Increased Leverage: A long spanner provides greater leverage, making it easier to generate the necessary torque required to loosen a tight nut. The longer the spanner, the greater the mechanical advantage, allowing the mechanic to apply more force with less effort.
Access to Tight Spaces: Long spanners can reach nuts that are located in confined or hard-to-reach areas. In tight engine compartments or other cramped spaces, a long spanner allows the mechanic to access and loosen nuts that might be difficult to reach with a shorter spanner.
Breaking Loose Rusted or Corroded Nuts: Tight nuts can become rusted or corroded over time, making them even more difficult to loosen. A long spanner provides the extra leverage needed to break the initial resistance and loosen the rusted nut.
Avoiding Damage to Nuts and Bolts: Using a long spanner reduces the risk of damaging the nut or bolt head. When using a short spanner, excessive force may be applied, which can cause the corners of the nut or bolt head to become rounded, making it difficult or impossible to remove.
Safety: A long spanner keeps the mechanic's hands further away from the nut, reducing the risk of injury in case the nut suddenly loosens or breaks free. This is particularly important when working with heavy machinery or in potentially dangerous environments.
In summary, a mechanic chooses a long spanner to undo a tight nut because it provides increased leverage, access to tight spaces, helps break loose rusted nuts, and reduces the risk of damage and injury.
