I am getting ready to do some diff work, and I need to get a proper torque wrench. What are my options for an in/lb 1/4" torque wrench to measure pinion preload? Are there any more "affordable" than a Snap-on dial torque wrench at $300?

If that's what it take's then I will get it, but I am hoping there is a good alternative that is still good quality too.

 

Harbor Freight, Craftsman, Northern Tools,

Rent one from AutoZone for free.

 

http://www.parktool.com/products/det...13&item=TW%2D1

$34.99 at Performance Bike
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/....cfm?SKU=11387

 

get a craftsman....just buy it once

 

Thanks for the suggestions, but don't I need a "visually indicating" torque wrench, such as a dial or beam-deflection, capable of measuring 5-16 in-lbs?

I could be wrong, because I have never rebuilt a 3rd before, but that is what I gather from reading the shop manual.

Something like that ParkTool torque wrench may be the ticket. Would a 0-60 in-lbs scale give me an accurate enough reading down low, or do I need someting with a smaller scale such as 0-30 in-lbs? Any other suggetions, or tricks for doing this without a specialty torque wrench?

 

Yes, you need a dial or beam type.

Zuk uses the Park one ... that's a good enough recommendation for me!

 

Yep. That parktool one mentioned above is the one I use. It works fine, and is priced right.