which in-lb range for torque wrench?

[schurtjl]

I currently own two snap-on torque wrenches: 1/2" adjustable click type rachet 50-250 ft. lb, and a 3/8" adjustable click type flex head rachet 5-75 ft. lb. I have the ability to purchase either a 1/4" drive 40-200 in. lb, 1/4" drive 10-50 in. lb, or a 3/8" 40-200 in. lb. All are snap-on, and at a price that makes looking at other brands a no-go. I'm not a professional mechanic, just a fairly serious hobbyist that works on my own vehicles, boats, atv's, tractors, etc. Could I get by with either a 40-200 vs 10-50, or are both really needed?

 

[3 Gun Shooter]

When getting an inch-pound torque wrench, get a dial one. You can torque to very low levels and check rotating torque when setting up rear ends.

 

[Balor]

Hi schurtjl.

I have & use all snap-on and the 1/4" 40-200 is the way to go. With the 1/4" you can use adapters if needed and it will round out your torquing requirements.

rngr1

 

[dumper]

I have read that a torque wrench is most accurate in the middle of its range, so pick the one that fits your needs. It all depends on what you are working on, and whether that much precision is really needed. I work on mountain bikes that have some low torque settings, but snug, hand tight, hand tight plus a little extra, etc, has always been close enough...for over 30 years now.

I suppose working on transmissions would require precision, but I am not a "precision" guy! Hahaa.

Do you really work on things that require a 40-200 inch-lb (3.3-16ft-lb) range of torques?

 

[cvairwerks]

Torque required on most fasteners above 3/16” and under 5/16” is beween 20 and 200 lb/in. Most hydraulic or pressurized gas connection under an AN4 size are similar.

 

[aeopav]

1/4" 40-200 in lb is the ticket!

 

[Balor]

Snap-on torque wrench only have a 10% max deviation, that's why you set the torque wrench in the middle of the suggested torque, i.e. 82-88 in. lbs = 85 in. lbs torque wrench setting.

rngr1

 

[schurtjl]

Went with the 1/4” 40-200 in lb. Along with my 3/8” 5-75 ft lb and 1/2” 50-250 ft lb, that should cover 99% of my needs.

 

[bob15]

The one you can buy are they clicker or dial? I prefer dial in 1/4" and the 3/8", I have both, but tend to use the dial one more than the clicker.

 

[schurtjl]

clicker

 

[bsaint]

I never use the Dial. It's always facing somewhere I can't see the face.

Sent from my BBB100-1 using Tapatalk

 

[bigdav160]

Most of my torquing is between 10-150 lb-inch. Those valve body bolts can be pretty small.

 

[zarbat007]

CDI 1501MRMH. Well built quality torque wrench, reasonable price. 20-150 in.lbs.
Except the ratchet head, every part of it including the laser etchings and the knurling on handle resembles a snap-on torque wrench.
The selector switch is a bit jumpy, but other than that I'm happy with mine.