One year down the line from today, you may be absolutely grateful that you invested in a torque wrench. This is one tool that has become a common item to have because it is a time saver and well, a money saver too! With this gadget, you will limit the number of visits to the mechanic, because sometimes, the only thing your fasteners need is a torque!
Figure out how to use it, and you will be on your way to freedom from frequent mechanical checkups. With its popularity, it has gained its place as an essential tool in the home. Impact wrenches are quite similar to torque wrenches expect a few things. “A torque wrench will have a scale that measures the exact amount of torque on each fastener, with the most common measurements being foot-pounds (ft.lb) or newton meters (n.m), which can often be converted between, using charts or built-in dual-unit scales,” as quoted from Best of Machinery.
It is a hand-held tool used to apply force on a fastener like a bolt or a nut to tighten. It was invented to prevent over-tightening of bolts and nuts, which would eventually lead to damages like broken screws.
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So How Exactly do you Use a Torque Wrench? Let’s Explore.
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Check the calibration certificate and read the manual
A certificate of calibration is a crucial document as it gives you evidence of the quality and integrity of the machine that you are purchasing. It tells you whether the tool meets international standards and whether its performance has been tried and tested. Also, remember to read and understand the manufacturer’s manual before using the tool to be sure that you are intentionally putting it into correct use.
Adjust the torque wrench settings
Every torque wrench comes with a scale that enables you to adjust to the required specifications before tightening a bolt or nut. The scale is measured in Newton-meters or feet per pound and indicates the number of rotations required to fasten a nut without the risk of over-tightening. To adjust the apparatus, first unlock it by twisting the knob under the handle, rotating it clockwise to unfasten, then set it to the right specifications before rotating it back to lock in the adjustments. Be careful not to set it beyond the scale.
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Fit the appropriate extensions
It has extensions and sockets that need to be fitted to it before you start fastening bolts. Once you have set all the appropriate specifications and confirmed that the wrench is rotating appropriately, insert the socket into the bolt or nut that you want to fasten and gently rotate. With the right settings, it should produce a ‘click’ sound when it reaches the maximum fastening level. That clicking sound was invented to avoid the damages caused by over-tightening the fasteners.
What’s a Good Wrench?
As you will see at TopProducts, torque wrenches come in different types, sizes, and features, making it tasking to pick the right one. You have to understand why you need the device, and of course, how to use it. Here are two tips to keep in mind.
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Quality above everything
With the different types and unique designs, the most important factor to consider when buying a torque wrench is quality. Go for a well-made and accurate device over anything else. The price should not even be a concern at this point. You want a device that is worth every penny and durable. Check for the size of the drive sockets, the torque settings, and the flexibility.
Consider the accuracy
The beauty is that it works with specific measurements to avoid the risk of damage caused by over-tightening. Accuracy, therefore, is one of the important aspects to look into before buying a torque wrench. It needs to have the correct measurements with good ratings and a valid calibration certificate.
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Types and Head Sizes!
Torque Wrenches come in different types. These include click-type, electronic, and beam torque wrench. You will find the first type (click-type) mostly used is professional mechanic shops. The electronic kind usually makes a beeping noise when one is done with the adjustment. The last type (beam) is not as accurate as of the former two, and bud does deliver when it comes to common DIY projects.
Most torque wrenches will come with a kit that includes various heads. You need to determine what head you are planning to use and see if it will accommodate that.
When selecting the right torque wrench, don’t forget to focus on quality and not the bells and whistles that the tool comes with. Some may feature LED readout and some buzzing or beeping sound to let you know when you reach your target setting. While these are good factors, don’t overlook the quality and focus on them too much.
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Check if it has a storage case
Storage of any given tool dictates how long it will serve you. Before purchasing a torque wrench, check to see if it has a storage case. Most of them come together with a storage case, but in the event, there is none, put it in your budget and purchase it together with the device. A storage case protects the calibrators and keeps your tool functioning for longer.
We all have toolboxes stashed somewhere in the basement or the trunk of the car, and it can never be complete without a torque wrench. This is a tool that comes in handy when you need to apply torque or force to any fastener. Using a sub-standard quality affects the caliber of the work, and in more unfortunate events, it may lead to damage to the fasteners prompting you to buy a whole new set.
