All Different Types of Wrenches and Their Uses [Names List]

A toolbox will never be completed without a wrench. It is one of the necessary home tools that come in different types and uses. The tool is often overlooked unlike the other repair equipment in handling a specific task.

However, a wrench can meet various needs especially in fastening some other parts of the house maintenance.

YouTube video

A wrench is also an everyday tool for most households. It is designed with a range of functions to cater to your specific needs. Having even one of the wrench types at home can make a difference from those without it.

The following samples might help the readers to better understand each type of wrench and its uses. Beforehand, let us define what a wrench is and how it works.

What is a Wrench?

A wrench is part of the tool kit that fastens a joint securely and tightly. It is also named as spanners in other parts of the world.

The first wrench was patented by Solymon Merrick in 1835 until it grew into many more types of wrenches.

This home tool is made of chromium plating to prevent rusting. It is lightweight and can last for longer use. It belongs to the essential tools found at home that can be bought online and in physical stores.

How Does Wrench Work?

Different types of wrenches work with only one purpose – to fasten a joint of nuts and bolts. They may come in various styles according to your needs, however, it takes basic skills to work with a particular wrench tool.

Each type functions in a different way. The details below will show how different types of wrenches work.

Common Wrench Types For Construction

The market has to offer a variety of wrenches that best fit the buyer’s needs. Here is a rundown of common wrenches for a wide range of purposes:

1. Adjustable Wrench

Adjustable wrenches are generally used for plumbing repair and maintenance. It is placed in a utility drawer or toolbox for safekeeping. This wrench type is widely available in the market and the most popular among the home tools.

Additionally, it is an open-ended wrench with no fixed size opening for nuts and bolts.

It is not easy to use in confined areas compared to other types of wrenches because of its thick structure. That is why getting the right size of adjusted wrench for your needs is necessary.

The width of the tool’s head can be adjusted by turning the built-in screw on its base. It would be difficult to adjust the tool when grime or dirt exists. Adding lubricant to the tool can help.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Crescent Wrench

The first type of wrench on the list has different adjustment settings. It is the most versatile among ordinary wrenches that can fit in a variety of nut sizes. It is also called Crescent Wrench for its design has the shape of the moon.

  • Monkey Adjustable Wrench

The monkey wrench was a popular tool among handymen. It is a single tool for tightening and loosening nuts of multiple sizes rather than buying a set of wrenches. As years passed by, adjustable wrench tools were created which has stolen the popularity of a monkey wrench.

Monkey wrench became a standard tool in most industries back then for many reasons. It is believed to have smoother jaws than adjustable wrenches of today. Its rounder handle is a plus providing an ergonomic grip among users.

To sum it up, the monkey wrench is a versatile tool for immediate uses.

  • Pipe adjustable wrench

This is sleeker than a monkey wrench that deals with round surface fixtures. Its serrated teeth can hold softer metals while turning a pipe. It is also easy to repair when needed and so reduces the cost of purchasing new equipment.

2. Socket Wrench

This is also called a ratchet wrench, which has very similar functions to a ratcheting wrench. It features a ratcheting mechanism that will tighten and loosen a nut and a bolt without removing the wrench off the bolt.

It is additionally reversible for more flexible uses. As you turn the wrench, it might reach the obstacle but you can reverse the tool right away to continue working. It can speed up the tightening and removing process through its socket mechanism.

A socket wrench requires different sizes of a socket to be inserted into the wrench. The most common size of drives is 3/8” where it fits the socket that you need.

Look for a high-quality socket set with a variety of socket size options. A quick-release button is a great added feature to look for. Always choose the right size for your wrench needs, not too loose or too big. Keep them organized to last over the long haul.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Ratcheting socket wrench

It has a ratcheting mechanism that can install and remove a nut and bolt without lifting the wrench at every turn.

  • Flex head socket wrench

This has a swiveling head and not a fixed drive head. It is rarely used compared to ratcheting wrenches. This applies to construction works with small spaces.

