Why Should Pliers Not Be Used on a Nut or Bolt?

What are the reasons why pliers should not be used on a nut or bolt?

1) They can damage the nut or bolt 2) They are not strong enough 3) They are the wrong tool for the job 4) They can cause injury

Answer:

Pliers are not ideal for nuts or bolts because they can cause damage by not fitting precisely, potentially rounding off the edges and making future adjustments harder. A length of pipe over a wrench handle increases leverage, thus torque, to loosen tight bolts, but can break the bolt. Socket wrenches or power drills are more suitable for handling fasteners properly.

Pliers should not be used on a nut or bolt primarily because they can damage the nut or bolt. Pliers do not provide the precise fit that is achieved with the correct wrench or socket, and the pressure applied can lead to deforming the edges of the nut or bolt. This makes future adjustments with the correct tool difficult and can also weaken the integrity of the fastener.

Using a length of pipe over the handle of a wrench gives a mechanic more leverage, which increases the torque applied to the bolt. This process, often referred to as adding a 'cheater bar,' allows the mechanic to use less force to achieve the same, or greater, rotational force on the bolt, helping in removing a bolt that is very tight. However, there is a risk that the increased torque can cause the bolt to break, which is why it's also considered hazardous.

For secure and proper handling of fasteners, socket wrenches or a power drill are recommended. These tools are engineered to fit fasteners correctly, which minimizes the chance of damage and reduces the risk of injury that might occur from a tool slipping off a fastener.