Abstract

The primary aim of this article is to develop a modified 5 in 1 multi-lug nuts remover and tightener device with a cordless direct current (D.C) electrical impact wrench attachment which provides it with the required turning torque for easy removal and tightening of lug nuts. SOLID WORKS was used for the design. The design was based on a PCD of 114.3 mm for most vehicle wheels thereby allowing all vehicles having a Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD) of 114.3 mm to use this device. This device is useful in places such as workshops, service stations and tire manufacturing companies. The calculations for the individual component parameters were performed using standard design equations. The gear design is based on the weaker gear. A mild steel spur gear was selected for the project because they are easy to design, manufacture and has a constant velocity ratio. An alloy steel chromium-vanadium was chosen for the shaft because it has good mechanical property (strength) and exhibits good weld-ability. A 3 mm thick cast steel plate was used to cover the entire assembly because it can withstand the forces of the gears and the shaft extensions. From the performance evaluation of the developed device, it takes 10 seconds to loosen five nuts, and 7 seconds to tighten the nuts in a single attempt and the loosening and tightening process were reduced by 93 and 95%, respectively compared to when using L shaped wrench.