Harbor Freight torque wrench 8-year review and accuracy test

[@lacro5686]

Interesting fact: In my previous employment (10 years). I had to use a torque wrench daily. Accurate torque was imperative with this company. They required all torque wrenches be tested/certified for accuracy every six months. They had their own test equipment which itself was recertified annually for accuracy. All torque wrenches were tested throughout there torque range which is where accuracy can vary a lot between different torque wrenches. My $11 HF torque wrench was among the most accurate through it's entire torque range. It proved to be more accurate than a $300+ Snap on wrench. It passed the accuracy test every six months for 7 years. I still have it with it's last certification sticker still on it.

[@brollona3948]

@Sho Yu Weeni For wrench in video it is 4%. I have same 3/4 type in my work.

[@marianluc6235]

Good to know.

[@shawbros]

Yes, but if you own any tools that are not Snap On, then you will not be allowed into heaven.

[@dannydee9919]

Im having a hard time believing you. My experiences with HF torque wrench are terrible. I Purchased the 3/8 last year to use as my trusted 3/8 tekton was out for service, biggest mistake and the biggest frustration when attempting to torque a thermostat housing to a water pump, it snapped the bolt head, and boy was it a bitch to get out. Never again..

[@morphius747]

it might be better for higher torque like he tested with 70 ft lbs. I used it for 7 ft lbs on a bolt and it stripped the threads

[@FargoFX]

If there were Academy Awards for tool reviews this will definitely win an Oscar. A perfect review. Quick and to the point, packed with good information, backed up with stats and measurements and coming from a credible source. Great work, keep it up!

[@18magicMARKer]

FargoFX that would mean he’s faking the review to fool us that’s he really doing a legit review. Kinda like when Sean won an Oscar for playing a mentally disable person...people were convinced he is. A better analogy would be a Nobel prize?

[@floridaredneck]

@@18magicMARKer How about an Emmy?

[@johnsmith7676]

@@18magicMARKer Except that Nobel Prizes are also awarded to frauds, as well.

[@Superrun357]

if not for Harbor frieght, many of my wish lists would still be dreams, I go to the drag strip every week with my trusty harbor frieght low profile jack and this trusty torque wrench, launch my car and send it down the track. Great Video , ty!

[@regularguysgarage3276]

SEND IT!

[@vegasway]

Those orange floor jacks sold by Harbor Freight are actually Snap-on design. What happened is that when designed their floor jack Snap-on didn’t trademark it immediately, so Harbor Freight snatched the design while they could. You can look at Snap-on red jack and Harbor Freight orange, they look exactly the same.

[@marshallmcaleer3420]

My dreams too, I never thought I could own a set of precision tools. Harbor freight is a poor mans paradise

[@drumswhilegolfing101]

@@vegasway Just picked one up, FANTASTIC tool. I also have one of their engine mounts, shop crane, transmission jack, jack stands, breaker bars, combo wrenches, etc. All have help up to years of abuse and work as well as they day I bought them. Hell the shop crane hydraulics held pressure after having a whole engine held up by it for weeks. Seriously underrated and overlooked tools by professionals.

[@stevem9141]

I used this torque wrench for my head bolts when I changed the head gasket on my Honda. Still good 10,000 miles later.

[@claytonbonds2579]

I bet it’s still good today if you still have it

[@dondale68]

$20 for 8 years, I'd call it a damn good investment!

[@justinv3080]

$10 with the coupon :)

[@louispeters2105]

20%off entire purchase and Free item coupon (work lite/magnet bar/shop misc) love the HB app!

[@pvt_mtbl9516]

Yes sir

[@IAmStaggerLee]

I just blew apart my 1/2" HF torque wrench while attempting to torque a lower strut bolt. The screws came out and the ratchet mechanism came apart, losing the pawls and springs in the process. That wrench had given me 5 solid years of service and accurately torqued thousands of bolts in it's life, so I had no reservations in picking up another one with a $9.99 coupon. I just need to remember to Loctite the screws.