  • Nut driver socket wrench

Fastening a hexagonal nut and bolt would be easier with a nut driver. It is manually operated and easy to manage with its socket head.

  • T-handle socket wrench

Another basic type of socket wrenches is the T-handle. Its design features a socket head and a long vertical and horizontal beam on each end.

Just grip the horizontal beam, insert the socket head, and then turn to fasten the bolt.

  • Gearless socket wrench

Lastly is the gearless socket wrench. It has a unique design with a ball bearing to tighten and loosen the fasteners. It does not feature any gear for the application.

3. Allen Wrench

Next is a hexagonal key wrench that comes in two shapes, either L-shaped or T-shaped. Their only difference is for the handle present on the T-shaped option.

Both wrenches are made of metal and operate similarly to normal screwdrivers.

Some Allen wrenches come with metric sizes thus easier to identify which wrench sizes will suit an SAE fastener. A male-style wrench features a hexagonal recess on its head to easily fit on screws and bolts.  

Allen wrenches can also work with extra-tight screws through their superior torque. Keep the tool out of children’s sight to prevent possible dangers.

Read More:  Concrete Core Drill [Buy or Rental?]

An L-shaped wrench has an alternative handle to benefit users while working with deeper screws. Its shorter end can serve as a handle for better convenience.

Overall, the Allen wrench could be best for more difficult maintenance and repair tasks.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • L/P/T Shaped Wrenches

It is a hexagonal key wrench that comes in three shapes, either L-shaped, P-shaped, or T-shaped. Their only difference is for the handle present on the T-shaped option. Both wrenches are made of metal and operate similarly to normal screwdrivers. On the other hand, the P-shaped wrench is the oversized version of the L-shaped wrench.

An L-shaped wrench has an alternative handle to benefit users while working with deeper screws. Its shorter end can serve as a handle for better convenience. Overall, the Allen wrench could be best for more difficult maintenance and repair tasks.

  • Combination Wrench

A combination wrench is simply a mixture of a box-ended and open-ended wrench in one tool. One side offers a closed-loop for hex and square nuts while the other side is an open U-shaped wrench.

The closed-end is responsible for loosening the nut while the other end operates to unscrew nuts. Each end may work otherwise but they come in similar sizes.  

Among the different types of wrenches, a combination wrench is the simplest and the most useful overall. Buyers can purchase a combination wrench in sets with a variety of wrench sizes for their specific needs.

  • Stubby Wrench

A stubby wrench is the shorter version of a combination wrench. It can fit in more confined areas with its shorter shaft design.

Some units include a hinged head to promote a better angle for more precise fitting. It is unlike full-length wrenches and is highly versatile.

  • Crowfoot Wrench

Working on tight spaces with a wrench can be crucial, but with a crowfoot wrench, it would be easier. It differs from the previous wrench types in terms of looks and how it functions.

Crowfoot wrench is similar to open-ended wrenches however without a handle. It comes with a single head to be attached to a ratchet handle to fit into a nut’s side.

It is unlike socket sets that fit a wrench on top. At the back of the wrench’s mouth is an opening that is not found on other wrenches.  

Thus, the crowfoot wrench works nicely in tight spaces, such as valve adjustments, fuel filters, and many more. It will save you from coming across unreachable areas that ordinary wrenches cannot do.

Make sure to prepare a ratchet attachment to get started, together with the other small accessories.

  • Open End Wrench

This wrench is for narrow project areas that are harder to access by larger wrenches. It has opposite faces with a variety of sizes to deliver a firm grip.

Each side can flip nuts and bolts of different sizes.

  • Adjustable Wrench

The size of this wrench can be adjusted in order to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts. It is best used for car repairs and furniture making according to the nut sizes. Move its jaw to adjust the size of the wrench.

