Precision instrument 1/2 split beam torque wrench opinion

[garagesapien]

I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts on the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench. I've been researching both Precision Instrument and ICON 1/2 split beam torque wrenches by reading online reviews. Recently, I purchased a Precision Instrument unit and compared it to the ICON at my local Harbor Freight store. The ICON wrench caught my attention as it appeared longer, more robust, and had a superior grip compared to the Precision Instrument. It seems well-made overall.

Despite my preference for tools made in the USA, I decided to buy the ICON wrench as well to test both at home. After trying both wrenches on one of my Macan lug nuts (18 ft-lb), I noticed that the ICON provided more leverage than the Precision Instrument. While I have a strong affinity for tools made in the USA, the ICON, considering factors like price, warranty, ease of use (length and grip), seems like a better overall choice. The price difference between the two is $60.

I'm curious if anyone has any regrets or concerns regarding the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench.

 

[skulldrinker]

Had my PI for almost 10 years. No complaints except sometimes in tight areas I wish it was a few inches shorter. Handles high torque like axle nuts with no trouble. It is my lug nut go to. It was made in desplaines, il. Near my house. I heard PI makes Snap on's. Not sure if they still do.

 

[Steve_P]

1/2" dr split-beam torque wrench w/fine-tooth ratchet head

I am in the market for a 1/2" dr split-beam torque wrench with a fine tooth ratchet head, preferably something with at least 72 teeth. I currently have a P.I. but it the coarse teeth ratchet mechanism isn't my favorite and it is due for a calibration. I would prefer to buy from a brand that...

www.garagejournal.com

 

[mhejl]

I have both. I now prefer the Icon for the reasons you mention but the higher tooth count puts the Icon way over the top compared to the PI. The Icon is the newest I have, it hasn't been beat on for years like my others (yet).

I don't get why the traditional "go-to" torque wrenches like CDI, PI, and SO TQFR series continue to lag behind in tooth count.

 

[seber]

I fought traditional torque wrenches for years before going to PI split beams. Been a happy camper ever since.

 

[Steve_P]

I have both. I now prefer the Icon for the reasons you mention but the higher tooth count puts the Icon way over the top compared to the PI. The Icon is the newest I have, it hasn't been beat on for years like my others (yet).

I don't get why the traditional "go-to" torque wrenches like CDI, PI, and SO TQFR series continue to lag behind in tooth count.

CDI is owned by Snap On, and I'm sure SO purposely keeps the tooth count at ~30 on the CDI so that they don't compete with the similar SO product that costs 4X as much. An excuse they'd probably say is that CDI is more of an industrial targeted product, and they don't need the fine tooth head since they're not working in a cramped engine bay. Since PI isn't owned by SO, they have no excuse for not getting into the 21st century.

I have a bunch of micrometer style CDI with the ~30T heads, and bought a flex head 3/8 Icon because it was 90T. There was no way I was paying $400+ for the SO equivalent for occasional home use.

 

[dnschmidt]

I hope ICON forces PI to update their line. Too many American companies are making the exact same **** they made 30 years ago. If ICON steals their market share and forces them to update I consider that to be a good thing. America is SUPPOSE to be the country of innovation not stagnation.

 

[dlleno]

Good discussion. Interestingly enough, the icon manual recommends setting the dial to zero after use. And before each use exercise the dial by adjusting to full scale and then zero three times. Yes doing this is far easier on a split beam than resetting to a micrometer to zero

 

[Beemer]

I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts on the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench. I've been researching both Precision Instrument and ICON 1/2 split beam torque wrenches by reading online reviews. Recently, I purchased a Precision Instrument unit and compared it to the ICON at my local Harbor Freight store. The ICON wrench caught my attention as it appeared longer, more robust, and had a superior grip compared to the Precision Instrument. It seems well-made overall.

