Torque wrench question - technical?

[bobski]

Ok, here's a weird question for all you professional mechanic types (yes, you too Martin lol). I have a 3/8" drive torque wrench. If I use it with a 3/8 to 1/2 drive converter and 1/2" drive sockets, will the torque settings on the wrench still be valid, or is there some kind of leverage change as a result of converting to the 1/2" drive that affects the torque settings on the wrench? Told you it was a weird question!

 

[MNGreg]

Ok, here's a weird question for all you professional mechanic types (yes, you too Martin lol). I have a 3/8" drive torque wrench. If I use it with a 3/8 to 1/2 drive converter and 1/2" drive sockets, will the torque settings on the wrench still be valid, or is there some kind of leverage change as a result of converting to the 1/2" drive that affects the torque settings on the wrench? Told you it was a weird question!

OOOHHH! VERY Good Question!!

From my understanding it wouldn't, but I can't wait to hear from some of the mechanical heads on here also!

 

[BKP]

The wrench has no way of knowing what size drive, socket, extension, or what not is attached to it. All it knows is applied force, which doesn't change unless you use a geared attachment.

Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk 2

 

[JSP]

No, it does not change the force applied.

 

[JT]

Agree with both of the previous answers.

ostwhore:ostwhore:ostwhore:ostwhore:

 

[MC#4]

I agree too, it won't change anything.

 

[Michael Wilson]

It wont affect the torque values. Here are a few things to keep in mind though.

1. Adding extensions for sockets will increase flexabillity therefore REDUCING ACTUAL TORQUE.

2. If an extenstion from the torque wrench head is needed (to make the torque wrench longer) The adapter must be 90 degrees to the torque wrench or it WILL change the torque value.

Hope this help cheers

 

[bobski]

Good stuff guys,thanks! Glad some found it interesting and not TOO dumb a question