Abstract: Various assemblies for indicating movement and direction of drain cleaning cables used in plumbing tools are described. Generally, the plumbing tools include a cam that is in operable engagement with a guide tube. Upon axial movement of cable relative to the tool, the cam causes reciprocal movement of an indicator. The plumbing tools can additionally include switches and/or electronics in communication with the indicator to thereby provide information or processing of tool operation.

Abstract: Cable coupling assemblies are described which can be readily engaged and separated from one another. The couplings are particularly useful for use in torque transmitting cables such as those used in drain cleaning applications.

Abstract: Die sets and tools using such die sets, are described which promote axial alignment of the dies during die closure. In addition, jaw sets for tools are described that promote axial alignment of the jaws during die closure. Also described are related methods using the die sets and/or tools with such die sets.

Abstract: Adapters are described which enable a wide array of tools to be secured and/or mounted in a chain pipe vise. Also described are methods of using adapters with chain pipe vises in order to stably mount tools in the chain pipe vise.

Abstract: Various feed control devices for plumbing tools such as drain cleaning machines are disclosed. The feed control devices include a collection of angled rollers that contact a cable or snake of the drain cleaning machine. Another collection of a single or dual angled roller(s) are mounted or otherwise engaged with a handle, and can be selectively positioned and contacted with the cable. By changing the position of the handle, rotation of the cable is translated to axial movement thereby advancing or retracting the cable. Also described are drain cleaning devices utilizing the feed control devices.

Abstract: A C-type tubing cutter is described that accommodates and cuts a range of tubing or workpiece sizes. The cutter includes a radially positionable roller carriage that can be selectively positioned in one of several predetermined positions corresponding to different tubing sizes. The cutter also includes a trigger that can be engaged with the roller carriage to lock the carriage in a desired position. Certain versions of the cutters also utilize arcuate slots or tracks along which a cutter wheel is positionable.

Abstract: C-type tubing cutters are described. The cutters include a cutting wheel that can be easily and quickly replaced. In many versions of the cutters, the cutting wheel can be replaced without disassembly of the housing and/or without the use of tools.

Abstract: Hydraulic tools having extendable rams for performing various functions such as crimping are described. The tools include a hydraulic system that enables the ram to be rapidly advanced. Methods using the hydraulic systems and tools are also described.

Abstract: A support system for use with one or more tools such as a handheld power drive and a geared threader is described. The support system includes a lower frame portion for contacting a work surface or floor, a mast assembly, releasable engagement provisions between the lower frame portion and the mast assembly, and mounting provisions on the mast for supporting one or more tools. The support system is configurable between a stand alone mode and a vehicle hitch mode.

Abstract: Hydraulic systems and tools having an actuator that actuates a pump and a control valve are described. The pump transports fluid into a chamber to advance a piston in the chamber. The control valve is biased open and regulates flow of hydraulic fluid from the chamber to a reservoir. The actuator is operable in a first state in which the control valve is open, allowing flow of fluid from the chamber to the reservoir, and the pump is not pumping. The actuator can be operated in a second state in which the control valve is closed, restricting flow of fluid from the chamber to the reservoir, and the pump is not pumping. The actuator can be operated in a third state in which the control valve is closed and the pump is pumping fluid from the reservoir into the chamber in order to advance the piston.

Abstract: A hole saw drill guide is described. The drill guide can be used when drilling holes in pipe or tubes. The hole saw drill guide includes a guide tube base assembly and an arbor shaft assembly. The guide tube base assembly is chained or otherwise secured to a pipe. The arbor shaft assembly is removably engaged with the guide tube base assembly and during use of the device, rotates within a guide tube of the base.

Abstract: Beveling tools having a variety of features are described. The tools can utilize a combination of handles, a protective external frame, guide rollers that are positionally adjusted by swing arms with timing lobes, or by an alternative guide bar mounting system, a helical knurled drive roller, guide rollers that have a convex or crowned face, skewed guide rollers, a positive clutch assembly for governing force applied to the guide rollers, a hand crank assembly for moving the tool when mounted on a workpiece, position adjustment provisions for varying the position of a milling head, and indicators providing visual feedback to an operator.

Abstract: A powered threading machine is described. The threading machine is compact and portable. The threading machine includes a tube frame having a rearward wheel assembly and an extendable handle at the front of the machine. A particular sump configuration is used to prevent loss of cutting oil during operation and transport of the machine.

Abstract: Press tools and particularly crimp tools having a C-frame tool head are described which are configured such that upon a typical use load, the C-frame head deflects to a position in which mating components or surfaces are aligned. Also described are C-frame heads that utilize a particular deflection compensating engagement connection between a piston and a ram die holder. In addition, various methods of compensating for deflection are described. The use of such configurations, engagement connections, and methods enables such tools to be formed from lighter weight materials and/or to incorporate weight optimization designs.

Abstract: A support system for use with one or more tools such as a handheld power drive and a geared threader is described. The support system includes a lower frame portion for contacting a work surface or floor, a mast assembly, releasable engagement provisions between the lower frame portion and the mast assembly, and mounting provisions on the mast for supporting one or more tools. The support system is configurable between a stand alone mode and a vehicle hitch mode.

Abstract: Quick release mechanisms for auger type cleanout tools are described. The mechanisms enable engagement and disengagement of a handle to an auger without the use of separate retainers or fasteners. Also described are auger type tools and related methods of use utilizing the quick release mechanisms.

Abstract: A punch tool for forming holes or apertures in workpieces is described. The tool includes a primary cylinder containing a movable ram and a secondary cylinder containing another movable ram. The primary and secondary cylinders are in hydraulic communication with each other. The primary cylinder is releasably engageable with a powered press tool and various dies or punches can be attached at the secondary cylinder. Also described are systems of powered tools and the punch tools, and methods of forming holes in workpieces using the punch tools.