The Ford Barn

metro1 · 10-17-2023, 06:07 PM

How does everyone maintain the accuracy of their torque wrench? I've had mine for quite a few years and have no idea how accurate it is. From what I've seen on the net is costs more to get one calibrated than a new one. I saw how some people hang a weight on the handle and using a math formula do it that way but that was debatable if it was really accurate. I need to install new head gaskets and need to be sure for proper torque. I guess I could buy a new one but that might not be correct either.

Dobie Gillis · 10-17-2023, 06:50 PM

You'll be OK with a new one if it's a quality piece. I'd shy away from one from Horror Fright or any made of Chineseum. The secret to keeping one accurate is to release the spring tension when you're done using it by resetting it to 0.

RKS.PA · 10-17-2023, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by metro1

How does everyone maintain the accuracy of their torque wrench? I've had mine for quite a few years and have no idea how accurate it is. From what I've seen on the net is costs more to get one calibrated than a new one. I saw how some people hang a weight on the handle and using a math formula do it that way but that was debatable if it was really accurate. I need to install new head gaskets and need to be sure for proper torque. I guess I could buy a new one but that might not be correct either.

One way to check is to borrow one from a friend whose wrench might be newer than yours....and assuming a quality brand... and do a side by side test??

Dobie Gillis · 10-17-2023, 07:05 PM

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Here's a DIY method to calibrate your wrench:

https://www.wikihow.com/Calibrate-a-Torque-Wrench

10-17-2023, 06:07 PM	#1
metro1 Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2022 Location: Richmond,Virginia Posts: 131	Torque Wrenches How does everyone maintain the accuracy of their torque wrench? I've had mine for quite a few years and have no idea how accurate it is. From what I've seen on the net is costs more to get one calibrated than a new one. I saw how some people hang a weight on the handle and using a math formula do it that way but that was debatable if it was really accurate. I need to install new head gaskets and need to be sure for proper torque. I guess I could buy a new one but that might not be correct either.

10-17-2023, 06:50 PM	#2
Dobie Gillis Senior Member Join Date: May 2012 Location: Middle TN Posts: 1,060	Re: Torque Wrenches You'll be OK with a new one if it's a quality piece. I'd shy away from one from Horror Fright or any made of Chineseum. The secret to keeping one accurate is to release the spring tension when you're done using it by resetting it to 0. __________________ Often wrong but never in doubt.

10-17-2023, 07:05 PM	#4
Dobie Gillis Senior Member Join Date: May 2012 Location: Middle TN Posts: 1,060	Re: Torque Wrenches Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) Here's a DIY method to calibrate your wrench: https://www.wikihow.com/Calibrate-a-Torque-Wrench __________________ Often wrong but never in doubt.