CTK

It may be necessary to re-calibrate your Precision Instrument torque wrench.

I searched the RL forums and couldn't find a thread on the subject so I thought I would share my recent experience.

I recently purchased a pre-owned Precision Instruments 3/4 drive split beam torque wrench model C4D600F and OEM breaker bar from another user. According to the seller, the torque wrench was built in December 2010 (confirmed by the tags) and was used about 4 times.

Out of an abundance of caution, i contacted Precision Instruments and asked them if the torque wrench required any maintenance or if shipping it would disturb the internal mechanics of the wrench.

The guys at Precision Instruments spent a lot of time explaining more than i really needed to know about torque wrenches, so i decided to share what i learned with the RL community (per email exchanges with Precision Instruments):

"Our Split-beam click wrench series is unique in that the internal components remain at rest while it's not being used. This gives the torque wrench an extremely long shelf life. Also, this tool exceeds the ASME B107.14M national specification which requires the torque wrench to remain accurate for 5,000 cycles at full scale. So for re-calibration you have use and time to take into consideration. If you have put 7,000 cycles on the tool it may be time to have it looked for calibration. If it's been 12 to 18 months since purchase, the lubrication used on the release mechanism can dry or become less effective as designed when new and can be removed, cleaned, and replaced when it comes in for repair. Our general statement is send the torque wrench in after ever 7,000 cycles or 12 to 18 months.

We offer a flat-rate repair and calibration charge, which for this tool is $70.00 plus shipping. Your torque wrench will get a complete factory tear down and rebuild, placing back in factory new specifications for that price. We can issue you an RGA if you would like to send the tool into us, it allows us to collect your information ahead of time."

Since my torque wrench is more than 24 months old, i decided to send my torque wrench in to Precision Instruments today for re-calibration. They told me that there is a 2-3 week turn around time. I will circle back with an update when i receive the re-calibrated torque wrench.

Space Coast GT3

Thanks! This is good to know.

mdrums

Thanks for sharing this valuable info on this popular torque wrench. Great post

Speeds5

I think the 7000 cycle is a good measure but the 12-18 month is not necessary in my opinion. Unless you're using it every day, I think it's a bit of overkill. Also, the split beam types seem to hold their accuracy much better than the other types of torque wrenches.

KaiB

And of course your opinion outweighs the statement from the factory which designs and builds these tools.

Good....

TAI2

Thanks for the info. They make a great product and I regularly use my split beam wrench with confidence.

Speeds5

Of course it doesn't matter more. Maybe next time I'll listen to Porsche and wait to change my oil every 15k miles. Or change the transmission and diff oil every 90k miles.

Manufacturers have different incentives sometimes. It was just an opinion and obviously it doesn't matter.

bensf

Thanks for the post, great information. After 2.5 years, mine is starting bind and doesn't always click. Will send in for repair.

CTK

bensf:

I was told to send the wrench to the address below with a statement requesting a re-calibration. List you contact information and they will contact you for credit card info and return shipping details.

Precision Instruments
Attn: Repair Dept
1846 Miner Street
Des Plaines IL USA 60016

CTK

FYI, Precision Instruments charges $70 for the re-calibration and other affiliate shops may only charge $50 for a "re-calibration." However, for the $70, Precision Instruments will change any needed parts and re-calibrate for the same $70 charge.

bensf

Awesome! Thank you.

Alan C.

For $70 mine will be on it's way this week. Ray, lunch and wrench drop off for shipping?

paver

Double check that address. I think it's Milner not Miner.

bensf

Miner is the correct street according to an email from support.

paver

My mistake. Thanks.