Tool for bending TIG rod to make a TIG cotter

[stipakb]

Page 243 in the Riggers Apprentice shows using "TIG Cotters" by bending TIG welding rod into a C-type cotter that goes through both stud ends in a turnbuckle.

I bought some 3/32" 316 TIG rod and tried to do it. Making the first bend into a C shape was easy. But making the next two bends, as shown on p. 243, I found I could not do with standard pliers or needle-nose pliers.

I need a better tool to do that. What would work? What makes it harder is that the second and third bends are back towards the turnbuckle so the turnbuckle body is somewhat in the way.

P.S. When I was younger maybe I could have done this with the tools that I have, but now that I have arthritis in my hands and my hands are weaker I definitely need a better tool. Going to 1/16" rod might do the trick too, but I rather use the 3/32" rod if I can bend it as needed with another tool.

Brian Stipak
Portland, OR
S/V Ubiquity, Pacific Seacraft 34