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CLD Pneumatic Torque Multipliers – FAQ & User Guide

Mountz CLD Pneumatic Torque Multipliers deliver controlled high-torque fastening with smooth, continuous rotation and automatic shut-off at the preset torque. Featuring a rotating-body design, 360° handle positioning, and pneumatic torque control, the CLD-Series is designed to improve productivity and ergonomics in heavy-duty bolting applications.

Quick Answer

Mountz CLD Pneumatic Torque Multipliers provide precision tightening and loosening for heavy-duty fastening connections using smooth, continuous, non-impacting rotation. Torque output is controlled through the compressed air supply using a Lubro-Control Unit (LCU), and the tool shuts off when the preset torque is achieved. CLD models cover torque ranges from 121–8,257 lbf.ft (165–11,195 N·m) with 3/4-inch, 1-inch, and 1 1/2-inch square drive options. 


Who This Is For

  • Manufacturing and assembly operations requiring high torque
  • Industrial maintenance teams
  • Maintenance technicians
  • Field service technicians
  • Applications requiring precision tightening or loosening of heavy-duty fastening connections
  • Applications where compressed air is available
  • Applications where smooth, continuous pneumatic operation is preferred

Mountz has documented CLD applications in refinery maintenance, mining equipment maintenance, and industrial gas engine manufacturing.


When Should You Use This?

Use a CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier when:

  • High torque is required.
  • Compressed air is available.
  • Precision tightening or loosening is required.
  • Smooth, continuous, non-impacting rotation is preferred.
  • Automatic shut-off at the preset torque is required.
  • A pneumatic torque multiplier is appropriate for the application.
  • Flexible tool positioning with a 360° rotating handle is useful.
  • The required torque falls within the available CLD model range.

Mountz also positions its pneumatic multipliers as an alternative to slow-ratcheting hydraulic tools and impact wrenches for heavy-duty fastening.


When Should You NOT Use This?

A CLD may not be appropriate when:

  • Compressed air is unavailable.
  • The required torque falls outside the CLD operating range.
  • The available air supply cannot be properly filtered and regulated.
  • A suitable reaction point cannot be established.
  • A pneumatic tool is not appropriate for the operating environment.
  • Another multiplier configuration better fits the fastening location or application.

For applications without readily available air or electricity, Mountz identifies its HG hand torque multipliers as an option.


How the CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier Works

The CLD uses a pneumatic motor and gearbox to generate controlled high torque. Torque output is adjusted through the regulated compressed air supply.

During operation:

  1. Connect the multiplier to the appropriate Lubro-Control Unit.
  2. Connect the LCU to the compressed air supply.
  3. Set the air pressure according to the torque output chart for the specific CLD model.
  4. Install the appropriate socket.
  5. Install and position the appropriate reaction device.
  6. Fully engage the socket with the fastener.
  7. Position the reaction device against a suitable reaction point.
  8. Select clockwise or counterclockwise rotation.
  9. Activate the multiplier.
  10. The tool applies smooth, continuous rotation.
  11. During tightening, the tool shuts off when the preset torque is achieved.

Each pneumatic multiplier is supplied with an air torque output chart. Mountz notes that the curves are approximate because compressed air supply, joint characteristics, and other application variables can affect actual torque output.

Result

  • Controlled high-torque fastening
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Smooth, continuous rotation
  • Non-impacting operation
  • Pneumatic torque control
  • Clockwise and counterclockwise operation

Core Features

  • Pneumatic torque multiplier
  • Rotating-body design
  • Accuracy better than ±5%
  • Precision tightening and loosening
  • Automatic shut-off at preset torque
  • Smooth, continuous, non-impacting rotation
  • 360° rotating handle
  • Compact design
  • Heavy-duty gearbox
  • Torque adjustment through the Lubro-Control Unit
  • Multiple torque ranges and square drive sizes
  • Reaction foot, bar, and ring options
  • Clockwise and counterclockwise operation

CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier Models

Mountz documents CLD models covering 121–8,257 lbf.ft (165–11,195 N·m). The CLD85 is offered in two configurations with different square drives.

Available Models

Model Item # American Torque Range S.I. Torque Range Square Drive Speed Weight
CLD55 210572 121–357 lbf.ft 165–485 N·m 3/4" 48 RPM 15 lbs
CLD85 210573 225–660 lbf.ft 305–895 N·m 3/4" 25 RPM 18 lbs
CLD85 210574 225–660 lbf.ft 305–895 N·m 1" 25 RPM 18 lbs
CLD105 210575 270–796 lbf.ft 365–1,080 N·m 1" 15 RPM 18 lbs
CLD125 210576 332–970 lbf.ft 450–1,315 N·m 1" 12 RPM 18 lbs
CLD155 210577 435–1,275 lbf.ft 590–1,730 N·m 1" 10 RPM 18 lbs
CLD225 210571 671–1,970 lbf.ft 910–2,670 N·m 1" 8 RPM 20 lbs
CLD280 210578 870–2,552 lbf.ft 1,180–3,460 N·m 1" 6.5 RPM 20 lbs
CLD380 210579 1,100–3,230 lbf.ft 1,490–4,380 N·m 1 1/2" 4 RPM 26 lbs
CLD580 210580 1,534–4,510 lbf.ft 2,080–6,115 N·m 1 1/2" 2.5 RPM 35 lbs
CLD780 210581 1,925–5,660 lbf.ft 2,610–7,675 N·m 1 1/2" 1 RPM 42 lbs
CLD980 210582 2,810–8,257 lbf.ft 3,810–11,195 N·m 1 1/2" 0.5 RPM 55 lbs

