b5 s4 cv bolt - triple sq yes?

[Mark Rosenkrantz]

Jim,
Triple square bits (12 pt) are fairly common these days (not just on VAG
products).  They do make sense for some applications because the head design
allows for less slipping/stripping due to increased surface area.  The same
can be said for e-torx, although I don't understand why the USA
manufacturers went that route.

Anyhow, often a hex (6pt) bit will fit into a 12 pt. socket (in a pinch),
but my FLAPS (Advance Auto, NAPA, etc.) all stock triple squares on the
shelf.

Honestly, they're often way better than a hex fitting,  If you don't have
room for a vice grip after stripping a more standard CV bolt, you're hosed.

What really bothered me was VAG going to an triple square SECURITY socket
for the oil pan on some cars.  That was just stupid.

Mark Rosenkrantz

On Fri, Jan 14, 2011 at 10:13 AM, thejimrose <thejimrose at gmail.com> wrote:

> hey all - sanity check. buddy is mid b5s4 cv r+r and stuck on the fastener
> /
> tool for the cv bolts.
>
> IIRC they use a triple sq? looks a wee bit like like torx [which he bought
> from harbor freight than had minor meltdown when it didnt fit].
>
> tia
> jim
>