Turning a hard to access nut?
Working on the propane conversion of my gas stove. One of the orifices to be changed is in a very hard to access location - shown in the photo. The orifice is the "nut" I'm referring to, which you can fit a wrench onto.
Although it is possible to get a wrench on it there is a very limited range of motion due to surrounding apparatus. I've tried to mark this in the photo with the red lines. The very short arc that the wrench can turn in means that it never gets a 'bite' on the orifice / nut and I can't even loosen it.
It would be much more work to disassemble the other parts in this area, so I'm hoping for a solution to remove and then reinstall just the orifice part. Maybe there's a specialty type of wrench... or something else I'm not thinking of.
tools bolts wrench
|
show 2 more comments
Working on the propane conversion of my gas stove. One of the orifices to be changed is in a very hard to access location - shown in the photo. The orifice is the "nut" I'm referring to, which you can fit a wrench onto.
Although it is possible to get a wrench on it there is a very limited range of motion due to surrounding apparatus. I've tried to mark this in the photo with the red lines. The very short arc that the wrench can turn in means that it never gets a 'bite' on the orifice / nut and I can't even loosen it.
It would be much more work to disassemble the other parts in this area, so I'm hoping for a solution to remove and then reinstall just the orifice part. Maybe there's a specialty type of wrench... or something else I'm not thinking of.
tools bolts wrench
5
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
2
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
Working on the propane conversion of my gas stove. One of the orifices to be changed is in a very hard to access location - shown in the photo. The orifice is the "nut" I'm referring to, which you can fit a wrench onto.
Although it is possible to get a wrench on it there is a very limited range of motion due to surrounding apparatus. I've tried to mark this in the photo with the red lines. The very short arc that the wrench can turn in means that it never gets a 'bite' on the orifice / nut and I can't even loosen it.
It would be much more work to disassemble the other parts in this area, so I'm hoping for a solution to remove and then reinstall just the orifice part. Maybe there's a specialty type of wrench... or something else I'm not thinking of.
tools bolts wrench
Working on the propane conversion of my gas stove. One of the orifices to be changed is in a very hard to access location - shown in the photo. The orifice is the "nut" I'm referring to, which you can fit a wrench onto.
Although it is possible to get a wrench on it there is a very limited range of motion due to surrounding apparatus. I've tried to mark this in the photo with the red lines. The very short arc that the wrench can turn in means that it never gets a 'bite' on the orifice / nut and I can't even loosen it.
It would be much more work to disassemble the other parts in this area, so I'm hoping for a solution to remove and then reinstall just the orifice part. Maybe there's a specialty type of wrench... or something else I'm not thinking of.
tools bolts wrench
tools bolts wrench
edited yesterday
Machavity
7,83711839
7,83711839
asked 2 days ago
DaveInCazDaveInCaz
1,3241832
1,3241832
5
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
2
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
5
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
2
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago
5
5
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
1
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
2
2
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
10 Answers
10
active
oldest
votes
A Crowfoot Wrench would work nicely. A 10 piece set of these is only $15.00
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
add a comment |
The best tool I have found for the type of application you are working with is a 12-point split-box wrench. These are also available in a 6-point design.
(Picture Source: http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14256/css/Types-and-Uses-Continued-156.htm)
The split end lets the wrench get onto a fitting even when a tubing is inline. The box construction also gets better grip on the fitting than trying to use a conventional open ended flat sided wrench. The 12-point design and ability to flip the wrench over if needed from stroke to stroke makes this the tool of choice if the working angle to the fitting is small.
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
add a comment |
I'm a gas fitter and service tech. My bag has the tools to do the job. Sometimes these tight spots require a bit of a turn with one tool and a bit of a turn with another. A lot of the available arc can be chewed up by lash, torsion and flex of components. The first tool I'd reach for, for something like this is a line wrench. I'd get a 12 point
Amazon
After all, this is the tool made for this job
If that didn't work it's the 6" or 8" Knipex Cobra
Home Depot
These are amazing and are designed to avoid stripping and marring.
add a comment |
What you may be overlooking, or what may not be present on your wrench, is the the open wrench is not square to the shaft. It is canted by 1/24 of a circle (15 degrees).
As a result, there's a 30 degree difference between the wrench (normal) and (flipped).
That means you only need a 30 degree arc of motion, not a 60 degree arc. When you run out of travel, remove the wrench, flip it over, raise it 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees), and it will fit on the next flat.
If your range of motion is being compromised by the wrench being all loosy-goosey on the nut (that's a technical term), then you have the wrong size wrench. Do not proceed further because you'll damage the hex corners, which will make the lash problem much worse. In particular, watch out for English vs. Metric. The only wrench sizes that match up are 3/4=19mm, all others will be sloppy.
An adjustable wrench (commonly called a 'monkey wrench', inaccurately) is one answer, but you have to get that tight and might have to retighten on every turn.
It certainly looks like you have more than 30 degrees of motion there (though perhaps not quite 60 degrees). If you are tighter than 30 degrees, first stop and think about how the manufacturer intended this thing to be serviced, because not least, they had to build it and they certainly didn't want their factory workers spending 10 minutes fastening this one thing. If the range of motion is simply impossible, then you need the extreme options offered by others, or perhaps a "stubby" (short length) wrench that allows you to work inside the obstructions...
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
add a comment |
An open end Ratchet wrench is likely the best tool for this job.
Something like this:
add a comment |
One solution I have is a set of wrenches with angled heads - you can see one end has a greater angle than the other, very handy in many situations :
Mind you, the set cost me quite a bit... But that was a long time ago.
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
add a comment |
EDIT this won't work because in this instance the fastener is obstructed by a pipe. Leaving for completeness.
There appears to be plenty of width to the slot. How about a socket with a long extension bar and a universal joint?
They add slop but that's no more than annoying. You'd require a deep socket to go over any bolt too.
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
add a comment |
Try an open-end ratcheting wrench. Here's a video showing how they work at about 30 seconds into it; manufacturer demo and not intended as an endorsement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBlQdporxE
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
add a comment |
I would try with my socket set and ratchet handle. If there's enough space to get the socket and ratchet over the nut, then you need only a few degrees of wiggle at right-angles to the nut in order to un-do it one click of the ratchet at a time. (Also you can be sure of getting the nut back on, whereas if you get it off with an open wrench of any sort, this may prove to be a problem!)
I have seen the equivalent of a ring spanner with a ratchet mechanism built in, which is hardly any thicker than any standard wrench. I have yet to need to buy one, but it's probably the ultimate solution to such a problem. This is an example:
Before anybody points this out: ratchet mechanisms are "weak". They do not allow one to exert really high torque, and tend to fail if you try to dislodge a really stubborn nut, for example by bashing the handle with a hammer. If this is a problem, start with a standard wrench to loosen the nut a little. Then switch to the ratchet.
add a comment |
I suggest the wrench is the wrong size for a perfect fit on the nut. Plumbing fittings are commonly made in their own peculiar series of sizes. Just a little misfit at the nut becomes a large loss-of-movement at the handle. Suggest you explore the fit. If it is desperate, you might be able to shim the wrench for a neat fit on the nut.
New contributor
add a comment |
Your Answer
StackExchange.ready(function() {
var channelOptions = {
tags: "".split(" "),
id: "73"
};
initTagRenderer("".split(" "), "".split(" "), channelOptions);
StackExchange.using("externalEditor", function() {
// Have to fire editor after snippets, if snippets enabled
if (StackExchange.settings.snippets.snippetsEnabled) {
StackExchange.using("snippets", function() {
createEditor();
});
}
else {
createEditor();
}
});
function createEditor() {
StackExchange.prepareEditor({
heartbeatType: 'answer',
autoActivateHeartbeat: false,
convertImagesToLinks: false,
noModals: true,
showLowRepImageUploadWarning: true,
reputationToPostImages: null,
bindNavPrevention: true,
postfix: "",
imageUploader: {
brandingHtml: "Powered by u003ca class="icon-imgur-white" href="https://imgur.com/"u003eu003c/au003e",
contentPolicyHtml: "User contributions licensed under u003ca href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/"u003ecc by-sa 3.0 with attribution requiredu003c/au003e u003ca href="https://stackoverflow.com/legal/content-policy"u003e(content policy)u003c/au003e",
allowUrls: true
},
noCode: true, onDemand: true,
discardSelector: ".discard-answer"
,immediatelyShowMarkdownHelp:true
});
}
});
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function () {
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
});
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
StackExchange.ready(
function () {
StackExchange.openid.initPostLogin('.new-post-login', 'https%3a%2f%2fdiy.stackexchange.com%2fquestions%2f159974%2fturning-a-hard-to-access-nut%23new-answer', 'question_page');
}
);
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
10 Answers
10
active
oldest
votes
10 Answers
10
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
A Crowfoot Wrench would work nicely. A 10 piece set of these is only $15.00
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
add a comment |
A Crowfoot Wrench would work nicely. A 10 piece set of these is only $15.00
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
add a comment |
A Crowfoot Wrench would work nicely. A 10 piece set of these is only $15.00
A Crowfoot Wrench would work nicely. A 10 piece set of these is only $15.00
edited 2 days ago
answered 2 days ago
Jerry_ContraryJerry_Contrary
2,990321
2,990321
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
add a comment |
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
1
1
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
There's a sub-type of crowfoot called the flare nut crowfoot wrench. It may (or may not) work better in this application.
– Greg Hill
yesterday
add a comment |
The best tool I have found for the type of application you are working with is a 12-point split-box wrench. These are also available in a 6-point design.
(Picture Source: http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14256/css/Types-and-Uses-Continued-156.htm)
The split end lets the wrench get onto a fitting even when a tubing is inline. The box construction also gets better grip on the fitting than trying to use a conventional open ended flat sided wrench. The 12-point design and ability to flip the wrench over if needed from stroke to stroke makes this the tool of choice if the working angle to the fitting is small.
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
add a comment |
The best tool I have found for the type of application you are working with is a 12-point split-box wrench. These are also available in a 6-point design.
(Picture Source: http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14256/css/Types-and-Uses-Continued-156.htm)
The split end lets the wrench get onto a fitting even when a tubing is inline. The box construction also gets better grip on the fitting than trying to use a conventional open ended flat sided wrench. The 12-point design and ability to flip the wrench over if needed from stroke to stroke makes this the tool of choice if the working angle to the fitting is small.
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
add a comment |
The best tool I have found for the type of application you are working with is a 12-point split-box wrench. These are also available in a 6-point design.
(Picture Source: http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14256/css/Types-and-Uses-Continued-156.htm)
The split end lets the wrench get onto a fitting even when a tubing is inline. The box construction also gets better grip on the fitting than trying to use a conventional open ended flat sided wrench. The 12-point design and ability to flip the wrench over if needed from stroke to stroke makes this the tool of choice if the working angle to the fitting is small.
The best tool I have found for the type of application you are working with is a 12-point split-box wrench. These are also available in a 6-point design.
(Picture Source: http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14256/css/Types-and-Uses-Continued-156.htm)
The split end lets the wrench get onto a fitting even when a tubing is inline. The box construction also gets better grip on the fitting than trying to use a conventional open ended flat sided wrench. The 12-point design and ability to flip the wrench over if needed from stroke to stroke makes this the tool of choice if the working angle to the fitting is small.
answered 2 days ago
Michael Karas♦Michael Karas
44.9k53487
44.9k53487
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
add a comment |
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
1
1
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I was going to suggest that this looked more like it needed a flare-nut wrench
– Wayne Werner
yesterday
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
I've never seen a 12-point box wrench. I'll have to find some and add them to my toy box, er... tool chest!
– FreeMan
18 hours ago
add a comment |
I'm a gas fitter and service tech. My bag has the tools to do the job. Sometimes these tight spots require a bit of a turn with one tool and a bit of a turn with another. A lot of the available arc can be chewed up by lash, torsion and flex of components. The first tool I'd reach for, for something like this is a line wrench. I'd get a 12 point
Amazon
After all, this is the tool made for this job
If that didn't work it's the 6" or 8" Knipex Cobra
Home Depot
These are amazing and are designed to avoid stripping and marring.
add a comment |
I'm a gas fitter and service tech. My bag has the tools to do the job. Sometimes these tight spots require a bit of a turn with one tool and a bit of a turn with another. A lot of the available arc can be chewed up by lash, torsion and flex of components. The first tool I'd reach for, for something like this is a line wrench. I'd get a 12 point
Amazon
After all, this is the tool made for this job
If that didn't work it's the 6" or 8" Knipex Cobra
Home Depot
These are amazing and are designed to avoid stripping and marring.
add a comment |
I'm a gas fitter and service tech. My bag has the tools to do the job. Sometimes these tight spots require a bit of a turn with one tool and a bit of a turn with another. A lot of the available arc can be chewed up by lash, torsion and flex of components. The first tool I'd reach for, for something like this is a line wrench. I'd get a 12 point
Amazon
After all, this is the tool made for this job
If that didn't work it's the 6" or 8" Knipex Cobra
Home Depot
These are amazing and are designed to avoid stripping and marring.
I'm a gas fitter and service tech. My bag has the tools to do the job. Sometimes these tight spots require a bit of a turn with one tool and a bit of a turn with another. A lot of the available arc can be chewed up by lash, torsion and flex of components. The first tool I'd reach for, for something like this is a line wrench. I'd get a 12 point
Amazon
After all, this is the tool made for this job
If that didn't work it's the 6" or 8" Knipex Cobra
Home Depot
These are amazing and are designed to avoid stripping and marring.
answered 2 days ago
Joe FalaJoe Fala
4,029226
4,029226
add a comment |
add a comment |
What you may be overlooking, or what may not be present on your wrench, is the the open wrench is not square to the shaft. It is canted by 1/24 of a circle (15 degrees).
As a result, there's a 30 degree difference between the wrench (normal) and (flipped).
That means you only need a 30 degree arc of motion, not a 60 degree arc. When you run out of travel, remove the wrench, flip it over, raise it 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees), and it will fit on the next flat.
If your range of motion is being compromised by the wrench being all loosy-goosey on the nut (that's a technical term), then you have the wrong size wrench. Do not proceed further because you'll damage the hex corners, which will make the lash problem much worse. In particular, watch out for English vs. Metric. The only wrench sizes that match up are 3/4=19mm, all others will be sloppy.
An adjustable wrench (commonly called a 'monkey wrench', inaccurately) is one answer, but you have to get that tight and might have to retighten on every turn.
It certainly looks like you have more than 30 degrees of motion there (though perhaps not quite 60 degrees). If you are tighter than 30 degrees, first stop and think about how the manufacturer intended this thing to be serviced, because not least, they had to build it and they certainly didn't want their factory workers spending 10 minutes fastening this one thing. If the range of motion is simply impossible, then you need the extreme options offered by others, or perhaps a "stubby" (short length) wrench that allows you to work inside the obstructions...
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
add a comment |
What you may be overlooking, or what may not be present on your wrench, is the the open wrench is not square to the shaft. It is canted by 1/24 of a circle (15 degrees).
As a result, there's a 30 degree difference between the wrench (normal) and (flipped).
That means you only need a 30 degree arc of motion, not a 60 degree arc. When you run out of travel, remove the wrench, flip it over, raise it 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees), and it will fit on the next flat.
If your range of motion is being compromised by the wrench being all loosy-goosey on the nut (that's a technical term), then you have the wrong size wrench. Do not proceed further because you'll damage the hex corners, which will make the lash problem much worse. In particular, watch out for English vs. Metric. The only wrench sizes that match up are 3/4=19mm, all others will be sloppy.
An adjustable wrench (commonly called a 'monkey wrench', inaccurately) is one answer, but you have to get that tight and might have to retighten on every turn.
It certainly looks like you have more than 30 degrees of motion there (though perhaps not quite 60 degrees). If you are tighter than 30 degrees, first stop and think about how the manufacturer intended this thing to be serviced, because not least, they had to build it and they certainly didn't want their factory workers spending 10 minutes fastening this one thing. If the range of motion is simply impossible, then you need the extreme options offered by others, or perhaps a "stubby" (short length) wrench that allows you to work inside the obstructions...
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
add a comment |
What you may be overlooking, or what may not be present on your wrench, is the the open wrench is not square to the shaft. It is canted by 1/24 of a circle (15 degrees).
As a result, there's a 30 degree difference between the wrench (normal) and (flipped).
That means you only need a 30 degree arc of motion, not a 60 degree arc. When you run out of travel, remove the wrench, flip it over, raise it 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees), and it will fit on the next flat.
If your range of motion is being compromised by the wrench being all loosy-goosey on the nut (that's a technical term), then you have the wrong size wrench. Do not proceed further because you'll damage the hex corners, which will make the lash problem much worse. In particular, watch out for English vs. Metric. The only wrench sizes that match up are 3/4=19mm, all others will be sloppy.
An adjustable wrench (commonly called a 'monkey wrench', inaccurately) is one answer, but you have to get that tight and might have to retighten on every turn.
It certainly looks like you have more than 30 degrees of motion there (though perhaps not quite 60 degrees). If you are tighter than 30 degrees, first stop and think about how the manufacturer intended this thing to be serviced, because not least, they had to build it and they certainly didn't want their factory workers spending 10 minutes fastening this one thing. If the range of motion is simply impossible, then you need the extreme options offered by others, or perhaps a "stubby" (short length) wrench that allows you to work inside the obstructions...
What you may be overlooking, or what may not be present on your wrench, is the the open wrench is not square to the shaft. It is canted by 1/24 of a circle (15 degrees).
As a result, there's a 30 degree difference between the wrench (normal) and (flipped).
That means you only need a 30 degree arc of motion, not a 60 degree arc. When you run out of travel, remove the wrench, flip it over, raise it 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees), and it will fit on the next flat.
If your range of motion is being compromised by the wrench being all loosy-goosey on the nut (that's a technical term), then you have the wrong size wrench. Do not proceed further because you'll damage the hex corners, which will make the lash problem much worse. In particular, watch out for English vs. Metric. The only wrench sizes that match up are 3/4=19mm, all others will be sloppy.
An adjustable wrench (commonly called a 'monkey wrench', inaccurately) is one answer, but you have to get that tight and might have to retighten on every turn.
It certainly looks like you have more than 30 degrees of motion there (though perhaps not quite 60 degrees). If you are tighter than 30 degrees, first stop and think about how the manufacturer intended this thing to be serviced, because not least, they had to build it and they certainly didn't want their factory workers spending 10 minutes fastening this one thing. If the range of motion is simply impossible, then you need the extreme options offered by others, or perhaps a "stubby" (short length) wrench that allows you to work inside the obstructions...
edited yesterday
answered 2 days ago
HarperHarper
73.9k448149
73.9k448149
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
add a comment |
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
4
4
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
It could also be a cheapo wrench that is not very precise in its size. I'm going to try some other wrenches & other sizes to see if any get a better grip. I'm not sure if there is enough space for an adjustable but we'll see.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
1
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
Fun fact: The German name for an adjustable wrench is der Englander which translates as "an Englishman". Italian is the same!
– Martin Bonner
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
@MartinBonner Because adjustable wrenches work on English fasteners :)
– Harper
yesterday
2
2
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
@DaveInCaz my other concern would be whether you're using an SAE wrench on a metric nut or vice versa, since you mention slippage. Certain sizes in SAE/metric come very close to one another, but if you use the wrong one it'll feel almost like it fits except it's a bit sloppy.
– Doktor J
yesterday
1
1
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
@Harper Interesting, perhaps now it should be called Americaner ;)?
– Kodos Johnson
yesterday
add a comment |
An open end Ratchet wrench is likely the best tool for this job.
Something like this:
add a comment |
An open end Ratchet wrench is likely the best tool for this job.
Something like this:
add a comment |
An open end Ratchet wrench is likely the best tool for this job.
Something like this:
An open end Ratchet wrench is likely the best tool for this job.
Something like this:
edited 2 days ago
answered 2 days ago
UnhandledExcepSeanUnhandledExcepSean
1,53631624
1,53631624
add a comment |
add a comment |
One solution I have is a set of wrenches with angled heads - you can see one end has a greater angle than the other, very handy in many situations :
Mind you, the set cost me quite a bit... But that was a long time ago.
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
add a comment |
One solution I have is a set of wrenches with angled heads - you can see one end has a greater angle than the other, very handy in many situations :
Mind you, the set cost me quite a bit... But that was a long time ago.
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
add a comment |
One solution I have is a set of wrenches with angled heads - you can see one end has a greater angle than the other, very handy in many situations :
Mind you, the set cost me quite a bit... But that was a long time ago.
One solution I have is a set of wrenches with angled heads - you can see one end has a greater angle than the other, very handy in many situations :
Mind you, the set cost me quite a bit... But that was a long time ago.
answered 2 days ago
Solar MikeSolar Mike
5267
5267
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
add a comment |
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
I don't see how that does anything at all for your range of motion. I'm assuming the builders of that tool were smart and made those two heads 1/12 of a circle (30 degrees) off from one another. But that just means you need to flip the tool end from end every 1/12, whereas with a normal wrench you just turn it over.
– Harper
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
If you don't have them to use then you won't know...
– Solar Mike
2 days ago
3
3
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
Maybe you can explain how you use this type of wrench to solve the "I don't have 30 degrees of arc" problem, which is OP. Because attaching to the next hex around doesn't really do anything for that problem. Do you alternate between this and a normal wrench?
– Harper
2 days ago
add a comment |
EDIT this won't work because in this instance the fastener is obstructed by a pipe. Leaving for completeness.
There appears to be plenty of width to the slot. How about a socket with a long extension bar and a universal joint?
They add slop but that's no more than annoying. You'd require a deep socket to go over any bolt too.
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
add a comment |
EDIT this won't work because in this instance the fastener is obstructed by a pipe. Leaving for completeness.
There appears to be plenty of width to the slot. How about a socket with a long extension bar and a universal joint?
They add slop but that's no more than annoying. You'd require a deep socket to go over any bolt too.
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
add a comment |
EDIT this won't work because in this instance the fastener is obstructed by a pipe. Leaving for completeness.
There appears to be plenty of width to the slot. How about a socket with a long extension bar and a universal joint?
They add slop but that's no more than annoying. You'd require a deep socket to go over any bolt too.
EDIT this won't work because in this instance the fastener is obstructed by a pipe. Leaving for completeness.
There appears to be plenty of width to the slot. How about a socket with a long extension bar and a universal joint?
They add slop but that's no more than annoying. You'd require a deep socket to go over any bolt too.
edited 2 days ago
answered 2 days ago
CriggieCriggie
1,083518
1,083518
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
add a comment |
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
3
3
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
But it is a nut with a line going out the left side. It is a bit obscured but the wrench in the pic, but sockets won’t work.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
1
1
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean Good point - I missed that in the photo.
– Criggie
2 days ago
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
Sorry the pic wasn't more clear, but this was a good suggestion. The angling of the u-joint could have provided a greater range of motion.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
add a comment |
Try an open-end ratcheting wrench. Here's a video showing how they work at about 30 seconds into it; manufacturer demo and not intended as an endorsement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBlQdporxE
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
add a comment |
Try an open-end ratcheting wrench. Here's a video showing how they work at about 30 seconds into it; manufacturer demo and not intended as an endorsement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBlQdporxE
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
add a comment |
Try an open-end ratcheting wrench. Here's a video showing how they work at about 30 seconds into it; manufacturer demo and not intended as an endorsement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBlQdporxE
Try an open-end ratcheting wrench. Here's a video showing how they work at about 30 seconds into it; manufacturer demo and not intended as an endorsement:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWBlQdporxE
answered 2 days ago
R..R..
4192415
4192415
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
add a comment |
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
That appears to require 60 degrees travel between re-engaging the ratchet.
– Pete Kirkham
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
In that case a flat 12-point ratcheting wrench might work better if you can get it in, but I wasn't clear whether that's possible.
– R..
yesterday
add a comment |
I would try with my socket set and ratchet handle. If there's enough space to get the socket and ratchet over the nut, then you need only a few degrees of wiggle at right-angles to the nut in order to un-do it one click of the ratchet at a time. (Also you can be sure of getting the nut back on, whereas if you get it off with an open wrench of any sort, this may prove to be a problem!)
I have seen the equivalent of a ring spanner with a ratchet mechanism built in, which is hardly any thicker than any standard wrench. I have yet to need to buy one, but it's probably the ultimate solution to such a problem. This is an example:
Before anybody points this out: ratchet mechanisms are "weak". They do not allow one to exert really high torque, and tend to fail if you try to dislodge a really stubborn nut, for example by bashing the handle with a hammer. If this is a problem, start with a standard wrench to loosen the nut a little. Then switch to the ratchet.
add a comment |
I would try with my socket set and ratchet handle. If there's enough space to get the socket and ratchet over the nut, then you need only a few degrees of wiggle at right-angles to the nut in order to un-do it one click of the ratchet at a time. (Also you can be sure of getting the nut back on, whereas if you get it off with an open wrench of any sort, this may prove to be a problem!)
I have seen the equivalent of a ring spanner with a ratchet mechanism built in, which is hardly any thicker than any standard wrench. I have yet to need to buy one, but it's probably the ultimate solution to such a problem. This is an example:
Before anybody points this out: ratchet mechanisms are "weak". They do not allow one to exert really high torque, and tend to fail if you try to dislodge a really stubborn nut, for example by bashing the handle with a hammer. If this is a problem, start with a standard wrench to loosen the nut a little. Then switch to the ratchet.
add a comment |
I would try with my socket set and ratchet handle. If there's enough space to get the socket and ratchet over the nut, then you need only a few degrees of wiggle at right-angles to the nut in order to un-do it one click of the ratchet at a time. (Also you can be sure of getting the nut back on, whereas if you get it off with an open wrench of any sort, this may prove to be a problem!)
I have seen the equivalent of a ring spanner with a ratchet mechanism built in, which is hardly any thicker than any standard wrench. I have yet to need to buy one, but it's probably the ultimate solution to such a problem. This is an example:
Before anybody points this out: ratchet mechanisms are "weak". They do not allow one to exert really high torque, and tend to fail if you try to dislodge a really stubborn nut, for example by bashing the handle with a hammer. If this is a problem, start with a standard wrench to loosen the nut a little. Then switch to the ratchet.
I would try with my socket set and ratchet handle. If there's enough space to get the socket and ratchet over the nut, then you need only a few degrees of wiggle at right-angles to the nut in order to un-do it one click of the ratchet at a time. (Also you can be sure of getting the nut back on, whereas if you get it off with an open wrench of any sort, this may prove to be a problem!)
I have seen the equivalent of a ring spanner with a ratchet mechanism built in, which is hardly any thicker than any standard wrench. I have yet to need to buy one, but it's probably the ultimate solution to such a problem. This is an example:
Before anybody points this out: ratchet mechanisms are "weak". They do not allow one to exert really high torque, and tend to fail if you try to dislodge a really stubborn nut, for example by bashing the handle with a hammer. If this is a problem, start with a standard wrench to loosen the nut a little. Then switch to the ratchet.
edited 18 hours ago
answered 18 hours ago
nigel222nigel222
1614
1614
add a comment |
add a comment |
I suggest the wrench is the wrong size for a perfect fit on the nut. Plumbing fittings are commonly made in their own peculiar series of sizes. Just a little misfit at the nut becomes a large loss-of-movement at the handle. Suggest you explore the fit. If it is desperate, you might be able to shim the wrench for a neat fit on the nut.
New contributor
add a comment |
I suggest the wrench is the wrong size for a perfect fit on the nut. Plumbing fittings are commonly made in their own peculiar series of sizes. Just a little misfit at the nut becomes a large loss-of-movement at the handle. Suggest you explore the fit. If it is desperate, you might be able to shim the wrench for a neat fit on the nut.
New contributor
add a comment |
I suggest the wrench is the wrong size for a perfect fit on the nut. Plumbing fittings are commonly made in their own peculiar series of sizes. Just a little misfit at the nut becomes a large loss-of-movement at the handle. Suggest you explore the fit. If it is desperate, you might be able to shim the wrench for a neat fit on the nut.
New contributor
I suggest the wrench is the wrong size for a perfect fit on the nut. Plumbing fittings are commonly made in their own peculiar series of sizes. Just a little misfit at the nut becomes a large loss-of-movement at the handle. Suggest you explore the fit. If it is desperate, you might be able to shim the wrench for a neat fit on the nut.
New contributor
New contributor
answered 10 hours ago
BigPeteBigPete
1
1
New contributor
New contributor
add a comment |
add a comment |
Thanks for contributing an answer to Home Improvement Stack Exchange!
- Please be sure to answer the question. Provide details and share your research!
But avoid …
- Asking for help, clarification, or responding to other answers.
- Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience.
To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers.
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function () {
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
});
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
StackExchange.ready(
function () {
StackExchange.openid.initPostLogin('.new-post-login', 'https%3a%2f%2fdiy.stackexchange.com%2fquestions%2f159974%2fturning-a-hard-to-access-nut%23new-answer', 'question_page');
}
);
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function () {
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
});
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function () {
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
});
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
Sign up or log in
StackExchange.ready(function () {
StackExchange.helpers.onClickDraftSave('#login-link');
});
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Sign up using Google
Sign up using Facebook
Sign up using Email and Password
Post as a guest
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
Required, but never shown
5
Before going to buy a new tool, have you tried turn the wrench over? I’ve had places where I kept having to flip the wrench to get in on the nut.
– UnhandledExcepSean
2 days ago
@UnhandledExcepSean yes, it won't start the fitting turning either way. Too much play between the wrench & contact surfaces.
– DaveInCaz
yesterday
1
Is that the gas valve? Can you unbolt it and swing it out of that area, looks like the line is flexible.
– Platinum Goose
yesterday
"Get a cheap and nasty dollar store wrench, and file and bend it into submission till it fits" an acceptable answer here? :)
– rackandboneman
yesterday
2
Ah, welcome to the bane of every car mechanic's existence!
– Clonkex
23 hours ago