[s-cars] Torque wrench for spark plugs recommendation

[Robert Rossato]

Actually, it depends not on whether it is a click-type, but rather if
the torque wrench is a micrometer style or split-beam style.  

The micrometer style uses springs to set the torque and must be stored
at its lowest setting so that the spring is relaxed, otherwise it will
take a set and affect the calibration.  The split-beam style of torque
wrench doesn't use a spring and can be stored at any setting without
affecting the calibration.  The split-beam torque wrench is also more
accurate.  

Both types of torque wrenches are available with a click head.  Though
the vast majority of click type torque wrenches are the micrometer type
so it's a fairly safe generalization.  

Bob

> -----Original Message-----
> From: s-car-list-bounces at audifans.com 
> [mailto:s-car-list-bounces at audifans.com] On Behalf Of Kenneth Keith
> Sent: Monday, June 15, 2009 3:23 PM
> To: s-car-list at audifans.com
> Subject: Re: [s-cars] Torque wrench for spark plugs recommendation
> 
> 
> Mark,
> 
> It's my understanding that click-type torque wrenches should be stored
> set to zero when not in use, and leaving them set at a higher torque
> value is bad for them.  Also it might be wise to have the calibration
> checked on them periodically, maybe annually if you use them often
> enough.  If they've been stored while wound to those settings then a
> calibration may reveal that they are not in calibration any more.
> 
> Anyone know more about this?
> 
> Cheers,
> 
> Kenneth
> 
> mtgadbois at aol.com wrote:
> >
> >  Peter,
> >
> > I have had 2 Sears Torque wrenches for many years with no 
> problems.? My 1/2" drive is set to 94 for wheels and my
> > 3/8" is set to 22 for spark plugs and the oil pan bolt.? 
> Other than the head gasket 5 years ago I probably have not changed
> > the settings.
> >
> > Mark near Chicago
> >
> > Since the subject of tools has been discussed.
> > I'd like to purchase a torque wrench for lower torque applications,
> > such as spark plugs.
> >
> > My current torque wrench's range is 20-200 ft/lbs....
> >
> > Sears has a current sale on Craftsman Torque wrenches for $59.99...
> >
> > I do know that unlike other Craftsman tools, their torque 
> wrenches do
> > NOT carry their lifetime warranty....
> >
> > Any recommendations?
> >
> > -Peter Schulz
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