INSPECTION MIRROR

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. 1-75). NOTE The fingers are made of thin sheet metal or spring wire and can be easily damaged by overloading. REVIEW QUESTIONS Q42. What are mechanical fingers used for? FLASHLIGHT LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Identify the type of flashlight that belongs in every toolbox. 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. REVIEW QUESTION Q43. Identify the type of flashlight that belongs in every toolbox. INSPECTION MIRROR LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Describe the use of inspection mirrors. 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. 1-76). 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. 1-47 Figure 1-76.—Adjustable inspection mirror. Figure 1-75.—Mechanical fingers.