4. Box-Ended Wrench

The third type is a box-ended wrench that is usually sold in sets. Both ends have an enclosed loop placed higher or lower the handle for a better grip. They also come in different sizes to fit on either square or hexagonal bolts.

The equipment’s torque can effortlessly loosen even tougher bolts. It will clear a bolt head before the wrench can be readjusted.

There will be more turning clearance with a box-ended wrench for better control.

A box-ended wrench is a good alternative for open-ended wrenches. It avoids rounding the edges, unlike the other wrench options.

Choose a wrench with the proper loop design that will meet your needs.

5. Impact Wrench

An impact wrench can deliver a higher torque compared to the other wrench units. That means removing nuts and bolts becomes a lot easier with an impact wrench.

It can handle multiple nuts however a poor choice if you are looking for a more precise wrench.

There are three basic types of impact wrenches:

  1. Air (pneumatic) powered
  2. Electrical (corded) powered
  3. Battery-powered (cordless) impacts

The battery-powered impact wrench looks like a cordless drill. The problem with powered tools is the required use of torque wrench because of their limited functionality.

However, impact wrench may work on difficult-to-loosen bolts like the ones found on cars and trucks.

A rechargeable battery is necessary to keep an impact wrench working. 

In addition, impact wrenches are heavyweight and good for a wider application that requires a high torque output. To mention a few include car repairs and construction projects.

Buyers can avail an electrical or air powered impact wrench to get enough power for finishing more tasks. The battery-powered option, on the other hand, is best for home use.

This may also require basic tool skills for safer application.

6. Oil Filter Wrench

Here is another wrench tool for the automotive industry to deal with periodic oil changes. When a car runs, its filter cap will tighten that can cause cars to drive slowly.

 

Oil filter wrench can help to better secure vehicles’ life. Purchasing the right shape and size can save any brand of cars from possible accidents.

Some buyers prefer using generic tools to oil filter wrench. The reason is it is possible to tighten a filter cap by hand, however, it is a bit crucial.

Investing in an oil filter wrench can make things easier. It loosens the oil filter cap but is not able to tighten the cap, which can be easily done by hand.

The oil filter wrench comes in two different styles, including a metal strap and chain strap.

Those add up to the wrench function to be similar to adjustable wrench types. It is best used with a ratchet handle to reach the bottom of the filter cap.

List of all the types of wrenches with this purpose:

  • Chain Loop

This wrench style has a chain in a teeth form to promote easier grip. It will be looped around the oil filter and yet easy to remove.

  • Metal Band

Metal band wrenches have loops at the ends of their handle. These are used to tighten the oil filter in place. You can remove the canister by anticlockwise turning to its handle to create tension.

Read More:  10-2 Wire vs 12-2 Wire [What Is The Difference]

7. Open-Ended Wrench

This one has a U-shaped head on both ends facing different directions of unlike sizes. The one side is slightly bigger than the other side.

An open-ended wrench always exists in toolboxes with its variety of uses. It is less bulky than a box wrench and so easier to store in a toolkit.

With its open design, it is more convenient to attach on hard-to-reach target fitting. It can go vertically or horizontally depending on specific needs.

The downside is it has to round the edges of a bolt, unlike box-ended wrenches.

This tool permits a variety of applications for construction purposes. It might be a simpler wrench than the others; however, it can turn nuts and bolts easily, even in areas difficult to access.

8. Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench is slightly similar to an adjustable wrench with its features. It has an F-shaped design suited for heavy-duty plumbing works, such as metal pipes and fittings.

It is commonly made of alloy steel parts with serrated jaws to withstand even hard-hitting demands. The wrench can deliver high performance and durability to the user.

The head of the wrench is adjustable just like a crescent wrench. Using a screw can help to adjust its head according to the needs.

Furthermore, its teeth can leave scratches on chrome finishes thus it is better to avoid using a pipe wrench on visible fixtures.

Since pipe sizes come differently, an adjustable pipe wrench is a great tool to meet every demand. It benefits plumbers and other home handymen to keep everything all right with just a single wrench.

