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What is torque wrench drive size?
The torque wrench’s drive size describes the bits you can use to tighten nuts and other fasteners. The standard sizes include 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, and 1 inch, though you won’t be working with anything above a 1/2-inch drive for most applications.
What is a 1/2 drive torque wrench used for?
A 1/2-inch torque wrench or 3/8-inch torque wrench will be able to handle most jobs like engine repairs, head gaskets, tires and brakes. A 1/4-inch torque wrench may be ideal for more precise jobs. Step 2: Check your bolt for the correct torque to set your wrench properly.
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.
What do you need to know about a torque wrench?
A torque wrench measures the amount of torque applied to a mechanical fastener, usually a nut or bolt. And the best torque wrenches will do this accurately through years of hard use. Although many household items do not require accurate torque measurements for assembly, some items require specific torques to ensure safety.
Which is the best torque wrench for lug nuts?
So what’s best, 1/2 or 3/8 Torque wrench for lug nuts? A 1/2 inch torque wrench with a working range of 30 to 160 ft lbs is the correct size tool for lug nuts and other heavy fastners. Torque wrench’s are not just for the Pro’s, the days of tightening a nut or bolt by feel or guessing is over.
When to use a 1 / 4 inch drive wrench?
The 1/4 and some 3/8 inch drive wrenches will be measured in inch lbs., not ft. lbs., they’re designed for lighter fasteners requiring less torque. (12 inch lbs. is equal to 1 foot lb.) The 1/4 inch drive torque wrench is used for very light fasteners, like interior trim, control module covers etc.
How do you set torque on a bolt?
Find the bolt’s specific required torque. If you’re using a click-type torque wrench, set the specified torque setting by rotating the handle. If you’re using a digital torque wrench, input the specified torque setting through the display. Attach the socket head to the bolt. Torque the bolt to the specified torque.