Thought I would add something this to this thread...
Two weeks ago I was doing the wheel bearings on our Sonic 170VBH in preparation for a trip to Colorado. Was on the the 4th wheel. When I tried to get the 3/4" socket onto one the lug nuts, it would not go on. I actually thought for a second that I had somehow replaced the 3/4" lug nut on the Sonic, with a 13/16" lug nut from my Star Craft. They are both 1/2" x 20 threads. (Last year had replaced the hubs and lug nuts on the Star Craft so had the old lug nuts laying around.) However, when I tried the 13/16" socket it was just a touch too loose. Then it dawned on me what the problem was, "Swollen Lug Nuts"!
Lug nuts that are made in two pieces are prone to rusting internally which causes the outer section to swell resulting in the socket no longer fitting. I had just replaced all 24 lug nuts on my Ford F-150 for this very problem!
So I got my BFH, hammered the 3/4" socket onto the swollen lug nut and was fortunate that I was able to get it off. Immediately ordered a set of 20 solid one piece stainless steel lug nuts from Amazon. They are 13/16" 1/2 x 20 60 degree conical seat to go with my aluminum wheels. I replaced them all this past weekend. (They also included two "spare" lug nuts in the order!) I also installed a TPMS system to monitor the tire pressures while under way.
I carry my torque wrench with me while traveling and test them every morning before heading out. I have seen way too many TT's on the side of the road with missing wheels to not do this simple check.
So check your nuts for swelling!
Just imagine being on the side of the road with a flat, and not being able to get one of those swollen nuts off...
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