Method and apparatus for forming tubular connections

The apparatus of the present invention is directed to a replacement cage assembly to modify a conventional power tong to enable the power tong to grip and rotate smaller diameter tubular segments. The method of the invention is directed to modifying a power tong to grip and rotate a tubular segment of a diameter smaller than could be gripped by the unmodified power tong. The invention provides a rotary gear insert, having an interior second cam surface, rotatably captured intermediate an upper cage plate and a lower cage plate and slidably receivable within the conventional rotary gear of the power tong and to cam and rotate a plurality of replacement gripping jaws pivotally captured adjacent the second cam surface and intermediate the upper cage plate and the lower cage plate.