How to Use a Wrench
Always choose the right tool for the job. Using your wrench as a hammer may not only damage the tool and the work surface, but it could cause you injury.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Use good quality tools and inspect them for defects before using them. Replace worn or defective tools.
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2
Maintain your tools. Make sure that the teeth of a pipe wrench are clean and that the teeth are sharp. Worn or greasy jaws are more likely to slip.
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3
Check the pipe or fitting. Are they clean and oil-free? Slippage can cause you serious injury.
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4
Always keep your wrist straight when using a wrench.
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5
Be sure that the opening of the wrench is in full contact with the bolt or nut before you apply pressure.
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6
Pull, don't push, and use a slow, steady motion.
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7
Don't stick a piece of pipe on the end of the wrench to improve leverage.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Keep your tools away from extreme heat, which can expand the metal and cause dangerous structural problems.
Protect yourself from losing your balance if the wrench slips or a bolt breaks. Stand on a solid surface with both feet planted firmly on the floor and don't lean into the work.
Never use a wrench on moving machinery.
