throw a wrench in the gears

go through the gears

To gain momentum; to get up to speed.

grind one's gears

To annoy or irritate one.

lock someone up and throw away the key

To lock someone up in prison indefinitely.

monkey wrench

To introduce problems, to create unexpected trouble, to sabotage.

move through the gears

To gradually increase speed or output.

shift gears

To change pace or mode of operation.

stone's throw

A short distance, roughly equivalent to how far a person can throw a stone.

throw a bone to

To provide support or assistance to, especially in one particular way or to a limited extent; to make a concession to.