Despite my preference for tools made in the USA, I decided to buy the ICON wrench as well to test both at home. After trying both wrenches on one of my Macan lug nuts (18 ft-lb), I noticed that the ICON provided more leverage than the Precision Instrument. While I have a strong affinity for tools made in the USA, the ICON, considering factors like price, warranty, ease of use (length and grip), seems like a better overall choice. The price difference between the two is $60.

I'm curious if anyone has any regrets or concerns regarding the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench.

I love mine. Actually I bought two and the price almost doubled so I made myself sell one (unused) so I got the tool bargain of my life.
I reread your post and you tried it so no need for me to point out the features, all of which I have found useful.
I don't consider price on items that I intend to keep for a long time. If I hope it lasts ONLY 10 years of ownership, then it costs peanuts per year.

Big point for me, Made in the USA!
I do my part when I can.

 

[dlleno]

I think I'm going to watch the HF coupons and ****** up the icon. Right now it's only 10% off so I have time to wait for the next round of coupons. Home depot is selling the PI for a tiny bit more than Amazon but the price difference between these outlets and the PI website tells me that PI might be binning what comes off the production line and keeping the ones they want and sending the rest to home depot and the Amazon seller.

Still like the icon from all the comments here.

 

[Beemer]

Good discussion. Interestingly enough, the icon manual recommends setting the dial to zero after use. And before each use exercise the dial by adjusting to full scale and then zero three times. Yes doing this is far easier on a split beam than resetting to a micrometer to zero

That reads line Tap heels three times and repeat There's No Place Like Home...

One of the main reasons I love my split beam.

 

[kaffine]

I didn't realize that Harbor Freight had a split beam torque wrench.

I have a 1/2" drive Snap-On (rebranded PI) I got it when I was a mechanic and it has worked well. I have a 3/8" PI as well but it doesn't get much use I bought it after I was a mechanic. I would have bought a PI instead of the Snap-On version if I had known about them at the time.

It is tough when the import is both cheaper and better to justify buying the made in USA one. I think I would still buy the PI though since it is made in the USA. The tooth count on a torque wrench isn't much of a concern for me, I can see where it will be to others but I don't run into places that would matter much anymore. Long term I trust the PI to hold accuracy over time more than the ICON however since I'm not sending them in for calibration I wont know for sure.

 

[kngelv]

I have a PI 3/8 split beam torque wrench. I would get another one in a heartbeat. I torque a lot of aluminum fasteners and the PI has never failed me while previous torque wrenches have. It's very easy to strip aluminum which is why I needed a good torque wrench. I am also in the camp of trying to buy Made in USA stuff if possible.

James

 

[Outahere]

PI needs to include a credible calibration certificate with their tools, and not just a promise of 4% accuracy from their marketing dept.

 

[Madjik Man]

Because of this thread, and the other linked within it, I went down the Icon vs Tekton split beam rabbit hole.

 

[danielbuck]

I have several sizes of PI split beams (3/8" 1/2", and 3/4"), as well as a small 1/4" dial inch wrench. I love them I think they are pretty good value (at least they seemed to be when I purchased them, not sure what the prices are like now), I've never had to contact the company for any problems, but I would hope that they would be easy to deal with.

I bring a 1/2" Tekton click style in my vehicles when traveling for torquing lug nuts. haven't ever used their split beams, but I like their click style, works well.

 

[dlleno]

PI needs to include a credible calibration certificate with their tools, and not just a promise of 4% accuracy from their marketing dept.

I found a local calibration lab that will provide this info for $60. So thats probably $60 they saved on the price at least for the Amazon/home depot copies

 

[dlleno]

I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts on the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench. I've been researching both Precision Instrument and ICON 1/2 split beam torque wrenches by reading online reviews. Recently, I purchased a Precision Instrument unit and compared it to the ICON at my local Harbor Freight store. The ICON wrench caught my attention as it appeared longer, more robust, and had a superior grip compared to the Precision Instrument. It seems well-made overall.

