How can you safely and accurately tighten bolts with torque wrenches?

Certainly! A torque wrench is a specialized tool used to apply a specific amount of torque, or rotational force, to a fastener such as a nut or bolt. It's important to apply the correct amount of torque to ensure that fasteners are properly tightened without being over-tightened or under-tightened. Torque wrenches have a mechanism that allows them to click, release, or indicate when the desired torque level has been reached, helping to prevent damage or failure of the fasteners or the materials they're attached to. They are commonly used in automotive, construction, and mechanical applications where precise torque is critical.

torque wrenches are a necessary tool when engaged in tightening fasteners of all types. they do lose calibration over time, especially if a click or hydraulic type is left engaged. recalibration is a necessary requirement to allow proper torque engagement of fasteners. do not leave them engaged. it is a common mistake often made with even the most experienced technicians

Select the appropriate torque wrench. There are various torque wrenches, each with its own range of torque settings. Choose a torque wrench that is appropriate for the size and type of bolts you will be tightening. Verify the calibration of the torque wrench. Torque wrenches should be calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy. You can have your torque wrench calibrated by a professional or purchase a torque wrench that has a built-in calibration feature. Align the torque wrench correctly. The torque wrench should be aligned at a 90-degree angle to the bolt axis. This will guarantee that the torque is applied evenly and accurately.

l do agree and also following the OEM manual on bolt tightening specifications. Following OEM specifications helps prevents over tightening and stretching bolts

I agree. Usually a click style is most suitable. A few considerations should be taken into account before torquing. 1. Type/types of material’s being fastened. 2. Temperature of materials being fastened. 3. What type of clamping force needs to be achieved ( specific torque value, torque plus rotation) 4. Fastening lubricant, how much, what type, and where to place it (if recommended/required) 5. Has the bore that the fastener is going into been in service or is it clean and new.

I always hold the the top of the torque wrench as I'm tightening to make sure it is securely on the bolt or nut and doesn't come off. My other hand is on the end of the handle. Then I slowly apply the torque needed until the wrench lets you know you hit the torque value. I always re-apply the torque again to make the sure the correct value is attained.

One thing l have also found helpful is buying torque wrenches from suppliers that offer periodical checks and service so that you get the exact torque required

I agree. Calibrations should be done at minimum every 12 months. There have been studies conducted showing ways to improve torque accuracy. I suggest looking into this.

The most important thing i do when it comes to click torque wrench is to make certain to zero it after use and keep it clean for whilst using it and after use .

I agree. Using a torque test tool prior to torquing could be beneficial to ensure your tool is accurate especially on critical components.

As much as we can talk about the manufacturer of the torque wrench and following torque specs. Every torque wrench needs to be serviced to check wether its still providing the actual torque when tested on the torque calculator. Other than that , we might be going for FT or BFT all the times

I agree, but again several studies have been conducted regarding how adapters, extensions and other devices affect the final torque. With some surprising results in what can make a torque event more accurate. I suggest reading up on this subject. Be sure to remove any slack before starting the torque pass and pull consistently throughout one movement. Avoid sudden jerks, or rapid movement when torquing. The movement should be slow, steady and if possible in one continuous motion.

Torque wrenches are precision tools and should be used expertly, cared for ,stored properly. Have seen better days in and around workshop's. Some guys in our trade after use ,they pack away the tool without zeroing it and safely storing away. It distorts everything! Imagine throwing around your cellphone exposing it to weather elements. It's life span is drastically reduced and won't work properly. Thus how delicate the above mentioned tool is, it has to do with your housekeeping ethics since back in the days you were an Appie and training. If your housekeeping is uncouth surely tool handling and procedures will always be a nightmare. TORQUE WRENCH it simplifies work but need TLC

Know your bolts, not all bolts can be reused some are one time use only. Some bolts need to be used with a lubricant and some have a dry torque. Make sure both the bolt and hole are clean.

Agreed. Proper usage, cleaning and storage ensures reliability for future use. Always use tools as designed or intended. Critical tools should be inspected before and after each use.

Always try to select a torque wrench were the torque value you are looking for is neither close to the top or bottom of the torque wrenches scale, they can often be inaccurate at ends of their scales

Know and perform the proper sequence on the bolt pattern and also the prescribed increase in torque increments with a suitable and calibrated/tested wrench

Extensions don’t cause less torque/torque loss in a solid/steady push/pull. With high frequency impact you definitely lose torque. But it will be an equal amount of force on each end of an extension in order to meet the final torque you’re set for no matter how much the extension “torsions” either way the bolt refuses at that set amount of your ratchet click.

Extensions set at 90 degs from the handle will not increase the torque applied to a bolt. Whatever the torque wrench is set at is the torque applied. Anything over or under 90 degs will affect the applied torqued and should be considered before using the torque wrench.

Unless the procedure specifies, all tightening torques are done with dry hardware. Lubricated nuts and bolts drastically change the tension the hardware has at an indicated torque specification. Always dry, unless specified.