Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

Link to this comparison view

Both sides previous revision Previous revision
Next revision
Previous revision
techtalk:ref:tools025 [2020/09/05 05:25]
hippysmack [A Word on Torque and Re-using Bolts]
techtalk:ref:tools025 [2024/01/23 01:49] (current)
hippysmack
Line 5: Line 5:
  
 ====== Torque Wrench Care and Usage, Related Charts and Information ====== ====== Torque Wrench Care and Usage, Related Charts and Information ======
 +
 +{{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_gif_by_hippysmack.gif?​direct|}} ((animation by Hippysmack)) \\
  
 \\ \\
Line 21: Line 23:
  
 {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque-length_times_force_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​400|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) \\ {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque-length_times_force_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​400|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) \\
-====== Is a Torque Wrench Really Necessary? ====== 
  
 +====== Is a Torque Wrench Really Necessary? ======
   * **Best answer is, if there is a torque spec written in the manual, it's best to use a torque wrench on that fastener**. \\ The torque values are written so you don't break parts while installing things. \\ Arrogance when wrenching can end up with broken bolts and parts. \\ Some have the gift of '​feel'​ and claim to have never broken or stripped a bolt. \\ That's fine. But not everyone that has a Sportster has the gift of '​feel'​. \\ Getting your education from a broken engine case is expensive and counter-productive.   * **Best answer is, if there is a torque spec written in the manual, it's best to use a torque wrench on that fastener**. \\ The torque values are written so you don't break parts while installing things. \\ Arrogance when wrenching can end up with broken bolts and parts. \\ Some have the gift of '​feel'​ and claim to have never broken or stripped a bolt. \\ That's fine. But not everyone that has a Sportster has the gift of '​feel'​. \\ Getting your education from a broken engine case is expensive and counter-productive.
-  * Some people strip threads with torque wrenches. It depends on the person using the wrench. ((Oldwrench of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?t=576459)) \\ Some people use torque wrenches properly to avoid either under or over-tightening fasteners and other threaded devices. \\ A torque wrench allows you to know rather than estimate how tight you've gone. \\ Is it necessary to use a torque wrench on spark plugs? \\ Not absolutely. It's just a very good method to avoid over-tightening and possibly pulling the threads in an aluminum head.+  * Some people strip threads with torque wrenches. It depends on the person using the wrench. ((Oldwrench of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​ironhead-sportster-motorcycle-talk-1957-1985/​79363-spark-plug-torque?t=576459)) \\ Some people use torque wrenches properly to avoid either under or over-tightening fasteners and other threaded devices. \\ A torque wrench allows you to know rather than estimate how tight you've gone. \\ Is it necessary to use a torque wrench on spark plugs? \\ Not absolutely. It's just a very good method to avoid over-tightening and possibly pulling the threads in an aluminum head.
   * Sometimes 'hand tight plus a nudge' is good enough for non-critical fasteners. \\ However, parts like heads and sprockets need a certain clamp load or they will not perform well or even break loose while riding.   * Sometimes 'hand tight plus a nudge' is good enough for non-critical fasteners. \\ However, parts like heads and sprockets need a certain clamp load or they will not perform well or even break loose while riding.
   * A torque wrench allows you to get near the same clamp load on all the fasteners to a piece (evenly distributing the load). \\ Without a torque wrench, it's easy to tighten some fasteners tighter than others. \\ (like on a cam cover which will end up warping the cover) \\ Heat plays it's own roll on clamp load after you've put the torque wrench up and ride away. \\ The designed clamp load spec takes these things into account.   * A torque wrench allows you to get near the same clamp load on all the fasteners to a piece (evenly distributing the load). \\ Without a torque wrench, it's easy to tighten some fasteners tighter than others. \\ (like on a cam cover which will end up warping the cover) \\ Heat plays it's own roll on clamp load after you've put the torque wrench up and ride away. \\ The designed clamp load spec takes these things into account.
  
