How to Use an Adjustable End Wrench
Adjustable end wrenches are commonly known as crescent, monkey and pipe wrenches. As the name implies, an adjustable wrench has a gripping head that can be made smaller or larger using a rotating spring. An adjustable crescent wrench is made for small jobs, such as removing bolts, nuts and other hardware. An adjustable pipe wrench is used for bigger jobs, such as removing common pipe fittings. An adjustable monkey wrench has a titled head for removing hardware in tight places. Adjustable wrenches are sold in several sizes as substitutes for stationary open-end wrenches.
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Instructions
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Chose an adjustable wrench appropriate for the job you are working on. Using an adjustable wrench that is too large for the job can damage the head of whatever hardware you are trying to loosen or tighten. Purchasing adjustable wrenches in a range of sizes will ensure that you have the right tool for each job.
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Place the jaws of the adjustable wrench around the hardware you are tightening or loosening. Spin the rotating spring forward to make the jaws smaller, or backward to make the jaws bigger.
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Turn the wrench counterclockwise to remove the hardware. To replace the hardware, simply start it in the hole with your hand, then use the adjustable wrench to finish the job by tightening the hardware clockwise.
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Tips & Warnings
Adjustable crescent wrenches range in size from four inches to 24 inches.
A crescent wrench has jaws positioned at a 30-degree angle to the handle, while a monkey wrench has jaws positioned at a 90-degree angle.
Adjustable wrenches that are improperly fitted may cause slippage and the rounding off of bolt heads.
References
- Photo Credit crescent wrench image by Richard Seeney from Fotolia.com
