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How to Use a Cotter Key

Cotter keys (also known as cotter pins) are small metal fastening devices. The come in a variety of sizes but are all used for the same purpose, safety. Cotter pins are used to insure that a bolt or a pin does not come unscrewed or slide out of its hole. This very simple device can prevent serious damage to equipment and those working with it.

Instructions

Inserting the pin

1

Locate the hole in the bolt.

2

Push the cotter pin through the hole. Ensure that the pin goes all the way through.

3

Bend each side of the pin to wrap it around the bolt with your needle-nose pliers. This will ensure that the cotter pin will not slide out.

Removing the cotter pin

4

Use a needle-nose pliers to straighten the sides of the cotter pin.

5

Insert one of the ends of the needle-nose pliers into the circular end of the cotter pin.

6

Pull the pin straight out with one motion.