 ======= Torque Wrench Maintenance ======= ======= Torque Wrench Maintenance =======
- 
 The more often a torque wrench is used the faster it will wear or go out of calibration. \\ The more often a torque wrench is used the faster it will wear or go out of calibration. \\
 Monitoring the number of cycles per day or total hours that a tool is used is the most accurate way to establish proper maintenance intervals. ((https://​www.mountztorque.com/​Preventive-Maintenance-for-a-Torque-Wrench)) \\ Monitoring the number of cycles per day or total hours that a tool is used is the most accurate way to establish proper maintenance intervals. ((https://​www.mountztorque.com/​Preventive-Maintenance-for-a-Torque-Wrench)) \\
Line 59: Line 60:
     * If using the beam type wrench, always check and '​zero'​ the dial if needed before each use.     * If using the beam type wrench, always check and '​zero'​ the dial if needed before each use.
     * If you drop a beam-style torque wrench and bend the pointer or scale, it obviously won’t read accurately. \\ You can try to bend things back to their original position and check calibration. \\ But you may or may not succeed in restoring it's accuracy.     * If you drop a beam-style torque wrench and bend the pointer or scale, it obviously won’t read accurately. \\ You can try to bend things back to their original position and check calibration. \\ But you may or may not succeed in restoring it's accuracy.
-  * ** Torque wrenches are really misunderstood,​ and if used with blind faith, can be the source of many problems**. ((turbguy of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​page=4&​t=29762))+  * ** Torque wrenches are really misunderstood,​ and if used with blind faith, can be the source of many problems**. ((turbguy of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-motor-engine/​sportster-motorcycle-bottom-end/​17856-a-very-very-very-very-bad-thing/​page2?​page=4&​t=29762))
  
 {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_maintenance_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_maintenance_2_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\ {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_maintenance_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_maintenance_2_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\
Line 67: Line 68:
  
 ====== Torque Wrench and Accuracy ====== ====== Torque Wrench and Accuracy ======
- 
 Accuracy across multiple bolts across a piece; \\ Accuracy across multiple bolts across a piece; \\
 Parts with multiple bolts to accomplish clamp force across the entire part  (covers, head etc.) require all bolts to end up the same torque. \\ Parts with multiple bolts to accomplish clamp force across the entire part  (covers, head etc.) require all bolts to end up the same torque. \\
Line 127: Line 127:
  
 {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_scale_viewing_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\ {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_scale_viewing_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\
 +
 ====== Torque Wrench Calibration ====== ====== Torque Wrench Calibration ======
 [[techtalk:​ref:​tools026#​torque_wrench_field_calibration|Click here for picks and instructions on Field Calibrating a Torque Wrench]] in the Sportsterpedia. \\ [[techtalk:​ref:​tools026#​torque_wrench_field_calibration|Click here for picks and instructions on Field Calibrating a Torque Wrench]] in the Sportsterpedia. \\
Line 156: Line 157:
  
 ====== Using a Torque Wrench ====== ====== Using a Torque Wrench ======
- 
 Proper torque procedures were used to initially build your bike. Skipping any of the advice below should be done at your own risk. \\ Proper torque procedures were used to initially build your bike. Skipping any of the advice below should be done at your own risk. \\
 Many engine tear-downs are the result of too much torque (or hunkering down) on a nut or bolt. Don't let it be you. \\ Many engine tear-downs are the result of too much torque (or hunkering down) on a nut or bolt. Don't let it be you. \\
Line 190: Line 190:
       * Any angle other than 90° puts the load on only one side of the fastener. \\ That sets you up to possible strip the corners on hex bolts or strip the center of Allen head / Torx head bolts. ​         * Any angle other than 90° puts the load on only one side of the fastener. \\ That sets you up to possible strip the corners on hex bolts or strip the center of Allen head / Torx head bolts. ​  
   * **While applying torque, always use slow even motions**. \\ Applying torque too fast leads to fooling the torque wrench (and / or your eyes) before torque is actually reached. \\ Establish a pattern to follow every time to condition yourself not to make a mistake when it's counted. ​   * **While applying torque, always use slow even motions**. \\ Applying torque too fast leads to fooling the torque wrench (and / or your eyes) before torque is actually reached. \\ Establish a pattern to follow every time to condition yourself not to make a mistake when it's counted. ​
-    * The clicker type torque wrench can click too fast or you can end with a temporary visual mistake with a beam wrench ((hippysmack from the XLFORUM  ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=1959533)) ((Article by Oldrump1 from the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=1959533))+    * The clicker type torque wrench can click too fast or you can end with a temporary visual mistake with a beam wrench ((hippysmack from the XLFORUM  ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-general-discussion-and-problems/​181908-assembly-prep?​t=1959533)) ((Article by Oldrump1 from the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-general-discussion-and-problems/​181908-assembly-prep?​t=1959533))
     * The 1/4" clicker will go way beyond torque when used too fast. \\ By the time you hear the click, your still turning which could result in damaged bolts, bolt heads and even cracking the piece your working on.     * The 1/4" clicker will go way beyond torque when used too fast. \\ By the time you hear the click, your still turning which could result in damaged bolts, bolt heads and even cracking the piece your working on.
  
