There are multiple versions of a 36mm box wrench on the market. Some have a 3/8" square cut out for a torque wrench and some have a 1/2" square cut out for a torque wrench. There's a significant difference in cost between the two. My question: Has anyone successfully applied 95-105 ft lbs of torque (spec according to the manual) to the rear wheel axle nut when reinstalling the axle using a 3/8" torque wrench? Or can it be accomplished by using a 1/2" torque wrench with a 1/2"-3/8" adapter on the wrench?

I can't be the only person that has asked this question however my search of this forum came up empty. Any input is appreciated.

 

The torque will be the same with a 3/8 or 1/2 drive. The 1/2 drive torque wrench will require less effort to move because it will most likely be longer. But to answer your question, yes a 1/2 drive socket using a 3/8 reducer will work on a 3/8 drive torque wrench.

 

I have a Kobalt 36mm socket that's a 1/2" drive that I use. Bought it at Lowes. My experience is those adapters are lousy when applying high torque. I bent the crap out of one applying 140ftlbs of torque to a compensator bolt. I also think the adapter might interfere with a correct torque reading.

 

I have the 36mm wrench with a 1/2 square drive adaptor. I have used it multiple times with tire changes and belt adjustment with no trouble. If memory serves me correctly I purchased it on ebay.

 

I can't recall the exact size but it's either 1 1/16, 1 1/8 or 1 1/4" socket it fits fine an I can torque it to spec.

 

I use one. And I tq with it. The flat wrench is cool for adjusting the belt while leaving the bags on too.

 

I purchased the smaller 36mm wrench from HD PN 94695-08 $14.60 from Surdyke HD, for the sole purpose of adjusting the belt. (Just to rotate the axle). I purchased the 36mm Torque Adapter with1/2 drive adapter for the purpose of torqueing down the nut. Purchased from Summit Racing $27.00 PN OTC-4882 the adapter is heavy duty, looks exactly like the one from Jims that cost $58.00. Works fine, never have to remove mufflers for tire change or belt adjustments. Just remove the two rear mounting bolts and let muffler hang enough to get the axle out on left side when changing a tire.

 

Wow... 140lbs is quite a bit more than a rear axle. The adapter I have has worked well on rear axles, as designed, I never thought to use it on anything else....

When using an adapter or crows foot, the torque will be accurate if:

1) you use the torque wrench at right angle with the adapter length (length of the lever is unchanged).

2) if you measure the distance the adapter adds to the end of the wrench (lever length is extended) and use a formula/chart/online calculator to adjust the torque accordingly....

 

I've tried a bunch of stuff, including the ridiculous jims nut holder thing. Bent like silly putty. I do not believe a tool can repeatedly apply 100 or so ft lbs using a 3/8 drive.