Torque wrench
 

Being a DIY monkey, im embarking on a journey to do some simpler jobs on the bike myself. To that end, Im looking at buying a torque wrench, but havent got a clue what Im looking for! Any pointers?

[Edited on 24-3-2005 by khu996]

probably better to get 2. one for the small bolts and one for the really high torque needed on some of the big bolts

Most decent quality ones will do an adequate job. One that "clicks" when you reach the preset torque level will probably be the easiest to use as opposed to the analogue pointer types. You probably want a torque range from about 15-200 Nm.

Here are a couple example:
Low priced from Screwfix
Another lower priced example

Of course, you can spend well over £100 for top quality ones. As usual, you pretty much get what you pay for.

RIDE mag rated some a few months ago. Halfords own came out top - about £50 each. They do them in different torque ranges as well.

Ive got the Sealey one, has done the job for the last few years, cheap aswell.

Thanks lads. Ive been looking on fleabay, and can see the usual crap that you see in pound shops all over the country! :lol:

So, I should spend a reasonable amount and get a quality branded one?

Hello Khu996



I bought a Torque wrench in Argos (£20 or there abouts) big beasty. Ok for rear wheel, engine bolts etc

But does the job.

Cheap and chearful . .

regards

TopiToo

[Edited on 15-07-1968 by TopiToo]

The Halfords Professional ones are great...they also come with a no quibble lifetime guarantee.
Bear in mind that you can go as low as 7Nm on 6mm fasteners so that may be worth thinking about as a low end value

Felix, I like the look of the Sealey you provided the link to, thanks.

As for working on my bike, should I go for a 3/8 or 1/2" drive?

get the one that fits your socket set 1/2 is best for general use but if you go to 3/4 and get a set of reducer sockets i.e 3/4 to 1/2 and 1/2 to 3/8 and also 3/8 to 1/4 youll have a tool to do everything-- although the smaller sizenuts and bolts you should really get a small torque wrench for -- thats what i do any way - but you havent got to listen to me i know nothin:D