 **Pre-torque tightening**:​ \\ **Pre-torque tightening**:​ \\
-  * **Start all of the fasteners in a component before you tighten any of them**...not even hand tight. Any misalignment of the part can side load the last fastener enough to prevent it starting or promote cross threading. ((Jollly Rogers from the XLFORUM  ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=1959533))+  * **Start all of the fasteners in a component before you tighten any of them**...not even hand tight. Any misalignment of the part can side load the last fastener enough to prevent it starting or promote cross threading. ((Jollly Rogers from the XLFORUM  ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-general-discussion-and-problems/​181908-assembly-prep?​t=1959533))
   * **By hand, all dry bolts should run in rather easily**. If not, there may be trash/ debris caught up in the threading (which can alter you reaching proper torque values). Turn all bolts in sequence by hand until snugged. ​   * **By hand, all dry bolts should run in rather easily**. If not, there may be trash/ debris caught up in the threading (which can alter you reaching proper torque values). Turn all bolts in sequence by hand until snugged. ​
   * **If you're using thread dressing** (oil, loctite / anti seize, etc.), these will induce drag on the bolt(s). You can use a socket, without the wrench, to turn the bolts to snug by hand. You will also need to reduce the final torque on your fasteners since thread dressings will add pre-load to the threads. This pre-load is added on top of your final torque. You can use the wet charts below as a guide to decide how to adjust your final torque. This will vary on how much and what type dressing is used on the threads as well as proper use of the torque wrench.  ​   * **If you're using thread dressing** (oil, loctite / anti seize, etc.), these will induce drag on the bolt(s). You can use a socket, without the wrench, to turn the bolts to snug by hand. You will also need to reduce the final torque on your fasteners since thread dressings will add pre-load to the threads. This pre-load is added on top of your final torque. You can use the wet charts below as a guide to decide how to adjust your final torque. This will vary on how much and what type dressing is used on the threads as well as proper use of the torque wrench.  ​
Line 215: Line 215:
     * Continue to turn the fastener, and allow the handle to rotate so that the pivot is the only thing contacting the beam. \\ Some handles have a pivot piece that you actually are holding. \\ Arrange it so the handle '​floats'​ with you instead of cocking sideways against the bending beam.     * Continue to turn the fastener, and allow the handle to rotate so that the pivot is the only thing contacting the beam. \\ Some handles have a pivot piece that you actually are holding. \\ Arrange it so the handle '​floats'​ with you instead of cocking sideways against the bending beam.
     * Keep your eyes looking straight at the center bar end and the torque scale. \\ It's hard to impossible to judge when the pointer is on the right value looking from the side.     * Keep your eyes looking straight at the center bar end and the torque scale. \\ It's hard to impossible to judge when the pointer is on the right value looking from the side.
- 
  
 {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​general_torque_sequence_drawing_by_hippysmack.png?​direct&​300|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_-_proper_hand_placement_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) \\ {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​general_torque_sequence_drawing_by_hippysmack.png?​direct&​300|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) {{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_wrench_-_proper_hand_placement_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((drawing by Hippysmack)) \\
 +
 ====== Using "​Feel"​ While Tightening ====== ====== Using "​Feel"​ While Tightening ======
 See also, [[techtalk:​ref:​tools806|Strengths Of Various Fasteners]] in the Sportsterpedia. \\ See also, [[techtalk:​ref:​tools806|Strengths Of Various Fasteners]] in the Sportsterpedia. \\
Line 226: Line 226:
 If you don't possess the '​feel',​ please, use a torque wrench on your Sportster until you develop a feel for tightening. \\ If you don't possess the '​feel',​ please, use a torque wrench on your Sportster until you develop a feel for tightening. \\
  