Model Dimensions

Model Spline Diameter D2 Length
CLD55 41 mm 85 mm 11 in / 280 mm
CLD85 – 3/4" 41 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD85 – 1" 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD105 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD125 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD155 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD225 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD280 54 mm 85 mm 11.8 in / 300 mm
CLD380 72 mm 98 mm 12.6 in / 320 mm
CLD580 72 mm 123 mm 13.8 in / 350 mm
CLD780 72 mm 148 mm 13.8 in / 350 mm
CLD980 91 mm 173 mm 14.6 in / 370 mm

Model Selection Guide

If you need: Recommended Model
Lowest CLD torque range CLD55
Torque up to 357 lbf.ft CLD55
Torque up to 660 lbf.ft CLD85
3/4" drive with up to 660 lbf.ft CLD85, Item 210573
1" drive with up to 660 lbf.ft CLD85, Item 210574
Torque up to 796 lbf.ft CLD105
Torque up to 970 lbf.ft CLD125
Torque up to 1,275 lbf.ft CLD155
Torque up to 1,970 lbf.ft CLD225
Torque up to 2,552 lbf.ft CLD280
Torque up to 3,230 lbf.ft CLD380
Torque up to 4,510 lbf.ft CLD580
Torque up to 5,660 lbf.ft CLD780
Maximum CLD torque capacity CLD980

When selecting a CLD model, consider:

  • Required fastening torque
  • Square drive size
  • Operating speed
  • Tool dimensions and weight
  • Available working space
  • Reaction requirements
  • Available compressed air supply

Select a model whose specified torque range includes the required fastening torque.


Torque Capacity & Operating Speed

Model Maximum Torque Speed
CLD55 357 lbf.ft 48 RPM
CLD85 660 lbf.ft 25 RPM
CLD105 796 lbf.ft 15 RPM
CLD125 970 lbf.ft 12 RPM
CLD155 1,275 lbf.ft 10 RPM
CLD225 1,970 lbf.ft 8 RPM
CLD280 2,552 lbf.ft 6.5 RPM
CLD380 3,230 lbf.ft 4 RPM
CLD580 4,510 lbf.ft 2.5 RPM
CLD780 5,660 lbf.ft 1 RPM
CLD980 8,257 lbf.ft 0.5 RPM

Lubro-Control Unit (LCU)

Torque adjustment and control for the CLD are regulated by the Lubro-Control Unit through the air supply. The CLD product data sheet identifies the LCU-2 and states that pneumatic multipliers should use a high-quality air filter regulator.

The LCU-2 provides a controlled supply of:

  • Filtered compressed air
  • Regulated compressed air
  • Lubricated compressed air

Air pressure is adjusted according to the torque output information for the specific multiplier.

Because Mountz notes that air supply and application variables can affect actual output, always use the torque output chart supplied with the tool.


Automatic Shut-Off

The CLD shuts off when the preset torque is achieved.

This allows the tool to apply controlled torque without requiring the operator to estimate final torque based on tool run time or impact action.


Rotating Body & 360° Handle

The CLD is a rotating-body pneumatic torque multiplier with a 360° rotating handle for flexible tool positioning.

The rotating handle allows the tool's handle position to be adjusted around the body based on the fastening setup and available working space.


Reaction Devices

CLD Pneumatic Torque Multipliers require a reaction device to absorb the rotational force generated during fastening.

Mountz documents three reaction-device configurations for the CLD:

  • Reaction Foot
  • Reaction Bar
  • Reaction Ring

The appropriate device depends on the CLD model and fastening setup.

Before operation:

  • Install the reaction device securely.
  • Establish a stable reaction point.
  • Make sure the reaction point can support the generated force.
  • Keep hands and body parts clear of the reaction area.
  • Inspect the reaction setup before activating the tool.

Setup & Operation

Before operating a CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier:

  1. Determine the required fastening torque.
  2. Select a CLD model whose range includes the required torque.
  3. Connect the multiplier to the appropriate LCU.
  4. Connect the LCU to the compressed air supply.
  5. Set the air pressure according to the torque output chart supplied with the tool.
  6. Install the appropriate socket.
  7. Install the appropriate reaction device.
  8. Fully engage the socket with the fastener.
  9. Position the reaction device against a secure reaction point.
  10. Select clockwise or counterclockwise rotation.
  11. Position the rotating handle appropriately.
  12. Activate the tool.
  13. Allow the multiplier to operate until it shuts off at the preset torque.
  14. Release the tool according to the operating instructions before moving to the next fastener.

