regarding fastener sizes

[nevets]

In attempting to remove the front drum brake hydraulic bridge pipe, I discovered that the size of the hex-head retaining nut was a bit under 7/16" (perhaps 13/32"?), yet other retaining nuts in the brake system are 7/16". Could this be a Whitworth size? Before I buy a set of Whitworth wrenches, can anyone say whether it's really necessary?

PS - Yes I rounded up the retaining nut corners pretty good trying a variety of tools, including metric and adjustable wrenches...will probably have to buy a new set of pipes. darn that Neaderthal gene.

 

[Johnny]

Usually a vise grip will work if you can get it on the nut. Lacking that, sometimes a flat screwdriver inserted against the nut and wrench will help.

If you've rounded off the nut a Whitworth wrench won't help much at this point.

 

[Keoke]

WOT !!! Ain't you got no visegrips even little ones???--- :laugh:

 

[nevets]

Thanks for the responses.

Yes Keoke, I have vicegrips and I actually did use them which resulted in further mutilation of those once beautiful hex head nuts. I'm getting close to the point of cutting the pipe off so I can remove the wheel cylinders. In anticipation of that event, I already ordered pre-bent replacement pipes from Classic Tube.

 

[AH100M]

Buy Whitworth wrenches. It's really necessary. Combo wrenches and sockets. Brag to your friends who only have SAE/Imperial (erroneously known as "standard") and metric tools.

I even have BSF taps...

 

[nevets]

Bill
Is there any way to know which fasteners on my Healey are Whitworth and which are English...other than trial and error?
Thanks

 

[AH100M]

Well, the earlier the car the more Whitworth fasteners. In general, the cooling, intake and exhaust systems have the most. But it's more often "if a 1/4" is too small and a 3/8" is too big, it's a Whitworth fastener.