Every mechanic understands the importance of a torque wrench. A torque wrench is a important piece of tool in a mechanic box. It is essential in tightening nuts and bolts in a proper and effective manner. But at the same time not everyone understands the importance of wrench. For all you questions on the tool this article will have an answer. In others, here we will be sharing everything you need to know about the above-mentioned tool.
What is a torque wrench?
As stated previously in the article, a torque wrench is a useful tool in a tool box. Most mechanics use them in tightening nuts. But this doesn’t mean that the tool is used only by professions. Even a common man can use the tool in their home maintenance. But it is important that you learn how to use the tool before actual application. This will prevent accidents and wrong use of the tool. But what is the correct meaning of it.
In simple words a torque means the amount of force used to turn on tightening threaded. In this case it can be a bolt or a screw as used in car tires or one used to fix things on a mantle. Either way a torque wrench helps maintain or sets the limit of force used in tightening of bolts or nuts.
Now this asks the question what type of torque wrench to buy. Also what are the factors to consider when buying one.
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What are the features to look for when buying a torque wrench?
The most common attributes to look for in a torque wrench are listed below.
1. Accuracy of the tool
The first step or feature that helps in deciding which tool to buy is a accuracy. In other words, make sure that the tool you buy suits properly for the purpose of purchase. In case you are someone that undertakes a lot of home renovations then look for a wrench that is useful in doing them. On the other hand, for a car mechanic torque wrench that is useful in tightening the tire is necessary. Hence, based on your requirement the accuracy of it varies.
2. Drive size and range
The next feature for buying a torque wrench is size of the drive and it’s range. Further, the drive size of the wrench varies. A wrench with larger drive size provides a higher range and vice verse. However, make sure the wrench that you buy is suitable for tightening of kind of bolt on hand. The most common drive size for small bolts varies between 1/2 and 1/4 inch. On the other hand, when it comes to tightening of bolts or central lugs on a car wheel you need 3/4 inch drive size.
3. Head type of the wrench
The last and the most important feature to look for in a torque wrench is head type. Usually torque wrench head comes in two types. The first type has a head fixed and works like a regular one. On the other hand, there is a wrench that has flexible head and can rotate 180 degree. This type of wrench is suitable for fixing nuts and bolts in place that cannot be accessed easily.
What is the best torque wrench to buy?
1. The first wrench in our list belongs to click style. Further the link to the wrench is https://www.amazon.com/CDI-752MFRMH-Torque-8-Inch-Micro-Adjustable/dp/B002LA1EDO?th=1&tag=fhmeag-20.
The range of this wrench is high, it varies between 30 and 250 Ib -ft. This feature of the wrench makes it versatile. It can be used to fix heavy duty nuts and at the same time small ones. Apart from this, the tool consists of quick release mechanism that makes removal of socket easy. Finally, the wrench includes a 25 inch length that makes the job easy and accessible.
2. The next wrench on our list is TEKTON 24355 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench. Link to the product is as follows – https://www.amazon.com/CDI-752MFRMH-Torque-8-Inch-Micro-Adjustable/dp/B002LA1EDO?th=1&tag=fhmeag-20
This is again a click style of wrench that is widely purchased. People using the tool have to twist the black grip of the tool to set the desired torque value. Further, one tightening of nuts or bolts you will hear a click sound that tells you that the job is done. However, one quick drawback of the product is size. It is small size head that is not suitable for heavy duty jobs. Also the wrench head has limited motions. Hence, some people may not prefer this product. However, if you are looking for a wrench for small jobs, then consider this product.
3. The third torque wrench in our list is a combo set. If you are serious about the work and want something suitable for all kinds of job go for combo set. TEKTON is one the best torque wrench combo set player in the market. It usually consists of three different wrenches of varied sizes. In addition to this the head of the wrench includes a reversible one that is easy to fix bolts in tough places.
Apart from this one other brand that offers combo set is Pittsburg Pro. Even this combo set includes three piece set. It is also a click style wrench that has heavy duty clamps. Further, the product is top-notch it terms of accuracy. The link to the product is as follows –
In addition to the ones listed here, you can find multiple torque wrenches available in the market. Make sure you check the feature of the product as listed her before buying one.
Bottom Line
In conclusion Torque wrench is no doubt an important tool for mechanical work. It is essential in tightening of nuts and bolts that holds objects in place. Here in this article we have listed features and options of torque wrench available in the market.
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