Us Pro Torque Wrench? The 13 New Answer

A torque wrench is one of the most important tools when you need to do any serious work on your car. You can’t just dismantle your vehicle’s front suspension, swap wheels, or pull a cylinder head and then expect to put it all back together that easily. You must ensure that all fasteners and screws are properly tightened with a torque wrench. Otherwise you won’t get far with your car. Even if you are not a professional mechanic, a torque wrench is a good tool to have by your side.

The upper control arm bolts on your Dodge Challenger may require, say, 55 pound-feet of torque, while the aftermarket head bolts for a Subaru BRZ engine you build may require 115 pounds plus an additional 90-degrees of rotation to be secure fastened. In these and countless other cases, having a torque wrench is mission critical. Torque wrenches are available in a range of sizes and types and allow you to tighten fasteners to a desired torque value, which is important when the machine you are working on needs to be trusted to get you from place to place at high speeds .

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ACDelco/EPAuto/Gearwrench/Tekton/Tooluxe/Craig Cole/Roadshow

Torque wrench types include basic to advanced – beam or linkage (split beam torque wrench), dial indicator (dial indicator torque wrench), click torque wrench, hydraulic torque wrench, and digital wrench. Tightening nuts and bolts clockwise to a manufacturer-recommended torque range allows certain components—and the vehicle itself—to function as intended. Failure to meet these torque specifications can result in damage to your car or truck, reduced component life, and many more headaches. Proper tightening of cap screws, for example, to a specific torque is critical and you may need a different torque wrench for a different screw. You don’t want to go through the hassle of replacing a head gasket only to have it blow out again two weeks later because you didn’t use the correct torque wrench.

All of this sounds both complicated and expensive, but luckily it’s neither. There is a wide range of torque wrenches available on the market today to suit every application and budget, from simple bar style torque wrench models that only cost a few dollars to electronic torque wrench assemblies that are super accurate when it comes to delivering the desired torque value reach . Here are some of the best torque wrench options available today, with our recommendations based on personal experience and buyer ratings. We’ll be updating this best torque wrench list regularly so you can find the best torque wrench for your needs, no matter what setting you need to achieve.

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EPAuto The EPAuto torque wrench is a simple recommendation. Using a click wrench unit, set the desired correct torque and begin tightening clockwise. When the preset torque measurement amount is reached, it will click to let you know. For added versatility, it operates between 10 and 80 lb.-ft., making it ideal for a variety of automotive and other tasks. For added versatility, this clickless torque wrench has a 3/8″ drive end, meaning it will fit medium sized sockets, although it also comes with an extension, but that’s not all. Two adapters are also included so you can use 1/4″ and 1/2″ sockets as well. To ensure the EPAuto torque wrench lasts, it is made from hardened chrome vanadium steel alloy. It also comes with a plastic storage box. The adjustment knob, which is easy to turn to change the torque to be applied, makes this product a breeze. It is clearly marked in both foot-pounds and newton-meters. It also has a knurled grip so you won’t slip, even if your hands are greasy or dirty. You could do a lot worse than this EPAuto Torque Wrench, which costs just $23 and has a 4.5 star rating out of 5 based on more than 2,300 user reviews.

Lexivon The next torque wrench on this list is beefier and more expensive than the EPAuto model above, but still very affordable and even more versatile. The Lexivon unit highlighted here has a 1/2″ drive end and is a clickless torque wrench. Like many other torque wrenches, its adjusting barrel features a knurled handle for a non-slip, ergonomic grip, and its numbers are clearly marked – a high-contrast yellow over black. This is quite a stylish click torque wrench! But looks are irrelevant; Functionality matters and this mechanical torque wrench unit offers a lot. It works from 25 lb.-ft. up to a whopping 250 lb.-ft. of the torque range. This gives you a huge torque setting range to work with, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications from engine and front-end service to tightening lug nuts on a commercial vehicle. For added versatility, Lexivon offers several other torque wrench models with 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″ drive ends. This device is super versatile and affordable at just $56. But the icing on the cake is this product’s 4.7-star rating after nearly 2,000 customer reviews.

Gearwrench quality costs money. If you want the best, be prepared to spend more. Case in point: The Gearwrench digital torque wrench with a ½-inch drive. Sure, it’s expensive, but money well spent if your livelihood depends on a torque tool like this, or if precision is key. Having personally used Gearwrench products myself it does great stuff so you shouldn’t be disappointed. The operating torque range of this tool is 20 to 250 lb.-ft. Also, it should be accurate to about 3% for jobs that require precise torque. But are digital torque wrenches better? The short answer is yes and no. They are easier to use and arguably more accurate, but tend to cost more. This product differs from the other torque wrenches highlighted here in that it is electronic. Instead of a click mechanism or a bar that flexes when you apply force, it has circuitry and sensors. You simply set the desired torque with a series of knobs and the handle will vibrate, a buzzer will sound and an LED will illuminate when you reach the target torque, so there’s no excuse for over-tightening fasteners. It can be set in lb.-ft., Nm, kgf-m and kg-cm for added flexibility. To keep this precision instrument safe and secure, it comes with a plastic carrying case. The 4.6 star rating on this Gearwrench torque wrench doesn’t hurt either.

Tooluxe If value is important and simplicity is paramount, consider this Tooluxe bar torque wrench (got to love a funny name). This type of torque wrench is less convenient to use than the click torque wrench or digital counterparts, but they are cheaper and foolproof. With no adjustments or mechanisms to deal with, simply tighten the fasteners clockwise while watching the display. When it points to the desired torque setting, you’re done. This bar wrench is 18 inches long and operates from 0 to 150 lb.-ft of torque rating. It’s made of steel for durability and finished with a gleaming chrome finish that will look great in any tool box. For added versatility, it comes with a 1/2″ drive end and a 3/8″ adapter. For less than $25, you can’t go wrong here.

Tekton Thanks to its blend of versatility, value, and great user reviews, this Tekton 1/2-inch torque wrench is our top overall pick. This snap-in torque wrench handles fasteners from 10 lb.-ft. to 150 lb.-ft. the torque value. It’s made from heavy-duty steel, comes with a storage case, has an easy-to-read scale, and features a reversible ratchet head that goes both directions, handy if you ever need to tighten something with a left-hand thread. Another advantage of this Tekton torque wrench is the precision. It’s accurate to +/- 4%, which is hard to dispute. As for pricing, you can own all this goodness for less than $50. And if buyer ratings are any indication, it should work very well as it has a 4.7-star rating out of more than 7,000 reviews.

ACDelco Finally, if you need a torque wrench but don’t have the space, consider a digital torque adapter like this nifty ACDelco device. This tool attaches to the end of a ½-inch socket wrench you already have, eliminating the need to make room in your toolbox for another piece of hardware. Like the Gearwrench tool listed above, this tool is digital. It can also be adjusted between 25 and 250 lb.-ft. the set torque. When the desired torque is reached, three LEDs light up and an audible signal sounds, a digital way of saying “Whoa, partner. That’s enough.” This precision tool is so accurate that the manufacturer says it can be used to calibrate other torque wrenches. For added peace of mind, this ACDelco tool comes with a one-year warranty and is highly rated. Not too shabby for $60. If you need a 3/8-inch torque adapter, the company also has one priced at $50.

Comparison of the best torque wrenches for cars

Torque Wrench Price Torque Range Other Features Best Budget Torque Wrench EPAuto 3/8″ Drive $25 10 lb.-ft. to 80 lb.ft. Clicking Torque Wrench; including carry bag; includes 1/2″ extension plus 1/4″ and 1/2″ adapters Best Clickless Torque Wrench Lexivon 1/2″ Drive $56 25 lb.-ft. to 250 lb.ft. Clicking Torque Wrench, High Contrast Scales, Accurate to +/- 4% Best Digital Torque Wrench Gearwrench 1/2″ Drive $172 20 lb.-ft. to 250 lb.ft. Digital; vibrating handle; accurate to +/- 3%; reads in lb.-ft., Nm, kgf-m, kg-cm to 150 lb.-ft. Includes 3/8″ adapter, bright chrome finish Best Torque Wrench Overall Tekton 1/2″ Drive $38 10 lb.-ft. to 250 lb.ft. Clickable Torque Wrench Includes Carrying Case Easy To Read Scales Accuracy +/- 4% Best Digital Torque Adapter ACDelco 1/2″ Drive $60 25 lb.-ft. to 250 lb.ft. Audible and visual warnings, one year warranty

4 things to know about torque wrenches

Manufacturers specify a torque for everything, whether it’s a taillight housing, a lug nut, or a critical component like a cylinder head bolt. Every component needs to be properly tightened – but not over-tightened – to perform as intended and last as long as intended. That’s why torque wrenches are so important.