-  * Most of this applies to any wrench. ((Hippysmack of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​p=5821588#post5821588))+  * Most of this applies to any wrench. ((Hippysmack of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-general-discussion-and-problems/​199276-stupid-stupid-stupid/​page3#post4399744))
   - **First, you can't feel anything by swinging a torque wrench or any other kind of wrench too fast**.   - **First, you can't feel anything by swinging a torque wrench or any other kind of wrench too fast**.
     * The best way to approach tightening a fastener is to snug it up by hand (in a cross pattern on multiple bolt fastening).     * The best way to approach tightening a fastener is to snug it up by hand (in a cross pattern on multiple bolt fastening).
Line 251: Line 251:
   - **Torque Wrench Size**:   - **Torque Wrench Size**:
     * Quote from Toejam503 of the XLFORUM: ​     * Quote from Toejam503 of the XLFORUM: ​
-      * I've always found that the lower end of the scale on a foot pound torque wrench isn't accurate enough for something rated in inch pounds. \\ 100-120 in/lbs has a lighter pull than 10 ft/lbs on a 150 foot lb torque wrench. ((http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?p=5812284&​highlight=torque+wrench#​post5812284))+      * I've always found that the lower end of the scale on a foot pound torque wrench isn't accurate enough for something rated in inch pounds. \\ 100-120 in/lbs has a lighter pull than 10 ft/lbs on a 150 foot lb torque wrench. ((https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​rubber-mount-sportster-motorcycle-talk-2004-2006/​199278-derby-cover-bolt-torque?​highlight=torque+wrench#​post4385956))
     * You bet it does. \\ Ever notice an in/lb wrench is smaller, especially shorter, than a ft/lb wrench? \\ There is a leverage difference in the size of a wrench. \\ This goes to the concept of '​feel'​ as well.     * You bet it does. \\ Ever notice an in/lb wrench is smaller, especially shorter, than a ft/lb wrench? \\ There is a leverage difference in the size of a wrench. \\ This goes to the concept of '​feel'​ as well.
     * A smaller torque wrench will allow you to feel more than a larger one. \\ Flipping back and forth between beefy and wimpy wrenches of the same fastener size can confuse the sense of feel. \\ Ask yourself which 9/16" open/box end wrench you prefer, the short one or the longer thicker one? \\ The beefier ones give you more power for the pull and helps keep from bruising your hands more on high torque. \\ But the smaller ones allow you to feel more of the pull. \\ So it's a balance based off your strength and resilience as to which is the best to use when practicing "​feel"​. ​     * A smaller torque wrench will allow you to feel more than a larger one. \\ Flipping back and forth between beefy and wimpy wrenches of the same fastener size can confuse the sense of feel. \\ Ask yourself which 9/16" open/box end wrench you prefer, the short one or the longer thicker one? \\ The beefier ones give you more power for the pull and helps keep from bruising your hands more on high torque. \\ But the smaller ones allow you to feel more of the pull. \\ So it's a balance based off your strength and resilience as to which is the best to use when practicing "​feel"​. ​
  
 ====== Will Using Extension / Adapters Change Torque Applied? ​ ====== ====== Will Using Extension / Adapters Change Torque Applied? ​ ======
- 
   * Socket extensions to lengthen the distance vertically from the drive end to the socket do not affect the accuracy of final torque. \\ That is if they’re used properly, and you’re using your torque wrench correctly. ((https://​agradetools.com/​torque-wrench-myth-busted/​)) \\   * Socket extensions to lengthen the distance vertically from the drive end to the socket do not affect the accuracy of final torque. \\ That is if they’re used properly, and you’re using your torque wrench correctly. ((https://​agradetools.com/​torque-wrench-myth-busted/​)) \\
     * You're applying a torque at one end, and the bolt is applying a counter-torque at the other end. \\ If the extension is not in the process of being twisted to a greater extent then it already has been, \\ then the torques at both ends must be the same in magnitude but opposite in direction. \\ (If the torques were not equal, the extension would be twisting more.) \\ Then by Newton'​s third law (more or less), \\ the torque being applied by the socket to the bolt is the same as (but opposite) as the counter-torque being applied by the bolt to the socket. ((https://​www.finishing.com/​118/​94_crows_foot_torque.shtml))     * You're applying a torque at one end, and the bolt is applying a counter-torque at the other end. \\ If the extension is not in the process of being twisted to a greater extent then it already has been, \\ then the torques at both ends must be the same in magnitude but opposite in direction. \\ (If the torques were not equal, the extension would be twisting more.) \\ Then by Newton'​s third law (more or less), \\ the torque being applied by the socket to the bolt is the same as (but opposite) as the counter-torque being applied by the bolt to the socket. ((https://​www.finishing.com/​118/​94_crows_foot_torque.shtml))
Line 269: Line 268:
  
