Lower Measuring Torque Wrench?

[robindean]

Some time ago, I'd posted my beginning questions in torque asking which wrench type I should buy. I've since purchased a decent 10-100 ft-lb click-type wrench (a snap-on imitation) with a lifetime warranty. I like it.

Still, I need another one. I want to carefully and accurately torque what are now hex/alan screws on my engine covers. I'm not sure what they're supposed to be torqued to but I'm guessing it's below 10 ft-lbs.

Can you refer me to a 0-10 ft-lb torque wrench that will do the job?

Also, and someone already told me this but I've since lost the figure, what are the engine cover screws supposed to be torqued to?

Note: if you're about to skip directly to the "don't worry about it, just get it tight and be careful" statement, save your typing. I like to be accurate and am looking for the figure and the tool that will provide said accuracy

 

[16VGTIDave]

Sounds like you want an inch-lb torque wrench.

They are cute. I have one. Never used it. Not even when working on aircraft. Inch-lb measurements are "just snug", or as a Brit I knew used to say, "just nift". And unless you are willing to pay to have it calibrated frequently, it is worse than not using one. Do NOT trust a torque wrench unless it has been calibrated, especially an inch-lb torque wrench!

That said, good for you for wanting to be accurate!

 

[robindean]

Good to know.

I've sent a couple questions to this seller about this listing:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-2-Dr-Digi...LB-IN-LB-Adapter-LED-/271043861088#vi-content

It reads that it measures between 30-150 ft-lbs, which isn't what I'm looking for but I find that suspect as if you read further it also says it reads inches and centimeters. We'll see.

Then there's this one but it would only allow me up to 5 ft-lbs ...

http://www.treefortbikes.com/produc...-Wrench.html?gclid=CP_vq66oibUCFckWMgodjDQAxQ

... and finally this meter which, again, starts at 15 ft-lbs. and is thereby not what I need LOL:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_...i&srccode=cii_184425893&cpncode=31-74308822-2

What to do. I'll keep searching.

Honestly, something like those digital adapters would suit me best, if I can find one that is within 0-20 or something. The reason being that I can attach that to a socket screwdriver and TWIST up to the intended amount rather than applying leverage.

 

[drewpy]

I use a NM torque wrench, snap on.

starts at 7.5 up to 25nm

you need to convert but I've started to know the usuall settings e.g. 10mn for side case bolts

 

[robindean]

Thanks for the tip!

So, then 10nm for ALL side case bolts? That meaning the right engine cover (with the oil reticial), the left engine cover, the (left) generator cover and the (left) front sprocket cover?

Thanks again. I'm writing all of this down and also adding to my phone's app.

Side note: if you have an Android based phone, "Car Maintenance Reminder Pro" ... excellent. Works well with motorcycles as well, which is all I use it for.

Edit: 10nm = 7.375621493 ft-lbs ... I'll just round it down to 7 and call it good.

 

[Maxim-umm]

check out these pages for torque measurements.

 

[robindean]

Well, those pages suggest something slightly different, assuming that "pan head screws" (next to "crankcase cover" and such) means what I think it means.

What exact year, make, model and submodel does this refer to? Seca? Maxim?

Edit: I suppose the real question is, is this for the '82 DOHC?

 

[Maxim-umm]

These pages are for the "82 xs400 Seca/Maxim

 

[robindean]

Alright, well, I'm a little more than embarrassed as I do, in fact, use the pdf manuals often. I should have known better.

Still, it's always good to ask. I realize much of what I've posted in this thread is filled with question marks. I thank you for pointing out the obvious

So, now, from what I'm reading, the engine cover bolts should be torqued to a meager 5 ft-lbs.

I've been looking all over the web for a screwdriver style in-lbs torque tool with a socket attachment. I've found a few. They're pretty damn expensive. I need at least 90 in-lbs max torque.

Here's one I'm considering ... http://www.flexibleassembly.com/Products/Tohnichi-Product-Index/NTD1000CN

The only reason I like this one is because I'm fairly sure I can twist out 5-10 pounds of torque without any need for leverage. Heck, they include a t-bar should I really need it.

Leverage, I feel, will lead to stripping the alan screw heads just because of unnecessary angles and such.

This is also why I'd love to find an in-lbs (not ft-lbs) digital adaptor. I figure that would do nicely. The search continues.

Edit: I'd like to find something like this that does 0 - 100 in-lbs ('mercan' inch pounds) ... http://www.amazon.com/Alltrade-940759-Powerbuilt-Digital-Adaptor/dp/B0031QPJZG

Edit 2: Found one that I'm leaning towards pretty heavily: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/998374/weaver-torque-wrench-screwdriver