Torque Wrench Recommendation

I would like to add a torque wrench to my tool inventory. Doing more of the basic/intermediate work on my 2008 Tacoma Pre-Runner with 110,000 mi.
Which drive would be better? 3/8” or 1/2”?

 

Depends on what you are going to do. Not being trite, it's just the way it is. If you are going to do a lot, you need both. If you have a specific task in mind, you could buy one now and add another later.

1/2 for bigger stuff like lugnuts and such.

3/8 for external engine stuff.

I'll admit I rarely use a torque wrench for routine work.

Timing belt, pulley and suspension work is about it.

Engine internals and such as that, of course I would.

Look through specs of things you anticipate working on. Some bits are marked in inch pounds, not ft lbs. So you have to convert to keep from snapping stuff off. Be careful and double check what you are reading.

 

Thanks Clearwater Bill. Good advice. Appreciate that.
Not likely I would be doing any internal engine work.
Spark plugs replacement is on my list. Working slowly toward other tasks.

 

You need both, if you only have 1 make it 1/2 inch

 

I have two, one for ft-lbs (1/2-inch drive) and a smaller one just for inch-lbs (3/8" drive).
Half of the time, though, I use a 1/2-3/8 adapter on the the ft-lbs wrench for 10-50 pound
situations. Covers all bases.

 

I use the cheapo Harbor Freight one. It works perfectly fine unless you're torquing the nose cone on Boeing 737.

I only bought one, the 1/2 inch drive. What I do is I use a 1/2 to 3/8 adapter when I need to step down the size.

 

I have not seen My Torque wrenches in years

I last used one to Torque Head bolts on a 22re

 

Anything worth doing, is worth doing right. If you care enough to do it yourself, take pride in the work you do. I have 3 CDI torque wrenches and used one today to torque a grade 9 fastener (Camburg Uniball UCA bolt to 135 ft/lbs and my lugs to 83.). Fantastic quality and a reasonable price.

I have an in/lb for smaller bolts on the engine. Not using a torque wrench could cause more problems and headaches, or could be a safety issue.

 

If you are looking to get a cheap torque wrench get a beam wrench.