this set have a specialized interior ridging that grabs hold of Quad, Hex and 12 Point Nuts or Bolts, and Rounded standard fasteners. They can easily turn both Spline and Ex. TORX fastener.

And don’t worry about those chewed-up bolts with rounded off hex heads, these sockets will grab them too!

Each tool is Black Oxide finished for added protection against rust. Smooth-polished and rounded ridges help prevent rubbing and scratching work surfaces. Each of the sockets is deep laser etched for easy identification.

If quality is important to you the Craftsman 19 Pc. Universal Max AXESS Pass-Thru Socket and Ratchet Set, 9-31088 will exceed your expectations.

 

 

#4 Channellock 39100 Ultra Access Pass-Thru Socket Set, 16 Piece

What’s Included?

• (1) 19mm Pass-Thru Reversible Ratcheting Handle (72 teeth)
• (1) 3 inch Pass-Thru Socket Extension
• (1) 3/8 inch Drive Quick Release Ratchet Adaptor
• 42 SIZES in 13 sockets: STANDARD (SAE) Sizes: 5/16”, 3/8”, 7/16”, 15/32”, ½”, 9/16”, 19/32”, 5/8”, 11/16”, 23/32”, ¾”, 13/16”, and 7/8”; METRIC Sizes: 8mm, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 21mm, and 22mm; EXTERNAL TORX Sizes: E10, E12, E14, E16, E18, E20, E22, E24, E26, E28; SPLINE Sizes: M12, M14, M16, M18, M20, M22
• Blow-Molded Plastic Storage Case
• Warranty: Lifetime to original purchaser

The Channellock 39100 Ultra Access Pass-Thru Socket Set is made to the renowned Channellock quality professional mechanics have come to expect.

One of the reasons I like the Channellock 39100 Ultra Access set is it is designed to handle just about any difficult to reach fastener on a long threaded stud with a minimum of tools.   Only 13 Sockets with Channellock’s unique UNI-FIT Universal Drive Technology  accommodates 42 SAE and Metric sizes in 4 different fastener styles: 6 Point, 12 Point, External TORX, and Spline.

The Pass-Thru Reversible Ratcheting Handle is 19mm and has 72 teeth lets you grab a bite in the tightest places.  All you need is 5° to swing the handle and you can tighten or loosen that stubborn nut hiding in the dark recesses of your engine compartment.  The low profile design fits in difficult to access places where other ratchet handles won’t fit.

…Ergonomic Design

The handle has an arch that fits in your hand naturally and the reversing lever is conveniently located so you don’t need to be able to see it to activate it.  Poly over-molding enables you to get a solid grip without hurting your hand.

Another feature that impresses me is the Quick-Release Ratchet Adaptor that lets you use any standard 3/8 inch Drive socket.  A 3 in. Pass-Thru Socket Extension enables you to easily reach nuts on long threaded studs.

Each item is made from rugged Chrome-moly steel that will withstand enormous torque without stripping or breaking.  The parts are tumbled, polished, and then chrome plated for many years of protection against rust.

The CHANNELLOCK 39100 Ultra Access Pass Thru set is made to comply with A.N.S.I. (American National Standards Institute) standards so you know that every socket will fit the fastener it was designed for.

If you are a professional or shade tree mechanic the CHANNELLOCK 39100 Ultra Access Pass Thru 16 piece Socket Set is a tool you will be proud to have in your toolbox.

 

 

#5   SATA 21-Pc. Pass-Thru Socket Set ST09134SJ w/ 3/8” Drive METRIC/SAE Sizes

What’s Included?

• 3/8” Drive Ratcheting Wrench, 3” Extension, (2) Quick-Release Adaptors, Plastic Storage Case
• Metric Sockets: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19mm
• SAE Sockets: 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 5/8, 9/16, 11/16 and 3/4-inch
• Warranty: Standard Limited Lifetime to original purchaser

SATA is a China based company and the first foreign hand tool manufacture to offer customers a lifetime warranty on its products.

The SATA 21-Pc. Pass Thru Socket Set ST09134SJ w/ 3/8” Drive METRIC/SAE Sizes is a good choice for both the professional and weekend mechanic. The components are made of heat treated high carbon Moly steel. Each piece is hard Chrome plated for protection against rust and wear. Each of the socket sizes are deep etched for easy identification.

The 3/8” Drive Ratcheting Wrench is well-designed with an over-molded grip for added comfort. A 3” long Extension provides added reach for those difficult-to-reach fasteners. Two Adapters, 3/8” and ¼” enable the use of conventional sockets.

Although the Hexagonal sockets are half as adaptive as 12 sided ones, they are much stronger. This is a feature you will appreciate when applying lots of torque to those stubborn fasteners.

A strong injection molded storage case is included with the set that keeps everything organized.

The overall quality of this tool set is very good compared with domestic brands and it has a lower price tag. But perhaps the most important feature of the SATA 21-Pc. Pass Through Socket Set ST09134SJ is the Lifetime Warranty that many professional mechanics have learned to trust.

The most common complaint is that the sockets tend to fit somewhat tight in the ratcheting wrench requiring a sharp tap to remove.

I believe the SATA ST09134SJ is the best imported pass-thru socket set available!

 

What is a Pass-Thru Socket Used For?

A Pass-Thru Socket and Wrench Set is best described as a specialty tool.  Its not a tool you will use every day, but for certain applications its indispensable.   It provides the perfect solution to a common problem every mechanic encounters  sooner or later.

When you are faced with removing or installing a recessed hex nut on a long threaded stud a pass through socket with a specially designed ratchet wrench is the only tool for the job.

Pass Thru Socket VS Standard Socket

Both a pass thru socket set and a standard socket set come with a ratcheting wrench that fits a set of sockets that are either SAE Fractional or Metric.  The main differences are:

1. A standard ratchet wrench has a square male drive that engages the socket from the inside.  The sockets utilize a square hole in the top to accept the drive. This design blocks a long protruding stud, limiting how far you can reach the nut.
2. A pass thru ratchet wrench has a spline-shaped female drive that grabs the specially designed socket from the Outside.  The sockets have an external hex or spline shape that fit into the ratchet wrench.  This design allows a stud of indefinite length to “pass through” both the socket and the wrench.

Although in certain instances a pass-thru socket set can be used for the same application that a standard set is typically used for, it is not a replacement.  It is a specialized tool designed for special applications.

Common Pass-Thru Socket Set Applications

Anyone who works on machinery, vehicles, or farm equipment will encounter situations where a pass thru socket set is needed. Here are just a few common applications:

• Removing or installing Strut Assemblies
• Valve Stems on all types of engines
• Assembling tensioning rods often used in construction
• Installing or removing plumbing valves
• Removing jam nuts form long studs used to hold housing covers in place i.e. gearbox
• Accessing any recessed nut with a long protruding stud
• Lagging down large machinery