Yes, you can fiddle when tightening fasteners, that is, avoid using a torque wrench, since some auto parts and systems are more important than others. If you’re reinstalling a piece of interior trim that should be tightened to a 12 inch-pound torque limit, you’re probably just guessing and nothing bad will happen. But when making brakes, working on a steering system, or tightening main bearing caps, using a torque wrench and following the manufacturer’s recommendations is mandatory.

Torque wrenches are offered with different ends. These typically include ¼-, 3/8-, and ½-inch sizes, although larger sizes are also offered. For many applications, a 3/8 inch device is perfectly fine. For added versatility, many torque wrenches also come with adapters so they can be used with a variety of sockets.

Digital torque wrenches are probably the easiest to use. Just set the desired torque and they will notify you when you reach that level. There are a few downsides including that they require batteries, are more complex and tend to be a bit more expensive than their analog counterparts. On the other hand, beam style torque wrenches are incredibly simple, there are basically no parts to break, but they are much more cumbersome to use. The click torque wrenches make the difference.

A clever thing to have in your toolbox

Torque wrenches… no, they’re not sexy, but they’re super important. If you plan on tackling car repairs, you should have one of these in your toolbox. And the good news is that all versions should be very affordable, easy to use, and fairly accurate. It just boils down to personal preference. Do you want a simple one that’s a little harder to use, do you prefer a click torque wrench or a preset torque wrench, or are you all-digital all the time? Really, you can’t go wrong with any of these tools, but you certainly could go wrong if you don’t have one.

More for car fans

Torque wrenches are precision calibration tools. If used improperly, you will get bad results. Using a torque wrench properly isn’t difficult, but there are some things to know and mistakes to avoid.

1. Set torque

Start by setting your wrench to the desired torque. To determine the correct torque, consult the service manuals for your specific vehicle or check online forums. Most tire lug nuts require 100 lb-ft of torque.

With a digital torque wrench, the torque is set using a digital keyboard. Click torque wrenches are adjusted by twisting the handle. Refer to your owner’s manual for details about your torque wrench.

2. Attach base

Find the right socket for your nut and attach it to your torque wrench.

3. Install screw

When you first install a bolt and start tightening, don’t use your torque wrench. Use a regular wrench or tire levers instead. Using a standard socket wrench, perform most of the tightening until the nut is snug but not fully tightened. Likewise, you should not use a torque wrench to loosen screws.

4. Torque screw

When using a torque wrench, tighten in one smooth motion. Do not turn the torque wrench back and forth or you may get an inaccurate reading. Once the set torque is reached, you will hear a click or beep depending on the type of torque wrench used.

If you want to check the torque of a nut, you have to loosen it again and retighten it with your torque wrench.

5. Storage and Maintenance

When you are not using your torque wrench it is important to store it in a safe place. Dropping your torque wrench frequently or from a particularly high height can affect the calibration. The best torque wrenches often come with a hard-shell storage case.

If you are storing a click-type torque wrench, you should also set the torque to its lowest setting so that there is only a light load on the internal spring. This keeps your torque wrench calibrated longer.

All torque wrenches eventually lose calibration. Have your torque wrench recalibrated at least once a year. This can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 depending on where you get your wrench calibrated and if you have to pay for shipping.

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Can a cordless impact wrench be used to remove wheel nuts? I’ve been asked this question a few times via email and I’ve seen it asked in reader comments as well.

Technically, the answer is yes. Realistically, the answer is no.

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A quick look at the lug nut torque chart shows that most lug nuts should be torqued to between 80 and 100 ft-lbs. Some require less torque, others more. But for the purposes of this discussion, let’s assume that a lug nut needs to be tightened to 100 ft-lbs.

100 ft-lbs is the same as 1200 in-lbs.

Many 18V-class impact wrenches can match this torque, and Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel impact wrench comes in at 1200 in-lbs.

But does that mean these impact wrenches can remove lug nuts for tire removal? no Here’s why:

Lug nuts can get stuck or freeze.

Wheel nuts can rust.

Wheel nuts may have been overtightened during previous service.

If you tighten a lug nut to 100 ft-lbs, you should be able to remove it instantly with a tool capable of delivering 100 ft-lbs of torque. There are a few factors that could disprove this, but under ideal conditions, a fastener tightened to a specific torque should require a similar torque to remove.

But time and environmental conditions often require that much more torque be used.

While you can remove lug nuts with an impact wrench, it might not be the best idea to buy one that takes that into account for its primary purpose. You may sometimes, or even occasionally, need something stronger to loosen stubborn lug nuts.

How about a compact impact wrench?

A number of brands offer cordless impact wrenches, compact impact wrenches and heavy duty impact wrenches. Impact wrenches, even compact ones, tend to be more powerful than impact wrenches.

The Milwaukee M18 fuel line, for example, is quite powerful and can deliver 210-220 ft lbs of torque.

You should be able to remove even stubborn lug nuts with more powerful compact impact wrenches, but there are times when heavy duty impact wrenches are a better choice. While a compact punch can get the job done, a heavy punch can be faster.

Consider this analogy: Let’s say you give a toddler a toy, treat, or something else that he finds desirable. Then try to take it away. Much more trouble, right?

What do you use to remove wheel nuts? Have you ever tried using an impact wrench with a socket adapter?

Whether you’re using a torque wrench in a professional setting or in a home workshop, you need to know that your fastener will be tightened to a specific torque value – otherwise why would you use a torque wrench at all? However, you may have bought an expensive name brand in the hopes that you would have an accurate tool for years to come; That’s not always like that. What many people don’t realize is that while the quality of a torque wrench is important, the only way to be sure your torque wrench is producing accurate results is to have it calibrated regularly. Listed below are 5 key factors that illustrate the importance of torque wrench calibration.

1) Accuracy requirements

The accuracy you can expect from a torque wrench is specified by the manufacturer, but you can only be sure that your specific tool will provide consistently repeatable and accurate results if you regularly validate its performance. Torque wrench accuracy specifications can range from 6% to 1%, and the purchase price usually scales with that. If it is necessary to meet a very tight torque specification, it is recommended to purchase a higher quality torque wrench. Premium brand torque wrenches are more likely to maintain their accuracy specification over longer periods of time. However, it is still necessary to calibrate the tool often enough to create a good performance history. If you are using less accurate economy models made from lower quality parts, more frequent calibration may be required to ensure the tool is delivering consistent torque readings that you can trust. To conform to industry standards, your torque wrench calibration should be performed using practices outlined in an internationally recognized standard such as ASTM E2624, published by ASTM International.

2) Frequency of use

According to the official website of the International Organization for Standardization, ISO 6789 states that a torque wrench should be recalibrated every 5000 uses or every 12 months. However, this is only a minimal recommendation and should never take precedence over process accuracy requirements. Process accuracy requirements are paramount and usually dictate a more frequent recalibration interval. Recalibrating your torque wrench in the range of 2500 to 3000 uses is recommended more frequently by most professionals in the industry. Following this logic, the more your torque wrench is used, the more often it needs to be recalibrated.

3) Improper storage

Did you know that an adjustable torque wrench should always be “backed off” or stored at the lowest marked setting? A torque wrench consists of several key components that ensure proper function and accuracy. One of the most critical of these components is the mainspring, which is responsible for controlling the applied torque. By design, when an adjustable torque wrench is set to higher torque values, the tension spring is subjected to more stress. If you store your torque wrench at a torque value greater than the lowest setting (typically 20% of maximum), the tension spring will remain under load and weaken over time. This will result in your torque wrench producing less torque across the range and ultimately losing accuracy. Conversely, if the torque wrench is turned all the way back to zero, other components in the tool can move slightly, which also negatively affects accuracy. If your torque wrench has been stored improperly for a long period of time, it will need to be professionally recalibrated to ensure torque readings are correct. Unfortunately, in some cases your torque wrench may not be set within manufacturer specifications and may need to be replaced.

