Torque Wrenches Questions

[GC84ever]

I'm planning on buying a torque wrench so that I can apply the correct amount of torque on my lugnuts for when I change my rims.

First question:
Is there a big difference between an 1/2" and 3/8" torque wrench?

Second question:
Should I get the Crap tire Mastercraft or Craftsman torque wrench?
They are about the same price.

thanks for the help.

sorry guys i just realized i meant Craftsman, I forgot that mastercraft belongs to Canadian tire.

[chris]

1/2" and 3/8" are the size of the knob thing at the end of the wrench where you put the socket on.

[abyss]

Get the plain mastercraft one if you're going Canadian Tire. You don't NEED to get the Maximum one as they both have lifetime warranties and there really isn't much else different. 1/2" will be a little stronger and should last a little longer, but sockets are more expensive for a 1/2" than a 3/8".

[Celica TVS3]

Get the 1/2". If you want to use 3/8" sockets you allready own you can a connector for it. Then in the future buy a good set of 1/2" sockets.

[BerserkerCatSplat]

I agree, go 1/2 inch and get an adapter. Unless you're torquing some really small bolts, the 3/8 is kinda useless.

I'm actually in the market for a new torque wrench, is there anywhere that they're cheaper than the usual $80 - $100? I'll probably get one with a lifetime warranty, just to be on the safe side.

[zhulander]

Torque wrenches are accurate in middle 85% of their range.

1/2 drives usually have broader range. (50ft/lbs to 250ft/lbs)
3/8 drives (20ft/lbs to 150ft/lbs)

For your application of just using them for lugnuts I would get the 1/2 drive because of less stress on the torque wrench.

I would get this one, it usually goes on sale for $70.
http://www.canadiantire.ca/assortments/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396669794&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474396670271&bmUID=1125361173822&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441901099&assortment=primary&fromSearch=true

[Seanith]

I've never used my torque wrench to torque the lug nuts on.. i find i can put the exact amount i need by hand.. and imo you should get the smaller one since its a lot more useable for other things as well. but you may not have a 3/8ths socket for your lugs? the 1/2 drive one is way too big for other things.. if you just want it for your lugs then 1/2 i guess.

[Khyron]

Get the 1/2 - I snapped the head off my 3/8ths, and again on a 1 inch extender.

Khyron

[rockym20]

The cheapest place is Princess Auto. They aren't the highest quality, but unless you are a mechanic by trade and use one everyday, they will last you plenty long enough.

[Weapon_R]

You'll definately need a 1/2", many applications for a torque wrench will require a 1/2"

[GC84ever]

Sorry guys I made a mistake in my original post :banghead:

Which would be better to buy?

Mastercraft from Canadian Tire or Craftsman for Sears?
They are about the same price.

[SwitchBlade]

I got the one from Canadian Tire cause I had the discount working there in the day. Also comes with lifetime warranty.

[RB25DET]

I would go with the one that is closest to your house for getting it warrantied if it does happen to break. I dont think your gonna notice a difference between the two, so i would base my opinion on that. And also keep in mind that at canadian tire its a bit more hassle free than going to a sears in a mall to get warranty. I would try and get it when it goes on sale though....either that, or pretend that you had a raincheck and get some kid to give it to you for sale price anyway......:thumbsup: