BCN water conservation key

[Horace42]

The key shaft is 1/4" square - so any 1/4" sq drive socket set will fit - then you need a matching Allen key to fit the hex end of the socket

[Mac of Cygnet]

1 hour ago, Horace42 said:

The key shaft is 1/4" square - so any 1/4" sq drive socket set will fit - then you need a matching Allen key to fit the hex end of the socket

True.  I made a key up using a ratchet screwdriver and 1/4" drive to use on the HNC, where some of the spindles on the large flap locks are so worn that a normal handcuff key won't turn them. Also a lot qicker when several turns are required.

The 'handcuffs on a chain' are found on quite a few of the Rochdale paddles.

[Sea Dog]

On 2017-5-10 at 21:14, Horace42 said:

The key shaft is 1/4" square - so any 1/4" sq drive socket set will fit - then you need a matching Allen key to fit the hex end of the socket

Every time I use the purpose made key they flog at the various outlets I think there must be something better. It seems like a prototype that never got beyond that stage - or else it's designed more with getting lost or sinking rapidly in mind than anything else. 

[nebulae]

Some of these locks are getting pretty old by now. One of my keys(well used)will not open very worn locks. Some keys seem to have a better machined square than others?

[homer2911]

On 2017-5-9 at 10:37, Peter-Bullfinch said:

All of the Rufford Branch of the Leeds and Liverpool  have handcuff type fastenings needing multiple turns of your handcuff key to undo. They are a nuisance with usually four per lock. Seven locks plus the Tarleton sea lock. In addition there are the five swing bridges most of which have the multiple turn handcuff locks. Al this in roughly six miles!  I understand two on the top side of each lock would be sufficient  but it would be much better if they were replaced by click shut bolt type as seen on the nearby Wigan Flight.

On top of this the Rufford Branch has the lovely old very difficult chuff wooden paddle levers but luckily at least a couple are broken so you don't need to trouble yourself with them.

The bonus is that this branch has beautiful views over the Lancashire plain and the hills beyond plus it gives access to the Lancaster Canal via the wonderful Ribble Link. 

 

I met someone who used an adapted ratchet wrench to help with these tedious handcuffs

[furnessvale]

2 hours ago, homer2911 said:

I met someone who used an adapted ratchet wrench to help with these tedious handcuffs

An electric (battery) screwdriver is best!

George ex nb Alton retired