4) Temperature & Weather

If you frequently use your torque wrench in freezing or extremely high temperatures (over 120 degrees Fahrenheit), you run the risk of your tool developing condensation that can lead to internal rusting. Premature rusting can also be caused by operating your torque wrench in the elements (rain, sleet, or snow) or leaving it outside. When the internal mechanisms of the torque wrench develop rust, the accuracy and performance of the tool suffer. Torque wrenches operating at high temperatures can also experience grease leakage due to the heating and melting of the internal lubricants, which also affects the tool’s performance and accuracy.

5) Improper use

Torque wrenches are designed to be used by applying the appropriate force to the handle of the wrench. Using your torque wrench in any other way may overload the instrument, affecting accuracy or possibly permanently damaging it. ISO-6789 requires that any torque wrench that has been overloaded by more than 25% must be recalibrated. Do not use pipes or crowbars and never use the wrench as a crowbar. It is especially important to avoid accidental falls. Dropping a torque wrench once can affect accuracy by up to 30 percent!

Determining how often to calibrate your torque wrench may be dictated by your specific industry, or it may be a personal choice based on one or more of the factors listed above. Regardless, it’s important to find a trusted torque wrench calibration provider to check your instrument’s readings and make any necessary adjustments to bring your torque wrench back to manufacturer specifications. Precision Calibration Systems is ISO 17025 accredited to calibrate torque wrenches up to 1100 ft-lbs. With our standard 24-48 hour turnaround time, your torque wrench can be calibrated quickly and accurately no matter your location. For more information, contact us today at (866) 521-3823.

A relative term is best. When choosing a torque wrench, or range of torque wrenches, for your automotive business, the best torque wrench isn’t necessarily the one that earned the most blue ribbons. It’s not the most precise torque wrench ever designed, or the one that produces the most power. Rather, it is the one that suits your needs.

So when deciding which torque wrench is ideal for your business, consider what you will be using it for. How much torque does the wrench need to generate? How accurate does it have to be? How low do the costs have to be for your investment to pay off? By answering these three questions, you can determine the best torque wrench for your automotive business.

Torque requirements for common automotive fasteners

First things first: how much torque do you need? Here is an overview of the torque requirements you will commonly encounter in the automotive world:

Very Light Duty Very light duty in the automotive industry with torque applications in the 15-75 ft.lbs range. This range covers general service needs such as spark plugs, oil drain plugs, valve cover bolts and similar fasteners.

Light Duty Light duty automotive torque applications range from 30-150 ft.lbs. Most auto repairs fall within this range. In other words, without a torque wrench in this range, you can’t do most auto repairs. Common repair needs in this area are cap screws, lug nuts and caliper bolts.

Moderate Duty Moderate duty automotive fasteners require between 50 and 250 ft.lbs. While fewer fasteners fall into this range than lightweight fasteners, those that do are critical applications. Some of the common automotive fastener applications in this torque range are axle bolts, hub bolts and bolts on installed trailer hitches.

Heavy-duty, heavy-duty automotive bolts require between 120 and 600 ft.lbs of torque. Common applications include drivetrain components and bearings, as well as much of the work involved in transfer cases and differentials.

Very Heavy Duty Heavy Duty automotive fasteners require between 200 and 1,000 ft.lbs of torque or even higher amounts. Applications include cam gears and harmonic balancers. Many off-road vehicles or high-performance racing vehicles also require torque applications in this range.

The type of automotive work you are doing will determine the wrench you will need. If your main focus is oil changes and tuning, you probably only need light or very light torque wrenches. If you market yourself as a shop that specializes in heavier repairs, e.g. B. converting engines or transmissions, or carrying out structural repairs such as axle or hub work, you will need a heavier wrench.

Capabilities of torque wrenches used in automotive repair

Different types of wrenches apply different levels of torque. There are two main types of torque wrenches used in automotive repair: hand wrenches and air wrenches. Within these there are a few subcategories. Hand wrenches can be either click, break-over or cam wrenches, while pneumatic wrenches can be powered by a continuous or discontinuous drive. However, only intermittently powered pneumatic tools, also known as pulse tools, produce sufficient torque to be useful in the automotive industry. With all of these wrenches, remember that it is important to take proper care of them and calibrate them regularly to keep them in good working order.

Here is a brief description of the capabilities of the different types of torque wrenches.

Hand Wrench Click Wrench : The simplest and least expensive of torque wrenches, click wrenches limit torque by notifying your operator with an audible “click” sound when the correct torque is reached. Because these wrenches rely on the operator to limit the torque applied, they are less precise than other types of torque wrenches. However, they are capable of delivering far more torque than any other type of handheld torque wrench, ranging from 18 lbf.in to 2,212 ft.lbs of torque. Click wrenches are a fantastic choice for auto mechanics because of their versatility and price. Toggle Wrenches: Although toggle wrenches are more expensive than click wrenches, they limit torque with far greater certainty. When the correct torque is achieved, the wrench “breaks” and prevents the operator from applying too much torque. Therefore, toggle wrenches are better suited than click wrenches for applications that require precise torque. However, the toggle feature limits the torque the tool can deliver and limits the torque range of most toggle wrenches to between 25 ozf.in on the low end and 147 lb.ft on the high end. Cam Wrenches: Cam wrenches provide torque similar to toggle wrenches, from 2 to 90 lb.ft, and are at least as effective in limiting torque by “slipping” or disengaging when the correct torque is reached. Cam wrenches tend to be more expensive than toggle and click wrenches. The advantage of cam wrenches in the automotive industry is ergonomics. Because they don’t require as much wiggle room as toggle wrenches, they’re better suited to the tight spaces that mechanics often work in.

Pneumatic Wrenches Discontinuous Drive: Discontinuous drive or “impulse” wrenches use compressed air to transmit precise radial impulses to the bolt heads. When the correct torque is achieved, the wrench disengages either its hydraulic impulse unit or the air supply, preventing the operator from applying excessive torque. Capable of delivering up to 332 lb.ft of torque, these tools are suitable for most automotive applications. The major disadvantage of impulse wrenches compared to hand tools is the initial investment required, which is significantly higher for impulse wrenches. However, impulse tools deliver torque much faster than hand tools, allowing high volume workshops to justify their investment with increased capacity.

In summary, click wrenches deliver the greatest torque at the lowest cost, making them ideal for most automotive applications. Cam-over and break-over wrenches can’t provide as much torque, but they limit torque more precisely, making them necessary for more critical fasteners like head bolts or calipers. Finally, impulse tools are as accurate as cam or toggle wrenches and deliver high torque loads at fast speeds at a higher price. Their costs make them most effective when they can generate a return by increasing a shop’s production capacity.

What Type of Wrench is Best for Your Automotive Business? Now you can answer the question yourself.

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One thing I like to do when conducting field audits across the country is to ask the technicians if I can see their torque wrenches as they are important precision measuring tools. Torque wrenches must be properly maintained and calibrated regularly.

When I ask technicians when they last calibrated their torque wrenches, they often can’t tell me. Most are surprised when I tell them they can calibrate clicker torque wrenches themselves. This might not be as good as sending it to a professional, but it’s best practice between certifications and better than not doing calibration.

Below I will go through the steps to check the torque wrench calibration. We’ll also cover the adjustments you can make if the calibration shows it’s not providing accurate readings for the specified torque setting.

To perform this calibration you will need:

• Clicker style torque wrench

• Marker or colored pencil

• Tape measure

• Vise attached to a work bench or wheel nut attached to a tool

• 20 to 35 pound weight

• Rope or cord with a load capacity that can hold the weight

• Means for recording calculations

• Safety shoes

Step 1: Record your measurement

When measuring your torque wrench, always measure from the center of the square where you attached the socket. Use whole inches instead of fractional inches to simplify your calculations. Finally, mark the handle where you will end your measurement. I usually use a black permanent marker. I used an 18″ torque wrench, the typical length of a torque wrench, and I made my mark at 15″, which is the measurement we’ll be using for this tutorial. Record this measurement as you will refer to it later.

