Just wondering if you guys could help me out.

I'm planning on putting on my rims soon, i bought a torque wrench and deep sockets. I bought an extension so the torque wrench will be farther from the car while i'm using it - so i don't actually accidentally hit the body of the car.

My question is:
Would using an extension socket mess up the actual torque reading? or would it be okay for me to use the combo?

Thanks in advance!!!

And i wanna say thank you to BigBlackTL for the sweet rims!!!

 

A solid straight extension shouldn't cause a problem as long as you make sure it doesn't wiggle around so that the center of rotation of the wrench is out of line with the center of rotation of the socket and nut. With a cable extension or an articulated extension the reading probably wouldn't be reliable.

 

thanks shftl ...that's what i purchased. Can't wait to put 'em on , and it's my first time doing all this as well, just wanna make sure i'm doing things the right way!

 

be sure you use a star pattern in tightening the lugs-across from each other as you go- and bring them up in 3 steps
50 70 and 80
50 is hand tight
do the complete lug cycle to 50, then all to next level ,,,,

this will protect your rims and brake rotors from damage by improper application of stress-torque

Improper wheel torque has cause many rotor shakes~

 

Thanx 01tl4tl ...i'll definitely do the star pattern + the 3 steps (this is what i learned while doing the search in here)

Love this forum - so informative with noob DIYers like myself!!!

 

tip: store your torque wrench with 10 pounds on it- that keeps a little tension on the spring and helps maintain accuracy

ck the accuracy of the new tool by trying a few bolts that havent been touched before- a strut bolt works- anything you can look up the torque for (kragen website has good section)

 

It's fine. Did you get a 1/2" or 3/8" drive tq wrench?

Not 0 pound?

 

A socket extension can throw off a torque wrench's accuracy by up to 5%. You will essentially be over tightening the wheels. If you're aiming for spot-on accuracy I don't recommend using an extension.

Also, I agree with all of 01tl4tl's suggestions. He definitely knows what he is talking about.

 

Your best bet would just be a deep socket and the torque wrench. As Trew stated the extension will throw off the accuracy of the torque wrench.

 

A straight extension will not change the accuracy. If one were to use a lever for additional leverage, a crows foot, or a universal joint that won't keep everything in line, then the accuracy is compromised.

 

I got the 1/2"...as another member mentioned i have more options for tools or what not.

And i appreciate all you guys' input...the extension that i purchased is a straight (3" or 2.5") extension. I will try the accuracy of the torque from you guys' suggestions. (Would it be okay to just try it on the lugs themselves?)

Again, you guys are awesome !!!

 

Whoops...i've had it stored with 80 pounds on it since i purchased it 2 weeks ago ...gotta go change it...Thanks 01tl4tl!

 

if it's straight it won't change the torque. no worries, carry on.