Do you really need to use a torque wrench?

If you plan to do any major work on your engine or on some major powertrain components, you absolutely need a torque wrench. Overtightening cylinder-head bolts, for instance, can easily cause expensive damage and catastrophic coolant loss. Too-tight exhaust manifold bolts can cause the manifold to crack.

What is a torque wrench and when would use it why use instead of regular wrench?

Torque wrenches are commonly used on automobiles to precisely tighten bolts and fasteners to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Torque wrenches can be used on any bolt that needs to be tightened to a specific setting.

Is a torque wrench necessary for oil change?

If you are new to changing your oil though, use a torque wrench and the proper factory torque specs. It’s easy to over-tighten a bolt and strip the threads if you don’t have practice. You might also need ramps or a floor jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks if you have to go under the vehicle.

Why is a torque wrench an important tool to use for certain jobs?

It’s important to always use this tool in applications where screws and bolts must be secure and tight. These tools allow the user to measure the amount of pressure being applied to fasteners, to ensure it matches the recommended specifications for the job.

Can you use torque wrench to loosen?

A torque wrench is a tightening tool. It is a very sensitive and precise tightening tool, and should never been used to loosen bolts.

Why is proper torque important?

those nuts that keep your wheel fastened to the studs on your axle and the bolts that secure and keep your engine assembled were installed at the proper torque to keep them from coming loose. When accurate torque is not applied to the bolts and nuts, they wear out quickly and can cause failure.

How tight should a oil drain plug be?

With a wrench tighten the plug very lightly until it stops and is only snug with the pan. Then tighten the plug 1/4 turn. That’s it your done. Don’t over tighten your engine oil drain plug.

What tool do I need to change my oil?

In addition to oil, you’ll need an oil filter, an oil-filter removal wrench, a wrench to remove the drain plug, a funnel, a drain pan and some gloves. You may also need to raise the car to gain access, in which case you’ll need a floor jack and safety stands, or a pair of purpose-made steel ramps.

Are torque wrenches accurate?

As stated above, most torque wrenches have an accuracy between 3-5\%. Let’s talk about 100 FT LB torque wrench at 4\% accuracy. That would be an accuracy of 4 FT Lb.

Do you really need to torque lug nuts?

When installing the wheels on a vehicle after servicing, it is important to torque the lug nuts properly. Lug nuts that are not tightened correctly can ruin wheels, affect rotor runout and can be deadly if the wheel comes off or studs snap. Over-torqueing the lug nuts does not affect runout immediately.