Step 2: Secure your torque wrench

This step works best if you have a vise to snap your torque wrench into. If a vise is not available, place a socket on your torque wrench and secure the socket and socket to the lug nut of a device. Make sure you have enough vertical space to attach a rope and weight to perform the calibration test. Secure the square end of your torque wrench in your vise—or lug nut if using this method (be careful not to over-tighten and damage your drivetrain).

Point the handle outward so your bench doesn’t interfere with the rope and weight. Make sure only the square drive is clamped in your vise so the handle can move freely. If you’re doing this on a piece of equipment, put cardboard behind the key so you don’t accidentally damage the body of the equipment with the weight hanging from your rope. And wear steel-toed or compound-toed shoes or boots in case something slips and the weight falls off.

Step 3: Do your calculations

To get the correct setting for your torque wrench you need to multiply the distance from step one by the weight you will be using to get the inch-pounds. (For this example, we’ll use a 20-pound weight.) Then divide that number by 12, which gives you the foot-pounds. Remember, if you use different measurements or lengths, your numbers will be different.

So our calculations look like this:

• 15 inches x 20 pounds = 300 inch pounds

• 300 inch pounds / 12 = 25 foot pounds

Step 4: Save the weight to perform the calibration check

• Tie the rope or cable around your weight

• Make a loop on the other end large enough to slip easily over the handle of your torque wrench. (Make sure the rope is long enough that the weight doesn’t touch the ground.)

• Set your torque wrench to 25 foot pounds

• Attach the loop end of the rope to your torque wrench where you made your mark in step one (15 inches for us) so the weight is now hanging.

When your torque wrench clicked once, the weight was applied, then set it to 26 foot-pounds. If it hasn’t clicked, then your torque wrench is already accurate. If it clicked you will need to continue with the following steps to set your torque wrench.

Step 5: Customize Your Torque Wrench

Most of the time you can adjust your torque wrenches by tightening the tension spring. These are in the middle of your torque wrench or under your grip, which takes a bit more work to access. It may also be necessary to change your measurements to make your adjustments with the attached weight if your mark falls on the set screw placement. Make sure your torque wrench is still set to the foot-pounds from your calculation you did in step 3.

• Hang the loop end of your rope with the weight on your mark from step 1. (This may be different if you had to remove the handle to access the set screw.)

• If you did not hear a click, remove the weight and tighten the locking screw clockwise in small increments.

• Using your weight, hang the loop end of the rope back over the mark on your torque wrench and listen for the click again to test if this adjustment was sufficient. If you don’t hear the click again, you’ll have to repeat this process until you do.

• Once you hear a click, remove the weight and reattach your grip (if you had to remove it to perform the adjustment).

Now your torque wrench has been tested and you can be sure that your tool applies the correct torque. If you cannot adjust your torque wrench using these methods, send it to a professional or buy a new one.

A torque wrench is a specialty tool that is regularly used in automotive repair to ensure that the vehicle’s parts are not being overtightened or overtightened. Mechanical tasks are easier and more precise with digital torque wrenches, which give you a digital readout that shows the exact amount of torque being used. Some of these devices come with warning signs—including flashing lights, sounds, or vibrations—that let you know when you’ve reached your desired torque.

Digital torque wrenches are pre-calibrated. Some allow you to preset multiple torque levels so you can quickly switch from one everyday task to the next with the push of a button. Check out some of the best digital torque wrenches ahead of time, reviewed for effectiveness, quality, and overall value.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Digital Torque Wrench

Don’t go shopping until you know what features are most important in a digital torque wrench. Deciding how much or how little these qualities are important to you will help you find the right digital torque wrench for your needs.

Accuracy and Units of Measure

One of the most important things to look for when purchasing a digital torque wrench is accuracy. If a wrench is not accurate, you may undertighten or overtighten it as you use it, which can result in fasteners breaking or loosening during machine operation. Most digital torque wrenches are pre-calibrated to an accuracy of about ±4 percent, although there are certainly more and less accurate digital torque wrenches out there.

Torque is measured in inch-pounds or foot-pounds, where one inch-pound is 1 pound of force applied 1 inch from the torque wrench’s pivot point. A foot-pound is 1 pound of force applied 1 foot from the pivot point.

torque range

If the range of a digital torque wrench is too short, the types of work you can do with it will be limited. A torque wrench with a maximum range of less than 100 foot-pounds is ideal for simple jobs, like working on a lawn mower or a bicycle. However, wrenches with a lower torque range are not very useful for most automotive and mechanical torque wrench applications.

Some digital torque wrenches have a very wide torque range, with some reaching a maximum force of 1,000 foot-pounds. However, most digital torque wrenches have a moderate range of up to 150 foot-pounds, which is more than enough torque to tighten lug nuts on your car.

Multidirectional clamping

Multi-directional tightening or ratcheting allows the user to quickly change the direction of the wrench to measure both clockwise and counterclockwise torque. A torque wrench with this feature gives the user better access than one that only works clockwise. You won’t often see torque wrenches with this feature as they should never be used to loosen nuts. This is because a nut can initially seize when attempting to loosen it, and as the torque wrench applies force, the nut can jump forward, causing the wrench to need recalibration.

grip comfort

Most torque wrenches have either a rubberized plastic handle or a steel handle with a raised grip. The advantage of rubber grips is that they are comfortable and reduce hand fatigue. Metal handles give you better wrench control. Whatever you choose, the grip is an important aspect to consider when looking for a new torque wrench.

When using the digital torque wrench for long stretches at a stretch, it’s a good idea to prioritize comfort and choose an ergonomic handle that won’t cramp your hand. The most important thing is that the digital torque wrench you choose has a handle that you can grip without your hand slipping. You must be able to quickly stop the wrench handle movement when you have reached the desired torque so that you don’t over tighten the nut.

readability of the scale

Digital torque wrenches have a major advantage over other types of torque wrenches when it comes to their scale reliability as they have highly visible displays that show the current torque value. However, the size, shading, text, and even menu options on the digital display vary between products.

If you have trouble reading small text, a digital torque wrench with a large, easy-to-read display can be a good choice. When working in low light conditions, such as For example, in a garage or workshop, look for a backlit digital screen. Just remember to keep the batteries in your digital torque wrench charged or you won’t be able to read the scale at all.

warning functions

A great feature to look for in a digital torque wrench is an alert that lets you know when you’ve reached your desired inch-pound or foot-pound torque. Some products alert the user via a flashing LED light or a visual indicator on the digital screen, others via a handle vibration, an audible alarm, or a combination of two or more of these signals. Visual indicators on the digital display can even signal how far you have exceeded optimal torque. This emergency alert feature makes tightening fasteners on the job almost foolproof, as the wrench tells you to stop.

Automatic shutdown

Digital torque wrenches are powered by batteries that operate the digital screen, the gauge’s internal mechanics, and the warning systems. The problem with batteries, of course, is that they can run out of energy. In this case, you must either charge or replace the batteries before you can continue working.

To extend the battery life of your digital torque wrench, some models will automatically turn off after a few minutes of inactivity. Considering how many times you can put down and pick up your torque wrench while working on your car without turning it off, this auto shut-off feature will likely save you a significant amount of battery life.

storage container

Digital torque wrenches are delicate devices whose accuracy can be affected if they hit something or fall to the ground. To protect the device and reduce the number of recalibrations, look for a digital torque wrench that comes with a storage case.

Digital torque wrench cases are typically made of hard, durable plastic that protects the tool, but is also lightweight and easy to carry. For added protection and security, invest in a torque wrench case with a padded interior and a lockable closure.

Our top picks

These premium digital torque wrenches have been selected based on quality, price and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a top-accuracy model or one that won’t break the bank, this list is a good place to start.

