What size torque wrench is best?
The bigger the drive and the longer the handle, the more torque they can deliver. Most home mechanics will find that a torque wrench with a 1/2-inch drive and at least an 18-inch handle is the best choice for lug nuts, cylinder heads, suspension bushings, and other likely uses.
Can I use a 3/8 torque wrench on lug nuts?
I supposed you could continue to use the 3/8″ wrench but I think you should really be using a 1/2″ drive torque wrench for fastening lug nuts. Whenever you use a torque wrench near is limits (upper and lower), you most likely get an incorrect torque. That is unless you have calibrated it for those extreme ranges.
How do I choose the right torque wrench?
Choose a wrench with an accuracy of plus or minus 5%. Check the torque wrench calibration for the date and accuracy as per the manufacturer’s settings. When a torque wrench is well-calibrated, it will have clear scale visibility. The longevity and accuracy of the torque wrench depend on how well it is stored.
Who makes the most accurate torque wrench?
If you want a highly accurate torque wrench, then consider the Industrial Brand CDI 2503MFRPH Snap-On Torque Wrench. The torque range is 30 to 250 ft/lb. The CDI wrench has a high-quality design, pinpoint accuracy, and garage-ready construction.
What is a good brand of torque wrench?
Comparison of the best torque wrench for cars
| Torque Wrench | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Best budget torque wrench | EPAuto 3/8-inch drive | $25 |
| Best clicking-style torque wrench | Lexivon ½-inch drive | $56 |
| Best digital torque wrench | Gearwrench ½-inch drive | $172 |
| Best beam-style torque wrench | Tooluxe ½-inch drive | $24 |
How much torque can a 3/8 drive take?
If you assume a reasonable quality tool steel that can handle 100K psi, a 1/4″ drive can take about 30 ft-lb, 3/8″ about 100 ft-lbs, 1/2″ about 230 ft-lbs, and 3/4″ about 800 ft-lbs.
Can you use torque wrench to loosen?
A torque wrench is a tightening tool. It is a very sensitive and precise tightening tool, and should never been used to loosen bolts.
Can you over tighten with torque wrench?
Over-tightening can cause damage to the fastener, and under-tightening can result in making the item you are attaching or assembling structurally weak and potentially unsafe for use.
