I'd go with a good deep socket vs a shallow one + extension if clearance allows.

 

One of the guys had a suggestion a while back for getting high quality sockets. If you see a Snap On or similar tools jobber truck, flag them down. They uually have a great selection on board the truck or can order anything you may need. Costs a little more initially but fits right and last a lifetime.

There are a few other similar brand names. Cornwall is one. Matco is another.

 

The Snap-On truck comes to my work pretty regularly actually. There's also a Sears down the road for Craftsman stuff.

I just got about 5 bolts off using a brand new 1/2 drive 5/8 (15.875mm, fits better) Craftsman deep socket.

But then I got to the top rear bolt... I now call it ****** ***** *** ****** **** *** because it destroyed the Craftsman socket. I also found two other 5/8 sockets, which it pulverized as well. Bolt appears fine though, almost as if it's mocking me.

I think I'll just go exchange the socket (lifetime warranty) and let PB sit on it for a while.

 

Did you try to tighten it first?

How long is your breaker bar? I had an 18 inch from Harbor Freight but I broke it at the swivel pins because they sell junk.

Try the Snap-On. Yes Craftsman does warranty, however, they now produce all that stuff either in Mexico or off-shore now and it is nowhere near the quality they once made.

I saw the episode of Orange County Choppers where Paul built a chopper for SnapOn's 100th anniversary. That bike was awesome. They have been in Milwaukee(?) for over 100 years making the finest commercial grade tools.

I bet the metals are different between the SnapOn and the Craftsman.

 

Glad to hear Sears will warranty your sockets, they told me to walk when I wanted to exchange a torque wrench I paid $200 for that crapped out in 3 months. Anyhow get yourself a 16mm deep impact socket, they are less prone to breaking like the regular sockets. Craftsman sockets for some reason have weak walls compared to other brands, I've broken more than a few just doing everyday stuff.

 

They're finally off. I used a 36inch breaker bar and two new sockets. This was by far the most difficult day so far. Thanks for the help.

 

Making good progress, those things look nasty!

 

Take the rest of the 2nd shift off. You've only been workin' half days anyway, it's your choice, first 12 or the second 12....

 

RAVE says to "Ensure number one piston is at TDC." How do I do that at this point?

 

Where are you in the RAVE?