Torque Wrench [Merged 9-8] torque wrenches

[95burgundyesi]

Would you trust using the torque wrench from HF on the flywheel, clutch, and transmission install when it wa brand new I guess is what I am asking. I just don't want bolts to back out after I put it all back together.

 

[snowborder714]

Would you trust using the torque wrench from HF on the flywheel, clutch, and transmission install when it wa brand new I guess is what I am asking. I just don't want bolts to back out after I put it all back together.

I took out my transmission and clutch this summer and used the HF one on it (even after it started to become less calibrated) and didn't have any doubts that it'd work. I don't think you'd have a problem - just remember to use loctite and you'll be fine.

I've only found one thing so far I couldn't use the HF torque wrench for and that's the axle castle nuts since they're supposed to be torqued to 180 and the wrench only goes up to 150.

 

[wret]

Would you trust using the torque wrench from HF on the flywheel, clutch, and transmission install when it wa brand new I guess is what I am asking. I just don't want bolts to back out after I put it all back together.

Yes, and I have done, but I routinely twist the maximum allowable torquage.

 

[Defiant]

Like an analog tachometer, your most accurate reading will be from a deflecting-beam torque wrench, if you're using it where you can watch it the whole time. You can see if a fastener is seizing and releasing as it's tightened. However, for all the amount it'll ever really matter on a street car, I'd have no reservations about using the Harbor Freight wrench.

 

[01QuadDak]

I'd have no problems using one for wheels and stuff, but for assembling a motor, trans, or anycritical parts i would at least get a sears.
Theres no telling what kind of accuracy that thing has.

 

[packinkimber45]

Hello everyone. I am in the market for a good torque wrench. I figured since I plan on doing all the work on my dsm and my other cars I should invest in a good torque wrench. I have been reading up on on snap on and stanley proto. I cant decide between the two. Members with knowledge on both that could give their insights would be great. I like both, but I am more for which would be better as far as quality, longevity, accuracy etc....

I'm not quite sure yet if I should get one that goes up to 250 ft lbs or 150 ft lbs, not too many torque specs are above 150 on dsms I think. How about in/lbs, should I get one of these too. Such a hard decision. Either brand, they are both definately spendy. Thanks.

 

[Defiant]

The Snap-On driver comes around every week, and will give you his business card and phone number. The shop carrying Proto might go tits-up.

For quality, neither is better. The Snap-On will have a higher polish, and a much higher price.

If you want accurate torque values, use a simple, mechanical beam-and-pointer torque wrench. Don't use a torque wrench on any fastener with smaller than a 14mm head.

 

[syrushcw]

I'd def have to say snap on I have a burly one

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I believe that's the current model, the one I'm using was my friends grandfathers from the 60's the thing is a beast. It was sitting for 5 years went to get it calibrated and it was off by less then a lb.

 

[crimsondragon]

I just use the beam and pointer from Craftsman. Works well enough for me.

 

[h8r]

I would go SNAP-ON.... Great customer service, quality, and if you ever needed cash at a later date they have a good resale value!

 

[toyotaturbo]

Definitely go with Snap-On. You'll pay for it big time, but with a tool like that, you get what you pay for. I've broken my share of cheapies, and my Snap-On is the only one that takes mad abuse.

 

[talonalex92]

Snap-on. All I will use and buy. There really is a difference. Quality, customer service and resale are things I look for.

 

[LocknessMonster]

I would go with the snap on I use it everyday and have nothing bad to say about it. Not saying that it is better or worse than the proto, I never used a proto. Like the other members said you buy it once and have it forever.

 

[500orbust]

Have you looked into any electronic torque wrenches? I use snap-on's electric swivel head 3/8's torque wrench. Its pretty expensive at $450, but it self calibrates every time you turn it on and it tells you current torque values being applied. The range is great, from 5lbs to 100lbs. It vibrates and beeps when you get close to your desired tq.....Other brand electric tq wrenches do not vibrate, they make noise and small leds light up from green, to yellow, to red... For my higher tq settings, I use a split beam type...Hope this helps.

 

[vanilla gorilla]

I just use craftsman. Its reasonably priced and if I F it up I go to Sears and get a new one, no questions asked. Other brands are way too pricey for me.

 

[h8r]

Only time I have ever broken ANYTHING SNAP-ON was a 3/8 drive 15mm socket ...My dumb ass couldnt find my impact socket, so I popped a regular one on (DANGEROUS)... Busted it right in 1/2. Lucky I didn't get hurt.... I was hammering on a bolt, knew the socket was getting hot...Then whammm! Snap-on man replaced it for free even though he knew what happend!

 

[packinkimber45]

Thanks for all the responses. Snap on sounds like the tool to go with, but so freaking expensive! Decisions, decisions... Thanks again guys.

 

[sliver]

Should I get a 1/2" drive torque wrench and just buy a 3/8" adapter or vice versa?

 

[pj91gsx]

Should I get a 1/2" drive torque wrench and just buy a 3/8" adapter or vice versa?

they both work, just get one that goes up to the right specs, mine goes to 150. you will need one that will go to at least a 100 for a rebuild. I got mine for 30 bucks at autozone its a great neck and a 'cheap' one but I use it all the time and it works great. I love it.

 

[sliver]

Oh ok, thanks for that tip! I'm still debating...either buy one for 22 bucks, or just rent one. This will be a good investment no?

 

[pj91gsx]

Oh ok, thanks for that tip! I'm still debating...either buy one for 22 bucks, or just rent one. This will be a good investment no?

it is a good investment for me. What are you planning on doing? If you ever need to redo the timing, you can torque it to the proper spec, and if you ever change the clutch you can torque that properly. Especially if you take off the flywheel. I think its worth it. It is definately neccesary for an engine rebuild. And you can torque your wheels to 90 ftlbs.

 

[jwcardy]

I have both ft\lbs and in\lbs in both 1\4 and 3\8 drive. Remember extensions are not to be used with torque wrenches or your measurement will be slightly thrown off the proper torque. I will see if i can find the conversion factors for you later if you use an extension.
-wes

 

[pj91gsx]

I have both ft\lbs and in\lbs in both 1\4 and 3\8 drive. Remember extensions are not to be used with torque wrenches or your measurement will be slightly thrown off the proper torque. I will see if i can find the conversion factors for you later if you use an extension.
-wes

I didnt know that extentions where not supposed to be used. I use them all the time, Ive never had problems. The torque cant be off that much.

 

[jwcardy]

I didnt know that extentions where not supposed to be used. I use them all the time, Ive never had problems. The torque cant be off that much.

Ok its not that your not suppose to, but that there are calculations that need to take place when doin so so that your measurement is correct. Most people dont even bother with it. Search for it. Id post some links for it but im on my blackberry.

 

[crimsondragon]

Ay I'm using extensions right now to torque my ARPs down. I don't think it does affect it. The only way it can affect the torque measurement is if you lengthened the wrench any more then it should be.