Was a mechanic for a long time. Towards the end of my job I started to rely on a 3/8 digital TW. Now I don't trust my "feel" and no longer have the digital. Can't afford a new one. Got an oil and coolant change coming up. Any advice?
What do you need a torque wrench for on either of those jobs? Both drain plugs have a crush washer, filter hand tight, radiator cap installed by hand.
I love my manual Craftsman models. They're the only ones I've used that stay true. I've checked them against the big boys models a few times. Had mine since I was a teen. Not sure how the newer ones are. Steer clear of Harbor Freight and the other cheapies in this category. I have some of those and they're not even close. You could also go with the ones with the flexible bar on them. I use those for track days.
I wouldn't use a torque wrench for those tasks either, but..... https://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-ARM602-3-Digital-Adapter-Audible/dp/B004VYUKTC/
Last time I used a torque wrench for my oil plug was very early in my experience with bikes, and on my 06 VFR. You know the one. It was pretty much the first time I had ever used a torque wrench too. I mis set the damned thing and stripped the threads on the oil pan. Ever since then I used just a rachet and socket and tightened it my feel. I have found that if you are using a new crush washer, you can make it snug first then keep tightening it until you can actually feel the crush washer, crush a bit. That has worked for me ever since. With the oil filter, hand tight is all that is needed. And not hand tight like you are arm wrestling Popeye. Or come out and borrow mine. If I come out to White Rock in the near future, I will reach out to you and if you still need it, I will bring you one.
