GEARENCH P95-525 PETOL POP-IT™ Flange Spreader & Prying Tool - Standard Duty - Manual (Page 6)

5
Every six months:
 Remove screw assembly. Remove any debris from the screw and apply a thin coat
of anti-seize compound.
Operating Procedure – Flange Work
Note: In some cases it will be necessary to use two tools to keep from pinching the blind
or gasket on the opposite side of the flange, or the flange may be so large and rigid that it
requires two tools. When using two tools, it is very important to operate the tools in
sync with one another while opening and closing.
Step 1
Before every use, clean the serrations on the toes with a wire brush. Drive the toes of the
tool into the flange as far as possible. This is done by striking the rectangular metal plate
at the back of the POP-IT
™ Tool. Keep the center toe away from bolt holes if possible.
The center toe may chip if it is not fully protected when under load.
Step 2
Once the toes are in as far as possible, flip the direction switch on the ratchet to the left.
With one hand located on the handle of the tool, take your other hand and begin turning
the ratchet handle clockwise in a slow manner as the flange begins to spread open. DO
NOT USE A CHEATER BAR. The POP-IT Tool is designed to be operated with the
ratchet supplied. Do not jerk on the ratchet handle. A steady even pull ensures smooth
operation. Approximately 120 lbs of force on the end of the ratchet handle will produce
10,000 lbs of force. If this is not enough, you may need two tools to spread the flange.
Step 3
ALWAYS CHOCK YOUR WORK. Never leave the tool in the flanges while
performing maintenance. After the flange is spread to the desired amount, set a chock
between the flanges. Flip the direction switch on the ratchet handle to the right. With one
hand on the tool handle, turn the ratchet handle counter clockwise to close the flanges
onto the chock and remove the tool.
Step 4
Perform necessary flange maintenance.
Step 5
Insert the POP-IT Tool beside the chock. Flip the direction switch on the ratchet back to
the left. While holding the tool handle, turn the ratchet handle clockwise until the chock