huge wrenches for radiator spud couplers

randallkc

ok. I am tired of using pipe wrenches on my spud couplers to un-hook rads. I don't like the damage they do to the couplers. I need a huge adjustable wrench or something.

What do you guys suggest?

JUGHNE

I have an 18" says "Stilson" monkey type wrench with flat smooth jaws. Adjusts like a Cresent wrench. Configured like a pipe wrench, only with the smooth jaws. Goes well over 2". Would post a picture but it is outside in the snow covered truck.

Abracadabra

20" channel lock always does it for me. If it doesn't break loose, I give the radiator a little jiggle and it'll always break free.

nicholas bonham-carter

There is also the relatively cheap big adjustable Crecent style wrench from Harbor Freight.
As you do not have to exert extreme torque with it in that application, it will probably last a long time for that purpose.--NBC

JUGHNE

I guess I would go outside if there is a chance to show off tools . My wrong not a Stilson, but made by Diamond.

The oldest one was my grandfather's (1900's?) stays home. (the toothed jaw is a knuckle buster if you try it on a pipe....not sure of its true intended function...single jawed pipe wrench?) Trademark of "B & G"

Then the 18" adjustable made by Diamond, can be adjusted very tight with pliers on the adjust nut. This one used a lot.

Rigid hex wrench #11...very handy.

Rigid offset hex wrench # E-110 (like a gun in Texas, don't always need one, but if you do, you need it bad)

The fine German Knipex, sweet parallel jaws up to 1 3/4".

The big guys are handy to crack nuts on a flush valve, just don't drop it into the china.
The little guys are good to reassemble, with final tighten with big.

randallkc

Thanks so much! I didn't know about the smooth jaw options that were out there. Home Depot does not have many options.

Sailah

We remove a LOT of radiator nuts around here...

These adjustable wrenches made by Billings are the go to wrench at the plant, not my photo but we have a dozen here just like it

At home I also have Knipex pliers wrench pictured above which I find more handy for a myriad of tasks. The jaws are easily adjustable with push button and then you get great lever action with the handles. Seems gimmicky but I can assure you it's a finely crafted German tool with a price tag to match.

Dave0176

Ridgid spud wrench

https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/spud-wrench

ChrisJ

Dave0176 said:

Ridgid spud wrench

https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/spud-wrench

That's what I've been using but I kind of wish I also had one of these as it seems like it would give more bite on the spud nut.

https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/hex-wrenches


This has been my tool set for radiator spuds since 2012.

SWEI

I am fortunate to own both old and new versions of many of these wonderful tools. I suspect my grandfather would be proud to see his Stillson and Ford wrenches still in (semi) regular use.

I will say that the Ridgid E-110 has become a bit of a "secret weapon" in the basic toolbag. Everyone (regardless of trade) should probably own one.

FranklinD

Not for the average homeowner, but I have open- and box-end wrenches up to 3.75" for work. That's what I've used on my radiators. Only downside: They are HEAVY.

Fred

I have a set of Klutch adjustable wrenches that I got from Northerntool.com. The 3 piece set is 15", 18" and 24" long and they work great for those spud nuts. They also have a life time warranty and are reasonably priced.

jumper

Large but short open wrenches are available. May be called pump service wrenches? Handy for bicycle work as well.