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How To

How to Use a Wrench

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(6 Ratings)

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

Things You'll Need:

  • Wrenches
  1. Step 1

    Use good quality tools and inspect them for defects before using them. Replace worn or defective tools.

  2. Step 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.

  3. Step 3

    Check the pipe or fitting. Are they clean and oil-free? Slippage can cause you serious injury.

  4. Step 4

    Always keep your wrist straight when using a wrench.

  5. Step 5

    Be sure that the opening of the wrench is in full contact with the bolt or nut before you apply pressure.

  6. Step 6

    Pull, don't push, and use a slow, steady motion.

  7. Step 7

    Don't stick a piece of pipe on the end of the wrench to improve leverage.

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.
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eHow Article: How to Use a Wrench

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