I know I need a torque wrench, but I am confused about which one to buy. "Inch pounds" "foot pounds", 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" ????

I just want a DECENT wrench for tune-ups, transmission, differential fluids changes and any other basic tasks. I have seen some really high prices out there. Can anyone recommend a brand model and size that will suit my needs.

Thanks...

 

Just about anything I can think of on an XJ involves foot pounds. Even though I have both 3/8 and 12/2 inch models, you can do just about any of it with a 3/8". They come in two styles. A bar and pointer and a clicker that you can preset and quit when it clicks. Personally, I got tired of rezeroing the bar type all the time and the inaccuracy of them. I bought mine at Sears, the ratchet is guaranteed for life and there are lots of Sears stores around. It is good quality, although not as good as a Snapon, but not to pricey either. I have used both of them a number of times and they always give good service. You do need to take care of them however. Always back them off to stop when done to preserve the temper of the spring.

 

I just recently bought a bar type from sears. Used it for the first time a few days ago. Mine goes from 0-75 ft/lbs and did what I needed it to. It was getting dark out so I couldnt see the numbers well so I took a green hi-liter and just made a mark so I could see where to stop.

I bought mine for pretty much the same reason. To have something to tighten down the differential covers and Im sure ill use it on the valve cover when I have to do that. I have the 3/8ths size because all the sockets I have are 3/8ths.

Works well as far as I can tell.

 

You need torque wrenchs in ft-lbs (1/2") and inch-lbs (3/8"). If you get the click-micrometer type, then be aware that it does need to be checked periodically if you use it alot. If you just use it a few times a year, then it'll probably be OK for the rest of your life. Just don't drop it on a hard surface. The beam type is the gold standard by which the click-micrometer type is checked. The click-mirometer type is much easier to use in confined spaces. Personally, I have one of each of the types mentioned (4 in total).

 

Get a ft/lbs first and get a good brand of your choice,but stay away from the cheapo's. The last time I used my in/lbs one was for setting up a rear end, mostly used for small more detailed work.