Blackhawk by Proto, a sub-brand of Stanley Proto industrial tools, announces Obstacle Insert Sets. Each set is built around a reverse-ratcheting S-shaped wrench, but includes adaptors that let the technician turn several fastener sizes with just one wrench body.
Each set includes one 8-in. long wrench body, six flank adaptors and an equal number of box heads. Each flank adaptor is designed to slip into one of the wrench openings, while each box head attaches to its corresponding flank adaptor. This system lets the user change the size of the wrench opening. Sets are available in Fractional (3/8 in. to 7/8 in.) and Metric (10 mm to 22 mm) versions.
Blackhawk designed these sets with input and feedback from working technicians. One of their concerns was torque capacity. In response, the wrench body has been engineered so that the interchangeable heads do not reduce torque capacity: once in place, the adaptor transfers torque forces to the wrench body, minimizing stress on the adaptor.
Technicians also asked that be easy for them to change heads without having to move around. While the adaptors are held securely in place with a locking ring, they can be quickly disengaged via a thumb release, the company says.
Technicians now can get a single S-shaped wrench that has the ability to turn six different fasteners, all in a kit that weighs just 2.8 lbs., according to the company.
Obstacle insert sets are said to have the same advantages as any S-shaped wrench when working around obstructions in an engine compartment, since they let the technician reach fasteners that a straight wrench can’t.