Best Overall 1 eTORK 1/2″ Drive Electronic Torque Wrench Photo: amazon.com Check Latest Price This digital torque wrench features a ball-bearing operated trigger mechanism, giving it more sensitivity, consistency and precision when working. It features a locking knob that prevents the selected torque from being accidentally changed. The display allows the user to instantly convert between four units of torque: foot-pounds, inch-pounds, newton-meters and kilograms-centimeters. The eTORK has a torque range of 25 to 250 foot-pounds and can operate with an accuracy of ±3 percent clockwise and ±6 percent counterclockwise. While this digital torque wrench doesn’t give you a visual alert when you’re nearing your desired torque setting, it does make an audible clicking sound, similar to the sound of a regular click-style torque wrench, to discourage you from over-tightening your fasteners. Product Specifications Length: 23.25 inches

23.25 inch Max. Torque: 250 ft-lbs

250 foot-pounds Material: Alloy Steel, Plastic Pros Converts between a range of measurements

Audible notification when target torque is reached

Long handle for hard-to-reach areas Cons No visual warnings

Runner Up 2 eTORK 3/8″ Drive Electronic Torque Wrench Photo: amazon.com Check Latest Price With a low torque range of 2 to 21 foot-pounds, this eTORK wrench is great for work on bicycles, small recreational vehicles, and larger power tool motors. The digital display can be set to show torque in four units of measurement including inch-pounds, newton-metres, foot-pounds and kilogram-centimetres. The hardened alloy steel body of this tool is strong and durable, yet slim enough to fit into tight spaces. It can be used in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, with an accuracy of ±3 percent clockwise and ±6 percent counterclockwise. And it comes in a hard plastic carrying case. Product Specifications Length: 15.38 inches

15.38 inch Max. Torque: 20 foot-pounds

20 foot-pounds Material: Alloy Steel, Plastic Advantages Short and compact size

Strong and durable construction

Includes carry bag

Can be used in both directions. Disadvantages The adjustment knob can be too sensitive

Best Features 3 ACDelco ARM601-3 3/8″ Digital Torque Wrench Photo: amazon.com Check Latest Price This digital torque wrench has multiple bells and whistles that will make your next repair a breeze: Its built-in alarm system makes a buzzing audible alarm Sounds and a bright LED light flashes when you are almost at the desired torque. It also has multidirectional capabilities with an accuracy of ±2 percent clockwise and ±3 percent counterclockwise. With a low torque range of 2 to 37 foot-pounds, this ACDelco is suitable for tasks like repairing larger power tools, working on your four-wheeler or dirt bike, or making adjustments to your bike It can take measurements in kilogram-centimeters, Newton-meters, inch- Take pounds and feet -pounds and has a variety of modes for every step of your work: it works in torque mode to apply pressure, measure mode to measure torque, peak mode to keep peak torque readings on screen, and in Trace mode to follow the current live t applied torque. Product Specifications Length: 12.25 inches

12.25 inch Max. Torque: 37 foot-pounds

37 foot-pounds Material: Metal, Plastic Benefits Non-slip grip

Easy to read display

Flashing LED and buzzer alarm Disadvantages Limited torque range

Best for Accuracy 4 Summit Tools Digital UltraPrecision Torque Wrench Check Latest Price Accuracy is a primary concern when working on your vehicle, so it’s a good idea to have a tool with a high level of precision. This digital torque wrench from Summit Tools has an impressive accuracy of ±1 percent. It allows you to set the target torque and then put the wrench in either Peak or Tracking mode. In peak mode, the digital display tracks the maximum torque used so you can see how much force has been applied. This mode is useful for situations where you cannot see the digital screen while using the wrench. Tracking mode is a live update of the currently applied torque. Both modes will alert you with a flashing LED and buzzer alarm when approaching your desired torque. This digital torque wrench has a torque range of 7.4 to 147.5 foot-pounds and can display torque measurements in kilogram-centimeters, Newton-meters, inch-pounds, and foot-pounds. Product Specifications Length: 20.4 inches

20.4 inch Max. Torque: 147.5 foot-lbs

147.5 foot-pounds Material: Stainless steel, plastic handle Benefits Outstanding accuracy of ±1 percent

Comfortable handle

Multiple modes to choose from Cons Expensive

Most Versatile 5 ACDelco Heavy Duty Digital Torque Adapters Photo: amazon.com Check current price This Digital Torque Wrench Adapter allows you to use any regular ratchet wrench as a digital torque wrench, and it may be one of the most versatile tools in your workshop or garage. The compact adapter fits the square drive of a ratchet wrench. It offers a digital readout of applied torque on a backlit LCD screen. This ACDelco adapter has a wide range of 25 to 250 foot-pounds, multi-directional functionality, ±1.5 percent clockwise accuracy and ±2.5 percent counter-clockwise accuracy. It also has an audible buzzer and a flashing LED light to warn you before over-tightening your fasteners. When you’re done, simply store the adapter in the included hard plastic mini case. Product Specifications Length: Fits various key lengths

Fits various wrench lengths Max. Torque: 250 ft-lbs

250 foot-pounds Material: Plastic and metal Pros Turns a regular wrench into a digital torque wrench

Large torque range

Lightweight and compact

Protective case included Disadvantages The LCD display can darken over time

Our verdict

We’ve found the eTORK ½-inch to be the best digital torque wrench for most scenarios; It’s a reliable tool at an affordable price. For buyers looking to convert traditional wrenches into digital torque wrenches for specific projects, consider ACDelco’s digital torque adapter, which is compact and comes with its own protective case.

How We Picked The Best Digital Torque Wrenches

To find our top digital torque wrench picks, we looked at accuracy as one of the most important factors, with all of the products we recommend having a high accuracy of at least ±3 percent. We’ve also included a range of wrench lengths for a variety of tasks, with short, compact tools and longer handles for those hard-to-reach areas. We even looked for an option to convert regular wrenches into digital torque wrenches for those looking for a versatile solution.

Depending on user preference, our recommendation list includes options with a mix of audible and visual alerts when the target torque value is reached.

The advantages of a digital torque wrench

A digital torque wrench is an upgrade over a regular torque wrench for several reasons: First, a digital device uses built-in warnings — including sound, light, and even vibration — to prevent you from over-tightening the fasteners being worked on.

The digital display on a digital torque wrench is also much easier to read than the physical display on a regular torque wrench; Many digital products even have backlit screens that can be read in the dark. Another great advantage of a digital torque wrench is that it comes pre-calibrated. If you need to calibrate a digital wrench, it’s easier than a regular torque wrench because the digital display gives a more accurate reading.

Digital torque wrenches have built-in warning systems that notify you when you’ve reached the optimum torque.

The digital display is much easier to use to get an accurate reading of your applied torque.

Digital torque wrenches come pre-calibrated and are easier to calibrate than a regular torque wrench.

frequently asked Questions

Below are helpful answers to some of the most common torque wrench questions.

Q: What is a digital torque wrench?

A digital torque wrench is a pre-calibrated torque wrench that displays the torque output on a digital screen. When you’ve reached the required torque, the wrench notifies you with a buzz, beep, vibration, light, or a combination of these alerts so you don’t over-tighten the fastener.

Q: How do I know if my torque wrench is accurate?

To determine if your torque wrench is working accurately, you can compare the torque reading on the digital display to a known torque output. Here’s how:

Secure the square drive of the wrench in a vise to allow the rest of the wrench to move freely. Measure the distance between the square on the head of the wrench and the point on the handle where you grip. Multiply the distance measured in step 2 by 20 to find the torque wrench inch-pound setting. On the torque wrench handle, hang a 20-pound weight by a thin string in the exact spot you would normally grab (often marked with a line). If the reading on the digital display matches your inch-pound results in step 3, your digital torque wrench is accurate. If it’s not accurate, you can calibrate it yourself or take an experienced professional to calibrate it for you

Q: How do you calibrate a torque wrench?

You can calibrate a torque wrench with a vise, a 20-pound weight, thin rope or string (which can hold at least 20 pounds), and a tape measure.

Measure the length of the torque wrench from the square on the head to the exact point on the handle where you grip the wrench. This line is usually already marked on a torque wrench, so you don’t have to estimate based on your average usage. Insert the square drive of the torque wrench into the vise and tighten. Multiply the measurement you took in step 1 by 20 to find the inch-pound setting you need for the torque wrench. Using the string, tie a loop through the 20 pound weight and hang it on the end of the handle where you took your first measurement. Check the reading on the digital display, which should match the inch-pound measurement you set in step 3. If it doesn’t match, move the weight toward the head or end of the digital torque wrench until the inch-pound reading aligns properly with what you entered. Measure the length of the torque wrench from the square drive to the point where the weight hangs and multiply that result by 20 pounds. With the information gathered, you can now calculate the applied torque of the wrench using the formula Ta = Ts x (D1/D2). “Ta” is the applied torque. “Ts” stands for Torque Setting. “D1” is the distance measured in step 1 and “D2” is the distance measured in step 8. With this number you can multiply your intended torque by the difference to get the correct torque setting for your particular torque wrench.

