Torque Wrench...correct torque

[Wagoncrzy]

Put the new cam and dbl roller on the other night... I put a little red lock tight on the cam bolt, set the torque wrench from Sears ($109.00) to 31 lbs and had at it. It just was to easy. Maybe I'm Old School and yes I have overtightened a widget or two in my life.I am fairly strong because alot of times I really have to be careful as to not strip something out.... But....., I only exerted a little turn and the T/Wrench clicked. Is there a way to check my wrench???? jim

[Crazy_Jeepman]

31 FT LBS on a Torque Wrench would require near no effort. I would believe your torque wrench ;)

[CustomWag]

[start semi-hijack/ This brings up a question I've had for awhile. Does using extensions or u-joint swivels affect the torque reading when using a torque wrench?/end semi-hijack]

[shackwrrr]

yes Ive seen a table somewhere to compensate for extentions

[shackwrrr]

nevermind extentions dont change it crows feet and extensions like that do

[BRUTUS]

The only way that an extension would change the torque reading on your torque wrench is if the extension "twists" when you are torqueing a bolt. Basically, the torque is required to twist the shaft of the extension. The best way I can think to combat this is to get an oversize-diameter extension to minimize the torque error.

[Jayrodoh]

If everybody that ever put a tranny pan back on used a torque wrench they'd realize quickly why they can't get their pans to stop leaking. Every older vehicle I've had leaked becuase somebody over tightened the freaking pan and bent it all up.

I'd believe the wrench, only way they get screwed up is to leave them set at something other than the lowest setting for an extended period of time. This can be corrected by letting it sit overnight set at the lowest setting t

[Al Johnson]

Clicker torque wrenches "can" go out of calibration, and if you need real accuracy, you can send them to a lab to be calibrated. Be prepared to spend money.

Bending beam type are almost foolproof, but harder to use correctly. If the wrench has not been subjected to extreme heat, and the pointer starts on zero, it is as good as the operator.

Extensions that are in line with the wrench head, like regular socket set 3" or 6" length extensions, will NOT change the torque applied by your wrench. Anything that has length to it, like a crow's foot, will change the applied torque.

Hope that helps.