GEARENCH PHD0535 PETOL POP-IT Flange Spreader & Prying Tool - Heavy Duty - Manual (Page 6)

POP-IT
®
Tool Inspection
Prior to each use:
¾ Clean serrations on toes with a wire brush
¾ Inspect toes for possible cracks or chipped surfaces – replace immediately if
either is found.
¾ Verify that all bolts and screws on the tool are tight.
Every six months:
¾ 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. Insert the toes of the
tool into the flange as far as possible. The first step or entry point of the toes is a ½ inch
thick. The next two steps are 1 inch and 1 ½ inch. The bulk of spreading should be done
at the 1 inch and 1 ½ inch steps. Do not try to reach maximum force of 30,000 lbs on the
first step. Always chock your work when moving from one step of the toe to another.
Step 2
Once the toes are in as far as possible, flip the direction switch on the ratchet to the left.
Begin turning the ratchet handle clockwise in a slow manner until the flange opens at
least one inch. Insert a 1 inch chock and then remove the tool. Re-insert the tool on the 1
inch step and begin spreading until you reach the desired opening. 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 300 lbs of force on the end of the ratchet handle will produce 30,000 lbs
of force. If this is not enough, you may need two tools to spread the flange.
¾ The outside toes of the tool can be removed and then reset, allowing you to spread
or lift a total of 8 inches. With the toes extended, the spreading or lifting capacity
of the tool is reduced to 20,000 lbs.
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