Tightening 4'' EMT Compression Fittings

[GilbeSpark]

Is there a better way other then the Big Azz Channellocks? Anyone tried strap wrenches on them? After running 4'' for a day the Channellocks will kill your hands, there's gotta be a better way.

 

[emahler]

big pipe wrenches?

 

[Local Electrician]

How's about a chain wrench. It works just like the strap. It slides easily, too.

 

[nakulak]

big spanners ?

 

[GUNNING]

Hire somebody with really huge big hands.

 

[GilbeSpark]

I've thought about the chain wrenches, but damn those things are HEAVY, that's why I was thinking strap wrench. But I'm not sure if the straps would grip enough or be strong enough to handle the force needed to really tighten down the large fittings.

Never really thought about the big spanners, that may be an option.

 

[quogueelectric]

I've thought about the chain wrenches, but damn those things are HEAVY, that's why I was thinking strap wrench. But I'm not sure if the straps would grip enough or be strong enough to handle the force needed to really tighten down the large fittings.

Never really thought about the big spanners, that may be an option.

Not big gorilla chain wrenches just big enough to make the coupling.

 

[charlietuna]

The large size strap wrench works great and is not as heavy as the chain wrench

 

[wireguru]

loctite on the threads and tighten it by hand?

 

[whillis]

An aluminum hex pipe wrench (if you can find one that goes to 4") or a plain aluminum pipe wrench with smooth jaws. Either one works great and won't scar up the connector.

http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/Aluminum-Handle-Straight-Pipe-Wrench/EN/index.htm

 

[Karl H]

I use strap wrenches.

 

[Fulthrotl]

Is there a better way other then the Big Azz Channellocks? Anyone tried strap wrenches on them? After running 4'' for a day the Channellocks will kill your hands, there's gotta be a better way.

there is.

there are lightweight chain tongs that work well... they aren't the Rigid ones,
just big enough to go around a 4" compression ring.... they have a handle
about 11 inches long.... strap wrenches are more tedious to use.....
if i can find the manufacturer i'm thinking of, i'll post the link here...

 

[jrannis]

Strap wrench,
You get pretty good at it after the first 100'.
It can get into tight places too.

 

[infinity]

IMO the best way is to never use 4" compression fittings in the first place. But you're not asking about that.

 

[Rewire]

I worked a shop were they would install the com.con. on large pipe in the shop so you only had to deal with one side ,we used aluminum pipe wrench.

 

[jeremysterling]

I have a pair of Channellock 215 oil filter wrench pliers that work great on 4". Little easier on the hands than the 460's.