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Top view of black spline socket with ASTA logo and A-CVS16 markingAngled view of socket showing drive end recess, side detent hole and ASTA markingTilted view of impact socket showing internal splines, side hole and ASTA A-CVS16 text

Central Valve Socket for BMW FORD MINI, 1/2-Inch Drive, 22mm, 16-Angle Profile

Specialized 16-angle central valve socket for VANOS and VCT camshaft adjusters in BMW, FORD, and MINI engines.

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Description

Central Valve Socket for BMW FORD MINI, 1/2-Inch Drive, 22mm, 16-Angle Profile

Brief Overview

This is a precision-engineered central valve socket designed specifically for servicing camshaft position adjusters (VANOS and VCT systems) on modern BMW, FORD, and MINI vehicles. The 16-angle spline profile engages the central locking connection on camshaft adjuster valves, eliminating guesswork and rounding risk during critical valve work. If you service these platforms regularly, this socket is a must-have—pair it with complementary 1/2-inch drive sockets to build a comprehensive toolkit for valve and adjuster maintenance.

Key Features

  • 16-Angle Spline Profile: Specifically engineered to fit the central valve connection without slippage or cam-out.
  • 1/2-Inch Square Drive: Compatible with standard 1/2-inch ratchets and impact tools.
  • 22mm Socket Size: Matches the exact OEM specification for VANOS and VCT adjuster valves.
  • Impact-Rated Construction: Heavy-walled design with phosphate/black-oxide finish withstands pneumatic and electric impact tool use.
  • Detent Hole Design: Integrated retaining pin receptacle ensures secure tool attachment during high-torque operations.
  • Compact Length: Short, flanged design provides optimal clearance in tight engine bay spaces typical of modern compact engines.

Why This Socket Matters for Your Shop

Reduced Service Time: BMW, FORD, and MINI camshaft adjuster work is routine in modern shops. This purpose-built socket eliminates trial-and-error fitting, cutting minutes off each valve service.

OEM Specification Match: Directly addresses Ford OEM codes 303-1661-3 and 2,450,487, plus BMW VANOS systems—high-demand service jobs that justify stocking this specialized tool.

Damage Prevention: The precision 16-angle profile prevents rounding and striping of the central valve connection, protecting customer engine investments and reducing callbacks.

Profitable Inventory: Central valve work on B36, B38, and B48 BMW engines, plus Ford EcoBoost units, is recurring diagnostic and maintenance business. Stock this socket to capture upsell opportunities on valve cleaning, carbon removal, and adjuster replacement services.

Technical Specifications

Specification Detail
Drive Size 1/2-Inch Square Drive
Socket Size 22mm
Profile Type 16-Angle Spline
Material Chrome-Molybdenum Steel
Surface Finish Phosphate/Black-Oxide
Impact Rating Yes (suitable for pneumatic/electric impact tools)
Primary Applications BMW VANOS, Ford VCT camshaft adjusters
Compatible Vehicles BMW B36, B38 (1.2L & 1.5L), B48 (2.0L); Ford 1.0 EcoBoost
OEM References Ford 303-1661-3, 2,450,487

Business Value for Resellers

This socket is a targeted, high-margin specialty tool:

  • Low production volume → limited competition
  • High technical requirement → justifies premium pricing
  • Strong OEM correlation → builds customer confidence in your technical capability
  • Recurring service application → repeat orders from shops specializing in European vehicles

Stock this socket as a cornerstone of your BMW/FORD/MINI service line. Professional shops servicing these platforms will recognize its purpose immediately and see it as evidence of your inventory depth.