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  • Basic Hand Tools: Wrenches
  • From "Tool School"
    episode DTSC-101


    PHOTO

    Figure A
    PHOTO

    Figure B
    PHOTO

    Figure C
    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).

    advertisement


    Tips to Remember:

    • Always use the exact size.

    • Pull the wrench, don't push.

    • Never use an adjustable wrench when a lot of torque is involved.


    RESOURCES :
    Combination Wrench Sets (Husky Tools)
    Husky 15-piece Standard Combination Wrench Set 45005 / UPC 051655450054
    Husky 15-piece Metric Combination Wrench Set 45505 / UPC 051655455059

    Husky Tools can be found at The Home Depot

    Crescent Wrenches (available from Cooper Tools)
    4" Adjustable AC14V / UPC 037103461698
    6" Adjustable AC16V / UPC 0371034671810
    8" Adjustable AC18V / UPC 037103461940
    12" Adjustable AC112V / UPC 037103463173

    Cooper Tools
    3535 Glenwood Avenue
    Raleigh, NC 27612
    Phone: 919-781-7200
    Web site: www.coopertools.com

    Stanley Tools Product Group
    Website: www.stanleytools.com

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: