View Full Version : correct plier position
gfe76
11-04-2007, 01:52 PM
Basic question here, but what is the correct way to hold adjustable pliers (like channel locks/knipex) where the jaws are at right angle to the handle. It seems they should be held one way to tighten and the opposite way to loosen, but I'm not sure. Thoughts? TIA
markts30
11-04-2007, 02:47 PM
They should be used so that the torque exerted on the handle causes the pliers to tighten...
By this I mean, when using them to tighten something, there is a 'correct' way and an 'incorrect' way...
To figure it out, look at a set... With the jaws pointing "down", force should be exerted "down"...
patrick88
11-04-2007, 02:57 PM
Basic question here, but what is the correct way to hold adjustable pliers (like channel locks/knipex) where the jaws are at right angle to the handle. It seems they should be held one way to tighten and the opposite way to loosen, but I'm not sure. Thoughts? TIA
You hold them so the handles are comfortable. Sounds like your on the right track.
gfe76
11-04-2007, 03:15 PM
Ok....thanks..so if I am tightening a horizontal drain pipe and screwing the pipe is tightening from left to right (I hope this makes sense), then the opening of the jaws should be facing down since I am "pushing" down on the wrench. right? and if I were to loosen the same pipe, then the opening of the jaw should face up since I would be pulling up to loosen. right?
patrick88
11-04-2007, 03:53 PM
yes do that
gfe76
11-04-2007, 03:57 PM
Thanks so much...you guys are so patient and helpful over what would seem to be so simple...but I have been doing it wrong half the time and kept wondering why the jaws would slip on the pipe..
patrick88
11-04-2007, 04:22 PM
but I have been doing it wrong half the time and kept wondering why the jaws would slip on the pipe..
You could have hurt your self so please be careful.
Or as the comedian would say, "Every time it use them this way they slip, so I guess I should just stop doing it that way."