Switched to a digital torque wrench last month after 12 years of using a beam type

I always thought my old beam wrench was fine for engine work until I pulled a cylinder stud too tight on a Continental O-470 and cracked the flange. My lead mechanic handed me his Snap-on digital and showed me how the audible beep saves you from guessing on those hard to see angles. Has anyone else made the switch and found it worth the extra cash?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_vera1d ago

HOLD UP, you cracked a flange on a Continental O-470? I've been running beam wrenches for YEARS on those big radial engines and never had that happen. That's some serious torque error, makes me wonder how close I've come to doing the same thing without knowing it.

wrenwilson1d ago

Ever try a split beam torque wrench? Worked for me on those O-470s.