Torque wrench for engine assembly

[RustyShackleford]

Which torque wrenches are y'all using when assembling your Kohler Ks? I have a 3/8" 20-100 ft-lbs wrench (and a 1/2" 50-250 but that's certainly not going to be used here ). Most in-lb torque wrenches for sale seem to top out around 200 in-lb, which is less than the 260 in-lb needed to torque the posi-lock nuts on my K241 connecting rod. Now, 260 in-lb is the same as 21-2/3 ft-lb, but I don't think I trust a 3/8" 20-100 ft-lb wrench to be accurate enough to hit that properly.

So, I'm in search of a good in-lb wrench that will do the trick here. Wondering what your thoughts are. Thanks

[Billy-O]

My thoughts are that it depends on who made the torque wrench..... I wouldn't use any of the Harbor Fright crap or some other cheap brand. Go with a good reputable brand such as Snap-On, Mac or older Craftsman USA made wrenches. If your 3/8" wrench is the kind that has a "click" feel when you hit the mark, it would be hard to feel that click since it's on the bottom end of the wrench's range where the click is weak but I still use it if it's a GOOD wrench since it is in range. More important is to be consistent bolt to bolt and go over the bolts again after tighten them all the first time.

A good torque wrench is a considerable investment for two bolts...... Perhaps you can rent one or borrow one.... Some automotive stores will accompany you.

[RustyShackleford]

I find it hard to justify not buying a good torque wrench. Both of mine are Protos.

It is an investment for just two or so fasteners…but I ended up ordering a 0-300 in-lb dial-type torque wrench from CDI, the 3002LDINSS. I know this isn’t the last time I’ll use it.

[SS5150]

I've got a Craftsman 10-75 ft lbs clicker type here at the house and a Snap On flex 5-75 ft lbs at work. I also have a SO 0-100 in lbs wrench at work. I think if you try ebay you should be able to find something similar in new or very good used condition for not much money. If I recall the Craftsman was under $50, but it's been 10 yrs since I bought it.

I wouldn't rule out a NOS Napa or KD torque wrench with the appropriate capacity either.

[green407]

My primary torque wrench at home is a Mac tools TWXF75, it's a 3/8" drive, 5 - 75 ft/lbs. Now I bought mine used so it didn't cost me $400, but I did spend the $50 to have it checked and calibrated.

As for what I recommend, the best you can afford. I don't know how often you'll need it, but it's nice to have good tools. Yes I can afford a lot of Snap-on and Mac tools, but using my tools is how I eat and put a roof over my head.

[RustyShackleford]

Great tips and suggestions guys, thank you.

The torque wrench came in. This should work nicely for what I need (and many other situations in years to come). It's a nice piece.

[SLS327]

That looks real nice! Did it come with a calibration sheet?
Even has the mip, which most those types have.

Fwiw i use a 3/8 craftsman clicker type, 1/2 matco 25 to 250 iirc, for really little things pittsburgpro 1/4".

[RustyShackleford]

Yep, it came with a calibration sheet.