How to get the most out of your torque wrench

When fastening nuts or bolts, people use a torque wrench to make sure they are securely fastened without breaking or stripping the nuts and bolts. Conrad Bahr was working at the New York City Water Department when he invented the torque wrench in 1918. Now there are several different kinds of torque wrench much more precise than their initial predecessor. The three common types of torque wrench are beam, click, and electronic. For everyday household use, for dad’s who moonlight as mechanics, click torque wrenches get the job done. Like everything you own, it is important to care for your torque wrench. If you don’t, you risk using incorrect force on machine parts which can ruin your wrench or whatever it is you are working on. Here are some tips
on how to make sure your wrenches stay in top condition for as long as possible.

Treat it gently

Torque wrenches are sensitive measurement tools. Dropping them every now and again won’t do serious damage but over time it will lead to inaccurate torque measurement. Most wrenches come with cases. Use them. The case also protects from damage from water, dirt, grime, etc. When not in use, keep them safe. Don’t use your torque wrench to do the initial fastening. After using a ratchet wrench to do the bulk of the work, use your torque wrench to get the final precise turn.

Store your click wrench at its lowest setting

This helpsmaintain your wrench over a longer period of time. The loaded spring inside is put under a lot of strain during use, even more so with frequent use. Before you pack up for the day, set your wrench to the lowest setting.

Give it periodic check ups

Your tool is a precision measurement device which means it will need a check-up at least once a year for calibration. You can either send it in or, if you’re really hands-on and patient, do it yourself! Save some time and money.

Most of these tips are applicable to the click wrench. If you are fancy enough to have an electronic wrench, what you need to worry about most is changing the battery. Simple enough. Torque wrenches are an investment and tools of well-respected trade, treat them as such and it should be smooth sailing.