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What size of torque wrench do I need to tighten my car's spark plugs to 30 Nm?

I've got a cheapo 1/2" Torque wrench, which comes with a 150mm extension bar and a 1/2" to 3/8" converter. My car is a VW Golf made in 2002. Do you think I'll be ok with a 1/2" torque wrench, or will i need the 3/8" adapter... or maybe I need the 1/4" torque wrench? I find it hard to know why there are 3 main sizes of torque wrench. Thanks. Thanks.

Public Comments

  1. one that goes from 10 nm to 100 nm and a 3/8" drive
  2. Actually use a 3/8 torque wrench but the 1/2 with the adapter is good enough. Your question for the different sizes. Well the 1/2 torque wrenches are for nuts/bolts that need to be torque down alot like the bolts on the wheels or the bolts on the pressure plate or the bolts for rockers arms. The 3/8 are for smaller ones like the oil pan bolts and spark plugs and have measurements in inch lbs. The 1/4, which I think hardly anyone use, well on a car.
  3. The 1/4 inch torque drive would be used on your interior plastic screws, which you wouldn't want to overtighten past 5-10 inch-pounds( Oops, that USA standard. LOL ). But there are different sized screws and bolts that require different torque settings. For spark plugs, usually the 3/8's is best. For non-torque screwing, I just turn my plugs in by hand with the socket and extension, then when it stops, hand-tighten 1/8 th turn. That is usually enough. - The Gremlin Guy - Born in the USA
  4. spark plugs get jammed forever, just nip them and no more, it should take little strenght to remove them again, they dont have to be overly tight.
  5. you don.t need a torque wrench for plugs,just obtain the correct deep plug socket. connect to a 1/2 or 3/8 ratchet drive &tighten down till it "bites".do not overtighten or you may break the ceramic
  6. yahoo search. then type "convert NM to Ft/lbs" bingo now that you have that number go to the store (auto) and say " i need a torque wrench for xxx ft/lbs" bingo 2. 2 seconds: 30 Nm equals 22.13 ft.lbs. times 12 is inch/lbs ( free bee) isnt the web amazing. no more trips to the library. yeah.
  7. Just do it no need for torque
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