Are these REALLY needed when working on cars? I've been looking through the service manual and many bolts are shown to be tightened to a certain spec. However, I've always just used a regular socket wrench and tightened it until I couldn't tighten anymore. Looks like most of the service techs just impact any bolt they come across, so I don't see a real need for it. Should I go buy one?
Torque Wrench
- Thread starter t3ase
- Start date
YES IT IS!
Specially when working with main bearings, rods, rod bearings, head bolts, cams, etc.
They are all moving parts, some need some clearance for oil to go thru and lubricate the parts.
If you dont do it the right way you will loose the engine.
For example, if you tighten the rods into the crankshaft too much, they will not lubricate enough, overheat, and eventually brake.
If you leave them loose, will unbalance them, damage the bearings and then the crankshaft.
And that means a NEW ENGINE will be needed.
Specially when working with main bearings, rods, rod bearings, head bolts, cams, etc.
They are all moving parts, some need some clearance for oil to go thru and lubricate the parts.
If you dont do it the right way you will loose the engine.
For example, if you tighten the rods into the crankshaft too much, they will not lubricate enough, overheat, and eventually brake.
If you leave them loose, will unbalance them, damage the bearings and then the crankshaft.
And that means a NEW ENGINE will be needed.
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- 2015 BMW 335i Sedan / 2015 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD
Yeah, I need to get a good torque wrench...good tool to have...
boostisgood
Member
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- 1988 FC3S TII
DOnt forget suspension parts, brakes, lugs, just about any bolt that has to do with the actual operation of the motor vehicle, will need some sort of torque specification. 
100% ...without a doubt...no questions asked....requirement for anyone that touches their car.
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
Sort of off topic. Anyone know the ft lbs for the stock strut bar?
I took it off a while ago to paint, but did not use a torque wrench when i put it back on. Just made it hand tight.
I took it off a while ago to paint, but did not use a torque wrench when i put it back on. Just made it hand tight.
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
Thanks going out to check.
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
Yeah they were all at different lbs. Got them all at 15lbs now. Think that would mess up my handling having all different tightness.
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
Yeah might want to double check that. Strut bar would make sense to be equal since it is connected to the struts, could throw off the balance maybe 
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
If you don't feel any problems must be correct.
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- 2006 Shadow Blue GLI
Yeah , it would seem that way. But you never know.
