What kind of tongs are these?

[BackyardBlacksmithin]

Just picked these up at the local scrap yard but I have no clue what there for..... Any ideas?

[Solano]

I believe they are a heavy truck (semi) brake spring replacement tool. I have one very similar.

[Frosty]

I believe Solano is right, those are for removing the old shoe return spring and the little clip form on the end of the one handle is for pulling the new one into place. That works by sliding the handle into the hook on the end of the spring and placing the clip end over the brake spring post then levering the spring out and over the spring slides right down the handle and over the end of the spring pin.

 

the bit with the curved point is placed on part of the shoe and the hook end is threaded through the spring end. when you close the handles it stretches the spring and you can remove it from the spring pin and let it relax under control.

 

Guys who tried removing springs using the handle clip thingy had to spend too much time chasing after the spring but that was nothing like the razzing we gave them.

 

Frosty the Lucky.

[greg]

Yup, it is a brake spring tool

[swedefiddle]

Farriers use a hoof tester. that could be used as a nostril checker if you aren't using it on the brakes. :) :) :)

 

Neil

[Frosty]

My GOODNESS Neil, your nostrils must get REALLY plugged! :o

 

Frosty the Lucky.

[BackyardBlacksmithin]

awesome thanks for all the great replies, maybe I can use it next time I do the drum brakes on my pickup.