 ===== Drive Extensions (horizontal to the wrench) ===== ===== Drive Extensions (horizontal to the wrench) =====
- 
   * **An extension that increases the length of the wrench at the drive end will change the final torque applied**.   * **An extension that increases the length of the wrench at the drive end will change the final torque applied**.
     * These are usually considered methods to extend the length of the wrench (in a linear plane).     * These are usually considered methods to extend the length of the wrench (in a linear plane).
Line 281: Line 279:
  
 ==== Calculation for Length Extensions ==== ==== Calculation for Length Extensions ====
- 
   * **Measurements**:​   * **Measurements**:​
       * Torque is measured at the socket (drive center) axis. \\ It does not depend on the length of the wrench handle. \\ That only affects the amount of pressure you have to exert to achieve a particular torque.       * Torque is measured at the socket (drive center) axis. \\ It does not depend on the length of the wrench handle. \\ That only affects the amount of pressure you have to exert to achieve a particular torque.
Line 303: Line 300:
 Calculate: 80 x 18 / 22 = 65.45. \\ Calculate: 80 x 18 / 22 = 65.45. \\
 Therefore if you want to torque a fastener to 80 ft/lbs using an 18" torque wrench with a 4" torque extender, you will set the wrench to 65.45 ft/lbs. \\ Therefore if you want to torque a fastener to 80 ft/lbs using an 18" torque wrench with a 4" torque extender, you will set the wrench to 65.45 ft/lbs. \\
- 
  
 ===== Socket Extensions / Adapters (vertical to the wrench) ===== ===== Socket Extensions / Adapters (vertical to the wrench) =====
- 
   * **Socket extensions or adapters do not change the length of the drive (center) axis or the final torque**.   * **Socket extensions or adapters do not change the length of the drive (center) axis or the final torque**.
     * Socket extensions come in a variety of drive sizes and lengths.     * Socket extensions come in a variety of drive sizes and lengths.
Line 328: Line 323:
  
 ===== Swivel or Universal Joint (off center by default) ===== ===== Swivel or Universal Joint (off center by default) =====
- 
   * **A swivel, used with a torque wrench, can be detrimental to achieving even accurate torque**.   * **A swivel, used with a torque wrench, can be detrimental to achieving even accurate torque**.
   * A swivel is a great little tool for getting into areas where a straight run at a nut / bolt is hindered by obstacles near it (whether by the frame, wheels etc).    * A swivel is a great little tool for getting into areas where a straight run at a nut / bolt is hindered by obstacles near it (whether by the frame, wheels etc). 
Line 342: Line 336:
  
 ===== Crows Foot ===== ===== Crows Foot =====
- 
 Any force that is applied that isn’t at a 90° angle will change the applied torque to the fastener. ((https://​agradetools.com/​torque-wrench-myth-busted/​)) \\ Any force that is applied that isn’t at a 90° angle will change the applied torque to the fastener. ((https://​agradetools.com/​torque-wrench-myth-busted/​)) \\
 When you put a crows foot on a torque wrench and use it long-ways, the torque applied to the fastener increases. \\ When you put a crows foot on a torque wrench and use it long-ways, the torque applied to the fastener increases. \\
 If you turn the crows foot at a 90° angle, there is no increase in torque to the fastener from the preset scale. \\ If you turn the crows foot at a 90° angle, there is no increase in torque to the fastener from the preset scale. \\
  
-{{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_with_a_crows_foot.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\ +{{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​torque_with_a_crows_foot_by_hippysmack.jpg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by Hippysmack)) \\
  
 ====== A Torque Wrench Does Not Break Bolts ====== ====== A Torque Wrench Does Not Break Bolts ======
Line 356: Line 348:
 The invent of the clicker type torque wrench took the focus away from '​feeling'​ what you are doing while tightening. \\ The invent of the clicker type torque wrench took the focus away from '​feeling'​ what you are doing while tightening. \\
 Try and develop a '​feel'​ for when enough is enough especially if using a clicker type wrench. \\ Try and develop a '​feel'​ for when enough is enough especially if using a clicker type wrench. \\
-If the wrench fails to click, and many of them do on the low end of their scale, you can break something simply waiting for the click. \\+If the wrench fails to click, and many of them do on the low end of their scale especially, you can break something simply waiting for the click. \\
  
