Craftsman Screw Extractor, 6-Piece Set

When you're faced with the frustrating task of removing broken, damaged, or rusted screws and bolts, having the right tool can make all the difference. Enter the Craftsman Screw Extractor, 6-Piece Set (CMAT136). This set has been a game-changer in my toolbox, and I want to share my experience with it.

Right out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction of the extractors. Each piece feels solid and well-made, which is exactly what you need when dealing with stubborn fasteners. The set includes six different sizes of extractors and an impact adapter, making it versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks. The sizes range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, covering most common bolt sizes you'll encounter.

One of the standout features of this set is the reverse spiral flutes. These flutes are designed to provide maximum gripping power, and they do not disappoint. The reverse spiral design bites into the damaged bolt or screw, allowing you to turn it out with ease. This feature alone sets it apart from other extractors I've used in the past, which often struggle to get a good grip on the fastener.

In practical use, I found this set to be incredibly effective. I recently had a partially rounded bolt on the thermostat housing of my truck that had been giving me a hard time. After hours of trying various methods to remove it, I decided to give the Craftsman extractors a shot. Within minutes, the bolt was out, and I was able to complete the repair. The extractors worked so well that it felt almost effortless.

Another situation where this set proved invaluable was when I had to remove a stripped rear tube mounting bolt on a 6.0 Powerstroke engine. Anyone who has worked on these engines knows how frustrating it can be to deal with stripped bolts in tight spaces. The Craftsman extractors saved me from a potential nightmare, allowing me to remove the bolt without having to resort to more drastic measures.

However, it's worth noting that the wall thickness of the extractors can be a limitation in some cases. The thick walls provide the necessary strength, but they can restrict access in tight spaces. This is something to keep in mind if you often work in confined areas. Despite this, the overall performance and durability of the extractors make them a worthy addition to any toolbox.

The set's universal design is another plus. It fits a variety of fasteners, which means you don't have to worry about compatibility issues. Whether you're dealing with SAE bolts or other types of fasteners, this set has you covered. The included impact adapter is also a nice touch, allowing you to use the extractors with an impact wrench for even more versatility.

Durability is always a concern with tools like these, especially when you're applying a lot of torque to remove stubborn bolts. I'm happy to report that the Craftsman extractors have held up well under repeated use. The high-quality materials and construction ensure that they can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use without breaking or wearing down quickly.

In terms of value, this set is hard to beat. Given its performance and versatility, it's a worthwhile investment for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable tool to handle those tough jobs is priceless.

One minor gripe I have is that the set only includes five sockets, which might not be enough for some users. However, this is a minor issue considering the overall effectiveness of the extractors. If you find that you need more sizes, additional extractors can be purchased separately.

Overall, I highly recommend the Craftsman Screw Extractor, 6-Piece Set. It delivers on its promise of making the removal of broken, damaged, or rusted fasteners a breeze. The reverse spiral flutes provide excellent gripping power, and the universal design ensures compatibility with a wide range of fasteners. While the wall thickness can be a limitation in tight spaces, the durability and performance of the extractors more than make up for it.

Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this set is a valuable addition to your toolbox. It has saved me countless hours of frustration and made difficult jobs much easier to handle. If you're in the market for a reliable and effective screw extractor set, the Craftsman CMAT136 should be at the top of your list.