[@v8consumption]

One thing about China tools is they bolts and screws come loose so always use loctite

[@wildbill23c]

Did you ever find any of the parts LOL.

[@ponketon]

Life time warranty, just drop it off and pick a new one for free at the store.

[@JViello]

@@ponketon Dude... 😂😂😂

[@rodndrone1198]

Ive rebuilt 10 engines with harbor freight 1/4 3/8 and 1/2 torque wrenches. Zero issuses.

[@max41050]

I have the 3/8 from harbor freight always works perfect .

[@alexmachado3622]

Rod N' Drone nice. Good to know, everyone believes it will not do too good on motors. I am definitely getting all 3. Lifetime warranty, no receipt needed to get a replacement. And other brands are not lifetime warranty on torque wrenches

[@truckerpeterose]

Alex Machado Are you sure about lifetime warranty? I thought it was only 90 days on the torque wrench. I may be wrong though

[@willnicholas7918]

Thank you for commenting. I am about to go pick one up, I was debating since I’m torquing down rod bolts and I’m rarely inside an engine. Going to save myself some money!

[@jgwalling]

Packaging says lifetime warranty

[@gogetyourowngear4251]

My 2 cents...it's a inexpensive tool that does what it should. Is it the quality of snap-on etc...no. But will get the job done. Problem is people abuse these things and then they are shocked when they stop working the way they should. If you jump up and down on a cheater bar attached to a snap-on torque wrench it will not work correctly for long either. Nice video...subscribed!

[@joccievier3146]

GoGetYourOwnGear lol people buy tools from harbor freight and think there going to get snap on quality tools

[@shawbros]

@@joccievier3146 "think there going" It's spelled "they're", not "there".

[@charger19691]

A 15 dollar torque wrench, 8 years old, basically still very accurate. Amazing deal. I have the 20 dollar Pittsburgh Pro torque wrench. It's never let me down. Most things at Harbor Freight are a grand slam of a deal for the homeowner. I have a cheap set of combination wrenches from HF and I bought them in 1993. Never a problem and used very hard! I am a fan of Harbor Freight. They have always treated me well. They may not sell the best stuff, but it's definitely good stuff for the homeowner.

[@nelsonhochberg5182]

I am an aircraft mechanic. When I worked on charter and airline aircraft, the FAA insisted that I calibrate all my measuring tools at least once a year. Instead of spending a lot of money to get the tools calibrated, I calibrate them myself using a cheap dumbbell set I bought at Walmart which was calibrated at a grocery store using their scale that was recently calibrated and traceable to NIST. For the last 30 years, I have three Harbor Freight cheap torque wrenches. Occasionally they are slightly off - probably because I loan them our to others who may misuse or drop them. In the past I would open the end of the wrench to reset them but the Harbor Freight torque wrenches have another advantage that I have not seen in other torque wrenches: they have a lifetime unconditional warranty. The few times that one of my torque wenches have been off, I now just return them to the store and get a new one free - no questions asked.

[@johnathangrey3463]

I rebuilt both an engine and a transmission on of the 1997 Honda accord of. Both with my torque wrenches from Harbor Freight got them for 30$ on veterans day. SHOUT OUT TO ALL MY BOYS IN THE SERVICE. 1/4 inch. 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch wrenches. Yes my Honda is still working great.

[@tacjam1]

Just tested my HF Torque Wenches the same way you did in 2020, I bought mine in 07-08 and they were right at 68ft lbs when set to 70ft lbs. You are correct, the key to keeping any torque wrench calibrated is to always set it to the lowest setting when not in use, never use them to back off nuts or bolts (do not use them as a ratchet) and they're not hammers. While I was at it I went ahead and blue Loctite the little screws.

[@hostilityy]

harbor freight torque wrenches are definitely not garbage. you just have to pick and choose in the store. I rebuilt my GSXR engine with their inch pound torque wrench. best $11 ever spent.

[@mikeliu106]

how do you choose a good one? What would you look for?

[@miketheguy3408]

Yeah what would we look for?