 ====== Clamp Force ====== ====== Clamp Force ======
- +The first 5 threads of a bolt does all of the work with the first 3 doing about 80% of the holding. All other threads are just along for the ride. ((bustert of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​ironhead-sportster-motorcycle-talk-1957-1985/​79363-spark-plug-torque/​page2?​t=576459&​page=2)) \\
-The first 5 threads of a bolt does all of the work with the first 3 doing about 80% of the holding. All other threads are just along for the ride. ((bustert of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=576459&​page=2)) \\+
 Look at the length of a standard nut. ((Hippysmack)) \\ Look at the length of a standard nut. ((Hippysmack)) \\
 A bolt will hold the same clamp force if you use a nut on the end or if the bolt is sunk down into 2" of a threaded hole. \\ A bolt will hold the same clamp force if you use a nut on the end or if the bolt is sunk down into 2" of a threaded hole. \\
Line 366: Line 357:
  
 When you tighten a bolt, the threads on the bolt and the threads in the hole will pull against each other. \\ When you tighten a bolt, the threads on the bolt and the threads in the hole will pull against each other. \\
-The bolt will deflect or stretch and this stretch is the clamping force that holds the parts together. ((bustert of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=576459&​page=2)) \\+The bolt will deflect or stretch and this stretch is the clamping force that holds the parts together. ((bustert of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​ironhead-sportster-motorcycle-talk-1957-1985/​79363-spark-plug-torque/​page2?​t=576459&​page=2)) \\
 If you over torque the fastener, it can deform and will lock the threads together so it can not be removed. \\ If you over torque the fastener, it can deform and will lock the threads together so it can not be removed. \\
 And it may break the threads in the hole, destroying them. You may not realize this until you have a leak or the next time you remove the bolt. \\ And it may break the threads in the hole, destroying them. You may not realize this until you have a leak or the next time you remove the bolt. \\
- 
  
 |  Normal way a bolt tightens up ((drawings by Hippysmack)) ​ ||| |  Normal way a bolt tightens up ((drawings by Hippysmack)) ​ |||
Line 375: Line 365:
  
 ====== A Word on Torque and Re-using Bolts ====== ====== A Word on Torque and Re-using Bolts ======
- 
   * **There are many bolts on a Sportster that the MoCo writes in the FSM to discard and replace them with new ones**.   * **There are many bolts on a Sportster that the MoCo writes in the FSM to discard and replace them with new ones**.
     * How many of those bolts get reused? How many of those have been tightened too much before, that now seem to be breaking?     * How many of those bolts get reused? How many of those have been tightened too much before, that now seem to be breaking?
Line 387: Line 376:
  
 One of these bolts was broken off in a rocker box. The others were damaged but not broken. \\ One of these bolts was broken off in a rocker box. The others were damaged but not broken. \\
 +These bolts were damaged due to a clicker wrench not operating properly. \\ 
 +The person using the torque wrench felt it happening yet kept pulling awaiting the click. \\
 +"I did notice before it snapped that it kind of spun for a second, then broke. One of the other bolts did the same thing and I stopped immediately."​ ((JeeperJay of the XLFORUM https://​www.xlforum.net/​forum/​sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-motor-engine/​sportster-motorcycle-motor-top-end/​122781-broken-bolt-for-lower-rocker-box-what-options/​page2?​t=1210515&​highlight=rocker+box+bolts&​page=2)) \\
 Any time you have any amount of thread damage or bolt stretch, replace the bolts. \\ Any time you have any amount of thread damage or bolt stretch, replace the bolts. \\
 \\ \\
-{{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​broken_bolts_by_jeeperjay.jpeg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by JeeperJay of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=1210515&​highlight=rocker+box+bolts&​page=2)) \\+{{:​techtalk:​ref:​tools:​broken_bolts_by_jeeperjay.jpeg?​direct&​300|}} ((photo by JeeperJay of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-motor-engine/​sportster-motorcycle-motor-top-end/​122781-broken-bolt-for-lower-rocker-box-what-options/​page2?​t=1210515&​highlight=rocker+box+bolts&​page=2)) \\ 
 ====== Torque Range ====== ====== Torque Range ======
- 
 Torque specifications are normally stated within a range and not a specific number. The range is given to accommodate these factors. \\ Torque specifications are normally stated within a range and not a specific number. The range is given to accommodate these factors. \\
   * **When the nut on a bolt is tightened**;​ ((Machinery'​s Handbook 27th Edition dated 2004 pg 1509))   * **When the nut on a bolt is tightened**;​ ((Machinery'​s Handbook 27th Edition dated 2004 pg 1509))
Line 405: Line 397:
  