Simply pick the right size of a pipe wrench for your home maintenance needs. Make sure the tool has an ergonomic design and is durably built with solid materials.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • End Pipe Wrench

This is basically for the end pipes which are located in tight spaces. It is built with teeth on its jaw for an easier grip to move the pipe. It won’t slip while tightening and loosening the end pipes.

  • Offset Wrench

When you are working at awkward angles, an offset wrench will work. It is available in standard and heavy-duty versions.

This will slip vertically to access the bolt. It is very suitable in tight spaces, unlike any other wrenches.

  • Strap Wrench

A strap wrench makes use of a self-tightening strap instead of a normal wrench head. The style is similar to a pipe wrench however used differently.  

This wrench best fits for oil filter changing with its quality strap design. Manufacturers use a rubber, metal, or fabric material to produce a strap wrench. Its strap is twisted through the handle for a more durable setup.

Users can have a firmer grip even when handling a greasy surface. The strap wrench additionally best fits on round objects.

  • Compound Leverage Wrench

Build-up or damaged joint construction is benefitted from a compound leverage wrench. It requires force to loosen the bolt, however, its design provides enough power to do the job.

  • Straight Pipe Wrench

This one is a traditional form of a wrench with jaw hooks. Heavy-duty versions are available as most sizes vary from three-fourths to eight inches. Its opening is parallel to its handle. The wrench applies to day-to-day pipe issues.

9. Ratcheting Wrench

Another DIY mechanic tool is the ratcheting wrench. It is a special combination of open-ended, box-ended, and combination wrenches in one tool.

The only difference is the added ratcheting device on one of its ends.

Each side has different functions perfectly made for mechanic works. It makes the process of tightening and loosening a nut and bolts a lot easier, even in tight spaces.

A ratcheting wrench has a pawl lock feature and so creating a ratcheting motion won’t affect the other side of the wrench. It locks on the tooth of the gear until the completion of an arc.

This eliminates removing or adjusting the wrench from the obstacle after each rotation. In other words, the wrench cannot be detached from the head of a nut until the task is done.

It is perfect for limited spaces and also speeds up the process. Purchasing a ratcheting wrench can also cut costs with its versatility and useful design to perform for a wider application.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Ring ratchet wrench

It is among the special forms of wrenches in the market. The wrench can turn in a specific direction for your convenience. It is perfect for DIYers and craftsmen to facilitate construction works.

  • Open-end wrench

This is the most common type of wrench used for types of machinery. It comes in many types and is often used with larger wrenches. It can also withstand hammer blows and easily loosens screws.

10. Torque wrench

Professional mechanics have to struggle with over-tightening or over-loosening nuts and bolts. But, with a torque wrench, it adds up precision in getting the job done.

A torque wrench provides an exact amount of force to make sure the nuts and bolts are secured.

There are many kinds of torque wrenches, including manual and digital tools. It is made for automotive tasks like wheel maintenance.

Manufacturers deliver specific torque levels to satisfy every need. This proves that a torque wrench is suitable for a wide range of over-tightening tasks up to its maximum torque level.

The accuracy level of the torque varies on each type and the precision buyers require. Before purchasing a torque wrench, better check on the manufacturer first to get the correct tool.

A high torque setting will require better control thus a good grip matters to bring comfort not to drop the wrench accidentally.

Additionally, specific care is needed to keep a torque wrench working well.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Click torque wrench

This is the most commonly used torque wrench. It allows adjusting the torque to a greater value with just a click. The torque is length dependent.

There will be a proper hand placement and force applied for it to operate well.

  • Pneumatic torque wrench

A pneumatic torque wrench is for larger torque needs. It comes with a gearbox and once the set torque is achieved, it cannot tighten a fastener more than that.

Users must be extra careful as pneumatic torques can cause pinch hazards.