Q: How often should I calibrate my digital torque wrench?

You should calibrate your digital torque wrench at least once a year; However, if you use it regularly, you might want to calibrate it two or more times a year.

IMPERIAL Newton impact socket wrenches are generally designed to be as versatile as possible in order to offer the end user the greatest possible benefit. However, there are a few points to consider when considering whether the outlet you are ordering is right for your application. Our knowledgeable sales and technical staff are always ready to help answer your questions or help you find the information you need. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions and we will do our best to provide you with answers. Please read the important notice at the bottom of this page before considering the information presented here.

SOCKET SIZES – TORQUE LIMITS AND MAXIMUM TYPICAL LOAD

The information below is for typical heat treated alloy steel (black steel) drives manufactured to ANSI or DIN specifications. Exotic and non-sparking alloys have different values ​​that are typically lower than heat-treated black steel.

In general, the torque limiting factor for most larger power sockets is the size of the square drive, since in such sockets the size of the square drive is smaller than the size of the nut opening. Just as a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, a power socket power tool connection is generally limited by the lesser mass of the two connections.

For example, a typical 3-1/2″ AF hex socket may well be able to handle many thousands of Ft-Lbs of torque, but if the square drive on that socket is only 3/4″, it can handle the torque used is extremely limited by the size of the drive, but not by the drive of the power insert itself. It is effectively reduced in the load it can be used for, not at all by wall thicknesses or the type of alloy or hardness – or any property at all of the socket – but instead by the inherent limitations of the 3/4″ steel section that drives it, at the end of the impact wrench itself. So in this example, the impact wrench square is limiting the stress, not the impact socket.

Conversely, if the square drive is large and the nut end is small (e.g. a 1-1/2″ socket with a small 7/8″ 12 point nut size) you are limited as to what for a 7/8″ nut is suitable, although your 1-1/2″ drive tool may be capable of supplying 10,000 ft-lbs. The smallest connection (nut size versus square drive) is generally the limiting factor when evaluating socket sizes and square drives to determine reasonable torque limits.

Industry standard impact sockets (e.g. those that meet ANSI, ASME specifications) are generally rated to handle the torque typical of the NUT SIZE, regardless of square drive size. So, in general, a 7/8″ socket is considered suitable for loads that are common on a 7/8″ nut, regardless of whether the drive size is 3/8″ or 1-1/2″. All steel structures by IMPERIAL-Newton Corp. exceed ANSI/ASME B107 stress test requirements and all of our products are designed for heavy-duty industrial applications where stresses are pushed to the limit. For applications where rust, fouled threads or other issues are causing extremely high loads – contact us about our special line of Extreme Duty designs capable of handling even the most extreme loads or high duty cycle applications. Including non-sparking, acidic and high magnetic applications.

Modern material innovations in steel alloys have increased the force that traditional square drives can withstand well beyond the limits of the past, however specific limitations between drive sizes still exist and the following guidelines should be considered when deciding which drive size to choose for your application .

The strength of the socket is generally designed to provide a torque equivalent to the size nut it fits, no matter the size of the square drive. If you require an extreme duty design, please feel free to discuss your application with us to determine if an extreme duty impact wrench bit is the best choice or if our normal, industrial quality designs will get the job done.

Drive Size Reasonable Torque Limit* 3/4″ square drive 2,035 Nm [1,500 ft-lbs] #4 spline drive 2,300 Nm [1,700 ft-lbs] 1″ square drive 4,750 Nm [3,500 ft-lbs] #5 spline drive 5,000 ft-lbs [6,780 Nm] 1-1/2″ square drive 11,500 ft-lbs [15,600 Nm] 2-1/2″ square drive 45,000 ft-lbs [61,015 Nm] 3-1/2″ square drive 100,000 ft-lbs [135,590 Nm] 4-1 /2″ square drive 200,000 ft-lbs [271,165 Nm]

* Impact methods reduce these amounts due to the inherent peak forces that result when torque is applied via impact methods. Also, keep in mind that any time you heat a part or load it in more than one direction at the same time, the overall strength is significantly compromised, resulting in lower performance compared to what you would achieve if either of these forces were individually would be applied. The most common effect of this when working with nuts and bolts is that both bending and torsional forces are simultaneously applied to the square drive. Avoiding this effect by keeping the tool aligned with the axis of the socket will minimize this effect and provide the best performance.

THE 8-POINT FORM ISSUE

When it comes to sockets, not all 8 pointed shapes are created equal. There are two very different and incompatible forms that must be considered before ordering. One shape is the octagon, the other is called the double square. The 8 point double square drive is the most commonly available socket due to the common use of square head fasteners versus less commonly used octagonal ones. The difference between these shapes that makes them incompatible is illustrated in the drawing below.

You can see that although the size is the same across all wrench flats, when using a traditional 8pt socket with an octagon nut, there is a lack of material in the critical areas of surface contact. In fact, the bushing doesn’t even touch the octagon nut, although the size is the same across the wrench flats. Please note that there are NO sizes of 8 point double square sockets that can be used effectively or safely for octagon fasteners.

IMPACT SOCKET TORQUE RATINGS

The force that a bushing can withstand before it fails is highly dependent on many factors such as and many other factors that make it impossible to give absolute torque values ​​for every bushing. Without exception, the following table shows what can reasonably be expected from an ordinary heavy-duty hex socket (6-point), made of quality materials and workmanship and meeting industry standards in every respect.

If you feel your application might exceed the limits of commonly manufactured impact sockets, contact our sales department for assistance with custom sockets backed by testing and design analysis to adequately meet the needs of your particular application. The information below should not be relied upon solely for any purpose, particularly where there is a safety concern, and is provided for reference only. If in doubt, consult a qualified third-party professional, such as B. the ones available here.

Hex Size Ft-Lbs Torque ASME Test Ft-Lbs (B107) 1- 1/8 2,500 808 2- 1/4 3,800 1500 3- 3/8 10,700 2333

COATINGS AND CORROSION PROTECTION

For customers who face harsh environmental conditions during storage and use, IMPERIAL-Newton offers several factory coating options to protect your sockets from the elements, even in underwater conditions. The following finishes are available as standard offerings, with additional special coatings and finishes available upon request. Coatings certified in accordance with agency and consensual standards at additional cost.

VERIDIZE TM – Two coat baked anti-corrosion finish

– Two coat corrosion resistant baked finish Electroless Nickel Plated – Plating option that provides corrosion resistance

– Corrosion resistance plating option Decorative Chrome – Brite finish but not recommended for high impact applications due to chrome’s brittleness and additional processing required to mitigate hydrogen embrittlement issues.

– Brite finish, although not recommended for impact applications due to the brittleness of chromium and the additional processing required to alleviate hydrogen embrittlement issues. Black Oxide – the standard finish for percussion tools, offers very slight corrosion resistance

LEGAL DISCLAIMER – Please read

IMPERIAL-Newton makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy of the information contained herein, particularly with respect to your application. The following information is offered without specifics of your application and is therefore for reference and informational purposes only and should not be construed as advice or a recommendation for any application or purpose. Although the information presented here may form part of your considerations, you should not rely on your final decision or form the basis of any approach without reviewing the details of your application with a qualified professional or agency knowledgeable in your specific industry . Consult your company safety officer or your country’s state safety agency (e.g., OSHA, NOHSC, NEBOSCH, CCOHS, IOSH, ILO, CIWCE) for guidelines on the safe and proper use and selection of tools as recommended by IMPERIAL- Newton are offered.

A relative term is best. When choosing a torque wrench, or range of torque wrenches, for your automotive business, the best torque wrench isn’t necessarily the one that earned the most blue ribbons. It’s not the most precise torque wrench ever designed, or the one that produces the most power. Rather, it is the one that suits your needs.

So when deciding which torque wrench is ideal for your business, consider what you will be using it for. How much torque does the wrench need to generate? How accurate does it have to be? How low do the costs have to be for your investment to pay off? By answering these three questions, you can determine the best torque wrench for your automotive business.