Despite my preference for tools made in the USA, I decided to buy the ICON wrench as well to test both at home. After trying both wrenches on one of my Macan lug nuts (18 ft-lb), I noticed that the ICON provided more leverage than the Precision Instrument. While I have a strong affinity for tools made in the USA, the ICON, considering factors like price, warranty, ease of use (length and grip), seems like a better overall choice. The price difference between the two is $60.

I'm curious if anyone has any regrets or concerns regarding the Precision Instrument 1/2 Split Beam Torque Wrench.

For what it's worth, 3rd hand information and all of that, I took the liberty of asking a local calibration lab their opinion, and they told me the Icon and PI split beams both calibrate well and they don't see a material difference from the calibration perspective. I haven't purchase either one (yet)

 

[Wamsutta]

My only beef with Precision is they don't provide a metal handle version for their 1/2 inch drive anymore.

 

[M6erfan]

My only beef with Precision is they don't provide a metal handle version for their 1/2 inch drive anymore.

What's under the plastic cover?

 

[Wamsutta]

What's under the plastic cover?

Good Question

 

[Nessism]

I have three different PI torque wrenches. Two are dial type, and one large 1/2" split beam, like this thread discusses. All of these are Snap-On branded.

The dial type are somewhat fragile; snapping head bolts/nuts can break the internal mechanism. I learned this the hard way.

Good news, though, you can send them in to PI, and they will repair and calibrate for a fair price. You can't get this service with Icon.

I'm going to buy a 3/8" split beam PI soon. Just need to figure out what range to purchase...

 

[Radio Flyer]

My only beef with Precision is they don't provide a metal handle version for their 1/2 inch drive anymore.

Yup, that goofy handle takes up too much room in the drawer.

 

[dlleno]

Something just occurred to me re the icon. Unlike PI, The Icon manual states that you need to reset the dial to zero after every use and exercise it to full scale before each use. so I started to wonder why. This is what the YouTubers are missing: it's one thing to buy one good good copy and then cycle it 1000 times but if you haven't followed the manuals instructions re the dial you haven't really tested repeatability you've just tested longevity.

Anyone with a torque adapter could test repeatability but no one has. It makes me wonder why exercising the dial is so important for the icon. The main torque mechanism may be great but the dial mechanism, even though its not under stress, has to be solid repeatable .

 

[bcradio]

Something just occurred to me re the icon. Unlike PI, The Icon manual states that you need to reset the dial to zero after every use and exercise it to full scale before each use. so I started to wonder why. This is what the YouTubers are missing: it's one thing to buy one good good copy and then cycle it 1000 times but if you haven't followed the manuals instructions re the dial you haven't really tested repeatability you've just tested longevity.

Anyone with a torque adapter could test repeatability but no one has. It makes me wonder why exercising the dial is so important for the icon. The main torque mechanism may be great but the dial mechanism, even though its not under stress, has to be solid repeatable .

Funny, the Icon torque wrench web page specifically states you do not need to reset it to zero

 

[dlleno]

Right? But download the manual and be greeted by these very specific instructions that make me doubt the integrityof the secondary beam and dial mechanism

 

[bcradio]

They need to get their documentation figured out

 

[vjquan]

I think the instructions on the split beam came from their clicker instructions. They don't know any better and just went with it. Split beams don't compress the spring like tradition clickers.

 

[dlleno]

So their clickers have the same latch specifically and deliberately referred to in the instructions and they also refer to the adjustment mechanism as a "torque knob" that needs to be unlatched?

Or you're saying some tech writer deliberately copied the general motions over from a clicker and changed the wording to fit the split beam without knowing what s/he was doing, i.e that the tool of interest is not dramatically different?

I'm not saying you're wrong it could be. Just seems unlikely given the target audience and the business goal and vision of Icon

 

[seber]

Think about how the split beam actually works. When you turn the screw, all you are moving is the screw. Tell me what that is supposed to accomplish.