  • No-hub torque wrench

Tightening pipe couplings is easier with a hubless torque wrench. It won’t damage the coupling with its preset torque values. It has T-shaped handles for easier use.

  • Beam torque wrench
Read More:  Corded Drill vs Cordless Drill [Pros, Cons & Differences]

The simplest among all the torque wrenches. Its two beams include a scale indicator and torque application.  You can read the amount of torque applied at work, but can be inaccurate depending on the angle you look at.

Which is the Strongest Wrench Type? Hydraulic Press Test!

YouTube video

Other Types of Wrench for Specific Uses

Specialty wrenches also exist to meet specific demands. They are rarely owned by any person due to their limited uses. The following types of the wrench are not commonly used in most industries however still present for particular tasks. These include:

1. Alligator Wrench

Alligator wrenches have a mouth shape like an alligator, and so it got its name. It is not as popular as the other wrenches in fact alligator wrenches are rarely seen in movies.

The wrench works as an alternative when regular wrenches did not work.

Its jaw has two parts, wherein one side is serrated while the other side is made flat. The design of the wrench is friendlier for tightening and loosening hexagonal heads and yet mainly used for square-shaped heads.

Alligator wrench is a bit huge compared to other wrench tools. It has a similar handle to the pipe wrench that is easy to grip.

The handle has a small hole for hanging in storing the tool.  It is overly built with metal for enhanced durability and away from rusting.

All in all, the alligator wrench is one of the wrench types that are no longer used in common industries.

2. Armorer’s Wrench

Armorer’s wrench obviously refers to gun repair and maintenance. It is a safe tool to depend on in handling either non-firearm-related or firearm-related projects.

The wrench is highly versatile and can deal with more complex nut and bolt tasks.

The market has to sell various models of armorer’s wrenches to be suited to particular gun models. Buyers can pick from different designs of an armorer’s wrench at a reasonable price.

Armorer’s wrench has a C-shaped serrated head, a ratcheting head, and two square slots to hold a ratchet handle.

With those functions, users can perform a variety of tasks with just one tool. It can deal with any shapes of a nut and bolts other than the usual round shapes.

In addition to that, an armorer’s wrench is a better investment than a normal wrench in the future. It will last for a long time for gun repair and some other purposes, and a great addition to your toolkit.

3. Bionic Wrench

If you are looking for a wrench that looks like a plier, a bionic wrench best fits your needs. This specialty wrench consists of two handles and a round opening.

Therefore, tightening and loosening a nut and a bolt becomes easier with this tool.

The bionic wrench is adjustable just like a box-ended wrench. It operates simply by placing the round opening to the target head and squeezing the two handles until it tightens the head firmly.

The disadvantage of this wrench is it demands a superior gripping force to complete the task. However, the design won’t easily slip to ruin your work surfaces. It also keeps in shape after multiple works.

4. Bung Wrench

Among the types of wrench for specialty tasks are the bung wrench. This is a socket-style option that inhibits sparkling when working with flammable things. Buyers can obtain a sparkless version, if necessary.

The bung wrench works in taking away a plastic or metal cap on drums. It derives a variety of styles and sizes to meet any conditions.

The wrench also has two types, either standard or torque for more accurate performance.

5. Cone Wrench

A cone wrench is the flat version of an open-ended wrench. It best applies to projects where a normal wrench can be too thick for use.

This type of wrench will work for bicycle repair and even for washing machine repair.

They usually come in three different sizes made of quality steel for durability. It can withstand higher pressures while doing its job.

The other functions of a cone wrench are very similar to double-ended wrenches. It cannot be adjusted like the standard tools therefore picking the right size plays a vital role.

And more, cone wrenches are cheaper and yet perform their job the better way.

6. Die Stock Holder Wrench

To include in the specialty wrench list is the die stock holder wrench. It comes in two types, such as male and female die-stock wrenches.

They are made for threading purposes on a die. Although dies come in different shapes, this wrench type can work for them all.

