I can't find one around here and my first change is coming up. I have watched a lot of good mechanics do a lot of oil changes over the years and I don't think I have ever seen one pull out a torque wrench. It got me wondering how important is this for the filter housing and drain plug?
Jim

 

An experienced mechanic has zero need for a torque wrench for the drain pan or filter housing, but do you have any 'feel' for the correct tightness of them?

 

Well, you don't want to over tighten. I have a tendency to over tighten everything, so I don't trust myself.

 

If you need to ask, you probably need to use one.

 

Correct German Torque values for those: Geudentite.

 

I remember watching him throw what seemed like his weight against the drain plug on my 997 to get it undone. It sure seemed like it was on tight, much more than 37lbs or whatever from the previous change.
J

 

Did he use a brand new crush washer? If not, the chance of the drain bolt backing out and leak increases.

 

A torque wrench is no longer needed on the 991.2's. Plastic sump with a plastic twist and seal plug. (The whole plug gets replaced at each oil change.) Super simple...and a little scary. Progress marches on.

 

When I did a mid-service oil change for track day, I used a torque wrench and it was totally necessary for me. I would have put the filter on too tight and the drain plug too loose without it.

For someone who has a feel for it, I'm sure it's completely unnecessary.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong but the proper feel is a little slip as the "new" washer compresses. And then you're done.

 

be sure to use a dedicated low , narrow range tq wrench, not one of those 20-250 ft lb ones used to torque down wheel nuts....which are basically useless and far, far off in terms of accuracy/ calibration below 50-60 ft lbs ...or you will be sorry , and better off doing it by " feel " like I have from 40 yrs of DIY oil changes and what seems like 40 cars !

btw , ALWAYS dial the setting back to ZERO after using a tq wrench and NEVER use it to break tq on anything ...use a breaker bar for wheels and reg wrench on drain plugs, etc

 

Any suggestions on the best brand/device for this purpose?
J

 

Thanks MKW and everyone for the info!
J

 

Here's an idea. Buy Once Cry Once!

 

Typically you will find that the lower ranges are in a 3/8" drive torque wrench. There are many good brands and you don't have to spend a lot on one.

An example:
http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-m...p-00931424000P

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EDIT: I didn't see post above. It does highlight, however, the range of tools available.