 

[dlleno]

Beats me that's where I'm confused why something like this would make it into their instructions. The screw has to move something though. The display has to correlate with the position of the screw. something changes the click point and that change has to be accurately reflected in the display that has to move a needle that has to line up to the printed calibration marks. It's not the main beam at work here its the mechanism that allows you to pick a number in the display

 

[vjquan]

See this video by Catus Maximus at 4:50. If you compare the manuals for both the clicker and split beam, you can see they are worded the same.

 

[dlleno]

The clicker manual says that before each use one must turn the micrometer all the way to max and then to zero three times? That does not sound fun at all.

But I'm agreeing with you that the mechanism for adjusting torque needs no exercise. I'm only saying that there is opportunity for error in the movement of the unloaded screw and its corresponding correlation to the dial. All of those unloaded things move and have to accurately correlate the position of the dial with the position of whatever has caused the device to click at the new desired torque. Running that mechanism up and down will produce a different position on the clicking lever with respect to the dial indicator depending on the way everything wears, which is what calibration accomplishes. I can't imagine why they would recommend doing that (as you say, some copy editor making $2/hr probably cut and paste ). All I'm saying is that if you run that mechanism up and down and dialed up the same target torque you'll get a (slightly) different answer than if everything stayed put. So the accuracy, precision, and repeatability all depends on that unloaded mechanism and how it wears and is calibrated.

 

[Hakeem]

I think the instructions on the split beam came from their clicker instructions. They don't know any better and just went with it. Split beams don't compress the spring like tradition clickers.

That’s the Impression I got. Either that or they figured “what’s the harm” and kept it in.

For what it’s worth I bought the Tekton and ICON torque wrenches to compare and they were like carbon copies. The ICON manual said to reset to zero, the Tekton manual did not. I doubt that the ICON model and only the ICON model has some unique mechanism requiring the user to reset the scale each time… but admittedly I didn’t open them up to check.

 

[dlleno]

Yea the evidence is very strong that it's just a low cost document copied over with very little if any analysis. the copy editors don't have the expertise and are not paid enough to write sonething most will not read. I read through both docs again and affirmed that the writer knew enough English to substitute words but not enough about torque wrenches to understand the content.

 

[WWheeler]

I love mine. Definitely would buy again, but suspect I won't ever have to.

 

[isb cornbinder]

This was a b'day gift 15 years ago. It was made in the Southern Hemisphere.

 

[dlleno]

I love mine. Definitely would buy again, but suspect I won't ever have to.

Nice. I just received a copy of the owners manual from precision. The Icon is well translated and illustrated it just takes up 10 times more space lol and doesn't reflect the actual product.

Amazon is now claiming to be a seller of the precision. they're out of stock which is a bummer but I could avoid the national tool warehouse which has mostly good reviews but also a few bad ones.
Anyone want to guess what the Amazon price will be when they get stock? I'm tempted to pre order. Yea its $60 more than the harbor freight Icon but U.S. made is just too compelling...

 

[WWheeler]

Nice. I just received a copy of the owners manual from precision. The Icon is well translated and illustrated it just takes up 10 times more space lol and doesn't reflect the actual product.

Amazon is now claiming to be a seller of the precision. they're out of stock which is a bummer but I could avoid the national tool warehouse which has mostly good reviews but also a few bad ones.
Anyone want to guess what the Amazon price will be when they get stock? I'm tempted to pre order. Yea its $60 more than the harbor freight Icon but U.S. made is just too compelling...

I bought mine on Amazon. These are the links from my order history

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002XMSFIM/?tag=atomicindus08-20 Showing now as $194 in stock for me. I paid $151 in 2020

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000YOX568/?tag=atomicindus08-20 Showing now as $161 in stock for me. I paid $116 in 2020

 

[dlleno]

Yea national tool warehouse has stock and uses Amazon delivery but Amazon as a seller does not have stock. Prices are definitely higher now and Amazon as a seller is just more attractive to me even at $10 more. I'm looking at the 1/2" flavor

I'm not buying "ships and sold from national tool warehouse"