I need a torque wrench and I don't understand what the "drive" on various wrenches mean. I can choose between a 1/2" drive and a 3/8" drive. what is that, and why would I choose one over the other?
2006-06-28 15:33:57 · 6 answers · asked by mello_fello 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
For most applications a 1/2" drive torque wrench is the best choice. It is versitile, compact, and easily replacible.
The "drive" on a wrench referes solely to what size of socket it can turn. 3/8" drive is smaller than 1/2" drive. There is also 1/4"drive, for tight spaces.
The higher the fraction of an inch "drive" (e.g 3/4, not common in automotive repair), the higher the torque, therefore, the less "muscle" needed to fix a fastener.
2006-06-29 20:41:48 · answer #1 · answered by d_cider1 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The "Drive" is the square part of the wrench that snaps into
the hole in the socket.
3/8" drive is usuallsufficient for cars and lawnmowers.
1/2" is much sturdier and is used on large equipment and industrial
stuff.
Not meaning to be rude, but if you don't know the answer to that
question already, are you sure you need to be using a torque wrench? You have to learn sometime, but I'd advise getting an experienced person to kinda guide you through whatever your attempting.
2006-06-28 15:44:33 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would go with the smaller 3/8" drive. It will generally have a finer torque increment, it will fit into tighter spaces, and it will be easier to find sockets for it. 1/2" drives are more of a specialty tool while a 3/8" is more of an all round tool. Eventually you'll want to have both if you plan on doing alot of work.
2006-06-28 17:00:53 · answer #3 · answered by santacruzrc 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
1/2 drive and 3/8 drive is the part that the socket snaps onto and ratchets. So a 3/8 drive would be smaller than a 1/2' drive. 1/2" drive would be better. 3/4 would be the best!!
2006-06-28 15:42:33 · answer #4 · answered by 69 FstBck 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
3\8" torque wrenches usualy max out at lower torque and are in inch pounds.
1\2" drives are usualy for larger applications like lug nuts and head bolts and are in foot pounds.
2006-06-28 15:44:15 · answer #5 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can see the difference if you go to an automotive tool store,
the larger the drive the stronger it is. The small it is, you can get into tight spots to work.
2006-06-28 15:46:28 · answer #6 · answered by wa4yne 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