Key T Function as a Car Mechanical Tool & How to Use

For those of you who often visit workshops, you are surely familiar with various car hand tools commonly used by mechanics. One of them is the wrench that resembles the letter T. This wrench is usually known as a T wrench. The T wrench has several functions that make it frequently used in workshops. What are the functions of the T wrench? Here is the explanation.

Functions of the T Wrench

In general, the function of the wrench is to loosen nuts and bolts on the car. You may be familiar with the various wrenches found in workshops held by technicians. Starting from the socket wrench, shock wrench, and even the T wrench. Here are some functions of the T wrench that are often encountered.

1. Loosening and Tightening Bolts in Tight Spaces

Loosening bolts usually uses a socket wrench. However, in certain conditions, the socket wrench cannot be used to loosen the bolt. One of them is when the gap to loosen it is narrow, such as the condition of a bolt located on the clutch block. The socket wrench has no room for movement.

Therefore, in such conditions, the T wrench is used. The uniquely shaped T wrench can turn bolts in tight spaces. Not only that, you won't have to struggle when turning the bolt, because the torque produced by this T wrench is quite large.

2. Loosening and Tightening Spark Plugs on the Engine

Another function of the T wrench is that it can be used to loosen and tighten spark plugs on the engine. The torque of this T wrench is quite large, making it easy to loosen spark plugs. However, you need to be cautious when tightening the spark plug; do not be too enthusiastic when turning, as it can strip the threads. Tighten it properly, and if it feels tight, release it.

3. Loosening Slightly Stripped Bolts

Because they are rarely opened, sometimes bolts are difficult to loosen due to some rust that has formed. Usually, when opened using a socket wrench, it often slips if the size is not quite right. For bolts that are slightly stripped, it will be difficult to loosen if the wrong wrench is used. The T wrench is very suitable for loosening slightly stripped bolts because the torque of the T wrench applies pressure evenly on the bolt. Unlike the socket wrench, which only applies pressure on one side.

4. Loosening Bolts Focused on Torque

Often, bolts can be loosened with any wrench that fits their size. However, certain conditions require you to use a T wrench. This is usually needed when you are dealing with bolts that are difficult to loosen because they require a large torque to open. The longer the handle of the T wrench, the greater the torque that will be produced. You will also find it easier to loosen the bolt.

How to Use a T Wrench

After knowing the functions of the T wrench, the next step is how to use it. Using a T wrench is relatively easy. If you want to loosen a bolt, make sure the size of the wrench matches its diameter. There are sizes ranging from 8 mm to 19 mm. There are also sizes of 21 mm and 22 mm, but these are rarely found.

Once you find the right size, insert the end of the T wrench and fit it into the gap. If you want to loosen it, turn the handle of the T wrench counterclockwise. If you want to tighten the bolt, turn it clockwise. Very easy, right?

That is the function of the T wrench and how to use it. If you want to see the shape of the T wrench directly, you can visit the official Daihatsu workshop just to take a look at the types of T wrenches commonly used by its technicians.