 ====== Conversion Charts ====== ====== Conversion Charts ======
- 
 Here is an [[https://​www.mountztorque.com/​torque-conversion-calculator|online conversion chart from Mountz]] \\  Here is an [[https://​www.mountztorque.com/​torque-conversion-calculator|online conversion chart from Mountz]] \\ 
 Below are some conversion charts from Applifast ((https://​applifast.com/​resources/​applifast-conversion-tables/​)) \\ Below are some conversion charts from Applifast ((https://​applifast.com/​resources/​applifast-conversion-tables/​)) \\
Line 464: Line 455:
  
 ======= General Torque Specs ======= ======= General Torque Specs =======
- +  ​* In lieu of having torque specs at hand, below are general torque specs for different fasteners. However, nothing takes place of manufacturer torque specs for your specific applications. The torque numbers reflect pressures the bolts can take which doesn'​t take into account the amount of clamp force for the piece(s) you are clamping (or an aluminum engine). So, it's hard to trust the charts that give a torque values for bolts of a certain size, and then do not specify if the bolt is going into steel or aluminum. With steel bolts going into aluminum (engines), 'ya gotta be careful. ((IronMick of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​ironhead-sportster-motorcycle-talk-1957-1985/​191918-reassembling-crankcase/​page2?​t=2048954&​highlight=torque+wrench&​page=2)) 
-  ​* In lieu of having torque specs at hand, below are general torque specs for different fasteners. However, nothing takes place of manufacturer torque specs for your specific applications. The torque numbers reflect pressures the bolts can take which doesn'​t take into account the amount of clamp force for the piece(s) you are clamping (or an aluminum engine). So, it's hard to trust the charts that give a torque values for bolts of a certain size, and then do not specify if the bolt is going into steel or aluminum. With steel bolts going into aluminum (engines), 'ya gotta be careful. ((IronMick of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=2048954&​highlight=torque+wrench&​page=2)) +  * Good engineering books, covering fasteners, will describe the situation in full (bolt diameter, thread pitch, bolt coatings, lubrication used etc.). A lot more information than most of us ever use. Also, in the back of some motorcycle manuals you sometimes will find charts listing common bolts and torque settings. Best to take them with a grain of salt, however. ((Ferrous Head of the XLFORUM ​https://www.xlforum.net/​forum/sportster-motorcycle-forum/​sportster-motorcycle-era-specific-and-model-specific/​ironhead-sportster-motorcycle-talk-1957-1985/​191918-reassembling-crankcase/​page2?​t=2048954&​highlight=torque+wrench&​page=2))
-  * Good engineering books, covering fasteners, will describe the situation in full (bolt diameter, thread pitch, bolt coatings, lubrication used etc.). A lot more information than most of us ever use. Also, in the back of some motorcycle manuals you sometimes will find charts listing common bolts and torque settings. Best to take them with a grain of salt, however. ((Ferrous Head of the XLFORUM ​http://​xlforum.net/​forums/showthread.php?​t=2048954&​highlight=torque+wrench&​page=2))+
   * In fact, there are no torque specs for the motor mount bolts in the 57-78 FSMs. \\ And there is only value in the 79-85 FSM (rear motor mounting bolt-nut: 16 to 24 ft lbs). \\ For the rest, there is a "​General Fastener Tightening Specifications"​ chart in the 70-78 and 79-85 FSMs. ((1970-1978 HD Sportster XL/​XLH/​XLGH/​XLT-1000 FSM pg 1-13)) \\ It lists general torque values for bolt types but not specific mounting bolts. \\ It also says to torque to these values given in the table unless specified otherwise. \\ However, these are steel to steel fasteners. \\ According to the chart, a 1/4" grade 8 bolt is listed as taking a torque of 14 ft/lbs. \\ 1/4" bolts are also used on cam covers and primary covers (90-110 in/lbs (9 ft/lbs) on the 1/4" oil pump bolts) \\ 14 ft/lbs is too much torque, not for the bolts, but for the aluminum threads in the case.  ​   * In fact, there are no torque specs for the motor mount bolts in the 57-78 FSMs. \\ And there is only value in the 79-85 FSM (rear motor mounting bolt-nut: 16 to 24 ft lbs). \\ For the rest, there is a "​General Fastener Tightening Specifications"​ chart in the 70-78 and 79-85 FSMs. ((1970-1978 HD Sportster XL/​XLH/​XLGH/​XLT-1000 FSM pg 1-13)) \\ It lists general torque values for bolt types but not specific mounting bolts. \\ It also says to torque to these values given in the table unless specified otherwise. \\ However, these are steel to steel fasteners. \\ According to the chart, a 1/4" grade 8 bolt is listed as taking a torque of 14 ft/lbs. \\ 1/4" bolts are also used on cam covers and primary covers (90-110 in/lbs (9 ft/lbs) on the 1/4" oil pump bolts) \\ 14 ft/lbs is too much torque, not for the bolts, but for the aluminum threads in the case.  ​
  
