Torque Wrenches by Torque Range, Drive & Type

A torque wrench is accurate across the middle of its range and least accurate at the extremes. That is why the figure being set should sit well inside the range rather than at either end, and why a workshop covering a wide span usually needs two wrenches rather than one large one. Torque is also the one figure on a fastener that cannot be judged by feel, however experienced the hand.

Drive size follows the sockets and the fastener. The range here covers 3/8 inch for engine and interior work, 1/2 inch for wheels and suspension, and 3/4 inch and 1 inch for commercial fasteners. A torque figure set through an adaptor between drives is no longer reliable.

Type decides how the setting is made and read. A click wrench is set on the handle and signals when the figure is reached, which needs nothing but the tool. A digital wrench displays the reading as it builds and can hold a target, which suits a joint where the figure changes between fasteners. Sealey run click and digital ladders across 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch drives.

Cordless torque wrenches sit at the commercial end, running the fastener down and shutting off at a set figure. The Chicago Pneumatic CP8603 family covers 3/4 inch at 36V and the CP8609 family runs 36V and 1 inch across B, BT, C, CT, xC and xCT variants. Calibration is not claimed here. Questions go over WhatsApp on 07754288583. Draper hold ratchet torque wrenches including the 64534 at 3/8 inch drive covering 10 to 80Nm.