1/4 Drive Torque Wrench

[Loscaldazar]

So I'm looking at getting a 1/4 drive torque wrench. I'd like some suggestions for brands and the range. I would like a 40-200 in-lbs torque wrench rather than one of the 30-150 or 10-50 ones. The lowest torque bolt on a subaru (what I mainly work on) is 44 in-lbs, so the 40-200 in-lbs range might also be usable for a lot of other small bolts where my 3/8 drive (a 10-50 ft-lbs wrench) might not fit. If I ever run into bolts that are lower torque than that, I feel like I'd rather buy a 10-50in-lb torque wrench for that job. I would like a micrometer type, as that seems to be the only type offered in a 40-200in-lb range. I've looked at dial torque wrenches, and those have a much smaller range, deflecting beam isn't my favorite, and also tend to not have the range I need, split beams aren't offered this small.

So that's my requirements (feel free to disagree and suggest a different range). 40-200in-lbs, Micrometer, Made in USA/Germany/Japan.

I've had the harbor freight 1/4 torque wrench for about 2 years, and after my most recent re test, it was out of calibration (was doing roughly 6-8% instead of the 4% it used to do). I don't think it can be calibrated, and even if it could, I'd rather spend the $60 on a better torque wrench. And I'm not going to buy a new HF one because they are really large for a 1/4 drive torque wrench, and the click on them ***** (plus the new ones are China, not Taiwan).

Here's what I've looked at so far.

First I decided to just see what Snap On's were priced at. The electronic are almost $500 and the micrometer are $300. Yikes. Okay.

CDI only has a 30-150in-lbs model (1501MRMH). Not the scale I want, but would be the cheapest ($77 from zoro on a 30% off sale). 4% accuracy.

Checked out wright and they only had a 30-150in-lbs model (2477). More expensive ($150ish), longer, lower tooth count (24), and the same accuracy (4%) as the CDI. So eliminated.

SKs are 3% accuracy, but can't find the 1/4 drive model for under $220 (75002). Not too much cheaper than snap on at that rate. So not going that route either. Shame, I like a lot of their stuff and customer service.

Armstrong has a 40-200in-lbs model with 3% accuracy for $120 from zoro when a 30% off sale happens (64-032). Also 9.5", making it one of the shortest in this comparison. 36 tooth ratchet mechanism.

Proto has a 40-200 model (J6062C), but it is 4% accuracy, 24 tooth, and longer than the harbor freight torque wrench at just shy of a foot long! Second Cheapest though at $93 from zoro on a 30% off sale.

Gearwrench and Husky are Chinese now. Don't want to pay almost a $100 for those.

Sturtevant Richmont 810750 has the wrong scale (30-150) and is super expensive too ($200+).

Lastly is Precision Instruments. They have two that meet the requirements: M1R200HX (30-200in-lbs, but is listed as accurate from 20% to full scale, making it accurate from 40-200inlbs) and M1R200H (40-200in-lbs and also accurate from 40-200in-lbs). Not sure why they advertise one as from 30-200 in-lbs and have a seperate 40-200in-lbs. Might send an email their way to find out. 3% accuracy. Tested to 60,000 Cylces (proto, wright, CDI, and armstrong are listed as only tested to 50,000 cycles). Also is the shortest at 7.25" to 9.75" (depending on torque setting). No clue how many teeth in the ratchet mechanism. Would one of the more expensive at $130, but still way less than SK and Snap On.

Any others I'm missing?

 

[barrybeefburger]

I could be wrong, but isnt a torque wrench best used in the middle third of its range, so if that is correct the CDI seems to fit the bill

 

[T45]

As a general rule, all good ones are only accurate from 20 to 100% of scale. The PI are very good and the CDI i'm thinking probbaly comes in more scale if you dig around. Hazet has several very good ones in 1/4 drive, although starting at higher pricepoints. If you get frustrated with the retail options, a good used wrench (snap on or similar quality) on plus $50 in a cert check will probably get you going well. Be mindful that the amount of market on places like e-bay is "thin" in 1/4 inch stuff and prices may get bid up one day and not trade the next.

 

[PETE14]

We have lots of torque wrenches where I work. Quite a few are from a company called Mountz. They are professional / laboratory grade, and probably priced on par with Snap On and CDI. Very nice, although I'm not sure where they are made. Here's their site:

http://www.mountztorque.com/products/torque-wrenches

 

[TheGrooveking]

Go with the CDI or look into a Precision Instruments.

TheGrooveking

 

[Loscaldazar]

I could be wrong, but isnt a torque wrench best used in the middle third of its range, so if that is correct the CDI seems to fit the bill

Torque wrenches are rated as 20%-100% of full scale. In the case of a 40-200in-lbs wrench, 20% of 200 is 40, so the listed scale is also what it is accurate for. Same with the 30-150 and 10-50 for this drive size.

I'll take another look at the CDI catalog, and see what I find, as well as check out Hazet.

 

[crab]

I'd get the precision or snap-on, you already have a cheap one. With the snap-on you get easy customer support, that's worth a lot. I've had a 3/8s and 1/2 snap-on click type wrenches for a long time, the snap-on guy will check them for free and they have always been right on and if they weren't he can get them recalibrated so of course I would get the snap-on. As a matter of fact the next time I go into a Harley motor I will buy one.

 

[John Timmins]

Excellent information here ! I'm looking for a 1/4 torque wrench too !

 

[superautobacs]

How about Tohnichi torque wrenches? This is the nicest 1/4 drive clicker I've ever seen/used: http://www.amazon.com/Tohnichi-Adjustable-Torque-Wrench-QL12N4/dp/B002P96IWS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=A2W17VK109FWC6&s=generic&qid=1301334952&sr=1-1

The model you want should be: QL200I-2A
http://www.tohnichi.com/products/adjustable-torque-wrench-ql.asp

 

[90zcar]

I bought a used snap on one for super cheap off craigslist. Pics tomorrow


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[four.cycle]

JS Technologies
Alpharetta, Ga.
GSA/military contractor

everything listed right now is only 30-150 in. lbs.
check Ebay. used about $35 and up (incl. shipping.) may require re-calibration. used: they're almost always engraved with military/government serial numbers.

new G61100 (150 in. lbs) $117. + $12. shipping:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/JS-Technolo...177115?hash=item19f6f1151b:g:3fcAAOSw0vBUZssV

==

hey, there's a used Snap-on (40-200) for $130 + shipping with 0 bids on it now. auction ends Thurs. 04/07 14:12 PDT
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-Too...630684?hash=item210cf9fd5c:g:sz0AAOSwZ8ZXBXsv

 

[Wamsutta]

I recommend the Snap-on model in the 40-200 inch pound range. Not the electronic one, but the regular micrometer type. They show up on ebay from time to time at a pretty good discount.

 

[90zcar]

I scored this a month ago for 35 bucks off craigslist

It's actually got a 3/8 head on it which makes it nicer IMO.
It's 30-200 inch pounds


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[platform389]

It's actually got a 3/8 head on it which makes it nicer IMO.

Yes indeed, 3/8 drive in a 1/4 sized head. Make yourself a inch to foot conversion chart and use it for the single digit foot pound settings.

The small size is very handy for confined spaces.

https://store.snapon.com/US-Torque-Instruments-in-lb--Torque-Wrench-Adj-Click-Type-U-S-Compact-Ratchet-40-200-in-lb-3-8-drive-P640950.aspx

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

I scored this a month ago for 35 bucks off craigslist

It's actually got a 3/8 head on it which makes it nicer IMO.
It's 30-200 inch pounds


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Going to get it cal'd?

I picked up a new CDI 30-250 in-lb 3/8" drive clicker for $100.

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

The problem with those older SO's is there are no parts for them, expect the ratchet mechanism. I have two of them and the QJ series is at least 20+ years old. I just sent my old ones to Angle Repair for calibration.

