I was re-installing the controls on my handlebar the other day after an adjustment and, as I always do, looked up the torque setting for that screws that hold the controls to the bars. Yep, there's a specified torque. But - having watched certified Harley-Davidson mechanics install stuff I think most folks just get it "tight". When I was having my pull back bars installed I asked the mechanic what the torque setting was for the handlebar bolts. He said "tight".

So - the question is - how many people actually use the prescribed torque setting for most fasteners? I'm thinking a lot do not. What's your experience?

 

I can tell you that when M3 and I do any work on our bikes we look up and use the recommended torque settings. We also step the torque settings.

 

I agree that's the way it should be done!

 

I own 5 different torque wrenches for this very reason, if a manufacturer has a torque spec I will follow it. I know when the techs at the Harley dealer does their HD trained they sure are not told tight as the proper torque for a fastener.

 

They sure aren't. I have 3 torque wrenches and a torque screwdriver. I do wish my light weight torque wrench was a bit smaller and lighter just for things like the handlebar control screws.

 

Also as Mike said he follows the manufacture's specs. Don't just tighten a bolt or nut to max specs for the fastener. The manufacture might have a different spec for a given application.
Bolt manufactures have specs for all bolts they make. But this many times is different than application.

 

M3 actually lets me use his torque wrenches.

 

M3 said he has 5 tq wrenches....... I bet he has 6..... one is hid....

 

Torque screwdriver is one thing I haven't gotten yet, may have to pick on of those up sometime. I have a couple 1/4" drive snap on torque wrenches I use for the small stuff, one is 10 - 50 in/lbs which I use on outer fairing screws.

 

Do you follow the torque settings for the oil fill cap?