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Torque Wrench
A "torque wrench" is a type of wrench with a built-in spring-loaded indicator that gives a numerical readout of the amount of torque being applied through it.
This is primarily an automotive tool, especially useful for applications involving crushable gaskets which must be tightened evenly.
Torque wrenches are never needed for bicycle work, although they can be a useful training aid for inexperienced mechanics who haven't learned the feel of a properly-tightened fastener.
[I find this mostly to be true, but many bicycle components now are accompanied with spec sheets with lists of torque settings. There are three reasons for this:
- Consultants to attorneys measure torque values, leading to an excess of caution by the manufacturers
- Some components made of unusual materials (carbon fiber seatposts, aluminum bolts) require lower torque settings than for other parts of the same general type.
- In some unusual cases -- for example, quill handlebar stems -- a wedging effect multiplies the force exterted by a threaded part, and can lead to damage at torque values which would be normal otherwise.
This paragraph added by John Allen]
Also see the more extended discussion about torquing threaded parts.
