TM 1-1500-204-23-9
a. Use. A cotter pin can be removed by inserting the
point of the taper into the eye of the cotter pin. With the
outside of the curved portion bearing on a supporting
structure, the cotter pin is removed by prying it out. The
curved wedge end may be used to bend or straighten
the ends of the cotter pin.
b. Care. If damaged, the wedge or the taper can be
repaired by grinding. Observe all safety precautions
when performing this repair.
7-8. Mechanical Fingers. Mechanical fingers are used
to retrieve small articles which have fallen into places
where they cannot be reached by hand. They are also
used to start nuts or bolts in difficult areas.
a. Description. The mechanical fingers, shown in
figure 7-12 and 7-13, is a flexible or fixed cable or tube
with long flat springs running thru it. Applying or
releasing pressure on the plate operates the mechanical
fingers for retrieving hard to reach objects.
CAUTION
Mechanical fingers should not be used as
a substitute for wrenches or pliers. The
fingers are made of thin sheet metal or
spring wire and can be easily damaged by
overloading.
b. Care. Observe the following precautions for the
care and upkeep of mechanical fingers:
(1) Apply a light coat of oil to metal parts to prevent
rust.
(2) Store mechanical fingers so that exposed
springs are not damaged or binding within the tube.
7-9. Telescoping Magnet. The telescoping magnet
shown in figure 7-14 is used to retrieve magnetic objects
which have fallen into locations not accessible by hand.
It is similar in principle to the mechanical fingers, but
instead of the fingers, it has a magnet at the end of a
telescoping tube. The tube is simply extended to reach
the object, and the object is held by the magnet as it is
pulled out.
7-6
Figure 7-8. Turnbuckle Wrench
Figure 7-9. Valve Stem Fishing Tool
Figure 7-10. Valve Repair Tool
Figure 7-11. Cotter Pin Extractor
