Torque wrench question

[California98Civic]

I need a torque wrench that can measure 14ft/lbs. ... I already own a Craftsman torque wrench that measures down to 20ft/lbs ... But it has a dial for selecting measures between 20, 30, 40, and etc... ...can I use the dial to walk it down to 14 from 20? Would it have the same accuracy? (See pic for the setting I'm describing.)



Probably not, I'm guessing. But truly low-range wrenches are hundreds of bucks, it seems, and I lack confidence in my ability to judge by feel.

Thanks.

[t vago]

You do not really want to take your existing torque wrench below its minimum setting, as you will likely throw off its calibration.

Why not get a torque wrench that measures up to 200 ln-lb, instead? 14 ft-lb is 168 in-lb.

[California98Civic]

Oh yeah! That's the ticket. One available right here at Home Depot that measures 40-200 inch-pounds. Thanks t-vago. Man, the things you can't learn until you ask what seems like a stupid question.

1/4" Torque Wrench - 20-200 in. lbs.

james

[t vago]

The only stupid question is the unasked one. Glad to be of help.

[Goldenstate]

Years ago a guy at work needed to torque a bolt to 10 foot pounds. His wrench would not go that low and no one else in the shop had one either. He was not about to spend the money for a new torque wrench for the small job. He soon was seen welding a piece of rod to a socket of the correct size. At 12 inches out from the center of the socket, he made a mark and hung a 10 pound weight from a weight lifting set. That was his economy torque wrench and got him past the job at hand.

[mechman600]

T vago's words are wise. Anything below the minimum on the scale is not accurate. I would just go by feel with a good old ratchet. Save yourself some money. But hey, is there anything as exciting as buying a new tool? I think not.