Ive got a Snap On tork wrench, hardly ever use it. I just tighten nuts and bolts down with just feeling it.

 

Way back in the 60's we build hot rods and fixed everyone's car. Never used a torque wrench. Until rear ends and engines started coming apart in pieces.

Have worked as a mechanic all my life, ASE certified, factory certified, torque wrenches make a difference. Yes you can get away with out using them. But if you want to be sure it was done right 100 miles from home use the torque wrench.

 

Well, I have always used tq. wrenchs on every engine, trans or what ever need a proper tq. value. They are used for many reasons as stated. One of the most under or over torqued things that people do is allum. wheels on cars. If you ever wondered why that brake pedal pulsates? I have over 50k on the RK with no (NO) oil leaks. Now I am not saying that some one who has wrenched forever cannot tighten up a bolt or bolts evenly, but with torque wrenchs so cheap nowadays why not?

 

My question is, why wouldn't you use a torque wrench on anything with published torque specs?

 

It is a wise decision to at least torque the fasteners on the critical fastener list. It sure does not take much longer and as it states in the owners manual it could lead to serious injury or death.

In the recent past there has been several posts about the bolts shearing off on the rear belt pulling. So not only is torque specs critical but not reusing certain bolts is important also.

When I do something, I believe it is worth doing right. It also gives a certain satisfaction about doing quality work on a machine. That is why I don't take it to a dealer.

 

I'll admit that I have a habit of over thinking things. That being said, I believe that torque values are listed in the service manual for a reason, so I torque accordingly. I do have several buddies that believe in the 'ole goodn'tight method too though.

 

I always Lock tight and Twrench everything with my scoot. I have the value book and go over the bike all the time with it.

 

Couldn't aree more oct1949. I wrenched for GM dealers for 17 years, after a while you can get real close by feal. However, some folks never get the feel for it. For them, a TQ wrench is a must all the time. I always use it on engine or driveline parts.

 

Lots of good responses so far. And a few different opinions as I expected.

And just to be clear, I do have several torque wrenches and use them when it's appropriate.

Nothing wrong with torquing every fastener if it makes you feel comfortable. I just don't think it's always necessary.

 

I recently used my torque wrench for the first time, when I put an engine guard on my wife's Sportster. I didn't need it, but I have it, so why not. Everything else I've ever done has been fine without it, from Derby covers to handlebars and exhaust.