Mountz states that the torque-output curves are approximate and that compressed air supply, joint characteristics, and other application variables can affect actual output.


Accuracy & Torque Control

CLD Pneumatic Torque Multipliers provide accuracy better than ±5%.

Torque output is controlled through regulated air pressure. Each pneumatic multiplier is supplied with an air torque output chart showing the relationship between air pressure and approximate torque output.

Because actual torque can be affected by application conditions, use the torque chart supplied with the specific tool and follow your facility's applicable torque-control procedures.


CLD vs. Hydraulic & Impact Wrenches

Unlike some of the comparison language we've removed from the other KB articles, Mountz does specifically make comparisons for the CLD and its pneumatic multipliers.

Mountz states that the CLD:

  • Provides smooth, continuous rotation rather than impact hammering.
  • Eliminates the slow ratcheting process associated with hydraulic wrenches.
  • Is faster than a hydraulic wrench.
  • Is less expensive than a hydraulic wrench.
  • Avoids the harmful hammering associated with impact wrenches.

Mountz's current pneumatic multiplier page similarly states that pneumatic multipliers can be set up and apply torque more quickly than hydraulic ratchets.

These are Mountz's stated comparisons. Actual tool selection should still be based on the requirements of the specific fastening application.


Common Applications

The CLD is designed for precision tightening and loosening of heavy-duty fastening connections.

Mountz also documents specific CLD applications involving:

  • Refinery valve maintenance
  • Mining equipment maintenance
  • Large mining truck wheel fastening
  • Industrial gas engine manufacturing
  • Heavy-duty industrial maintenance

Rather than assigning the CLD broadly to industries that Mountz doesn't specifically document, select the tool based on torque requirements, drive size, air supply, available space, and reaction requirements.


Common Industries

Based on CLD applications specifically documented by Mountz, relevant industries include:

  • Oil & gas / refining
  • Mining
  • Heavy manufacturing
  • Industrial equipment manufacturing and maintenance

Mountz's broader pneumatic multiplier information also identifies the tools for heavy manufacturing applications.


Use Cases Refinery Valve Maintenance

Problem: A refinery was experiencing high repair costs with its existing fastening tools while opening and closing two large valves daily.

Solution: Mountz demonstrated the CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier. The refinery selected the CLD for the maintenance application, and Mountz reports that tool maintenance frequency and servicing costs declined over time.


Mining Equipment Maintenance

Problem: A mining operation needed a torque-control solution for heavy maintenance applications and found its hydraulic process slow and cumbersome.

Solution: The operation tested the CLD Pneumatic Torque Multiplier. Mountz reports that the CLD reduced maintenance time and costs for the applications.

Mountz has also documented the CLD being used to fasten wheel bolts on a Caterpillar 797 mining truck.


Industrial Gas Engine Manufacturing

Problem: An industrial gas engine manufacturer was using impact wrenches for an engine-block fastening application and experienced thread damage from insufficient torque control.

Solution: The manufacturer selected the CLD for controlled fastening. Mountz reports that the change eliminated costly engine rework associated with the previous process.


High-Torque Fastening

Problem: A fastening connection requires several thousand lbf.ft of controlled torque.

Solution: The CLD range extends through the CLD980, which provides 2,810–8,257 lbf.ft (3,810–11,195 N·m) with a 1 1/2-inch square drive.


Maintenance

Follow the Mountz Pneumatic Multipliers Operating Instructions for maintenance and service requirements.

Important practices include:

  • Use an appropriate filtered, regulated air supply.
  • Use the LCU as specified for torque control.
  • Inspect the tool before operation.
  • Inspect air hoses and connections.
  • Inspect the square drive and sockets.
  • Inspect the reaction device.
  • Do not use damaged components.
  • Follow Mountz service instructions if the tool does not operate correctly.

The operating instructions state that Mountz recommends an annual inspection or inspection after each 1,000 hours of use, whichever occurs first. They also state that the pneumatic motor should be lubricated after each use by introducing a few drops of oil into the air inlet and running the motor briefly.


Compatible Accessories LCU-2 Lubro-Control Unit

The LCU-2 provides the controlled supply of filtered, regulated, and lubricated compressed air used with the multiplier.

Reaction Devices

Documented CLD reaction-device configurations include:

  • Reaction Foot
  • Reaction Bar
  • Reaction Ring

Select the appropriate reaction device based on the multiplier model and fastening setup.

6-Point Impact Sockets
Mountz offers 6-point impact sockets for use with torque multipliers. Select an impact socket compatible with the CLD square drive, fastener size, and torque requirements.

Media & Supporting Content

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