The local hardware store has a torque wrench on sale this week ($70 on sale for $40)...since Im planning on doing work on my car myself according to my abilities, how useful do you think a torque wrench would be ? Is it a useful tool to have which is often used, oris itonly used on a few occasionson more complexrepairs...or what type of jobsfor example would you use it for...
[*]3/8"-drive torque wrench, with 25 - 250 in/lbs. torque setting[*]1/2"-drive torque wrench, with 30 - 250" ft/lbs. torque setting[*]Plastic grip handle[*]Ideal for the medium-use DIYer[*]Lifetime manufacturer's warranty

 

my tq wrench is my best friend. i always tq everything i can to spec esp. lug nuts. that with a haynes manual are 2 great things to have. get the one for ft/lbs since most things are measured in ft/lbs.

 

A torque wrench is kind of like a seat belt. You don't need it very often, but when you do need one you really need it. Changing plugs, brake lines, fuel lines, you'll need it for all of these. If wrenching is a hobby you may be able to make it without one, but if you're going to be maintaining your car then you'll likely need it at some point. Just be sure it has a lifetime replacement warranty.

HTH,
Chris

 

as long as ya got one ya should be good... just remember the difference between FT/LBS and INCH/LBS

 

Thanks a lot for the comments guys!, I will pick one up this week...I boughta 2001 Civic EXa few weeks ago (I should post a picture in the new user section)...Ive never done much work on my previous cars, but as soon as it warms up Id like to start working on it myself...I think $40 is a pretty good price, they dont go on sale that often...

 

its reallygood for when changin the spark plugs

 

If you get one of the cheap clicker-type torque wrenches, keep in mind that the lower end of the scale usually has a high margin of error, sometimes as much as 30%....

 

Thanks...I always buy tools on sale then I never get around to using them...a few years ago I bought a special socket/ratchet wrenchwith extension for removing spark plugs...I never had a chance to use it yet, its still its in case...