How to Care for Torque Tools

Despite the roles they perform, you should handle torque tools like a fragile piece of equipment. Never use the wrench with a cheater bar or as a breaker. Sensitive internal parts make can easily be deformed from improper use or sudden shocks. Anytime there a wrench is dropped or struck it should immediately be taken out of service and recalibrated.

It’s tempting to use a wrench maxing out at 100 ft-lbs for a 100 ft-lbs job, but using a tool maxing out at 150 or 200 ft-lbs will give you more accurate results. Setting a torque tool to its maximum settings will tend to give less accurate readings.

Since heat and humidity can ruin torque tools, keep tools in a cool, dry place when not in use. Humidity in the air can cause an internal condensation rusting internal parts, and heat can cause the lubricants to liquefy and seep. We recommend storing the tool in a temperature controlled room in its original case.

Always turn your torque tool to a lower setting after use. The internal spring of click-style wrenches will reset after being extended too long. When turning your tools to a lower setting, be cautious not to drop below the lowest torque setting as this can also cause damage.

Always make sure the torque tool’s internal parts are properly lubricated between uses. An easy way to ensure proper lubrication is to twist the knurled handle counter-clockwise then clockwise until the mechanism runs smoothly. If the mechanism doesn’t run smoothly after a few twists, the grease has either dried up or leaked out. A tool without grease needs professional repair and calibration before being used again.