How to Adjust and Use Bolt Cutters

Table of Contents

How to Adjust and Use Bolt Cutters: Bolt cutters are used to cut very thick materials. They come in various sizes and shapes and all of these types have individualized functions.

They minimize the risk of using chain saws or metal pipes and produce considerably less noise. Therefore, this is a tool that all homeowners must have in their toolkit. Adjusting bolt cutters for use is quite simple and all you need to do is follow the simple steps outlined below.

How to Adjust and Use Bolt Cutters | Bolt Cutters Head Adjustment

Hand tools and power tools are incredibly vital to many job sectors and industries as the following list.

Positioning the Bolt Cutter

All bolt cutters have a bolt known as a runout bolt in the head. This is usually the center bolt near the handle joint area. It is this bolt that needs adjustment to provide the cutters with the necessary tension. Lay the cutter on its side. This will let the hex eccentric bolt face up.

Loosening the Bolt Cutter Eccentricity

Now, use a wrench and loosen the bolt by turning the wrench counterclockwise. It is recommended that the bolts are not completely removed. Just make sure the bolt is loose enough to loosen the two halves of the cutter.

Remember not to over-tighten the screws while handling them; otherwise, the screw threads will be damaged. Work with the bolts carefully to avoid any frustration.

Adjusting the Bolt Cutter | How to Adjust Bolt Cutters

Once the two halves have loosened enough, place the paper between them. Begin to screw in the bolt clockwise until the cutters are at the point of pressing down on the paper. After the bolt cutter has been accustomed, check it on the material that has a need for cutting.

If the bolt cutter needs more adjustment, follow the steps mentioned above again. Use a grease cleaner to clean the bolts if they are clogged with dirt and grease. This will not only help in the proper fit but will also make the process easier.

Sharpening the Bolt Cutter Blades | How to Sharpen Bolt Cutters

Bolt cutters also malfunction when their metal blades are not sharp. Instead of replacing these blades, take the most convenient approach: use a wet stone to sharpen them by rubbing the angle of the blade to ensure proper sharpening. Be sure to wear gloves while doing this to avoid injury.

How to Adjust the Jaws on Bolt Cutters | Bolt Cutter Head Adjustment

The position of the bolt cutter blades can be adjusted using the jaw adjustment bolts, located on the plate that is mounted between the two jaws, or the neck adjustment bolt,

located near where the blade meets the handle on one side of the tool. (If your bolt cutters have two adjusting bolts, there will be one on each side.)Both kinds of adjusting bolts are eccentric, that is, they have a disproportionately shaped shaft comparable to a cam.

As a result, turning the bolt will cause part of the blade to move towards or away from the joint, adjusting the gap between the blades or the angle at which one blade is placed.

Instructions and Guidance

While doing all of this, make sure you don’t injure yourself, as bolt cutter cutters can be extremely sharp. Handle tools with great care while adjusting them.

Also, make sure the bolt cutter has been adjusted as needed before using it for cutting as it gets quite annoying when the requirement for adjustment is felt during the cutting process.

In case the screws are stuck, use oil or grease to facilitate their removal. Gloves are recommended to avoid contact with grease and dirt that can get caught in the bolts and to ensure a proper grip on the wrench.

Work at a stable workbench to ensure adequate control over your work and wear a mask while using the spray grease cleaner and hold the can 15 inches from the studs to ensure proper application.

How to Adjust and Use Bolt Cutters | Bolt Cutters Head Adjustment