Torque and Chrome

What is the proper spindle nut torque if the optimal range is 170 - 203 ft lbs?

The Chilton manual says to tighten the spindle nut to 170 to 203 ft lbs of torque to not damage the wheel bearing. I've never used a torque wrench before so I have no idea how accurate one is. Realistically, how precise is a torque wrench and how precise do I need to tighten the nut if there's a 33 ft lb margin? Should I just tighten it to 186?

Public Comments

1. Most torque wrenches are accurate. I would go to 190 just to get it good and tight with out damaging it. Hope this helps.
2. 186 would be nominal and perfectly acceptable. Torque wrenches are only accurate when properly calibrated and maintained. If it is dropped, it would need to be recalibrated. You should also "0" the reading when it is not in use.
3. Quality torque wrenches are generally pretty close - I had one calibrated a few years back after many years of service, and it was within 10% of the calibrated specification (read approximately 108 ft lbs vs. a calibrated resistance of 100 ft lbs). I always tend to torque to the average when a wide margine is given - you should be fine with a 185 lb torque setting.