What Is a Spud Wrench?

Judging by its appearance, a spud wrench is very much like any other wrench. While some types of wrenches are capable of performing the same task, a spud wrench is designed for a very specific purpose. Its use is limited as changes in design have made its unique function all but obsolete.

Function

A spud wrench is intended to loosen and tighten a section of piping found on older model toilets. This piece of piping was called a "spud." A spud wrench is designed to work on the bolts, collar and other pieces of a spud unit. On some toilets, a spud connects the toilet bowl to the reserve tank.

History

Thomas Maddock made the Maddock Spud in the early 1900s. His design was eventually bought by the "Standard" toilet company, which used the spud until 1920. At that time, Standard began using an expansion type spud. Each of these required a unique spud wrench for installation or maintenance.

Types

Some spud wrenches are a set size, such as 2 inches, while others are adjustable. Most spud wrenches today are adjustable and can look very much like a large pipe wrench. There are few other applications in which a set size spud wrench would be useful.

Features

Some spud wrenches have two different wrench heads, one on each end of the tool. The wrench is designed to tighten or loosen not only the slip nut but the collar as well.

Availability

The original wrenches, which fit only a single size spud, can be difficult to locate. The adjustable wrenches can be found at stores hardware stores and home centers.