A torque wrench is one of the essential tools in a mechanic’s toolbox. It ensures that the force applied when tightening or loosening bolts or nuts are based on the manufacturer’s specifications. However, like any tool, using a torque wrench requires skill, and you should be aware of some dos and don’ts. Doing so helps you get the most out of the torque wrench while avoiding potential damage to your fasteners.
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The Dos of Using a Torque Wrench
A torque wrench helps to tighten the bolts and fasteners properly. To ensure that you are using it right and not putting yourself or your vehicle at risk of harm, these are the dos of using a torque wrench:
- Utilize the lock for adjusting: A torque wrench’s adjuster should always be kept from hand. Locate the locking mechanism on the handle of your torque wrench so that it won’t move or slip during operation and always use it when adjusting the preset torque level.
- Be cautious when releasing a screw or bolt: It is easy for them to become tight quickly and unexpectedly due to their accuracy, so you mustn’t let your force become too excessive, as you risk damaging both the surface and the tool itself.
- Ensure that it can rotate counterclockwise: Torque wrenches should be able to move in a counterclockwise direction to ensure that they can loosen bolts. This is important if you plan on using the tool for automotive applications, as torque wrenches designed only for tightening cannot be used to loosen bolts or screws.
- Takes one click: Once you’ve adjusted your torque wrench, apply pressure until you hear an audible click. This is a sign that you have used your desired torque setting and that it’s time to stop applying force.
The Don’ts of Using a Torque Wrench
Knowing the don’ts of a torque wrench is essential to use it correctly and safely, ensuring that any potential damage to your vehicle will be prevented. Below are some of the things you should keep in mind:
- Remember to calibrate: If your torque wrench has been used previously or has been in storage for an extended time, it is essential to recalibrate it before use. This will ensure that your torque measurements are accurate and that the wrench functions appropriately.
- Always pull the handle; never push: Permanently removing the hold and never moving is essential. Doing the latter puts you at risk of injury and possibly damaging the tool or the fastener.
- Avoid using it as a breaker bar: Torque wrenches are designed to help you tighten nuts and bolts without applying excessive force. They should never be used as a breaker bar or crowbar. Using your torque wrench in this way will damage internal components, impair accuracy, and render it unsafe for further use.
- Refrain from constructing your extensions: Always ensure you use a good quality wrench, check the manual for instructions on how to use it, and never craft your extensions. Extensions can reduce accuracy and increase the risk of breakage or injury, so only use genuine ones recommended by the manual.
The Best Ways To Use Your Torque Wrench for Accurate Readings
Using a torque wrench properly is essential to get accurate readings. Here are a few ways you can take in doing so:
- Clean your workspace: Ensure that the environment you’re working in is clean and free of any dirt or debris to avoid interference with the reading of your torque wrench.
- Check if it functions well: Before using a torque wrench, check its accuracy using the manufacturer’s chart to ensure reliable readings.
- Store it safely: Properly store your torque wrench in a toolbox or cabinet to protect it from damage and ensure it is not affected by extreme temperatures or moisture levels.
- Keep the labels the same: Regularly inspect the flag mark to ensure accurate readings, and keep the labels the same, as doing so can create confusion.
The Importance of Using the Correct Size of Torque Wrench for the Job
Ensuring the correct size of the torque wrench is essential when performing a specific job. It ensures that fasteners like bolts and nuts are tightened to their specific tension, depending on the project requirements.
Using an incorrect-size torque wrench can cause under or over-tightening, leading to the loosening of the fastener and potentially creating a safety hazard. Some bolts must be tightened beyond their recommended torque levels to avoid leaks or vibration.
Using a torque wrench that is too big or too small for the task may compromise the reliability and safety of the job. It could also cause damage to components due to excessive force or result in loose fasteners due to insufficient pressure.
Using the right size torque wrench is critical to ensure any job’s safe and reliable performance during assembly, installation, and repairs. Failure to follow the correct usage specifications may put users at risk of malfunctions or part failures. Always ensure the right torque wrench size is used to avoid compromising the safety and quality of the job.
Types of Torque Wrenches
Torque wrenches are indispensable for mechanics, ensuring fasteners and machinery components remain secure and properly tensioned. Although there is no universal torque wrench, there are several types available to meet different needs:
- Dial Indicator Wrench- Measures torque using a dial gauge. Users can set their desired torque level on a ring around the gauge’s face. Once the target force is applied to the secured item, an audible click or beep alerts the user. This tool is easy to use and suited for applications with less stringent accuracy.
- Digital Wrench- Equipped with sensors, this tool allows users to select specific torque levels, ensuring accuracy when tightening nuts and bolts. With its superior precision, a digital wrench gives users peace of mind, knowing that their worksites are well-maintained for years to come.
- Beam or Deflection Wrench- This type of torque wrench measures the amount of torque applied to a fastener. Its accuracy and simplicity make it useful when precise tightening tension is required. This tool helps maintain optimal performance and prevent material fatigue.
Final Thoughts
Using a torque wrench is relatively easy. But you must be careful to use it so you won’t overtighten the bolts and nuts. Otherwise, this would cause damage to the fastener. Also, remember that before using a torque wrench, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s specifications, such as using only the correct wrench size for the bolts, to avoid exceeding the torque rating. Following these basic guidelines will help ensure you use your torque wrench correctly. If you’re hesitant to do the job, consult a professional mechanic to do it quickly and accurately.
