Torque wrench

[Supermike]

I don't own a torque wrench, and I need to get one. Dang those things are expensive! Therefore, I'll probably only be able to get one for now.

I don't do any "HEAVY" wrenching. I mainly need it for lug nuts, oil changes, etc. So what should I get? A 3/8" drive? 1/2" drive?

My current socket set is 1/2", 6-side sockets. But the impact driver that came with my air compressor is 3/8", so I'm thinking of getting some impact sockets. Either way, I need to get some metric sockets to work on our van.

I guess I don't quite know which way to go... any help is appreciated!

[SteveC]

i own a 1/2 and have a step down to 3/8 if needed works pretty well only use it for working on carb and stuff like that goes from 10 lbs up to like 120 lbs works for what i need

[James72]

I agree, a 1/2" is a good all around torque wrench, if your getting into steering box and transmission setups then Id get an inch pound torque wrench too, a 3/8" is handy for when torqueing a bunch of little bolts cause they are lite, but rarely needed


James

[basketcase0302]

The 1/2" is common, (I've owned a "beam" type for over 25 years).
Been a good dependable tool, maybe cause I treat my tools like gold.
Like James said: I finally got an inch pound last month to adjust the bands on the Ranchero tranny.

a step down to 3/8 if needed

Gotta realize that even a deep well socket can change torque values, probably the adapter as well?

Jeff