 

[Squankum]

I bought the Precision Instruments (PREM1R200HX) from ToolTopia via amazon.

Link: http://amzn.com/B007Y1DJDI

It was $129 when I got it. I'm very happy with it. It's very solidly built. My only complaint is that all the settings are marked in that funny ancient measuring system, and no Newton meters. But I'll live. As will the hotating andle and locking collar, which are metal, a really nice step up from the Craftsman stuff I started with.

_

.

 

[nh_yota]

Torque wrenches are rated as 20%-100% of full scale. In the case of a 40-200in-lbs wrench, 20% of 200 is 40, so the listed scale is also what it is accurate for. Same with the 30-150 and 10-50 for this drive size.

I'll take another look at the CDI catalog, and see what I find, as well as check out Hazet.

I thought it was 20%-80% of scale? Maybe it depends on the particular manufacturer.

 

[Dave455]

Is 'Made in U.K.' Acceptable?

If so, how about Norbar or Torqueleader.

I don't know, and havn't looked, if either make what you seek, but I suspect there's something!

Norbar are good tools, and not too expensive!


Torqueleader make some lovely stuff, especially in 1/4 drive. They are the original manufacturer of the "Screwdriver" style torque wrenches with the coloured anodised handles! I have one, and it's a superb tool, but I know that's not the style you want! There's a load of other stuff available though!

 

[Pipe]

The reason I dont have a 1/4 inch is because my 3/9 techwrench goes down to 60 inch pounds. So it is hard to justify a separate torque wrench for below 60 inch pounds. What on a subaru is so critical to be at 44 inch pounds?

 

[nh_yota]

You might want to go with a torque screwdriver for the really low-torque stuff.

 

[Loscaldazar]

Is 'Made in U.K.' Acceptable?

If so, how about Norbar or Torqueleader.

I don't know, and havn't looked, if either make what you seek, but I suspect there's something!

Norbar are good tools, and not too expensive!


Torqueleader make some lovely stuff, especially in 1/4 drive. They are the original manufacturer of the "Screwdriver" style torque wrenches with the coloured anodised handles! I have one, and it's a superb tool, but I know that's not the style you want! There's a load of other stuff available though!

I'll take a look! Thanks!

The reason I dont have a 1/4 inch is because my 3/9 techwrench goes down to 60 inch pounds. So it is hard to justify a separate torque wrench for below 60 inch pounds. What on a subaru is so critical to be at 44 inch pounds?

Timing Belt components and water pump crush gasket (all the bolts need to be torqued consistently to avoid leaks. Pretty important stuff.

You might want to go with a torque screwdriver for the really low-torque stuff.

A screwdriver won't fit down in there (front of the boxer engine where the timing components are a few inches away from the radiator) so a ratchet is needed).

 

[Tinner]

I have the Proto J6062C, and 4 other Proto torque wrenches. They're excellent instruments and a real bargain when purchased on a Zoro or Enco sale.

You can send them to Proto and have them calibrated for 15 bucks. They give you a great deal on parts and repair work, if needed.

I could be wrong, but isnt a torque wrench best used in the middle third of its range, so if that is correct the CDI seems to fit the bill

I thought it was 20%-80% of scale? Maybe it depends on the particular manufacturer.

You are both wrong, its 20-100 percent of full scale.

 

[90zcar]

Going to get it cal'd?



I picked up a new CDI 30-250 in-lb 3/8" drive clicker for $100.

No I am not. There's nothing to make me believe it's not ok. I think it's $75 just to have it calibrated.


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[afbrian13]

Going with 44 on a 40 to whatever isn't going to be accurate. At that point you might as well use a ratchet. As much as it *****, you would most likely be better with two different wrenches. We use Snap-On like the one above and don't have any issues at all.

 

[lilcraigford]

I have the Proto J6062C, and 4 other Proto torque wrenches. They're excellent instruments and a real bargain when purchased on a Zoro or Enco sale.

You can send them to Proto and have them calibrated for 15 bucks. They give you a great deal on parts and repair work, if needed.

I have been very pleased with my Proto J6016C (30-150 ft lb, 1/2" drive). I'm looking to pick up a J6064C (40-200 in lb - the 3/8" drive counterpart to your J6062C). Between the two all of my needs should be covered.

I have also used my friend's 3/8" Snap On torque wrench on several occasions and its also a very nice item.

 

[Loscaldazar]

The PI 3/8" drive is very small in physical size and gives you a wide selection of socket sizes to choose from. The 30-200 "lbs spread should cover quite a bit of territory for small fasteners. I have a pic of this TW somewhere in the "new tools" thread if you care to take a gander.
Good luck,
Motoretro

Found the photos! Thanks for that.

I've found a killer deal on one from eBay that even if it needs calibration will be a steal. Just have to hope no one else bids on it (no bids with only a few hours left).

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

No I am not. There's nothing to make me believe it's not ok. I think it's $75 just to have it calibrated.


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Not sure how you can determine that, unless you check it against another wrench... that said cal/adjustment/repair/cleaning at Angle Repair cost me $50 all said and done. Worth it IMHO.

For example my QJR 1/2" is no longer accurate CCW, based on this last cal... however CW is within 0.5-1.5%. Tech at Angle Repair explained that most wrenches are never used CCW, so they at a set/wear and the wrench later can't be calibrated to make CW/CCW both within-spec.

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

I have been very pleased with my Proto J6016C (30-150 ft lb, 1/2" drive). I'm looking to pick up a J6064C (40-200 in lb - the 3/8" drive counterpart to your J6062C). Between the two all of my needs should be covered.

I have also used my friend's 3/8" Snap On torque wrench on several occasions and its also a very nice item.

You'll have a little bit of a gap between the two... 17-30 ft-lbs.

For the longest time, I've been well-served by my SO wrenches:

• 3/8" 5-75 ft-lb (good for 15-75)
• 1/2" 30-200 ft-lb (good for 40-200)

They have some overlap, so I can pick between the two if needed. I just recently picked up a CDI 3/8" 30-250 in-lb to cover the small stuff.

 

[T45]

Going with 44 on a 40 to whatever isn't going to be accurate. At that point you might as well use a ratchet. As much as it *****, you would most likely be better with two different wrenches. We use Snap-On like the one above and don't have any issues at all.

This is wrong. The accurate range is a function of the max, so if the max is 200 the wrench will be scientifically accurate at 40 or 44. That is the whole point of calibration.

Some units will say the have a wider range, and are usally cheap and not trustworthy. A 5 x range (or 20 to 100% of max) is the only reliable range for general purpose instruments.

If you spend serious money, Hazet and (and maybe Stahlwille and some others) have models with 2% accuracy and slightly wider ranges.

But you will know this as the will be certified and you will be checking the papers before your sign off on the purchase price.

Do not but a cheap wrench that claims a 10x range ro something crazy for $40 (like 40 to 400 or something)--- this will not be calibrated or reliable over the long term.

 

[bodyguy16]

I got lucky a while back and bougt a 1/4 snap on on a classifieds ad for 60$ practically new. Look around youll find something. Best part was i checked it on the truck and ot was accurate and a month later the guy called me back to see if i wanted the 1/2! Gpt that too

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[908Jim]

+1 for Proto. High quality torque wrench at a very fair price.

Also, my suggestion is not split hairs over 2% vs 3% accuracy. It's in our nature to do so, but the variability in surface finish, coating, and lubrication of the threads are going to have a huge impact on fastener tension achieved. Nothing on a vehicle is going to require or be benefited from a torque wrench having 2% accuracy.

 

[afbrian13]

I completely understand that a very high end tool should be accurate at any point it it's range. We're talking decent shop stuff here however. From a lot of reading I've done even the snap on level tools aren't accurate close to the end points. I have a hard time trusting a cheap torque wrench on engines thoughany people say they're fine.