Reply To: Recommend T handle metric key set

[Mike PooleParticipant @mikepoole82104]

As bolt condition makes such a difference to the actual tightness bolt elongation is used in many critical situations. Not very practical in many applications though. Most manufacturers do specify dry or oiled with their torque recommendations. The torque figures for reassembly of used components is probably a bit of a waste of time on vehicles the variation from new components in a factory to refitting parts on a used car just has too many variables. Some critical parts supply new bolts but unless every part is in factory fresh condition you could be well out from the target figure. I find that developing a feel is ok for most situations and as I don't break bolts strip threads or have things come undone this must work for me. Building an engine is rather different and my torque wrenches get used for all critical bolts. The internals of an engine are a much more controlled environment than dirty rust brake and suspension parts though. Although spanners are proportioned to the fasteners they fit a socket set uses the same parts from 10mm to 36mm in a 1/2" drive set, the T bar and ratchet are a bit large for 10 and a bit small for 36 so be careful with the small sizes and a bit of extra length on the large will make life easy. I have a small thick wall tube with my Allen keys as when you undo screws that are very tight they often let go with a bang which hurts the fingers, a tube makes things much more comfortable. It is only about 100mm long so no abuse is used.

Mike