Torque Wrench question

[Kdog76]

I would like some guidance as to picking out a decent torque wrench. I have seen some different models, and I do see the beam style is a less expensive tool then some of the other ratcheting styles. Would be used primarily for torquing AL connections on meter sockets.
Also, I see some differences in measuring torque (Ft/lbs or In. / Lbs). My meter sockets (Main lugs - hex head) say to torque at 250 in. lbs. If I get the Ft.Lb model do I need to know the conversion from Ft/Lbs to In./Lbs.?
The one I saw at the local sears was a 3/8 ratchet that maxed out at 250 in.lbs. Too small? Any suggestions?

 

[jimport]

I have one of the Craftsmen style where you twist the grip to set the torque. I did not get the digital one.

As far as size, just look to see if the torque range covers the values you need to torque to.

In/lbs to ft/lbs, 12 in/lbs = 1 ft/lb.

 

[Kdog76]

Thanks. In/lbs to ft/lbs, duh! 12 inches to a foot.:roll:
The digital ones are out of my price range, but I think the ratcheting one is the way to go. So if it's a 50 ft/lb wrench that converts to a 600 inch lbs. I think I got it.

 

[Smart $]

Thanks. In/lbs to ft/lbs, duh! 12 inches to a foot.:roll:
The digital ones are out of my price range, but I think the ratcheting one is the way to go. So if it's a 50 ft/lb wrench that converts to a 600 inch lbs. I think I got it.

The ratchet ones with micrometer-like setting with the grip is what I prefer and recommend. The drive mechanism releases for a couple-three degrees at the set torque value. No need to see and watch a gauge or digital readout to know if it's tight enough.

 

[480sparky]

If you get a ratchet-style, two things: 1. always set it back to zero when you're done with it. 2. send it to the factory for periodic recalibration.

 

[brian john]

Spend the big bucks my men did they recently bought the Snap-On digital torque wrenches and love them. Oh, they kept the old analog torque wrenches for back up.

 

[2wired]

I use the beam style because it's cheap, accurate and you can calibrate it by zeroing the needle.