How to care for a ratchet spanner

How to care for a ratchet spanner?

A ratchet spanner is one of the most indispensable hand tools found in a tool set. Primarily used to fasten or loosen the nuts or bolt heads in a number of applications, ranging from construction, automobile, repair and maintenance and heavy machinery, ratchet spanners come in different types. Some of the most common spanner types used by engineers, electricians, plumbers, maintenance workers and DIYers are ring-style spanners, C-type spanners, combination spanners and ratchet spanners.

With an extensive range of ratchet spanners available in stock, RS Components has been distributing high-quality tools, accessories and components for many years. Our ratchet spanners are constructed from tough materials like hardened chrome vanadium steel or beryllium copper. We have an extensive range of spanners that are available in both metric (mm) and imperial (in) sizes. This makes our ratchet spanners a versatile tool that can be used for multiple applications.

A ratchet spanner, if properly used and taken care of, can persist for a lifetime. In this article, we will take a look at how to care for a ratchet spanner.

How to care for a ratchet spanner?


Everyday care

Ratchet spanners are not always used in sterile and air-conditioned environments. There is always a chance of moisture, dust, oil, grime and grease to seep in where you use a ratchet spanner. When moisture, dust or grease accumulates on your spanner, it can not only lead to the corrosion of the tool, but it is also dangerous as it could lead to the spanner slipping from your hand.

Always make it a habit to wipe your ratchet spanner clean with a tidy cloth. And make sure you store your ratchet in a closed tool box after use. 

Special care

To prevent water from getting into the spanner, you can spread a thin layer of oil on it. The oil barrier will protect the spanner from corroding. Just keep in mind not to lather the spanner with too much oil; it only requires a light layer. If you have a chrome-plated spanner, polish it using vehicle metal polish. The polish can help prevent corrosion as well as maintain a shiny finish.

Make sure you check your spanners from time to time for any scratches, dents or cuts. A broken spanner can break nuts and bolts. If you have a ratchet spanner that curves back, regularly check the point of the curve. There are chances that it might get weaker at some point. Any worn components must be replaced immediately.

Care while using the ratchet spanner

Remember these points while using your ratchet spanner:

Never use an incorrect-sized spanner on fasteners. This will not only damage your spanner profile but will also scratch your nuts and bolts. Once a fastener is damaged, it will be very difficult to remove or refit.

Never use excessive force while fastening and loosening the components. Using brute force could break them. Use a penetrative oil to grease stubborn fasteners. This will act as a lubricant.

It is not advisable to hit a ratchet spanner; the impact can break the ratchet mechanism.

Never extend the shaft of the spanner using a pipe or another spanner. Ratchet spanners are not designed to endure extra force. Even if you need to apply extra force, use an extender bar. 

If you need help finding the right ratchet spanner for your project, visit  RS Online, and browse to take a look at all the high-quality brands available.

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