Tool for removing and applying a fastening device

Abstract

A tool for removing and applying a fastening device from and to a threaded stud is provided. The tool includes an elongated chamber and a retainer having a pair of spaced apart portions configured to hold fastening devices within the chamber. The tool further includes a positioning mechanism for positioning stored fastening devices for later installation onto the stud. In one embodiment, the retainer includes a worm gear. Opposing portions of the catch of the worm gear hold the fastening device. The positioning mechanism includes a cam assembly configured to rotate the shaft wherein the rotary movement of the shaft is translated into an axial movement of the fastening device within the chamber. In a second preferred embodiment, the retainer includes a pair of keepers configured to hold a fastening device. The positioning mechanism is operable to feed a fastening device into the keeper.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.