There is some disagreement over which is the better direction to use a Crescent-type wrench -- whether the moveable jaw should be on the "pushing" side or the "pulling" side; I have taken part in long debates on this subject, and I know excellent mechanics on both sides of the question. In practice, however, it makes no real difference if you are using a wrench of good quality. Which way to put the wrench on should be determined by the accessibility of the nut or bolt you are trying to turn. In tight spaces, such as adjusting a seatpost bolt on a bicycle with a low saddle and a rear carrier, it may be necessary to keep flopping the wrench over, turning the nut 1/12 turn with each fetch.
Personally, I think these should only ever be used as last resort. Okay to carry a small one in your saddle bag or the boot of the car as it might come in handy somewhere but for you should have a set of proper fitting spanners for home use.
I don't like the things anyway ... one of the things I learned a long time ago is always have the right tool for the job. If you need a 15 mm spanner, go and buy one. Easy.
Mole grips are just about my favourite tool ever... no sodding good for catching the little buggers but when you have, my lord they hold them good and tight!
Campag. wheel nut and crank bolt spanner, replacing the socket bolts with hex. head saves carrying an hex. key just for the chance I might have to tighten the crank bolts.
I would wager the vast majority of adjustable spanners in use are of questionable quality, so using them the "stronger" way round is good practical advice.
only one wheel on one bike of mine has a nut (qrs on three and wingnuts on another), so i just use one of those little spanners that is shaped like a dumbbell with all the different sizes of nut stamped into it, or rather i take that in the saddle pack.
Jeez, we're talking a spanner to carry and use on the road, so we're not talking about regular use here, any adjustable 6" wrench will do. I wouldn't use it in the garage but out on the road, for those odd moments, it's fine.
Do you ever have absolutely no interest in a thread, yet find yourself clicking on it and reading it anyway, then think 'what the hell am I reading this for?'
P.S. I use an adjustable spanner, or a 15mm spanner
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