Got told my torque wrench habits were lazy and it stuck with me

Back when I was working at a fleet shop in Toledo, an old timer saw me torque a set of head bolts. I did the pattern right, but I was just pulling the wrench to the click and moving on. He said, 'You're just making noise. You gotta feel the bolt stretch, listen for the click, then hold it for a second. You're rushing the metal.' That phrase, 'rushing the metal,' really got to me. I started slowing down, feeling that final bit of tension settle, and holding the torque for a full two count before moving to the next bolt. It added maybe ten minutes to a head job, but I swear I had fewer come-backs for minor leaks. Anyone else have a small habit they changed that made a big difference in the long run?

3 comments

3 Comments

logan2368d ago

Actually, a tap is for cutting threads, not for compression tests.

grace_gonzalez469d ago

That whole "feeling the stretch" thing is a real concept. It's like when you're running a tap for a compression test on a small engine. You can just crank it down, or you can go slow at the end and actually feel the fitting seat perfectly. That last little bit of careful turn makes all the difference for a good seal. Rushing it always seems to end with a slow drip you have to go back for.

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lucasw821d ago

Honestly, gotta love how @logan236 jumps in with the technical correction while missing the whole point of the analogy. Tbh that "feeling the stretch" is exactly like torquing a lug nut, you just know when it's seated right. Ngl, rushing any of that stuff is a sure way to spend your Saturday fixing a leak.