[@alb12345672]

I also have one from that age. I had it tested in a local machine shop recently and the guy almost shit in his pants. He tried the tests a few times. He wanted to buy it. He said it gives better(or quite similar) results than his $800 one. He said he tests them all the time so it would be great for him. Problem with HF is quality control. The tools aren't bad. One day you will get a tool that makes snap on look like junk, next day you get scrap.

[@alexmachado3622]

alb12345672 I’ve been buying tools for almost a year from Hf, hasn’t let me down yet. Right now I’m on the fence for buying all 3 torque wrenches and since they’re lifetime warranty it’s worth it. I haven’t seen any other brand with the lifetime guarantee on torque wrenches. I can bring it back with no receipt and for the recalibration reason, it can be returned anytime.

[@OldJoe212]

I have the 3/8". My 1/2" and 1/4" are different brands. I also have the HF digital meter. When I got that. I tested it with several known weights and a long breaker bar. It was right on the money. I have no problem checking the accuracy of my wrenches with it. Like you said, I store my wrenches at the lowest setting. The low tooth count, at least on a torque wrench, is the least of my worries. Bottom line, the HF is a great buy.

[@glasser2819]

It's good business after all to sell these $10 torque wrenches... mechanics can do a good job and keep buying more tools ! 👍🏼

[@edwinabanks6413]

I got this mower specifically to be able to drive it through a 36 inch door kzbin.infoUgkx1VWTrayKBdCKAjzAcZ_Eg4dhHTae3LkN also recommend or gate It is a little tight with the grass deflector installed but has more clearance with the deflector replaced by the recycler/mulcher. This model appears to be popular and a little harder to find for that reason. I can't judge the dependability as I have only mowed the yard twice but everything else on the mower is very nice and working fine so far. I added options for the run hour timer, arm backrests, recycler/mulcher, towing bracket, deck lift assist and cover.

[@Erklzanderz]

Good video! Real world application of opinion backed by stats and video proof! No blabbering on about random things and straight to the point. Two thunbs up!!

[@dbfcrell8300]

I have this exact same harbor freight torque wrench that I bought in 2008. I don't do enough retorquing to require a better one, so I'm glad you did this test and review. It confirms that it is good enough for what I do.

[@marcogonzalez3298]

I have never had a problem with Harbor Freight tools. Thanks for the video.

[@mariuszgrochola2391]

goddamn homeboy even busted out the receipt. Great video

[@maximusmax4557]

Grow up.

[@BrewCityRider]

I've had a similar experience with my HF Pittsburgh torque wrenches. They have worked great for me...and at $9.99 a piece they are the best bargain out there.

[@skunkhollow1]

Great review! This is very good to know, as I just bought myself a HF 1/2 inch torque wrench and it seems to be pretty decent quality for the $12 I shelled out for it. I don't work in a shop but I do a lot of general repair out of my driveway, and this looks like the perfect tool for the occasions when I need a bigger torque wrench.

[@hirumbiffidum9145]

I swear I've gotta save up and get things like this to survive and like many other mechanical DIY vlogger's you have very good informative video's. Please DO NOT stop making the video's !

[@TheTech660]

Great Torque Wrench! Did me well for the years...10yrs approximately. Obviously it doesn't work anymore. But it won't stop me from getting another one for to do me another 10yrs of service! Thanks for the Vid! Toyota Tech... 16yrs

[@andrews5926]

TheTech660 they have a lifetime warranty on all hand tools

[@sdqsdq6274]

for that price , people sure complain much,humans .pay peanuts get peanuts

[@alexmachado3622]

You won’t have to buy another one, It’s lifetime replacement. And within time it should get better quality and since it’ll be lifetime you can get the newer/better model when they produce it and discontinue the older one.

[@Rhaspun]

I still have my Proto torque wrench that I bought back in the early 80s. Only used for DIY work my different cars over the years. It's still accurate and the complaints about the sloppy handling and being difficult to read are still there.

