Both spud wrench and pipe wrench are for pipes, yet they differ in pipe usage because a spud wrench is mostly preferred in automotive pipe work as an alternative to the adjustable wrench, with lining up bolt holes when installing pipe fittings, while the pipe wrench is used in plumbing.
Below we will discuss in depth the similarities and differences between Spud Wrench vs Pipe Wrench
Similarities Between the Spud Wrench and Pipe Wrench
Since both the Spud Wrench and Pipe Wrench both under the Adjustable Wrench family, both can be easily used in pipe fittings, bolts, a socket, and a hex nut.
Both of them also operate with an adjustable jaw to get a good measure by fastening the material properly.
They have wide use of applications from a residential setting to an industrial one.
Both can also be used in plumbing because they can replace a wrench for adjusting pipes, fitting, and fixtures.
For example, both can be used on toilet work, such as repairing the toilet bowl, toilet tank, toilet flange, closet flange, and adjusting the tank bolts.
In pipe fittings, a spud wrench can be used to tighten the bolts of the fitting while a pipe wrench can be used to compress the pipe in order to prevent slipping.
When working on bolts, both can be used to compress and tighten them.
When it comes to socket size, both spud wrench and pipe wrench have the same size chart whether it is for Standard American (SAE) or Metric.
Both are capable of being used on most bolts that are commonly made of metal, and both can be adapted easily for different types of work.
Having both the spud wrench and pipe wrench is best for your wrench set!
Differences Between the Spud Wrench and Pipe Wrench
Spud Wrench is mostly used in auto mechanic work for oil filter change, as well as lining up bolt holes while the pipe wrench is the preferred tool in plumbing work but can also be used in car repair, especially on mufflers.
The Spud wrench has a smooth jaw enough to grip on nuts and bolts, while the pipe wrench often acts as a better fastener because of its gripping hook jaw and weight.
The spud wrench on one side is highly similar the adjustable wrench while the other end is a tapered spike, this end is often used for lining up bolt holes when installing pipe fittings.
When it comes to the pipe wrench, like its ancestor the monkey wrench, its handle is a long thick heavy bar that helps support fitting by giving the user the best amount of torque possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a Spud Wrench?
You can buy the best spud wrench in your local hardware store although they are more available online in stores like Amazon, Lowes, or Harbor Freight.
Can a Spud Wrench be used in Plumbing?
Yes, a spud wrench can be used in plumbing and can easily work on a slip nut, it is a good alternative if you can’t work with a pipe wrench or monkey wrench because you don’t have one.
What can I use if I don’t have a spud wrench?
You can use the standard adjustable wrench or spanner wrench if you don’t have a spud wrench since the adjustable wrench is easily available and is more common than a spud wrench while functioning the same way as a spud wrench.
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Weldon is a Single Dad who loves teaching others about the workaround in the house. He loves to write about DIY and Home Improvement Hacks and just recently had his first child. You’ll have some fun read with his write-ups and more of his works in his own home!