Date: Mon, 23 Mar 2015 17:46:20 -0400
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Torque wrenches
In-Reply-To: <CAJ-pOoaJR58v_R9n2Y00e00Z8pNRypho2MCLY7YUe-O3g0nY5w@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
When it comes to using torque wrenches there are a number of factors that
need to be considered for successful use.
There is some skill involved in using one including the clicker type. The
fastener and mating parts need to be prepped for the application. Torque
wrenches are precision tools and especially the clicker types need to be
properly used and stored. Regular calibration is required for critical work
such as head assemblies and connecting rods. The goal is to achieve the
proper clamping load for the assembly.
Torque should be applied smooth and steady, apply the torque and hold as
long as the fastener continues to turn.
Never use a torque wrench to "break" or loosen a fastener. For the big stuff
that is why there are breaker bars.
When finished always lower the setting on the wrench so that the spring is
relaxed.
When prepping a fastener consider the lubrication and why! Some lubricants
can require torque to be reduced by as much as 40%. Do not use anti-seize of
wheel lugs.
Vibration is not the cause of fasteners coming loose. Yes it can make them
fall off afterwards. Loose fasteners are the result of a connection that
could not sustain the clamp load. Some solid lubricants can make for a loose
connection as it fills gaps that can work out leaving space making that
connection loose. Anti-Seize on the taper of a lug nut!
CV joints man I have seen my share of those come loose. This is acritical
application. Both the shear forces on the bolts and friction between the
joint and flange help to hold this together. Avoid that moly grease between
the joint and the flange. Use new bolts and check that they are of quality.
I have been getting some that junk in the kits. They just keep stretching.
All hardware should be marked with the grade, (property class) and
manufacturer. If buying bolts for this job look for P.C. 12.9.
When selecting fasteners, nuts, bolts, and washers need to be matched. No
sense having strong bolts if the washers dish out letting the connection
come loose.
Hope some of this helps.
Dennis