No, to do this you don't need a torque wrench. Use the correct size spanner
(about 8" for this stype of job) and modicum of sensitivity.

Use yours EYES (to judge the state of the studs/nuts and their size), use
EXPERIENCE (and how do you get this without just doing it?) and FEEL (when
the torque you're applying stops increasing as the nut or bolt is still
continuing to tighten, its time to stop!) and your EYES AGAIN (is the gasket
starting to look pretty well compressed).

NEVER tighten just one bolt for long before moving to its counterpart(s) and
before you start, ensure all surfaces are true, flat, devoid of detritus,
threads are clean (wire brush) and then plenty of COMMONSENSE.
Check and tighten 1/4 turn or whatver feels right after a few days and rest
easy...

... then start saving pennies for the torque wrench which is mandatory for
50% of jobs and remember, even with a torque wrench things can go wrong -
but its a damn good guide - even using one follow the guide above - don't
keep turning ad infinitum even if the torque wrench doesn't click - stop and
lower the torque a bit if unsure - are you near the correct torque? -
instinct is still not to be dismissed - no doubt this is not a new bolt, nut
or casting insert - be judicious.

Good luck,

Clive
'88 Syncro Transporter

----- Original Message -----
From: "Marla Stelk" <mjstelk@HOTMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, October 05, 2002 4:30 PM
Subject: Torque Wrench

So just how important is it really to use a torque wrench?  A mechanic I
spoke to once said he never uses one for tune-ups.  But the Bentley tells
you to use one for almost everything.  I've got to take the top off my
thermostat - do I really need to go buy a torque wrench to put it back on?
The buggers are pretty expensive.....

Thanks,
Marla
'87 Westy Van "Morrison"Get more from the Web.  FREE MSN Explorer download :
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