TONGHAND® is a hydraulic excavator attachment that makes up and breaks out threaded pipe and drill rod, reamers and tooling with controlled torque and precise alignment. It replaces traditional torquing methods to keep crews out of the danger zone while increasing efficiency on HDD jobsites.
Overview & Safety
What is the TONGHAND Exit Side Wrench attachment?
TONGHAND is a hydraulic excavator attachment designed to make up and break out threaded drill rods, casing, and tooling during HDD exit side operations. It eliminates chain wrenches and uncontrolled mechanical interventions, allowing safe, controlled torque from inside the cab.
How does TONGHAND improve jobsite safety?
Operators stay completely out of the danger zone. TONGHAND allows all make/break, alignment, and rotation to be performed from inside the cab, eliminating worker exposure to moving pipe, equipment, and suspended loads.
What makes TONGHAND different from other rod handling tools?
Unlike traditional torquing methods, TONGHAND provides mechanized torque control, joint alignment, and breakout capability in one attachment. It mounts to the excavator, giving operators precision movement and real-time torque feedback.
What built-in safety systems does TONGHAND have?
Safety interlocks prevent rotation or torque unless the vises are clamped and pressure is within range. A Machine Operator Presence (MOP) system requires both handgrips to be engaged before roller arms can open.
Who typically uses TONGHAND?
TONGHAND is used by horizontal directional drilling (HDD) contractors, equipment operators, and utility crews who require torque verification and hands-free control during make-up and breakout operations.
How does TONGHAND work with DECKHAND?
The DECKHAND with HDD Arms loads and unloads drill pipe on the entry side, while TONGHAND makes and breaks the threaded connections on the exit side, effectively replacing a second drill rig. TONGHAND also acts as a drill rod handler. Together they form a completely mechanized, hands-free handling system for HDD operations.
Operation & Compatibility
What torque range does TONGHAND provide?
The DECKHAND mounts directly to the excavator stick using a standard pin connection. A control kit installed in the cab connects hydraulically and electronically, giving the operator fingertip control of grip, tilt, and rotation.
How does TONGHAND control and measure torque?
An onboard hydraulic torque sensor measures applied torque in real time via the patented TongVise™. The data is displayed in the operator’s cab and can be logged for QA/QC documentation.
What rod and tooling sizes can TONGHAND handle?
Models within the TONGHAND product family can thread drill rod diameters from 2.38 inches to 9 inches with its Roller Arms, and torque tool joint diameters from 2.38 inches to 10 inches using the TongVise.
How do the Roller Arms help during make-up?
The Roller Arms allows precise alignment, centering and stabilizing the joint before torque is applied. This reduces thread damage and ensures consistent connection quality.
Can TONGHAND handle reamers?
Yes. TONGHAND’s Gull Beam design allows you to easily move Roller Arms out of the way to make and break reamers up to 60 inches.
What is required to install TONGHAND on an excavator?
It attaches via standard pin or quick-attach systems, either manual or fully automatic. Electrical and hydraulic lines connect through the control kit and in-cab display. The quick attach must be properly locked and tagged per manufacturer instructions.
How does the operator control TONGHAND?
Custom Handgrips and a touchscreen In-Cab Display provide proportional control of torque, rotation, beam tilt, Roller Arms, and the Make/Break and Stationary Vises. A Master Shut-Off Switch acts as the system’s emergency stop.
Maintenance & Support
What are TONGHAND’s daily maintenance requirements?
Inspect for leaks, loose fittings, pad wear, and debris. Lubricate all fittings daily, replace worn seals, and confirm pressure readings before operation.
What does the lockout/tagout procedure involve?
Before service, shut down the excavator, remove the key, apply “Do Not Operate” tags to the handgrips and E-stop, and close the auxiliary hydraulic valves. Remove all tags only after the system is fully rechecked.
What is the recommended service interval?
Follow the Maintenance Schedule included in your TONGHAND Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM) for descriptions of daily inspections, weekly lubrication checks, and monthly torque and hydraulic system reviews. Replace seals, pads, and hoses as indicated.
Can TONGHAND operate in cold weather?
Yes, but hydraulic oil must be warmed first. Cycle functions in the sequence outlined in your TONGHAND OMM to bring oil to temperature before use.
What training is required to operate TONGHAND?
Operators must be trained on TONGHAND controls and functions. LaValley Industries offers a certified TONGHAND training program for safe operation, setup, and maintenance.
Where can I get parts or service for TONGHAND?
Yes. LaValley Industries provides parts, service, and training through an international distributor network. Technical support is available for both U.S. and international customers.
If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, our support team can help with technical guidance, replacement parts, or TONGHAND training resources.
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