What to look for when buying a torque wrench

Buying a torque wrench: What to know before you buy

A torque wrench is an essential tool for any mechanic or DIY enthusiast working on vehicles, machinery, or any application requiring precise tightening of bolts and fasteners. When buying a torque wrench, there are several key factors you should know to help guide your decision and ensure you get the right tool for your needs.

There are 4 types of torque wrenches — the pros and cons of each

• Beam-type: Simple and affordable but requires careful visual monitoring.
• Dial-type: Provides continuous torque reading, useful for both tightening and checking existing torque.
• Click-type: The most common and user-friendly. It makes an audible click when the desired torque is reached.
• Digital: Offers precise readings and often includes additional features like data logging.

The pros and cons of a beam style torque wrench

Bending beam style torque wrench

The least expensive of the five types, the beam style wrench never requires re-calibration. A beam style wrench includes a torque scale and a pointer. As you tighten the bolt, the twist causes the pointer to move along the scale.

Pros: Cheap

Cons: • The biggest problem with a beam style torque wrench is that the dial might not be in your line of sight as you tighten the bolt. •  It’s harder to read the scale to a precise level

The Pros and Cons of a Rotary Dial wrench

Pros: Dial torque wrenches are more accurate than either beam or clicker style wrenches

Dial torque wrench

Cons: They’re also more expensive and sometimes the dial isn’t in your field of view.

The pros and cons of a Clicker – micrometer style torque wrench

These are the most common. Prices range from as little as $25 for economy wrenches to around $150 for precision instruments. The economy clicker style

Economy clicker style torque wrench

wrenches are better than using no torque wrenches, but they can’t be recalibrated because replacement parts aren’t available. Most service shops won’t recalibrate.

They’re made from low-quality components and tend to lose their calibration faster than a high quality wrench.

Premium quality clicker style wrenches are more expensive, but are more accurate and they hold their calibration much longer. They can be repaired and re calibrated by any reputable repair shop

Central Tools #97351 micrometer clicker style torque wrench

Pros of a clicker wrench:

• Easy to use because you don’t have to watch a dial.  • More affordable than digital wrenches. • They’re most accurate in the middle range of their rated range.

Cons: • Easy to over-torque if you keep turning after the click. • The economy versions can’t be recalibrated. • They’re not as accurate at the top or bottom of their rated range

The pros and cons of a Digital Torque Wrench

The most costly of the four types. It’s accuracy is dependent on the brand.

CDI 2401CI3 Drive Computorq digital torque wrench

However, once properly calibrated, they tend to hold their calibration for long periods. They must be stored in controlled temperature conditions because wide temperature swings affect the digital sensors.

Consider a Digital torque adapter

A digital torque adapter is a free-standing unit that snaps onto any ordinary ratchet and

Alltrade 940759 Powerbuilt Digital Torque adapter

simple supply a visual and audible signal when you reached the set torque. In addition to acting like a torque wrench when tightening bolts, you can also use a digital torque adapter to calibrate a clicker or dial wrench. Simply lock the adapter in a vice and set the desired calibration torque. Use your click or dial wrench to the hex head and note how much adjustment the clicker or dial wrench requires. Make the adjustment and then re-test.

They’re surprisingly accurate, especially considering their low cost

NEVER re-use a TTY fastener

Never re-use a prevailing torque fastener. For more information on prevailing torque fasteners, see this post.

Take-aways when buying a torque wrench

When selecting a torque wrench, prioritize accuracy, appropriate range, and build quality for your specific needs. Consider the type of work you’ll be doing most often and choose a wrench that aligns with those requirements. Remember that a torque wrench is a precision tool that requires proper care and periodic calibration to maintain its accuracy.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a torque wrench that will serve you well for years to come, ensuring that your bolts and fasteners are always tightened to the correct specifications. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a weekend warrior, the right torque wrench is an invaluable addition to your toolkit, promoting safety and proper assembly in all your mechanical projects.

©, 2017 Rick Muscoplat

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