'84 Merc 150 - V6 2.0 - Rebuild - Torque Wrench?

[MAtkins]

I'm rebuilding my Mercury outboard and I need a torque wrench.

Harbor Freight has one for $21.99 before discounts/coupons.
I've seen torque wrenches like Snap On for $200.00+.
What's the difference between an expensive one and a cheap one?

This is *one* rebuild job total.
I can't figure out whether I can get by with a cheap one or if I've gotta find an expensive one.
Help?

 

[racerone]

Re: '84 Merc 150 - V6 2.0 - Rebuild - Torque Wrench?

A simple torque wrench just measures the " resistance to rotation " of the fastener.-----That value is determined by condition / cleanlines of the threads and the use of lubricants.-Even a hardened washer under the head of a bolt / nut will change things.----Did a one day learning session with high tech equipent some years ago to prove this is so.-------So an expensive torque wrench with bad / dirty fasteners will give you the wrong result.-------Have been involved with big fasteners that used ultra-sonic sound to determine the torque in the fastener.----measuring the length of a fastener before and after torquing is also a method.-------For one time use a cheaper torque wrench will work.-----You could also visit a shop that might be able to check / calibrate the wrench for you.--------Hope that helps you some.

 

[MAtkins]

Re: '84 Merc 150 - V6 2.0 - Rebuild - Torque Wrench?

That helps a whole lot.
Thanks.

 

[quicktach]

Re: '84 Merc 150 - V6 2.0 - Rebuild - Torque Wrench?

Get one with a good warranty. NAPA carries some good tools too.