Apparatus for tightening threaded fasteners

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide an automatic reaction pawl- assembly ("ARPA") which includes; a shaft assembly; a pawl fixed rotatably relative to the shaft assembly; and a torsion lever torsionally coupled with the paw) about the shaft assembly. Advantageously the ARPA enhances belting efficiency, increases torque accuracy and maximises operator safety. Torsion springs of the shaft assembly overcome a housing spring and automatically disengage the pawl from a ratchet wheel. The pawl releases without advancing the fastener, touching the tool or raising the hydraulic pressure beyond an intended torque value. This allows for hands free operation of one or more tools. During SWULTORC