Do You Need a Torque Wrench?

Shop our selection of Torque Wrenches.

Ever asked yourself, “Do I really need a torque wrench?” Well, do you own equipment of any size that requires annual maintenance? Are you a do-it-yourselfer? If that sounds like you, keep reading to find out why the answer is a definite YES.

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Most torque wrenches you’ll find will look similar to a standard ratchet just different in size. They will feature an on/off switch and the ability to change the amount of torque you need depending on the job at hand. The one shown below is a more straightforward design and is relatively simple to use and will easily allow you to adjust the foot-pound level to get the exact amount of torque needed. For more detailed information on how to use a torque wrench on your machine, check out our video here.

Torque wrenches come in various types and sizes ranging from digital to more analog in nature, and the one you choose will depend on your machine, preference, and what job you’re undertaking. We know the long list of available options can be a bit intimidating when you’re shopping for the first time, so we recommend always referencing your machine’s owner’s manual to find the exact torque specs for each job.

We’ve compiled a list of a few common jobs where a torque wrench would be necessary:

Mower blade torque

The level of torque used when bolting on mower blades can be the difference between a successful mow job and a terrible accident. Unsecure blades can fly off while in use and put the surrounding area in danger, including yourself.

Another reason a torque wrench should be used here is that you’ll be able to measure the exact degree to which the bolts are being tightened. Using an air impact tool may seem like a good alternative, but it can easily overtighten the bolts rendering them nearly impossible to remove and replace the blades later.

Wheel bolts

When you own equipment such as gators or utility tractors, it’s good practice to habitually monitor the wheel bolts. Loose bolts can cause wheels to fall off their axle while driving leading to potentially scary situations.

Keep your bolts tightened using a torque wrench and the appropriate torque specs for your machine you got by referencing your owner’s manual. Again, just like the blade bolts, it’s important you use a torque wrench so as not to overtighten the wheel bolts and allow for easy maintenance later on.

Drain plug

Often, you’ll need to use a torque wrench on things you would never think of such as the drain plug on a tractor. You’ll want to once again reference your owner’s manual to find the right torque specs for your machine, and then tighten down the drain plug using your wrench to prevent oil leakage.

Just like the other points on this list, always use a torque wrench over an impact tool and make sure you’re operating with the correct specs. Overtightening a drain plug can cause cracking or other damage to the oil pan as well as leaving it difficult to remove in the future.
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And that’s it! We hope after reading this, we hope you have a better understanding of torque wrenches in general and how they are an essential part of any DIY-er’s tool collection. If you have questions about any of the steps outlined above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch our step-by-step video (also attached below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe!