What type of wrenches do you use for brake bleeding?

[JoshRountree]

I bled my brakes for the second time this past weekend and every time I do it I get an uneasy feeling with the wrenches I'm using. They never feel like they bite that well. I tried to bend a wrench over so it would fit better, but ended up breaking it. Does anyone have any recommendations on box wrenches they use specifically for brake bleeding. I think a box end wrench merged with a deep socket would work awesome, the hose could go through the socket.

Here's some stuff I've found

http://www.toolsource.com/double-ended-brake-bleeder-wrench-p-67681.html

http://www.toolsource.com/brake-bleeder-wrench-opening-p-51080.html

 

[MT Mike]

Line wrenches, available in several styles.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/search_keyword.asp?keyword=line+wrench

 

[JoshRountree]

Line wrenches, available in several styles.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/search_keyword.asp?keyword=line+wrench

YES!!! That's exactly what I was thinking, exactly!

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/tools.asp?tool=all&Group_ID=262&store=snapon-store

Now, is there a cheaper option from Craftsman...?

 

[ChiXJeff]

You should be able to get line wrenches from any major manufacturer.

 

[JoshRountree]

I've got line wrenches, it just seems hard to get a good bite on the bleeder where it's at, especially the rears.

 

[kastein]

I don't like using open wrenches or line wrenches on bleeders after rounding a few off... I loosen with a properly sized 6 point socket (3/8" front, ZJ rear disks use 3/8" also, don't remember what XJ rear drums use) and then use the closed end of an appropriately sized box wrench to open/close as I bleed. Then I snug them back down with the 6 point socket.

I also replace all bleeders with speed bleeders when I get the chance, assuming they make a speed bleeder that fits. regular 3/8"-24 speed bleeders work for the front, if you do the ZJ disc conversion they fit the rear as well assuming you take the rust and maybe 1/32" of metal off the top of the boss the bleeder screws into. Otherwise they bottom out on the hex head before the bleeder actually seals. I forget what size the stock XJ drums take for a bleeder, and I believe that it actually depends on whether you've replaced the cylinders since some brands of replacement cylinders come with a different size bleeder screw.

 

[87manche]

I use a deep well socket.

and I second speed bleeders, worth every penny, especially when you have to bleed them on the trail or in the campground after a trail repair.