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do i need a torque wrench?

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Old Jun 22, 2011 | 11:26 PM
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Default do i need a torque wrench?
so i bought a new derby cover and i need to know if i need a torque wrench to install it. i know that there is a torque spec for the bolts but is it actually necessary or is the old good and tight method fine?
 
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Old Jun 22, 2011 | 11:33 PM
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The general answer is Yes, you do need a torque wrench.

But you'll be fine without it to put the derby cover back on - just don't over torque the little screws.
 
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Old Jun 22, 2011 | 11:58 PM
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I use a 1/4" ratchet for the small stuff. Grip it with your whole hand so as not to get to much leverage. I own two torque wrenches and never use them unless im doing heads or something.
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 06:41 AM
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If you have to ask means YOU need one.
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 07:03 AM
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Originally Posted by OldMike
If you have to ask means YOU need one.
Ditto.
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 07:06 AM
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I use one all the time, especially when using steel screws in aluminium
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 07:26 AM
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You might not need it for the derby cover, but why not buy one and then you have it handy when you do need one.
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 07:29 AM
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Definitely better safe than sorry. That's a resounding YES! You will find that correct torques "feel" like less than you would have applied free hand.
 
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 08:04 AM
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If you have to ask, then you need one - That's a pretty good answer. If you use your brain, thinking about what the fasteners are doing and how much they can take before you do damage... then again the only way to learn that is through the experience of snapping some bolts...

The Edge... there is no honest way to explain it because the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over.
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Old Jun 23, 2011 | 08:12 AM
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personally i used to snap bolts all the time so i use a torque wrench when the need arrises
 
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