The process is called tapping where a die is used to cut threads. This specialty wrench cannot perform any other tasks except securing a die

7. Dog Bone Wrench

Its bone-shaped appearance consists of box-shaped ends on each side. It is also referred to as a dumb-bell wrench. This is a box-ended type of wrench that is fit for bicycle repair.

Dog bone wrench is not easy to fit elsewhere, especially in tight spaces. Some dog bone wrench types have a more flexible design with swiveling heads to fit into narrow spaces.

Determine the best size of the wrench that will meet your needs. It has a variety of socket sizes according to the buyer’s requirement.

Properly store the dog bone wrench to prevent it from rusting and to extend its useful life. It is easy to fit in a toolkit together with other home tools.

8. Drum Key

Individuals who own musical instruments would be better off with a drum key wrench. It is a square wrench with a T-shaped key to work on drums and other percussion instruments.

A drum key is used to tune the instruments by tightening the parts of the instrument, such as strings and rods.

Drum keys come in shorter or longer handles that can provide enough torque for your specific needs. The longer its handle will result in applying a higher torque.

Its flattened handles add up comfort for the user while tuning the instruments.

9. Fan Clutch Wrench

This flat spanner is designed to eliminate a vehicle’s fan clutches. It is particularly the cooling system of the car. The clutch tool can help to get the task done right.

A fan clutch wrench has a U-shaped opening on the other end to serve as a clutch holding tool. The other wrench is responsible for turning a hex nut to finish the job.

Read More:  How to Get a Drill Bit Out of a Drill? [3 Ways]

Therefore, a fan clutch wrench is specifically designed for car part repairs.

10. Fire Hydrant Wrench

Here is another box-ended wrench type in a pentagon shape. This is the only wrench tool that can open a fire hydrant. It has a notch to fit on a hydrant nut and a plated iron head and steel handle for better gripping.

The valve of a fire hydrant cannot be opened with other types of wrenches. It is tamper-resistant not to leave any scratches during application.

A fire hydrant wrench is built with a longer handle to apply a higher torque level. Plus, it is adjustable to enhance its effectiveness.

Fire hydrant wrenches may come in a single or double head style, depending on your specific needs.

11. Flare Nut Wrench

A flare nut wrench is a combination of open-ended and box-ended wrenches for particular uses. It is also called a line wrench or brake wrench.

This wrench type is often found in the garage to finish hexagonal nuts and fittings smoothly.

It has a wider design to fit on a tube or a pipe. Unlike the other wrenches on the list, a flare nut wrench is available for a variety of uses.

To name a few include securing car brakes and clutch lines. It is also applicable for machine and plumbing work.

Manufacturers suggest using a flare nut wrench on softer metals to prevent damaging the tool. Its opposite heads function to loosen and tighten fastenings with a lesser chance of edge stripping.

There is no need to readjust the wrench in between each pull. The wrench can easily reach nuts and bolts under sinks or harder-to-reach spots.

12. Garbage Disposal Wrench

Larger nuts may require a huge wrench to be easily removed. This anchor-looking wrench can handle larger nuts and bolts, and it is comparable to the Allen wrench.

Along with the T-handle is a flat U-shaped head used to dispose of large nuts. It can also dislodge clogs as Allen wrench does.

A garbage disposal wrench is a universal unit to use for any kind of disposal needs. It is slightly bigger than the Allen wrench with a swiveling head, a shaft, and a handle.

The head of this wrench is lockable into a shredder plate for disposal tasks.

First, the swivel head must be inserted into the drain hole until its bottom. Make certain the wrench locks on the unit’s shredder plate and then begin to dislodge any dirt and debris by turning the wrench. Do not forget to clean the wrench after the disposal process for extended use.

13. Hammer Wrench

A hammer wrench is made for heavy-duty jobs, such as metalworking, electrical works, and even plumbing.

It makes use of a hammer to produce a higher amount of force by hitting its flat surface on the handle. Hammer wrenches need to be struck by a hammer to loosen a nut, bolt, and fastener.

