Just realized my buddy was right about those cheap torque wrenches

He told me 'anything under $80 is a clicky ruler' after my Harbor Freight one was 15 ft-lbs off on a head gasket job. Anyone have a solid mid-range brand they actually trust?

3 comments

3 Comments

lucaslee1mo ago

Yeah, "clicky ruler" is the perfect way to put it. I saw a video once where a guy tested a bunch, and the cheap ones were all over the map after just a few uses. It's scary to think about on something important like a head gasket. For a mid-range option, I've heard good things about Tekton for the money, they seem to hold their calibration. Makes you realize some tools just aren't worth the risk.

reesemoore1mo ago

My buddy learned this the hard way. He used a bargain bin torque wrench on his motorcycle's cylinder head. The thing clicked way early, he stripped the threads right out of the aluminum block. Cost him a whole new engine case and a huge repair bill. That clicky sound from a cheap tool can be the most expensive noise you'll ever hear.

laura_wright1mo ago

Bought a cheap one for my truck's suspension work and it wasn't even close after a month. Had to redo a control arm because it clicked way too late and the bolt was practically flying off.