Often, you may run into situations where you will need a wrench. You may need to tighten or loosen a lag bolt on your deck, or a machine bolt on your lawnmower. Size is very important because it is easy to damage the head of a bolt (so always use the exact size required by the job). An adjustable wrench is very handy, but shouldn't be used in situations where a lot of torque is required. Host Cheri Van Bynen distinguishes between the two types of wrenches -- combination and adjustable.
Combination Wrench
- Has an open end and a closed end.
- The open end (Figure A) should be used when access is limited; the boxed or closed end (figure B) is best used when you have access all around the bolt.
Adjustable Wrench
- A versatile wrench that includes a thumbscrew to adjust the opening of the wrench.
- May have size increments on the head, making it easy to determine the size of the bolt (figure C).