Torque Wrench: All You Need to Know About It

Are you Confused about what torque wrenches are and what they are used for? Well, your search ends here. Learn about different torque wrenches, how it can be used and be able to answer the question “a torque wrenches used to tighten a bolt when…”. Now, let us get to it.

What Are Torque Wrenches

Torque wrenches are tools designed for tightening bolts and nuts accurately to different extent. Tightening is all it can be used for and it works well on bikes and cars. Unlike other tools and equipment, a torque wench does not require too much knowledge for you to use it efficiently.

Another good is when a torque wrench is used to tighten a nut on a bolt, you don’t run the risk of overtightening. There are different types and designs of torque wrenches you can find. Getting a good cheap torque wrench is a good pick especially if you just plan to use it in your home. A good budget torque wrench shouldn’t be so hard to find, you can always get it at stores near you. The good is when a torque wrench is used to tighten a nut on a bolt, you don’t run the risk of overtightening.

When to Use A Torque Wrench

The question “can I use a torque wrench to loosen bolts?” is a question that comes up frequently. If you happen to have this question on your mind, the answer is no. A torque wrench is used to tighten the bolt when its loose and not otherwise, it is not designed for loosing nuts or bolts. The main use of a torque wrench is to tighten bolts without overtightening them so be sure to always notice the click sounds it makes.

Things You Should Know About Torque Wrenches

Here are some things you should take note when using your torque wrench:

It Is Used for Tightening Purposes Only

Torque wrenches are sensitive tools designed for tightening purposes only. Using them to loosen bolts or nuts can end up damaging the wrench permanently.

Carry Out Frequent Maintenance

The torque wrench is a tool with high precision so it needs to be properly maintained frequently. This maintenance includes recalibration and servicing especially if it has been experienced some damages or been dropped a few times.

It Doesn’t Stop Overtightening

A torque wrench is designed to help you prevent overtightening but you can still run a risk of overtightening. The tool is created to activate a control system once the required torque has been attained. Once this happens, you will hear a click sound implying that you stop tightening. If you hear this click sound before even tightening then it proves that it is already overtightened. The best thing to do before tightening a nut or bolt is loosen it with another tool first then tighten.

Avoid Using Extensions on The Handle

Making use of extensions will damage the value that has been set and hinder the correct signaling of the wrench.

Handle It Carefully

Due to its sensitivity, be sure you handle your torque wrench with care and protect it from any potential shock. Keeping it in a storage box when not in use is a good idea.

Always Reset It When Storing Away

Once you are done using the torque wrench, ensure you always reset it to the lowest possible value it can go. This helps to release the pressure applied on the string.

One Hand Use Only

Most torque wrenches are designed to be used with only one hand and the mostly have a mark inscribed. The mark indicates where to apply pressure so you don’t use it wrongly.

How to Use A Torque Wrench

Knowing how to use a torque wrench entails getting familiar with how to adjust the wrench, how to tighten bolts and nuts correctly and how to properly maintain your wrench. Here Is  how to use your torque wrench:

Adjusting Your Torque Wrench

• Firstly, you loosen the tightener that is at the end of handle
• Identify the measurements on your wrench
• Twist the dial to change the measurement setting on your wrench. You can either increase or reduce the setting.
• Make minor adjustments by twisting the dial on the handle
• To determine the total torque, add the higher digit on the hash mark to the lower digit on the handle.
• Lock the wrench by fixing the tightener right back to the wrench end

Tightening the Nuts and Bolts

• Fix in a socket to the head of your torque wrench
• Twist the nut or bolt that you wish to tighten till it is fixed to the screw thread
• Fix the socket to the top of the bolt or nut you wish to tighten
• Move your hands in a clockwise direction to tighten the bolt or nut
• Make sure you stop tightening immediately you hear click sounds or can’t move it again to avoid overtightening.

Maintenance for Your Wrench

• Ensure you always reset the torque wrench to zero once you are done making use of it. It helps keep the calibration accurate overtime.
• Always clean rusty or dirty bolts and nuts before loosening to avoid damages to occur to your wrench due to grime and rust
• Remember to always recalibrate your wrench at least once each year. Calibration cost ranges between 25 to 75 USD.

Conclusion

A torque wrench is used to tighten a bolt when locking things in place, from car wheels to cylinder bolts. Torque wrenches are good and strong when tightening bolts and nuts but can be very delicate. So as much as you use it, always endeavor to maintain it properly and take the necessary precautions. Once you adhere to this precautions, you can enjoy using your torque wrench for as long as possible. enjoy convenience and ease with this handy tool.