Spanner Wrench Tools: The Many Uses of a Spanner Wrench
Spanner Wrench Tools: A spanner wrench or wheel nut puller is a small but powerful tool used to gain mechanical advantage and hold fast to turn heavy, rotating objects, usually fixed or revolving nuts or bolts–or stop them from spinning. This tool comes in many varieties of sizes and types. They are most commonly used on threaded fasteners such as bolt heads, nipples, and nut threads. The term ‘spanner’ is sometimes used interchangeably with ‘nut driver’ or ‘torch driver.’
There are two general categories of spanner wrenches: those with a threaded shaft and those that do not. Threaded twists are called ratchets, while non-threaded wrenches are called pliers. Most ratchets and pliers have a long straight post with a collar on end. The end of this straight shaft may contain teeth or hooks. These teeth or hooks allow the wrench to spin freely inside the pipe or other shaped opening.
A ratchet wrench, which may also be referred to as a turnkey, is one of the most basic spanner wrenches available. It has one end that is usually straight, but it can also have a tapered, V-shaped, or angle on either end. Ratchets are primarily used for threading clothes hangers, coat hangers, gaskets, plumbing tubing, and other similar fastener accessories. Since ratchets are so standard, they are often mass-produced in various sizes and configurations, providing a significant number of models to choose from.
The second type of wrench is the adjustable wrench, sometimes called a ratchet strap, spanner wrench, or threaded nut tool. These tools provide greater versatility in terms of positioning the teeth of the wrench. Some adjustable wrenches, such as the sockets words, also feature a screw threading feature that allows the user to tighten or loosen a bolt using a screw bolt. These wrenches are popular among plumbers because they can be configured to almost any size of the opening.
The third type of wrench is the key or keylock nut tool. This tool comes in different variations, depending on the hole’s size that needs to be drilled. For example, a hole needs to be trained in the right location to connect the lock to a door handle or other moving object; however, a keyed nut does not need to be drilled. This means that the entire assembly can be locked with the key used to operate the wrench. This variation is most commonly seen in the home and in the office, where many moving objects will require a permit.
A final wrench variation is a key used in electronic products. This type of wrench is similar to the key used in locking systems. However, this type is often used in electrical wiring instead of locking mechanisms. A key used in this fashion will usually have both a key ring and a clip to lock into place when the key is removed.
Each of the variations of wrenches described above can be purchased from a variety of sources. Most hardware stores and major home improvement retailers carry a wide range of twists. While there are a few specialty stores that specialize in only a single brand or type of wrench, it is typically possible to find various brands available at reasonable prices. Local discount warehouse centers may also provide a more comprehensive selection of more unique brands of the wrench.
Spanner wrenches are an excellent addition to any toolbox. They can be used for a wide variety of applications; providing plumber’s a great deal of versatility in their day-to-day tasks. While they are not standard household tools, they have a wide variety of uses that make them appropriate for many different professions. Due to their wide range of services and relatively low cost, spanner wrenches are an investment in good quality that many plumbers should consider investing in.
