Torque Wrench Usage Tips
Torque Wrenches are not just tools but precision measuring instruments
Selecting Accessories
- Do not use extension bars or pipes that will alter the effective length of the tool
- Do not use offset heads or head extensions that are not designed for the tool
- Use only sockets, bits, and drive adapters that are assured strength to withstand usage torque.
Prior to Use
- Confirm usage torque value and compare with maximum torque value of the tool
- Over torquing tool may result in unrepairable damage, so make sure there is enough buffer zone on the top end of the range and the specific torque requirements for each application.
- For adjustable tools, confirm that the torque value is set properly and that the units of measure required match the scale of the tool
- For preset tools, confirm torque set and for more quality assurance–quick spot check using a Torque Checker (LC2-G) to confirm torque set value.
- Visually check the tool for any type of physical damage.
- If tools has been recently reset or in storage, exercise the wrench by clicking it a few times to insure internal spring has seated properly to insure more consistent and repeatable torque applications.
Apply Proper Force
- Apply force in the direction marked “only” indicated on the body of the tool.
- Majority of tools are for CW tightening, but some tools can be used in the CCW direction when indicated in specification and on the tool.
- Avoid consistently using torque tools to loosen fasteners
- Apply force to the center of the handle
- Since torque is calculated by length X force the effective length point is the optimal position to apply force
- Grasping at end of handle or up onto the body will affect the applied torque.
- Tohnichi products have a line or mark on the handle to indicate the effective length point
- Since torque is calculated by length X force the effective length point is the optimal position to apply force
- Click and Stop
- Continuing to pull through the click may result in applying higher torque.
- Apply with steady force, as not to create momentum that may throw you off balance or lead to over torque.
Just Don’t Do It
- Do not use as a hammer or other uses the tool was not intended for
- Do not apply over torque
- Do not use extensions (unless it is part of the tool like QLE)
- Do not use if you are uncertain of its last calibration or torque set
- Do not use underwater–it’s gonna rust out!
- Do not apply grease to the ratchet head–it may slip creating unintended momentum for the user.
Storage
- For Adjustable types, move graduation to lowest setting to take tension off of the spring–it will extend the life of the tool.
- Keep in conditions with low humidity and consistent temperatures.
- If possible keep in storage case to protect from dust and to prevent the tool from coming into contact with other tooling that might cause external damage.
Calibration
- Tohnichi manual torque tools are normally guaranteed up to 100,000 tightening cycles or 1 year. For click type torque wrenches, it can be also be used up to 1,000,000 tightening cycles if the function is properly maintained and adjusted every 100,000 cycles.
- Depending on your quality requirements, torque tools should be checked periodically for accuracy. At the very least a tools should be checked annually, but should be checked more often if used with high frequency and if more strict accuracy requirements are needed.