Torque Wrench

[markopolo]

I carry a Torque Wrench in my van. It's a useful tool.

My Chevy owner’s manual states to set the wheel nut torque to 140 lb. ft. so I do check the wheel nut torque periodically.

I bought a really cheap one first that broke the first time I used it. I got a refund. For my second one I chose a Mastercraft Maximum 1/2-in.-Drive Torque Wrench from Canadian Tire. It goes on sale regularly. The sales staff will even tell you when it is going to be on sale.
Features:

• A precision instrument used for tightening fasteners to a pre-determined torque

• Separate scales for metric and standard

• Adjustment accuracy comparable to a micrometer

• Click noise and/or momentary release when preset torque is reached to prevent damage

• Ergonomic plastic grip

• Plastic storage case included

• 50-250 lb/ft. torque range for higher torque applications

• Lifetime warranty

[markopolo]

[markopolo]

I read the following on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_wrench

For the click type, when not in use, the force acting on the spring should be removed by setting the scale to 20% of full scale in order to maintain the spring's strength. Never set a micrometer style torque wrench to zero as the internal mechanism requires a small amount of tension in order to prevent tool failure due to unwarranted tip block rotation. If a micrometer tool is has been stored with the setting above 20% the tool should be set to 50% of full scale and exercised at least 5 times before being used.

[David Smith]

I am curious - how much was the torque wrench? I have never been a big fan of Canadian Tire or Mastercraft products in general but I will be shopping for a torque wrench when I return to Canada in a few months.

[markopolo]

On sale $79.95
Regular price $114.95