Can You Use a Torque Wrench as a Breaker Bar?
When working on a car or any other mechanical project, it’s important to have the right tools for the job. But if you don’t have a dedicated breaker bar, can you use a torque wrench instead?
The answer is yes, but it’s not always ideal. A torque wrench is designed to tighten bolts to a specific torque, which is measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs). A breaker bar, on the other hand, is designed to break loose bolts that are stuck or rusted. It’s much longer than a torque wrench and has a longer handle, which gives you more leverage.
When to Use a Torque Wrench as a Breaker Bar
There are a few situations where it’s okay to use a torque wrench as a breaker bar. For example, if you don’t have a breaker bar, or if you’re working in a tight space where a breaker bar wouldn’t fit. You can also use a torque wrench to break loose bolts that are only slightly stuck.
When Not to Use a Torque Wrench as a Breaker Bar
There are also some situations where you should not use a torque wrench as a breaker bar. For example, if you’re working on a bolt that is very stuck or rusted, you could damage the torque wrench. You should also never use a torque wrench to tighten bolts. This could overtighten the bolt and damage the threads.
Tips for Using a Torque Wrench as a Breaker Bar
If you do decide to use a torque wrench as a breaker bar, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that the torque wrench is set to the lowest possible torque setting. This will help to prevent damage to the torque wrench.
Second, use a slow and steady motion when breaking loose the bolt. Don’t try to force it, as this could damage the torque wrench or the bolt.
Finally, be careful not to overtighten the bolt when you’re using the torque wrench to tighten it. This could damage the threads.
Conclusion
Can you use a torque wrench as a breaker bar? Yes, but it’s not always ideal. If you don’t have a breaker bar, or if you’re working in a tight space, you can use a torque wrench to break loose bolts that are only slightly stuck. However, you should never use a torque wrench to tighten bolts, as this could overtighten the bolt and damage the threads.
Interested in learning more about torque wrenches and breaker bars? Leave a comment below and let us know what you’d like to learn more about!
FAQ
Q: Can I use any torque wrench as a breaker bar?
A: No, not all torque wrenches are designed to be used as breaker bars. Only use a torque wrench that is specifically designed for this purpose.
Q: What is the difference between a torque wrench and a breaker bar?
A: A torque wrench is designed to tighten bolts to a specific torque, while a breaker bar is designed to break loose bolts that are stuck or rusted.
Q: Can I use a breaker bar to tighten bolts?
A: No, you should never use a breaker bar to tighten bolts. This could overtighten the bolt and damage the threads.