The hammer wrench appears undersized compared to many types of wrenches. It also has a thicker build just like a box-ended or open-ended wrench.

A hammer wrench has a longer handle than a standard wrench giving room for striking a hammer. It can tighten flange fittings that normal wrenches cannot do.

Quality hammer wrench is also better than a ratchet set in working on tight areas with a good hammer.

14. Pedal Wrench

When it comes to pedal repairs, this wrench type can help. It looks different from the other tools mentioned with two U-shaped features. It has a rounded tip for an easy grip.

Pedal repairs include three steps – removing, installing, and adjusting the pedals. At least one wrench can perform the said tasks which is a pedal wrench.

It reduces the chance of injury as its jaw won’t slip off the nut easily.

Its minimal weight is proof of portability for trail riding and trekking activities. So, users can just grab the wrench when they encounter a pedal problem.

15. Plumber’s Wrench

This unit is exclusive for plumbing use. The plumber’s wrench has a similar look to pliers wrenches with a spring wheel on the handle to improve control. The tool works on a variety of pipe fittings and fixtures.

It has an adjustable jaw to fit hexagonal nuts. With the spring wheel in between its handles, added force is needed to improve the tool.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Spud Wrench

A spud wrench is another obsolete tool on the list. Some individuals do have a spud wrench on their toolbox, but it is very rare.

It is also an open-ended wrench with spikes on its opposing end used to line up the pipe holes. The end of the wrench is responsible for fastening the bolts.

Spud wrenches came before a plumber wrench became a number one choice for plumbing jobs. It is rarely found in today’s market perhaps due to several new wrench tools.

  • Pliers Wrench

Pliers wrench looks similar and functions almost the same as a pair of pliers. It is one of the adjustable wrenches with two flat-edged jaws attached to each handle.

They are connected with a bolt that can slide in opposite directions to adjust the size of the wrench’s head.

Pliers wrench is operated just like a normal plier. It requires enough strength to start loosening and tightening a nut and a bolt.

  • Pipe wrench

It can hold pipes and curved surfaces tightly. One side of the wrench is adjustable while the other is fixed. The pipe wrench can reach tight spaces, however, not for coated pipes for it can leave marks. Its aluminum handles reduce the weight of the wrench.

  • Strap wrench

This works on a variety of pipes, including aluminum, plastic, metal, and brass pipes. It has a fabric strap to be fastened on its curved head, and be pulled around to hold the pipe.

  • Seat wrench

This item is designed to remove faucet seats. It is an L-shaped faucet seat wrench that has two ends with four and five flat sides.

  • PO Plug wrench

The plug wrench works for different strainer types. It is used to remove pop-up or pop-out plugs.

16. Spanner Wrench

A spanner wrench is a multi-tool and a highly specialized wrench type. This term becomes redundant for Americans using spanners referring to a wrench tool.

Spanner wrenches are built with steel and chrome-plated to avoid rusting. C-spanner is the most common type of this wrench.

It features a curved end that looks like a C-shape hook. The added pins broaden the wrench usefulness.

Read More:  DEWALT 20V Vs. 40V Vs. 60V Chainsaw [Complete Guide]

This wrench type is capable of gas repairs, plumbing, and performing pipe connections. Also, it is flexible to work on tighter spaces.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Mole grips spanner wrench

For more lightweight tasks, choosing mole grips can help. It can hold a bolt while loosening the nut. This is not a traditional spanner wrench but works with the same purpose.

  • Immersion heater spanner wrench

This one is fit for repairing a water heater, but not for all plumber uses. It can be ring-headed or box spanners.

  • Spark Plug Wrench

To unscrew a spark plug can be dangerous, but a wrench can make the process safer. The use of a T-handle will help to better control the wrench.

The purchase usually comes with a double-ended socket and sometimes includes a T-handle. It is sold at engine repair stores that might incorporate up to two spark plug sockets.

