extend from the end of the tube to form clawlike
fingers, much like the screw holder. The springs are
attached to a rod that extends from the outer end of
the tube. A plate is attached to the end of the tube,
and a similar plate to be pressed by the thumb is
attached to the end of the rod. A coil spring placed
around the rod between the two plates holds them
apart and retracts the fingers into the tube. With the
bottom plate grasped between the fingers and enough
thumb pressure applied to the top plate to compress
the spring, the tool fingers extend from the tube in a
grasping position.
When the thumb pressure is
released, the tool fingers retract into the tube as far as
the object they hold will allow. Thus, enough
pressure is applied on the object to hold it securely.
Some mechanical fingers have a flexible end on the
tube to permit their use in close quarters or around
obstructions (fig. 1 -57).
NOTE
The fingers are made of thin sheet metal
or spring wire and can be easily damaged by
overloading.
FLASHLIGHT
Each toolbox should have a standard Navy
vaporproof two-cell flashlight. The flashlight is used
constantly during all phases of maintenance. Installed
in both ends of the flashlight are rubber seals, which
keep out all vapors.
The flashlight should be
inspected periodically for these seals, the spare bulb,
and colored filters which are contained in the cap.
NOTE
Do not throw away the filters; they will
be necessary during night operations.
INSPECTION MIRROR
Several types of inspection mirrors are available
for use in maintenance. The mirror is issued in a
variety of sizes and may be round or rectangular. The
mirror is connected to the end of a rod and may be
fixed or adjustable (fig. 1-58).
The inspection mirror aids in making detailed
inspections where the human eye cannot directly see
the inspection area. By angling the mirror, and with
the aid of a flashlight, it is possible to inspect most
required areas.
One model of inspection mirror
features a built-in light to aid in viewing those dark
places where use of a flashlight is not convenient.
Figure 1-57.-Mechanical fingers.
Figure 1-58. - Adjustable inspection mirror.
1-34
