Chain tensioning tool from Charlie Smith
Chain tightening tools courtesy of Charlie Smith, Huntly.
As a former and still working sawmiller, Charlie has gathered a collection of old wood working tools over his 65 plus years that he has worked in the wood business. Featured in this photograph is the body of an old type of chain tightening dwang. Unfortunately the short chain and gab (special hook that clipped securely on to a chain) that was attached through the hole on the bottom of the tool is missing. This tool when complete was a lever that drew the chain very tightly around a load of logs. Apparently once the levering force had been applied and the chain was under tension the metal handle was slipped close to or under the tensioned chain and the pointed end hooked into one of the links. Not certain of this procedure. Seemingly however if the lever unexpectedly sprung back with some force, this pointed end was capable of causing serious injury.
Does any one have a photograph of a complete dwang of this type or better still a photograph of it in use?
Groups: Northeast Scotland , Sawmills, pulp mills, chipboard mills, Tools, equipment and clothing