Torque wrench opinions
 

Hi all,
this summer I plan to do a few DIY projects (exhaust install, spacers, springs). Additionally, I plan to change the transmission and diff. fluids.

I have basic tools in my garage but am in the process of getting some of the more advanced things, which brings me to torque wrenches. I realize that sometimes you "get what you pay for" but at the same time I don't want to spend a lot (around $150 max). Also, should i get both 3/8 and 1/2 or start with just one of those.

Snap on seems like the best brand so I found this one online is it any good? Amazon.com: Snap-on Industrial Brand CDI Torque 1503MFRMH 1/2-Inch Drive Metal Handle Click Type Torque Wrench, Torque Range 20 to 150-Foot Pounds: Home Improvement

I would like some recommendations please. :tiphat: Let me know your experiences with what you use. Thanks!

I use this Brown Line torque wrench and really like it.

Amazon.com: Brown Line Metal Works BLD0212 Digital Torque Wrench: Home Improvement

I'd also recommend this socket set to help protect your wheels from scratches.

Protective Socket Set - Specialty Tools - Tools - Griot's Garage

I bought the same one when they were sponsors on here a few months ago. I really like it also. :tup:
It even came with a nice case at the same price Amazon sells just the wrench for.

Yeah I saw it when i search for torque wrenches. How is the battery life?

I've used it several times in the last 6 months and haven't had to worry about batteries. I've read that it should last 40 hours with it continuously being turned on.

bump for some more opinions

I have craftman. I have the 1/2 and 1/4. You only need to get the 1/2. Mines lasted so far did bolt ons, cbe, suspensions.

Have you done any recalibrations on it to see if its accuracy lasted?

i use snap-on torque wrenches. i have several different drive sizes and capacities.

i choose the wrench where the rated torque is about 40% to 60% of the wrench's range. :)

I use the Snap-On digital torque wrenches. 3/8's and 1/2' drive. With these, I can go from ft./lbs to inch/lbs, to metric with a push of a button. When they hit the torque setting. They buzz and vibrate. They will also show the highest torque reading, when torquing. They cost $$$. Well worth it tho. ;)

^^ show off! :mad:

hey, your floor needs repair. :icon17: ;) :p

:icon18: Those two are not cheap!

I have a Kobalt 100lb-ft wrench and another Craftsman long arm 250 lb-ft wrench. I need to get some more.

fixed. :icon17:

Lawl

So I take it stay away from Craftsman, kobalt, husky etc?

They are fine.

Maybe I'll get one of the pricey ones as 1/2" and one of the cheaper ones for the 3/8" to start off

Perhaps. Whatever you do don't drop them. That can knock them out of calibration pretty easily.

ha, yeah I heard be gentle with the torque wrenches they are "sensitive"

Yes, I'll be gentle... it will only hurt a little bit... wait... where are we?

yep, very sensitive and if once you're done, untwist handle to the lowest setting on the traditional type.

wtf... :eekdance: :icon17:

Basically, cuddle with it. Maybe light up a cigarette. :rofl2:

I need to buy an inch/lb wrench.

haha :bowrofl:

I wonder if people name their torque wrenches....

No I haven't. I'm pretty happy with the wrench. I use it to torque the oil filter to the 120 ft lbs nut on the suspension.

I wouldn't buy husky, I've broke their wrench and sockets.

you mean the oil drain plug? ive not heard of many people that use a torque wrench for the filter or plug. when i do the oil change i just tighten it snug tight and that's it.

I use it on the filter too. I have this plastic cap that fits onto the wrench.

German spec. :tup:

ahh, yah, i know what you're talking about. ok.. huh.. i just hand tighten mine. :D


interesting indeed! :p

Sorry. :facepalm: Used to be an ASE Master Tech at one time. So I got a boat load of Snap-On tools.

That was a new floor coating put down about 4 years ago. Motorcycle kick stands, welding and ox/ace cutting play hell with floor coatings. :shakes head:

so seems like everyone is voting for snap on. Here's a more detailed question if you could buy 2 torque wrenches and are willing only to buy one "premium priced" torque wrench, what kind would you get : 1/2", 3/8"? and what min and max torque on each of them. i'm trying to have enough to tackle most projects on the Z

Thanks!

i find myself using 1/2" drive for lugs/suspension bits and 3/8" drive for the smaller projects (lower torque rating)... so you'll probably want to have both.

nice. you're a pro. :tup: me... just a weekend bolt-on guy... :ugh2: but have tools to do most work i would ever do on my car. :p

yeah I'll go with those two.

what torque range should i look for in each?

I assume higher max torque (like around 150?) for the 1/2" and maybe 10-100 for the 3/8"?

I have a 10-100 3/8 and a 1/2 50-250 (I believe). So far I've only ever used the big one up to 139 lb-ft.

Though if you ever plan on tightening axle nuts or anything like that you could push it beyond 200 lb-ft.

:tup: Thanks! Rep for the help!