Am I using the Combi-tool wrong?

[Spencer534]

I need to preface this by saying I prefer 2 people. One with an O-cutter and the other with a real spreader. We have gone to combi-tools on our engines and I cannot seem to get it to cut a post. It seems to push out due to the straight blades. We are using the smallest Genesis combi-tool. Is there another tactic or are they just not made to do this.

[GFD615]

Combi tools are a jack-of-all-trades and a master of none. They'll do a little well, but no all good.

The trick to a combi to is to recognize that you have a specialize tool designed to spread, squeeze and cut. Always think ahead...spread, cut, spread, squeeze, spread, cut, etc. Also try to flatten or compress whatever you would like to cut. Combi tools use a straight serrated blade which is preferable designed for cutting plate steel

[BUITRE]

can't agree more. When working with a combi it allways works better if you are capable of lowering surface by squeeze material first. Combi is usefull when little space in the truck. Also when working in reduced conf. space it could be better to have one than two tools in the palce.

KEEP SAFE!

[rescue84]

Try to stay as close to the notch as possible. straight cutters push out before getting full cut.

[DrParasite]

combi tools are great on the engine, but they don't replace a true cutter or a true spreader. They are great as a first in tool, but as you are finding, does not replace a heavy rescue with a full set of tools.

very often the post will slide out of the straight blade, esp if they are smooth and not serrated. Best thing I can suggest is try something else to gain entry until the heavy rescue shows up with the big guns :D

[Rescue101]

Learn the tool! Sorry if this sets some of you the wrong way but when it comes vehicle extrication I don't "wait" unless a hazardous condition exists.With combi's USUALLY squish first,cut second.There is a learning curve involved.A combi won't do it all(usually)but I've found it handles a majority of "pins".We've got bigger tools for the occasions it won't. T.C.

[Bones42]

Learn the tool! Sorry if this sets some of you the wrong way but when it comes vehicle extrication I don't "wait" unless a hazardous condition exists.With combi's USUALLY squish first,cut second.There is a learning curve involved.A combi won't do it all(usually)but I've found it handles a majority of "pins".We've got bigger tools for the occasions it won't. T.C.
I echo this post.

[39truck]

Agree with the above two, a combi tool is a primary spreader and secondary cutter, "squish first" cut second. I have found that I can do everything you can do better with a combo. You must learn the limits of all tools and the combi is no exception.

[BUITRE]

TOTALLY AGREE WITH RESCUE, BONES AND 39.

Sorry DR did not pay enough attention with your comment first time. Wait you said for heavy equipment. Try to gain access with other tools. In which planet! Excuse me. The combi is an excelent tool. it might not do all the jobs. But if learn how to use it. Believe me it will perfom just fine. And will get the job for what it was design done.

KEEP SAFE