richmod

So I needed a 3/8 drive torque wrench for the spark plug removal and install. I didn't want to spend a fortune since I won't use it very often, but this spark plug fiasco has got me worried so I want to be reasonably sure I don't over torque when removing them. My plan was to get a Husky brand one from Home Depot for $70 (I have the 1/2 version of the Husky, and it's good quality, but it's HUGE - I use it for the lug nuts). However, Autozone has an Ampro brand for $22. It's all metal, no plastic like some of the Craftsmans that break easily from whathear. I asked the guy there and he said he's had it for 3 years with no issues.

So, does anyone have the Ampro torque wrench?
Would you guys use this thing for the spark plugs?

moosestang

$22 for a torque wrench seems really cheap. Not sure i'd trust it for accurately torquing spark plugs. I use a gearwrench myself, probably on par with the husky. Why not use the husky with an adapter?

richmod

It's going back. I'm buying the Husky. Thanks.

chp2150

Just remember, that style (click type) are accurate for the top 80% of range. If the wrench is a 250 ft/lb full scale, it's only accurate from 250 down to 50 ft/lbs. 100 ft/lb is good for 100ft/lb down to 20 ft/lb and so on. You get what you pay for. CDI, Proto, SnapOn, are probably some of the best. For the money, Craftsman work well for the weekender. I have a calibration lab and see hundreds of wrenches come through. Just remember to ALWAYS set the wrench to its lowest setting when you are done or you can be assured that it's calibration will be shot within a year. Also, don't drop it on the concrete. That will knock them out of cal also. If you're doing critical work (like on the heads) it may be cheap insurance to spring for the $35-40 fee to have it cal'd so you know its right, even a new wrench.