Have you used a wrench extender ? Specifically a tool used to hook onto a combination or box end wrench to get extra leverage on the fastener. I've seen a few brands/designs on the internet, some appear to be better designed and made than others.

If you've used one what did you use and what are your thoughts. I'm not into hooking another combination wrench through the box end as an extra lever, from a transfer or forces perspective it looks worse than the finest in redneck improvisation has to offer.

Some guys have fabricated their own, but I don't have the skills or welding and metalworking tools and equip to pull it off myself.

I don't understand the need for such a thing.

Why not just use another wrench?

Length of steel pipe does the job.

I have as a field expedient. It's not something I do if I have any other options tho. Big fan of using the proper tool for the job.

That said, when access or availability prevents using a bigger wrench or a breaker bar, it's a viable alternative.

Don't get me wrong - like most folks there have been times when I resorted to a 4 foot hunk of pipe over the handle of a Crescent Hammer.

Those that remember my flirtation with refurbishing a John Deere bulldozer will understand...

quote:

Originally posted by .38supersig:
I don't understand the need for such a thing.

Why not just use another wrench?

Safer. Less chance of busted knuckles.

quote:

Originally posted by Voshterkoff:
Length of steel pipe does the job.

This is my approach,too.

I actually keep a couple of pipes (various diameters) around just for this reason. Another approach might be to use a socket with a breaker bar, if your circumstances allow.

quote:

Originally posted by Voshterkoff:
Length of steel pipe does the job.

Ditto. It does make it easier to snap a bolt.

I use a boxed end wrench hooked into the open end of the wrench.

I've used plenty of "cheater bars" in my time.

quote:

Originally posted by 1967Goat:
I use a boxed end wrench hooked into the open end of the wrench.

This...or one of the several lengths of pipe of various diameters I have in my box just for this purpose.

You mean a piece of pipe or a second wrench yes used those many times.

quote:

Originally posted by 1967Goat:
I use a boxed end wrench hooked into the open end of the wrench.

Yes, a bigger wrench does the job, no busted knuckles if done properly

Also drift the wrench with a mallet. They even make slugging wrenches. Used them quite a bit.

quote:

Originally posted by Voshterkoff:
Length of steel pipe does the job.

This. I squished a piece of conduit in my vise so it’s slightly oblong. Works great as a cheater bar.

As far as snapping a bolt, it’s still better than busting out the impact driver.

quote:

Originally posted by 1967Goat:
I use a boxed end wrench hooked into the open end of the wrench.

My usual goto as well

All of the above.

quote:

Originally posted by Warhorse:
I've used plenty of "cheater bars" in my time.

Me too, I thought everyone did !

Not really an extender, but a heck of a cheat:


Link

For a time I set dies in a stamping plant. We used a section of steel pipe on a box wrench to crank them down.

Actually have a set of cheater bars in various lengths and diameters. Just pipe, painted. Then for the serious stuff where the four foot pipe wrench won’t break it loose, have a ~3” x 11’ galvanized fence post. Whatever it takes…