It is created with limited use however as a safe tool for unbolting spark plugs.

It can also fit any spark plug units so better check the sockets before getting a standalone wrench.

  • Basin Wrench

Calling a plumber to fix your faucet can be expensive and demands too much effort and time. With a basin wrench, anyone can become a handyman for plumbing mishaps.

It is also called a faucet wrench to work on fixtures such as toilets and sinks.

Basin wrench is a complicated tool to use for beginners, however, online tutorials exist for a reason. This wrench type applies to most faucet setups in tightening the nuts to hold its fixtures in place.

It is built with a T-shaped bar used to tighten or loosen the nuts and bolts of the faucet. Turn the bar counterclockwise in loosening the nuts and in the opposite direction to tighten the nuts. The ergonomic handle makes it easier to turn the wrench even in tighter spaces.

Like the previous wrenches, the basin wrench has a serrated jaw for better grip on the nuts and bolts. Be careful throughout the process not to leave scratches on your faucet and toilet.

17. Spoke Wrench

A spoke wrench is tiny wrenches and among the open-ended wrench types. Buyers can find a spoke wrench in a bike repair shop. It is a circular unit with two ends, one to fit the spoke and the other end for the nipple nut.

Rotate the wrench in a full circle around the spoke and nipple nut. It cannot be removed once it has been attached to the spoke and nipple nut.

This open-ended wrench is more like an ashtray with a bottom hole. It is made of flat metal that is highly sturdy for longer use.

18. Lug Wrench

The lug wrench is also known as the wheel brace. This wrench is used for tightening nuts on a vehicle’s wheels. The automobile industry, therefore, takes advantage of this tool for car maintenance.

The lug wrench is either L-shaped or X-shaped according to the user’s needs.  L-shaped lug wrenches have a single socket opening on their end while the X-shaped has up to four sockets of different sizes. Either way can generate more torque when a greater force is applied while using the wrench.

It is designed with a wedge-shaped end to perform other similar tasks for automobile industries. Plus, it is socketless for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts.

The lug wrench is stored with the spare tire for easier access during emergencies. It is one of the lifesaving tools in the market right now.

Picking the right lug wrench for your needs can bring a lot of advantages. It includes experiencing the same power of impact wrenches and other power tools at a cheaper cost.

19. Tap Wrench

A tap wrench may appear with a double-handled bar or a T-shaped. The prior includes an attachment socket in the middle of its two handles.

On the other hand, the T-shaped has square tap attachments.

 

Both styles are designed for threading a nut and other fittings. A tap wrench can also serve as a drill and screwdriver.

List of all the types of wrenches work with this purpose:

  • Double-end tap wrench

These are also called bar wrenches applicable for larger taps. It is made of handles and clamps to tighten the object securely. It demands room to properly turn around.

  • T-handle tap wrench

While this one is more compact. It is useful for more confined spaces or wherever an extra reach is needed. It promotes exceptional strength to hold the various sizes of taps

20. Shower Valve Wrench

Maintaining your shower place at home will require the use of a shower valve wrench. It helps to control the water’s temperature, pressure, and flow.

You only need to choose between different kinds of shower valves that will suit your situation. It works to stop leaking problems with other basic home tools.

21. Tension Wrench

This is not a pair of tweezers but another type of wrench. This piece of equipment is essential for lock-picking with applied tension.

Purpose of Y shaped tension wrench?

It works another way compared to the previous types of wrenches.

No need to look for a stationary tool to create tension, the wrench will do the job. Its spring will open whenever tension is applied. It promotes stability instead of using a DIY tension pick.

22. Torx Key

A Torx key is suitable to unscrew star-shaped heads. It is nearly similar to a hex key wrench except for it is a star-headed key wrench.

 

Final Thoughts

Wrapping it all up, a wrench tool has come with different types and uses. It is important to choose which one will suit your needs, either for construction, industrial or home repair applications.

Leave a Comment