Micrometer vs. split beam clicker torque wrenchs

[Treeman]

Hi everyone,

My very first post here. I would like to compare the pro's and cons of the Precision Instrument type split beam torque wrench vs. the standard micrometer style torque wrench. Both clicker styles.....not the "bending beam" wrench.

I'm looking at the better brands: Proto, CDI/Snap On, Sturdevant, and Precision Instruments. And, I am concerned about general auto work, not nuclear plants or space shuttles.

The split beam wrenches get some good reviews. I have trouble accepting them because they are different from what I have know about the past 30 years.

The split beams have much larger increments: 2 ft. lbs. for the 3/8 wrench and a whopping 5 ft. lbs. on the 1/2 inch wrench. Is this a concern?

Any other cons to the split beam that would make one choose the other style?

Thanks!

 

[rsanter]

you need to look at the rated accuracy and compair to what you need.

the most accurate way to tighten fasteners (in order) is as follows

1 stretch
2 load cell ( a fancy version of #3 but can be recalabrated. again look at rated precision, the Cman version has poor accuracy)
3 bending beam torque wrench (only if it is high quality and has a limited life before you loose accuracy and they are junk. in the old days machinists had to replace them every 6-12 months)
4 the dual beam type like many of the higher end units
5 spring-click type

bob