Why you should use a torque wrench and how to use them

What is a torque wrench?

A torque wrench is a tool used to apply a specific torque to a fastener such as a nut, bolt, or lag screw. It is usually in the form of a socket wrench with special internal mechanisms. For a detailed run through on what torque wrench is, how they work, things to think about and how to use them please watch my video below.

The wheel fell off so I discovered torque wrenches…here’s why!

Using Nm = newton metres you can apply a specific force to tighten something.

In simpler terms white knuckling bolts might be possible when you’ve been in the industry 30 years but for most knowing the 8^th of a turn to tighten too is a mysterious game that can have expensive consequences…. I’ve cracked clutch houses, split cases and ruptured a nut cap, I’ve even had a trailer wheel fall off when the wheel nut came loose.

The good news is this is all avoidable with the right tools – a torque wrench.

Torque wrenches enable you to tighten to manufacturer specifications and is especially important on light metals like aluminium that can scratch and dent easily. Torque wrenches can also be used to set bolt pulleys, bearings, seal the mating surface between a gasket or crush plate, and more. In short it enables proper tension and loading of all parts

I have another video with my top 10 tools and the torque wrench is in it.

Types of torque wrenches

• Digital – more accurate but can run out of battery – 1% accuracy to ISO standards
• Mechanical – 4% accuracy to ISO standards
• Wrenches start at 1Nm and go up to 980Nm
• Come in ¼”,3/8”,1/2” & ¾” sq drives

While a torque wrench is not absolutely required, it’s a good idea. For example, you need to ensure the wheel is evenly clamped onto the hub. This prevents the wheel from warping and causing other issues.

Features of torque wrenches

• measurement in Nm – this is N [force x gravity] – 10 N is roughly 1kg at 1m – this – linear measurement – so 10N is roughly 2kg and 2m
• Flip reverse switch (reverse not always for Torque setting)
• Designed to Torque right hand (clockwise) fasteners or left hand

Things to think about when buying a torque wrench

• Any reverse bolts? Which way do you need to torque?
• What range of torque settings to you need?
• Can you use socket adapters to extend the usage?
• Re-calibration of torque wrenches is needed, depending on the brand you’re looking at every 12 months or xx amount of cycles – Teng do this in house
• ISO 6789 : 2003 will ensuring the tool calibration complies with the best set up.
• Each torque wrench should come with a calibration certificate

For lots more from me please head to my YouTube.

If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.

You can find me Vanessa, The Girl On A Bike over on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, and www.thegirlonabike.com.