I know the instructions from HD for just about everything list torque specs for most fasteners, but just how important is this? I can't imagine it being super important, but maybe I'm wrong?

Chris

 

Heck no.

A small pipe wrench and a pair of vice grips will do.

 

I don't use one. I just tighten them snug with blue locktite.

 

I would not tighten anything motor related without a torque wrench.

 

Yes, you need a torque wrench, just not on every fastener.

There are recent threads on this--try a search.

 

Or axel related.

 

I definately wouldn't assemble anything involving a gasket or a bearing and not use torque specs, but then again I also assume the engineers that designed the thing know a little more about it than I do. I don't think they give torque specs simply for the heck of it or to confuse the guy working on the bike. I think they list them for a reason. At any rate, I torque to whatever they say. If there is a range, I try to tighten it to the midpoint of the range. Silly me, I also follow the tightning sequence if they list one.

 

What he said.

 

Definitely a must have tool if you want to do a professional job. I can probably get by without one but for a minimal investment I have the peace of mind knowing that I did the job by the book. Besides, I like any excuse for buying new tools!

 

If you ever do a critical fastner check you will need one..... for small bolts and screws I usually do them by feel. From reading some things people have done such as breaking small bolts and screws thats a good reason to use one.