   * When using oiled fasteners, you should take into account the added pre-load from the oil before applying advertised torque to avoid shearing off the bolt head or cracking/ breaking the piece your working on. You can use the Wet Chart below to calculate a torque value with the added pre-load.   * When using oiled fasteners, you should take into account the added pre-load from the oil before applying advertised torque to avoid shearing off the bolt head or cracking/ breaking the piece your working on. You can use the Wet Chart below to calculate a torque value with the added pre-load.
- 
  
 ===== Dry Torque Specs ft/lb ===== ===== Dry Torque Specs ft/lb =====
- 
   * Convert ft/lb to N*m by multiplying by 1.3558 ((Clymer 2004-2013 HD Sportster Repair Manual))   * Convert ft/lb to N*m by multiplying by 1.3558 ((Clymer 2004-2013 HD Sportster Repair Manual))
   * Fastener strength of SAE bolts can be determined by the bolt head grade markings. Unmarked bolt heads are usually mild steel. More grade markings indicate higher strength fasteners. For instance, grade 5 may have three hash marks from the center out to the edge, grade 7 may have five hash marks and grade 8 should have 6 hash marks.((Clymer 2004-2013 HD Sportster Repair Manual))   * Fastener strength of SAE bolts can be determined by the bolt head grade markings. Unmarked bolt heads are usually mild steel. More grade markings indicate higher strength fasteners. For instance, grade 5 may have three hash marks from the center out to the edge, grade 7 may have five hash marks and grade 8 should have 6 hash marks.((Clymer 2004-2013 HD Sportster Repair Manual))
Line 526: Line 514:
  
 ===== Wet Torque Value Chart for Lubed Threads From Allied Systems ===== ===== Wet Torque Value Chart for Lubed Threads From Allied Systems =====
- 
- 
 If bolt threads are lubricated with light oil or anti-seize compound, the torque required to achieve the proper bolt tension is reduced. Below are charts with the proper "​wet"​ torque values for type of bolt used: All charts property of and used by permission from Allied Systems Company. If bolt threads are lubricated with light oil or anti-seize compound, the torque required to achieve the proper bolt tension is reduced. Below are charts with the proper "​wet"​ torque values for type of bolt used: All charts property of and used by permission from Allied Systems Company.
  
Line 542: Line 528:
  
 ===== Wet/Dry Charts from Applifast ===== ===== Wet/Dry Charts from Applifast =====
- 
 ^  INCH BOLT TORQUE TABLE (SAE J429 and ASME 574)  ||||||| ​ ^  METRIC BOLT TORQUE TABLE (ISO 898)  ||||||| ^  INCH BOLT TORQUE TABLE (SAE J429 and ASME 574)  ||||||| ​ ^  METRIC BOLT TORQUE TABLE (ISO 898)  |||||||
 |Steel Grade|SAE 5||SAE 8||Socket Head \\ Cap Screw|| ​ |Property Class|8.8||10.9||12.9 Socket Head \\ Cap Screw|| |Steel Grade|SAE 5||SAE 8||Socket Head \\ Cap Screw|| ​ |Property Class|8.8||10.9||12.9 Socket Head \\ Cap Screw||