Choosing the Right Torque Wrench: A Comprehensive Guide
Which Torque Wrench to Buy for DIY Auto Repairs
A torque wrench is an essential tool for anyone doing auto repair. These special wrenches ensure bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications, preventing issues caused by under or over-tightening. With various types and brands on the market, choosing the right torque wrench can feel overwhelming. I’ve written this guide to help you understand the types so you can make the best choice when you are in the market for one.
Types of Torque Wrenches
Before I dive into specific recommendations, I’ll start by reviewing the main types available and their primary uses in automotive work:
• Beam Type Wrench— The beam type is one of the simplest and most reliable types. It has wrench has a flexible beam that bends as you apply torque, with a needle that points to the current torque level. They’re cost-effective and reliable, though they can be harder to read. I don’t care for them because they’re impossible to use if the scale isn’t in your line of sight. The other reason I don’t like them is because it’s really hard to see the fine lines between the larger markings. If you only need to torque one time, then you can probably get by with this type.
• Click Style Wrench— The clicker style is the most widely used type. You set the torque on the dial and the tool emits a “click” sound when the torque level is reached. These wrenches are highly accurate, versatile, and easier to use than beam wrenches.
• Digital Wrench— These offer a digital readout and often have multiple settings and memory functions. Digital wrenches are typically the most accurate but also the most expensive and may require batteries.
• Split Beam Wrench— The split-beam style is known for being durable and accurate, especially in daily shop use. Split beam wrenches have a click-style mechanism but are less prone to losing calibration over time.
Choosing the Right Torque Range
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all wrench. The truth is, unless you’re using a digital torque wrench, the mechanical wrenches are most accurate if the torque you need is in the middle range of the wrench. In other words, setting a 10-150 wrench at the 10 setting will be less accurate than using a 2-200 inch/lb wrench to 120 inch/lbs. Here are some typical ranges:
• Lowest Range— 1/4″ drive inch/pound torque wrench. Needed for spark plugs, valve cover, oil and transmission pan bolts where the specified torque is in the 10-20 ft/lb range.
TEKTON 1/4 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench (20-200 in.-lb.) | 24320
Find the Tekton 1/4 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench (20-200 in.-lb.) | 24320 at Amazon for $50.
• Lower Range (10-80 ft-lbs)— For smaller fasteners, such as those on engine components, like caliper, drive belt idlers, starter, alternator, brakcet bolts.
TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench (10-80 ft.-lb.) | 24330
Find the Tekton 3/8″ Inch Drive Micrometer (20-200 in.-lb.) | 24320 at Amazon for $39.
• Mid-Range (50-150 ft-lbs)— Use for lug nuts, suspension and steering system fasteners, brake caliper bracket bolts, and engine mounts.
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Click (10-150 ft.-lb.) | 24335 & 1/2 Inch Drive x 24 Inch Breaker Bar | SBH00224
Find the TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Click (10-150 ft.-lb.) | 24335 at Amazon for $89.
• Higher Range (150-250 ft-lbs)— Required for wheel bearings, pinion seal nut, head bolts
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Micrometer (25-250 ft.-lb.) | 24340
Find the TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Micrometer (25-250 ft.-lb.) | 24340 at Amazon for $72.
What about torque wrench brands?
When it comes to inexpensive DIY wrenches, I recommend Tekton.
If you want to take a step up and get a professional grade wrench, consider
centraltools.com/torque-products/
NOTE: Ricksfreeautorepairadvice receives a commission on products purchased through these amazon links.
©, 2024 Rick Muscoplat
Posted on by Rick Muscoplat