Key Moment Function, Types and How to Use It

In performing car repairs, repair tools such as screwdrivers, ring wrenches, and torque wrenches are certainly needed. However, this discussion will detail the function of torque wrenches, their types, and the correct way to use them. The complete discussion is as follows.

Function of Torque Wrench

In the automotive workshop world, torque wrenches are also known as torque tools. A torque wrench functions as a measuring tool for tightness or a tool for tightening bolts or nuts. The complete functions are as follows.

1. Preventing under tightening

Under-tightening is a condition where the tightening of a component is insufficient. If this condition occurs, it causes the connection between components to be loose or wobbly. As a result, vibration leaks occur, causing the installed nut or bolt to be weak or easily come off.

2. Preventing over-tightening

This condition is the opposite of under-tightening. A torque wrench allows its user to tighten nuts or bolts according to factory standards, thus preventing damage to the bolts or nuts during the tightening or loosening process.

3. Ensuring consistency

A torque wrench can also ensure the consistency of tightening bolts or nuts to achieve the same tightening torque, so the strength at each joint is uniform.

Types of Torque Wrenches

There are several types of torque wrenches available on the market. The complete types are as follows.

1. Deflecting beam

This wrench is known as a needle torque wrench. This torque wrench has a shape similar to a sword, with an end resembling a needle and a socket wrench. The needle will move according to the torque applied when tightening a bolt or nut.

2. Dial indicator

To indicate the amount of tightness of a bolt or nut, the dial indicator torque wrench utilizes a dial gauge or dial indicator. The accuracy level of this torque wrench is considered very precise, as it can reach 0.01 mm to 0.001 mm.

3. Click adjustable

As the name suggests, with this type of torque wrench, you can adjust the tightness value simply by hearing a "click" during the tightening process. So you don't have to struggle to look at the indicator needle or scale like in a deflecting beam torque wrench.

In addition to the types above, torque wrenches can also be categorized based on their working mechanisms, such as mechanical, electric, preset, and hydraulic or pneumatic torque wrenches.

How to Use a Torque Wrench Correctly

Using a torque wrench is actually quite similar to using other wrenches in general. However, there are slight differences because a torque wrench has a measuring indicator on its handle. The steps for using it are as follows.

1. Loosen the adjustment nut

The first step you need to take before using a torque wrench is to loosen the adjustment nut.

2. Slide the tightness scale

Next, you need to slide the tightness scale on the adjustment nut. Slide it until the needle reaches the desired number. Make sure the tightness value you set is the same between one nut and another to avoid damaging the components.

3. Lock the load limit

Next, you need to lock the load limit. This is quite easy; you just need to tighten the locking nut.

4. Use a regular wrench

Although a torque wrench is used to tighten bolts or nuts, when you are about to tighten a bolt or nut, you need to use a regular wrench. This is necessary to facilitate the tightening process so as not to damage the installed bolt or nut and to extend the lifespan of the torque wrench.

5. Attach the socket wrench

Next, you need to attach the socket wrench before tightening the nut or bolt with the torque wrench. Attach the bolt or nut to the component of the car that needs to be tightened, then insert the bolt or nut into the socket wrench through the hole at the end of the torque wrench.

6. Turn the torque wrench

The last step is to turn the torque wrench clockwise until the tightness value matches what you want.

If you do not have a torque wrench during car repairs, you can visit the official Daihatsu workshop for the repairs.

Tips Sahabat