So Fix it

A torque wrench provides a mechanic exact tightness capability when using the tool as a socket wrench. This feature is particularly important when working on engines and similar assemblies that must have factory-setting tightness on various nuts and bolts holding parts together. Too much and the threads in the engine casings could strip. Too little and the parts can come loose or cause leaks, deteriorating engine performance. Using a torque wrench ensures the assembly work is done right the first time. However, torque wrenches come in different types, some being better than others when it comes to exact measurements.

The Beam Type

Beam-type torque wrenches represent the bargain-bin version of the tool. Their cost is relatively low but the exact measurements are usually off or hard to keep correct.

The beam wrench uses a long lever that bends as the wrench is tightened. This bending triggers a mechanism in the tool that compares to another lever that stays the same regardless of the tool being used. As the first beam moves away from the second, the user can, in theory, measure the torque being applied.

The quality of the beam tool is questionable. Even if it works correctly, getting an exact tightness is hard since you have to eyeball the tightness on the lever display and guestimate when you are at the correct pressure.

The Dial Version

The dial version uses a mechanism similar to that in a beam wrench. However, with the dial version the pressure exerted is translated to a dial at the top of the wrench near the handle which displays the pressure relative to a dial chart. The tighter the wrench is pulled, the more the dial moves to reflect the torque measurement. This version also relies on a human eye to determine when to stop.

Electronic dial wrenches use the same approach but display the torque setting digitally. At least in these versions the human eye is taken out of the equation. The simple computer in the wrench displays the torque readings produced when using the wrench.

The Clicker Type

Long reputed as the correct torque wrench to use for engine applications, the click-type wrench has a mechanism that actually pops in the wrench when the correct tightness is applied. This click signals to the user to stop tightening.

Preset measurements are cast on the side of the handle to adjust the wrench for a desired tightness. Then the wrench is applied and the mechanism clicks when the preset torque is reached.

These tools are typically cast in all metal, similar to a normal socket wrench, and come in protective cases to avoid impact or banging which can disrupt the tools accuracy settings.

Removing parts from your vehicle and replacing them can be a chore, especially if the vehicle is an older model and the bolts holding parts in place have become stripped or stuck in place. Using a standard wrench can prove difficult for parts located in hard-to-reach places. The Ingersoll-Rand 231C impact wrench is a machine that uses the power of compressed air to remove tough bolts from a vehicle and replace them in a secure manner.

Instructions

1

Connect the output hose from the air compressor unit to the connection on the bottom of the Ingersoll-Rand 231C wrench by screwing the connection onto the connector in a clockwise motion. Keep turning until the connection will not turn any more to ensure it is airtight and no air will be lost during operation. The air compressor should be set at 90 psi.

2

Insert the correct-size bit that corresponds to the vehicles bolts onto the connector at the tip of the power wrench. Insert the bit onto the prong and push down until it clicks into place. Use your fingers to try and turn the bit to ensure it is locked into place before using the tool.

3

Push the "R/F" switch on the back of the tool to the side that represents the direction you want the tool to rotate. "R" is for reverse and is used to remove bolts from the vehicle. "F" is for forward and is used to insert bolts.

4

Turn the power dial on the side of the tool to the proper power setting. This dial has numbers from 0 to 5, with 0 representing low power and 5 representing the highest power setting.

5

Place the end of the bit onto the bolt that you wish to remove or insert. Pull the trigger on the handle of the tool and the bit will begin to rotate in the direction that you set in Step 3 with the power that you set in Step 4.