[s-cars] Torque wrench for spark plugs recommendation

[Robert Rossato]

The main thing is to use as small a range as you can to cover what you
need to torque.  So there is no such thing as one size fits all for
torque wrenches, as you well know.

The typical micrometer style torque wrench has an accuracy of around 6%
of full scale (for a good one).  Split-beams have around 4% accuracy,
and dial type torque wrenches are 2%.  Accuracy is only valid from 20%
of full scale to full scale.  Using your 20-200 lb-ft torque wrench as
an example, it would have an accuracy of +/- 12 lb-ft (6% of 200).  Not
too good when you're trying to measure 22 lb-ft.

If you're looking for a click type I would try to find something with a
50 lb-ft upper range if you can, but it may be tough to find anything
less than 75 lb-ft.  And most likely they'll be 100 lb-ft full scale.

I second Dave's suggestion of trolling ebay for used Snap-on or Matco
torque wrenches.  The Snap-on torque wrenches are actually made by
Precision Instruments, or at least they used to be until recently.  For
the spark plugs I use a Snap-on 0-50 lb-ft dial type.

HTH,

Bob



> -----Original Message-----
> From: s-car-list-bounces at audifans.com 
> [mailto:s-car-list-bounces at audifans.com] On Behalf Of Peter Schulz
> Sent: Monday, June 15, 2009 8:47 AM
> To: s-car-list at audifans.com
> Subject: [s-cars] Torque wrench for spark plugs recommendation
> 
> 
> 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
> 
> -Peter Schulz
> Chelmsford Ma, USA
> http://www.naaclub.org/
> 
> 1995.5 S6 Avant Emerald/Ecru
> 1995.5 S6 Avant Silver/Platinum
> 1991 90Q 20v Q Red
> 1991 90Q 20v Indigo
> 1991 CQ silver  (eS2 recipient) 
> 
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