In 1857, Mathias Klein completed the first pair of Klein pliers for a telegraph lineman in need. Although Klein Tools’ complete product offering now provides tradespeople across all fields with the tools needed to get any job done right, we remain committed to meeting the demands of the professionals who have depended on Klein Tools products since day one. From battery-operated tools and impact sockets to lineman buckets, climbing equipment and more, line workers can find exactly the solution they are looking for.
In fact, no line worker’s tool bag is complete without one of Klein’s Wire Pulling Grips, which our team has been manufacturing for more than 135 years. By combining superior strength and durability, these jobsite essentials provide professionals with just the right tension to complete complex wiring jobs.
As line workers pull wire and cable from pole to pole, the die-grease coating found on some conductors can deposit on grip jaws. And that’s just one reason why we recommend cleaning your grips before each use.
Follow along as Scott Hargis, product engineer at Klein Tools, demonstrates how to properly clean and inspect Klein Wire Pulling Grips.
The following six steps provide the basics to properly caring for these tools commonly used by line workers:
- Carefully inspect condition and alignment of jaws, all parts and rivets for proper functionality as well as any possible distortions
- Use the Klein Grip Cleaning Wire Brush Set (Cat. No. 25450) to clean the grip jaws’ surfaces
- Spray degreaser on the grip jaws, all joints, moving parts and between each rivet
- Again, using the Wire Brush, remove any dirt, debris or other buildup from the grip jaws
- Wipe your grip clean with a soft, dry cloth. Repeat entire process as necessary until it is completely clean
- Apply lubricant to all joints and moving parts, being careful NOT to lubricate gripping surfaces or jaws
Depending on which grip you use, there are different signs to look for when inspecting your tool, but importantly, all grips should operate smoothly. Spring-Loaded Grips should lock open with loop handle in “down” position and should close automatically with loop handle “up”. The Klein Parallel Jaw Grip may be tested by opening and closing the jaws by hand.
Remember to never repair any grip. If you find it is bent, misaligned or otherwise distorted and not fully functioning it should be immediately discarded and replaced.
A mid-1920s Klein Tools catalog, lists the most important tools in a line worker’s bag — grips, which Klein Tools invented and holds key patents on. A common phrase heard on jobsites at this time included, “Every lineman a Kleinman.”
Other tips for long-lasting, high-quality Klein tools include storing in a cool, dry place and daily damage control. Although it might sound tedious, following these steps can help ensure a longer tool life*. How do you keep your Klein’s in like-new condition? Share your tips with us on social media.
*If there is ever a question about the safety of any grip, please contact customer service directly at Hisupport@kleintools.com. Klein Tools’ warranty covers products outside of conditions of abuse, misuse or normal wear. If your product is deemed as not performing its function properly, it can be returned to the distributor it was purchased from. Warranty return authorization forms are also available on the Klein Tools website. For more information about Klein’s Warranty and Return Policy, visit: www.kleintools.com/content/warranty.