Why is a pool cue one of the best mech tools?

[OTLB]

I think I understand what you are describing John.
Do you mean placing the cues through rail bolt holes on opposite sides of a seam then drawing the slates tight together?

I was taught to thread a ratchet strap through the rail bolt holes from one end slate to the other end slate.
Tightening the strap draws the seams together and allows the slate to be moved around the frame as a single piece.

Yes that's it and as I said you can use the daily bolts when on an antique