Definition: The open wrench is the wrench of all wrenches. Rosie the Riveter was holding an open end wrench in her hand way back in WWII. An open end wrench, also called a spanner, is of a fixed size, and is therefore perfectly fitted to that size bolt. The size of the wrench is usually right next to the part that turns the bolt. Most open end wrenches have a head on both sides, making it two wrenches. A good selection of open end wrenches will make any job easier. Be sure to find out whether your car uses primarily metric or standard sized bolts before you buy a set. Metric wrenches are measure in millimeters whereas standard (or SAE) wrenches are measured in inches. Don't think that because your car isn't American it is going to have metric bolts. Many Japanese cars use standard size bolts throughout their construction.
Also Known As: spanner
