How important is a torque wrench for changing all three holes, I am changing oil for the first time.

 

I'd say it's fairly important if you want to make sure you get a good seal on the gaskets and whatnot. It's an especially good idea for the derby cover on the primary since the screws are going into aluminum and you don't want to strip one and have to buy a new primary cover. You'll use it enough to justify the expense if you do any other work on your bike since almost everything else is better off torqued to spec instead of guesstimated. I'd say a good torque wrench is almost as important as a service manual.

 

I have a really nice 'digital' torque wrench but I don't use it on those holes. I just put a little pipe 'dope' on the threads and tighten them down until I feel it bottom out. Never had a problem doing it that way. I'd sooner have a bolt come loose than strip one.

 

Exactly....I just snug them down. have never trusted any of the 10 or 11 torque wrenches I've had...

 

Its a must.....if your going to do anything yourself on your bike the #1 thing is a service manual #2 is a torque wrench.

 

And number 3 is quality tools. Well said Ed.

Drew

 

Thanks for all the replies, I have a service manual and I use craftsman tools, however the reviews I have seen for their torx is not that good, looking into other makes, any suggestions ??

 

For just changing fluids, I wouldn't say they are very important. As one reply stated, just used some thread sealer on your plugs and tighten them down until they bottom out. ON THE OTHER HAND, if you plan on doing any other type of wrenching to your scoot such as changing wheels, handle bars/risers, etc, then torque wrenches (quality ones) I think are a must. I own three myself and do most of my own services and all of my mods and good torque wrenches are so invaluable as far as I am concerned.

 

Its not important. You will get a feel for how tight the plugs are with a little practice. I never use a torque wrench and have never had a problem.

 

A fairly subjective issue...some guys have the feel while others strip threads and keep tightening til something breaks. If you're in the latter category, use the torque wrench.