Hand Tools / Pliers & Cutting Tools / Adjustable Wrenches

Tackle any plumbing task big or small with an adjustable wrench from the incredible range on sale at Sydney Tools.

Our range includes handy 6” shifters all the way up to 24” heavy duty models and every size in between, from trusted hand tool brands like Bahco, Daytona, Sidchrome and Stanley.

With the ability to do the job of a whole set of wrenches with a single tool, the shifting spanner is one of the most useful hand tools you’ll ever buy and one that is always found in a plumber’s tool belt.

Correct way to use an adjustable wrench

Like any tool, adjustable wrenches need to be used correctly in order to get the best result. Improper use can lead to a broken wrench, or rounded off nuts which are very difficult to remove. Here’s how to avoid those problems.

To get maximum torque and extend the life of your adjustable spanner, ensure that the fixed jaw of the tool is taking the majority of the force as you tighten or loosen a nut, not the adjustable jaw. If you stress the adjustable side of the tool too often, it will become loose and may even snap off.

Ensure a good grip on the nut by sliding the shifter all the way over the nut so the nut is touching the jaws flush on both sides and is as far into the jaws as it can go. This reduces the risk of rounding off the nut.

Adjustable spanner vs. fixed spanner, which is better?

Adjustable spanners are perfect for DIYers because they are a simple way to get common plumbing tasks done without the need to buy and store an entire set of spanners.

But the design of the adjustable spanner also means it isn’t as strong as a fixed spanner. The adjustable jaws on a shifter may loosen as more pressure is applied, whereas a fixed spanner will provide the same secure grip no matter how much pressure you apply. Fixed wrenches are also lighter and more compact.

So if you’re doing regular work on engines and machinery in the garage, a set of fixed spanners is a great choice, but if you just want one tool to have ready for the occasional plumbing or repair job, an adjustable spanner is the way to go.