Hi all. I just replaced the transfer case on my 99 Auto SR5. There's not enough clearance to use a socket and torque wrench to torque the driveshaft bolts. The spider joint is in the way. I can use a ratcheted box wrench and guesstimate the torque, but I'd rather be exact. Any suggestions? I've had several other situations in the past where there's been no clearance for a wrench. In general, what's the best practice to get things torqued to spec in these situations? Any tips or suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

 

I have been doing this work seems like forever at times.

Correct answer there is not a good way at least in the budget of most When they are built on the line torque calibrated air tools are the norm.

With drive shaft bolts as long as you use the factory bolts get them all tight you should be just fine.

About the only bolts I ever torque are the Headbolts main bearing cap bolts and the rod bolts Cam bushing bolts to get them even

 

Im with wyoming. Head bolts and cam retainers internal engine components etc are the most crucial when it comes to proper torque.

 

Most things around the vehicle can be torqued with the German method: Gutentight.
Most internal components of engine, transmission, tcase, and differentials need to be torqued to spec. Most external stuff ranges from snug to tight to put your weight in it (lug nuts).

 

in other words just tighten them down, use locktite if you feel the need

 

You may not have enough clearance for this, but if you can get one end of your box wrench on the bolt and then get your torque wrench attached to the back of the box wrench (allen socket), you can torque the bolts. Note because this is an extension you will have to adjust the torque setting on the wrench.

C = D(A/(A+B))

A = length of torque wrench
B = length of adapter
C = torque wrench setting
D = desired torque at end of extension

 

use torque wrench extensions and recalculate torque accordingly

 

My goodness it is all you can do to get in there with two little wrenches !!

Does nobody read any more .

So explain just how you can use an extension on a torque wrench .

I guess you could drop the cross member to get clearance but that sort of defeats the purpose Allowing the transfer case to move around now as you torque the bolts.

 

x? for guestimating. Check it after 500 miles...if it's still tight, you're good. Use Loc-tite if you're worried about it.

 

Does nobody read anymore, "You may not have enough clearance for this".