Precision Instruments split-beam torque wrench

[timothy]

My Craftsman torque wrench went kaput on Monday night after almost four years of service. I needed a new one immediately and after much reading purchased a Precision Instruments C2FR100F split-beam torque wrench. The split-beam is designed to be more rugged than the usual micrometer torque wrench with internal springs, and it does not need to be zeroed for storage -- something I always had trouble remembering.

It arrived this morning and wow I am impressed. Precision Instruments build quality makes the Craftsman with its plastic handle look like a toy. Adjusting the torque setting is effortless throughout the range. The true test will be tomorrow night when swapping brake pads for the track. Until then I am extremely pleased.

[blue2000s]

Originally Posted by timothy

My Craftsman torque wrench went kaput on Monday night after almost four years of service. I needed a new one immediately and after much reading purchased a Precision Instruments C2FR100F split-beam torque wrench. The split-beam is designed to be more rugged than the usual micrometer torque wrench with internal springs, and it does not need to be zeroed for storage -- something I always had trouble remembering.

It arrived this morning and wow I am impressed. Precision Instruments build quality makes the Craftsman with its plastic handle look like a toy. Adjusting the torque setting is effortless throughout the range. The true test will be tomorrow night when swapping brake pads for the track. Until then I am extremely pleased.

Sears would replace the broken one for free. Craftsman hand tools are guaranteed for life.

[timothy]

Originally Posted by blue2000s

Sears would replace the broken one for free. Craftsman hand tools are guaranteed for life.

I don't believe Craftsman torque wrenches are covered by the lifetime guarantee.

From the definitive guide on everything: Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craftsman_(tools)

The lifetime warranty does not include Craftsman power tools and precision hand tools. Craftsman portable power tools, bench power tools, air compressors, powered lawn & garden products and other powered items carry various warranties while many specialty hand tools such as torque wrenches, except beam-type torque wrenches which carry a Lifetime Warranty, and work lights carry a one year warranty.

[blue2000s]

Originally Posted by timothy

I don't believe Craftsman torque wrenches are covered by the lifetime guarantee.

From the definitive guide on everything: Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craftsman_(tools)

The lifetime warranty does not include Craftsman power tools and precision hand tools. Craftsman portable power tools, bench power tools, air compressors, powered lawn & garden products and other powered items carry various warranties while many specialty hand tools such as torque wrenches, except beam-type torque wrenches which carry a Lifetime Warranty, and work lights carry a one year warranty.

They replaced mine when the lock ring broke. It was about 10 years old. Might just take it in to see if they'll swap it for you.

[timothy]

Originally Posted by blue2000s

They replaced mine when the lock ring broke. It was about 10 years old.

In that case I will take it back to Sears and see what they say. Would be great if they replaced it because that wrench is rated to 150ft-lb and my new one only to 100ft-lb. Plus then I can keep my nice one at home and use the Craftsman on track days. I'll let you know what happens.

[Lil bastard]

Why not just get a cheap beam type - they're much more accurate, rugged and do not ever need to be calibrated - you calibrate it by bending the pointer til it aligns with the zero on the scale.

Granted, the click-type are argueably more convenient and possibly more sexy.

I own both. The click-type is used in non-critical areas such as lugs and suspension, but any engine work that I do is always done with the beam-type for accuracy.

Cheers!