DIVE   ASSEMBLY

​  Operators have a number of options with regard to the size and power of the driver and components of the assembly that can be used to operate the binder.

   A power driver with between 120 to 250   ft. lbs. of torque can tension the binder to a tension equivalent to or greater than that most ratchet binders are manually tensioned to, during day to day operations. 

    A 1/4 inch drivers can do the job, are usually lighter and less costly, however, require a longer operating period to achieve an adequate binder tension, the connection to the HEX extension bar is not as robust as the square on the 3/8 wrenches, the battery charge is used more quickly and the wrench is not as robust.. 

   A 3/8 in. impact wrenches appear to be the ideal driver for tensioning speed, battery life, weight and the operator physical requirements. This size wrench is usually close to the same weight as a 1/4 driver/impact wrench, the square 3/8 connection to the extension is stronger than that of the 1/4 inch drivers and tensioning is faster.    

   A 1/2 inch or higher capacity impact wrench could be used but is NOT recommended since they significantly heavier, could easily exceed the WLL  of the chain, the drive assembly parts or the.binder.

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​​​​​ The optimal drive assembly consists of a

       - an 1/8 impact extension ( length to that chosen by the operator)

       - a 3/8 ball impact universal joint and

       - a 3/8 drive 15/16 in (24 mm)  medium depth impact socket.

               This is the lightest combination and although a standard depth socket can

            be used and is easier to engage with the bolt, the medium depth socket

            provides a more positive engagement with the bolt and helps to minimizes

            any possible rounding of the bolt head.

                

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​     There are several alternate combinations of parts that can make up a drive assembly.  

              A  standard 1/2  in. ( 24mm) drive socket can be used with a  1/2 inch  ball impact

                   universal joint,  a 1/2 to 3/8 adapter and a 3/8 extension, however,  this is a heavier

                   assembly, and  the  standard socket is less robust and may not stand up to the

                  repeated impacts..

 

 

 

 

 

           

                                                    

 

     The extension bar length chosen by the operator would be based on the

               the safes and most comfortable positioning of the operator relative to

              the binder.

              The extensions used can be  as short  3 inches and  as long as in combinations

              of a couple joined  together to reach binders installed in confined  spaces.

              

        NOTE 

​​        - A ratchet wrench handle can be used to operate the binder when

          the impact wrench is not workable or the battery is drained.

          - A speed wrench is a good backup tool for quick manual closing or

           opening the binder..

          - It is recommended that a spare  backup universal joint and socket

           be  available  in case of a part failure or is lost.

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