Torque requirements for common automotive fasteners

First things first: how much torque do you need? Here is an overview of the torque requirements you will commonly encounter in the automotive world:

Very Light Duty Very light duty in the automotive industry with torque applications in the 15-75 ft.lbs range. This range covers general service needs such as spark plugs, oil drain plugs, valve cover bolts and similar fasteners.

Light Duty Light duty automotive torque applications range from 30-150 ft.lbs. Most auto repairs fall within this range. In other words, without a torque wrench in this range, you can’t do most auto repairs. Common repair needs in this area are cap screws, lug nuts and caliper bolts.

Moderate Duty Moderate duty automotive fasteners require between 50 and 250 ft.lbs. While fewer fasteners fall into this range than lightweight fasteners, those that do are critical applications. Some of the common automotive fastener applications in this torque range are axle bolts, hub bolts and bolts on installed trailer hitches.

Heavy-duty, heavy-duty automotive bolts require between 120 and 600 ft.lbs of torque. Common applications include drivetrain components and bearings, as well as much of the work involved in transfer cases and differentials.

Very Heavy Duty Heavy Duty automotive fasteners require between 200 and 1,000 ft.lbs of torque or even higher amounts. Applications include cam gears and harmonic balancers. Many off-road vehicles or high-performance racing vehicles also require torque applications in this range.

The type of automotive work you are doing will determine the wrench you will need. If your main focus is oil changes and tuning, you probably only need light or very light torque wrenches. If you market yourself as a shop that specializes in heavier repairs, e.g. B. converting engines or transmissions, or carrying out structural repairs such as axle or hub work, you will need a heavier wrench.

Capabilities of torque wrenches used in automotive repair

Different types of wrenches apply different levels of torque. There are two main types of torque wrenches used in automotive repair: hand wrenches and air wrenches. Within these there are a few subcategories. Hand wrenches can be either click, break-over or cam wrenches, while pneumatic wrenches can be powered by a continuous or discontinuous drive. However, only intermittently powered pneumatic tools, also known as pulse tools, produce sufficient torque to be useful in the automotive industry. With all of these wrenches, remember that it is important to take proper care of them and calibrate them regularly to keep them in good working order.

Here is a brief description of the capabilities of the different types of torque wrenches.

Hand Wrench Click Wrench : The simplest and least expensive of torque wrenches, click wrenches limit torque by notifying your operator with an audible “click” sound when the correct torque is reached. Because these wrenches rely on the operator to limit the torque applied, they are less precise than other types of torque wrenches. However, they are capable of delivering far more torque than any other type of handheld torque wrench, ranging from 18 lbf.in to 2,212 ft.lbs of torque. Click wrenches are a fantastic choice for auto mechanics because of their versatility and price. Toggle Wrenches: Although toggle wrenches are more expensive than click wrenches, they limit torque with far greater certainty. When the correct torque is achieved, the wrench “breaks” and prevents the operator from applying too much torque. Therefore, toggle wrenches are better suited than click wrenches for applications that require precise torque. However, the toggle feature limits the torque the tool can deliver and limits the torque range of most toggle wrenches to between 25 ozf.in on the low end and 147 lb.ft on the high end. Cam Wrenches: Cam wrenches provide torque similar to toggle wrenches, from 2 to 90 lb.ft, and are at least as effective in limiting torque by “slipping” or disengaging when the correct torque is reached. Cam wrenches tend to be more expensive than toggle and click wrenches. The advantage of cam wrenches in the automotive industry is ergonomics. Because they don’t require as much wiggle room as toggle wrenches, they’re better suited to the tight spaces that mechanics often work in.

Pneumatic Wrenches Discontinuous Drive: Discontinuous drive or “impulse” wrenches use compressed air to transmit precise radial impulses to the bolt heads. When the correct torque is achieved, the wrench disengages either its hydraulic impulse unit or the air supply, preventing the operator from applying excessive torque. Capable of delivering up to 332 lb.ft of torque, these tools are suitable for most automotive applications. The major disadvantage of impulse wrenches compared to hand tools is the initial investment required, which is significantly higher for impulse wrenches. However, impulse tools deliver torque much faster than hand tools, allowing high volume workshops to justify their investment with increased capacity.

In summary, click wrenches deliver the greatest torque at the lowest cost, making them ideal for most automotive applications. Cam-over and break-over wrenches can’t provide as much torque, but they limit torque more precisely, making them necessary for more critical fasteners like head bolts or calipers. Finally, impulse tools are as accurate as cam or toggle wrenches and deliver high torque loads at fast speeds at a higher price. Their costs make them most effective when they can generate a return by increasing a shop’s production capacity.

What Type of Wrench is Best for Your Automotive Business? Now you can answer the question yourself.

Torque wrenches allow you to tighten fasteners to the correct torque, eliminating the risk of under and over tightening. The This Old House Reviews team have selected the best torque wrenches on Amazon to help you with all your DIY projects. Read our review to learn more about them.

Top 4 torque wrenches

Best Case: TEKTON ½” Torque Wrench

This wrench comes in a bright red case that protects the tool in your tool box or tool chest from damage. It has an easy-to-read scale and a switchable ratchet head. It’s also available in a variety of drive sizes and ranges, allowing you to specialize key for your projects.

main features

click key

2.94 pounds

½ inch drive

Range 10-150 inch-lbs

Accuracy within 4%

What customers say

Customers have praised the durable composition of this wrench and the company’s excellent customer service. Several customers who received an inaccurate or otherwise defective product were contacted by the company to request a replacement. Customers who were not happy with this torque wrench complained that it was not accurate to within 4% at the low end of the range.

Best Electronic Wrench: GEARWRENCH Electronic Torque Wrench with ½ inch drive

This electronic torque wrench’s screen can display torque in five units of measurement, including inch-pounds and foot-pounds. It alerts you with vibration, beep and light when target torque is reached, ensuring accurate results every time.

main features

Digital Wrench

5.19 pounds

½ inch drive

Range of 25.1-250.8 inch-lbs

Accuracy within 2%

What customers say

With visual and audible cues, customers have found it virtually impossible to apply too much torque when using this wrench. However, some customers complained that the wrench used too much power and they had to change batteries frequently.

Best ¼ Inch Wrench: EPAuto ¼ Inch Torque Wrench

This EPAuto torque wrench has a ¼” drive, making it a good option for smaller fasteners and more detailed work. It also includes a coated finish to prevent rust so you can use this wrench for years.

main features

click key

1.74 pounds

¼ inch drive

Range 20-200 inch-lbs

Accuracy within 4%

What customers say

Customers praised the robust construction of this torque wrench, which allowed it to last for years despite its below-average price. However, many users complained about the calibration of this wrench, which they felt was inaccurate.

Best Calibration: LEXIVON ½ inch torque wrench

This ½ inch wrench has a wide range of between 25 and 250 feet, although other sizes and ranges are available for purchase. It also delivers accurate results within 4% with every use and comes with a calibration certificate with a traceable serial number to prove it.

main features

click key

6.4 pounds

½ inch drive

Range 25-250 inch-lbs

Accuracy within 4%

What customers say

Customers have praised the flexibility of this wrench head, which fits a range of nuts and bolts. The most common complaint from dissatisfied customers was related to the product’s click function, with several users reporting that they could not hear or feel the “click” that indicates the desired torque was achieved. This caused them to expend too much force.

shopping guide

In addition to the type, you should also consider the drive size, unit of measurement, accuracy and ease of use of a torque wrench. This buying guide examines each of these factors to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Type

There are five main types of torque wrenches.

Click: This is the most common type of torque wrench. There will be a clicking sound when the required torque is reached. It’s easy to use and durable, but some people use it incorrectly. Instead of stopping on the first click, some people overtighten the fastener by waiting for the wrench to click a second time.

This is the most common type of torque wrench. There will be a clicking sound when the required torque is reached. It’s easy to use and durable, but some people use it incorrectly. Instead of stopping on the first click, some people overtighten the fastener by waiting for the wrench to click a second time. Break-Over: This is similar to a click wrench, but has a hinged section, usually near the socket head, that “breaks” when torque is reached. Flip torque wrenches make it difficult to accidentally overtighten the fastener, but it is possible.

