How to use our CLOSED air can wrenches

How to Use Our Closed-Style Air Can Wrenches

⚠️ Important safety warning +

Always fully depressurize the air can before using this tool.

If the shock is stuck down (air can pulled in and won’t extend), repressurize to at least 100 psi to equalize the chambers. Then release pressure slowly in 25 psi steps, allowing the chambers to equalize each time.

Opening a stuck-down shock without doing this can cause forceful air can ejection. Always treat air shocks as pressurized systems.

This guide explains how and when to use our closed-style air can wrenches.

Closed vs. open style +

Closed-style wrenches wrap around the entire air can and distribute torque evenly across many teeth.=

Compared to open-style wrenches, closed-style tools:

  • Require much less hand force to keep aligned
  • Are more slip-resistant
  • Are the safest option when sufficient tooth engagement exists
How to use +
  • Clean the air can surface with isopropyl alcohol
  • Seat the wrench fully. Fits are intentionally very tight (tolerances down to ~0.01 mm)
  • You should feel a positive “click” or lock-in when seated correctly
  • Secure the shock in soft jaws or a Trunnion Vise Tool
  • Apply torque straight and evenly. Do not tilt or twist
Torque tips +

Most closed-style air can wrenches are not compatible with standard torque wrenches. Required torque is often around 20 Nm, which exceeds our recommended repeated torque on 3/8" drives.

Instead, use a luggage scale with our torque calculator:

  1. Measure wrench length from pivot to handle
  2. Enter length and target torque into the calculator
  3. Pull using a luggage scale until the target force is reached
Example +

The DB Inline Air Can Wrench is a textbook closed-style fit: extremely tight, self-aligning, and easy to use without extra hand pressure. Just make sure it is pressed fully into place.

Disclaimer +

These tools are intended for amateur use with proper technique. Improper seating or alignment can damage the air can or the wrench. By using these tools, you agree to our terms of service.