Lug Wrench Handle

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delta31
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Lug Wrench Handle

Post by delta31 »

I have a couple of the original BUDD/Lug wrenches for the M37 and Power Wagon. I tried using a 3/4" mild steel rod as a handle and ended up bending the rod. The lug nuts were not that tight and came off with a breaker bar and socket. What were the original handles?
Were they rods made from hardened steel?
Thanks
Elwood
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Re: Lug Wrench Handle

Post by Elwood »

I don't know the grade of steel used for the OEM bars, but I'd try a higher carbon or alloy steel than "mild steel" which is probably a low carbon steel such as A36. Since I have some in my shop (and it's readily available through metal suppliers), my next choice would be 4140.
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Vaughn2
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Re: Lug Wrench Handle

Post by Vaughn2 »

There are two wrenches used; 41-H-1541 (bar socket wrench) and a torque wrench adjustable to 250 foot pounds. The bar is 3/4 dia., and tempered steel. You can buy one at the link below, 41-H-1541 interchanges with Budd 44201. The torque wrench is used to tighten the lug nuts to 200-225 foot pounds.
[https://www.armyproperty.com/product/71282/44201/]
John Mc
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Re: Lug Wrench Handle

Post by John Mc »

Vaughn2 wrote: Thu Jul 03, 2025 3:50 pm There are two wrenches used; 41-H-1541 (bar socket wrench) and a torque wrench adjustable to 250 foot pounds. The bar is 3/4 dia., and tempered steel. You can buy one at the link below, 41-H-1541 interchanges with Budd 44201. The torque wrench is used to tighten the lug nuts to 200-225 foot pounds.
[https://www.armyproperty.com/product/71282/44201/]
Link does not work.
1951 M37 "Brutus" w/Winch and 251 engine
Cal_Gary
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Re: Lug Wrench Handle

Post by Cal_Gary »

While I have the NOS bar and socket I prefer a 3/4 drive T-Bar and the 1 1/2 socket. In the garage I use the socket with a 1/2 to 3/4 adapter on my Dewalt impact gun as a time-saver.
Gary
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1954 M37 W/W
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