This is similar to a click wrench, but has a hinged section, usually near the socket head, that “breaks” when torque is reached. Flip torque wrenches make it difficult to accidentally overtighten the fastener, but it is possible. Camover: This type of torque wrench has a built-in mechanism that releases pressure once torque is reached, preventing you from over-tightening.

This type of torque wrench has a built-in mechanism that releases the pressure once the torque is reached, preventing over-tightening. Watch face: Watch face keys look like click keys with an analog watch face. Instead of the wrench alerting you when it has reached the desired torque, you need to read the scale for your torque measurement.

Dial keys look like click keys with an analog dial. Instead of the wrench alerting you when it has reached the desired torque, you need to read the scale for your torque reading. Digital: This type of torque wrench is fairly new to the market. It has an LCD screen that shows you the torque. When you reach the desired torque, the tool will also beep or flash to alert you. Digital torque wrenches can be accurate to four decimal places and can sometimes store historical readings. However, they do not prevent the user from over-tightening – the user must stop themselves as soon as they hear the beeping or see the blinking.

drive size

Drive size refers to how big the part is that will fit over the fastener. A ½-inch drive is common for automotive use, but manufacturers also make ¼-inch, ¾-inch, and ⅜-inch sizes. Before purchasing a torque wrench, measure the size of the fasteners you will be using on your project.

Measurement

Torque is usually measured in foot-pounds on the imperial scale or newton-meters on the metric scale. You will occasionally find a torque wrench that is measured in inch-pounds or kilograms per centimeter. A mechanical torque wrench will have one or two of these measurements, but a digital one can have all of them.

Accuracy/Range

The accuracy of a torque wrench is specified as Full Scale (FS) or Indicated Value (IV). FS gives you the allowable error over the full range of the tool, while IV tells you the allowable error at the given value. Wrenches that use IV measurements are more accurate.

It is also important to note that accuracy is not specified for a click wrench across the full range of the tool. It is common for only between 20% and 100% to be given. For example, if a torque wrench has a range of 25 to 250 feet, it may not reach its advertised accuracy until 45 feet, which is 25% of the range.

handle

A longer handle allows you to have more control and apply pressure more evenly. Sometimes the handles have plastic or rubber grips to prevent the tool from slipping out of your hand during use.

frequently asked Questions

Do torque wrenches need maintenance?

Torque wrenches are durable tools, so they don’t require much maintenance. However, most tool manufacturers recommend keeping your torque wrench clean and not dropping it. They also said to keep it in a separate case to avoid collisions with other tools and to recalibrate it about once a year.

How do I convert foot pounds to newton meters?

Follow these rules to convert foot pounds to newton meters or newton meters to foot pounds:

1 foot-pound equals 1.3558 newton meters

1 newton meter equals 0.73776 foot pounds

What are preset and bellcrank torque wrenches?

The torque wrench you are most familiar with is called a micrometer torque wrench and looks like a ratchet-drive socket. However, there are two other types of torque wrenches:

Preset: These wrenches are set to a single amount, so they cannot be customized. They are usually small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

These wrenches are set to a single amount, so they cannot be adjusted. They are usually small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Bend Bar: This type of torque wrench has a bar running from the head, where the nut is attached, to the handle, which has a scale on it. The deflection of the beam indicates the magnitude of the torque.

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Torque is a turning force. The muscle you put on the top of a screw-top jelly jar is torque. And when you use a wrench on a threaded fastener (such as a bolt, nut, screw, or bolt), you apply torque to either tighten or loosen it. But how firm is firm? Certain types of fasteners—many of which are used on a variety of mechanical devices, including automobiles—must be tightened to a certain level for the component to function properly. This is where a torque wrench comes into play. What is the best torque wrench? That’s not easy to say. The easiest way to answer this is to point out that there are numerous good ones (see the list at the end of this article for some suggestions). Therefore, it is important that you understand what a torque wrench does and what you need to know to find the best torque wrench for you.

How does a torque wrench work?

The difference between a simple wrench and a torque wrench is that the latter uses either an electronic window, a clicking sound, a needle, or a gauge to indicate exactly how much force is being applied to its handle. It is important, but not widely known, that many fasteners require a very specific tightening specification. When it comes to certain nuts and bolts on cars, it’s almost never accurate to assume they’re “tight enough”.

why do i need one

Why is it important to know exactly how much force or torque is being applied? Too loose and the clasp could come loose causing an obvious problem. Too tight and the fastener or attached part may be damaged or deformed. For example, over-tightened lug nuts on a wheel can result in warping of the brake rotor, less effective braking, premature brake wear, and the significant inconvenience of stuck wheel studs. They could even cause a wheel stud (the threaded part) to break off. On the other hand, not tightening those lug nuts enough can actually cause your lug bolts to loosen, fall off, and cause a wheel to fall off. For this reason, most owner’s manuals have a torque specification for wheel nuts.

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If you are going to do any major work on your engine or some key drivetrain components, you absolutely need a torque wrench. Over-tightening cylinder head bolts, for example, can quickly lead to expensive damage and catastrophic coolant loss. Overtightening exhaust manifold bolts can cause the manifold to crack. Torque specifications are so important to a proper car repair that most workshop manuals provide them along with repair steps and then also include them in tables on the back with fastener location, designation and individual specifications. Torque force can be measured in units of meter-kilogram (mkg), newton-meter (Nm) and pound-feet (lb-ft). When you buy a new wrench, make sure it’s calibrated to the same units used in your repair procedures or have a conversion chart handy. Most vehicles sold in the United States have torque ratings in lb-ft.

How a torque wrench works

There are decent torque wrenches available at a variety of prices ($40 to $140) with socket sizes of ¼, ⅜, ½, ¾, and 1 inch. The smaller ones are usually used to e.g. B. to install filigree temperature switches in fragile cast housings. The larger ones are used to severely twist the nuts of crank pulleys or gears. As with socket wrenches, you can do most major repairs with a ½-inch wrench. (That’s the size we use in the car and driver test garage to tighten lug nuts.)

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Types of torque wrenches

There are four basic types of torque wrenches, each with slightly different operating principles: bar or deflection, dial indicator, clicker and digital. The bar and dial indicator types use a simple mechanical system connected to a pointer that hovers over a torque scale attached to the handle or dial indicator. When force is applied to the flexing handle of the wrench, the scale or scale indicates the torque equivalent to the deflection of the handle. When you buy a bar or dial type indicator you want a large pointer or measuring surface for working in dark spots in the engine compartment.

With certain nuts and bolts, it’s not good enough to guess if they’re tight enough.

Clicker keys are different and wonderfully convenient to use. They have an adjustable ring around the base of the handle that allows you to dial in the exact amount of torque you want to apply to a nut or bolt. When you have tightened the fastener to the set torque, a ratchet mechanism will click loudly to alert you that the set torque has been reached and you should stop tightening. No questioning of hard-to-read dials when putting them on. Screwing the handle in and out moves an indicator up and down the scale, varying the point at which the torque click occurs.

Digital torque wrenches are among the most expensive and accurate. These use an electronic strain gauge inside the handle to send a signal to an LED window. The downsides are that they require careful handling and require a battery.

To take a proper measurement it is important to have the wrench calibrated and stored at the lowest setting and to know if the measurements are being taken on dry or lubricated fasteners.

What is the best torque wrench?

The best torque wrench for you is the one that meets your needs in terms of performance and price. Torque wrenches have been around for so long, there are plenty of top quality ones. You don’t need the most expensive ones and many branded keys will work just fine for you. You’ll have to decide what kind of job you need it for, but generally a ½-inch wrench will do most of what you need. That’s the size we use in the car and driver’s garage to spin the wheels on our test cars and wreak all sorts of other mechanical havoc. Here are a few things you’d expect from a quality torque wrench:

A robust lever arm for torque applications from 20 to 150 lb-ft.

A grippy grip for situations where grease or oil has made things slippery.

An ISO 6789 accuracy certificate (plus or minus 4 percent for up to 25,000 cycles).

A protective case to ensure long-lasting accuracy in a gloomy workshop environment.

For clicker wrenches, a simple, quick and precise torque adjustment with a locking ring.

Now get out there and start tightening things up!

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