[@joshuagarcia7791]

Wow I just bought 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 torque wrench at HF for $10 each with a coupon. I was going to return them. Thanks for your 8 year feedback

[@craigtimmons3468]

I have the 1/4" inch pound , 3/8" 1/2" & 3/4" foot pound versions of the harbor freight tourqe wrenches and the oldest one the 1/2" is pushing 20 years old, I have them checked by a buddy of mine that has a tourqe block and every time they all fall between the plus or minus 3ft lbs as stated by harbor freight. I always back them off when I'm finished using them and always store them in their case. Just because their inexpensive doesn't mean I treat them like a piece of trash. Guess I was brought up in a different way.

[@glasser2819]

you are all right, respect and consideration go a long way including for these fine MadeInChina tools. 👍

[@mikesierra1872]

Ha i do the same thing. Even though it’s a cheap tool I treat it with kid gloves. Always back it off and put it in the case and make sure not to throw it back in the tool chest. That way when i use it a year later its good to go.

[@paulalbares643]

Prior to retirement I worked in government and we used precision measuring equipment of all sorts that were calibrated on a regular time interval. One day I asked one of the calibration techs to check my HF torque wrench, voltmeters and amp meters. He, as well as myself said they were spot on and my voltmeter was more accurate than the expensive Fluke meters we used at work! They may not be expensive pieces of equipment and not the prettiest cases and packaging but they do the job they are designed for and the home mechanic and technician can afford accuracy at HF prices, especially with the coupons and sales events. BTW, have you noticed how some of the tools you purchase at HF looks identical to more expensive brands? Perhaps some other brands use the same sources and just have their name and logo imprinted as well as increase the purchase price several fold. I know many people who equate quality with the sales price, not always a solid metric to make a judgement.

[@Ace-ki1mc]

One other thing to add is the lifetime warranty. Just returned one that was not adjusting correctly and got a brand new one. No questions asked. I am not a professional mechanic but I tinker around. For a guy like me, the 9.99 price point with lifetime warranty is too good to pass up. Harbor Freight has it's place at the table and it at least gives all of us options.

[@jesusalvarado1657]

I always use those torque wrenches and have had no issues at all.

[@darrellroireau4061]

Thank You! I have also had mine as long as you. I finally decided to see a review but have had no problems with it. Very Cool!

[@car24dude]

I bought the same one you have. The dang thing fell apart and tiny pieces landed near me. This video showed me how to put it back together. Thanks

[@stevenhensley7250]

It’s just fine for the DIY applications. I locked down the rear end on my 2012 Mustang to get rid of the crazy live axel sway. The HF torque wrenches a 1/2” and a 3/8” wrench got the job done. Also had one of those Kimo powered ratchets making the job quick. The HF wrenches still work great. I’ve had mine for seven years with no issues.

[@Whizzo333]

The instructions say never use it in reverse but i keep hearing that reverse thread bolts and nuts although rare do exist, lawn mower, pump impellers etc., Thoughts ? Thanks 👍

[@legojenn]

Thanks for the video. I really only use my torque wrench to tighten up the wheels on my cars when I do the summer and winter tire changeover. The Harbor Freight tool works just fine.

[@michaelstarr5861]

Just got a 1/2" Harbor Freight Tq wr. today with a Super Coupon for $11.99. Thanks for this review!

[@TheSilverSurfisher]

Hi, just to clarify, by Harbour Freight torque wrench do you mean the brand Pittsburgh??

[@snap-off5383]

I love my torque wrench. I have 3 sizes, 1/4" 3/8" and 1/2", of course I was diligent and made sure mine were good working ones before leaving the store.

[@franekorlowski5410]

Well damn. This was one of the best reviews I’ve seen probably ever!

[@douglasthompson2740]

Gotta say I have had that basic model torque wrench since they came out with them which is more than twenty five years if memory serves. Also have the 3/8 and 1/4 models. They have worked quite well not even loose screws. As mentioned the base adjustment is a bit awkward but for the difference of several hundred dollars I can handle it! I had a beam (still do) style before and these were a great improvement when working in positions where the scale is not easily seen. I had always hoped they would come out with a 3/4 drive but they never have. With HF you just have to be a bit selective on what you get. I know I would not have been able to afford the myriad of tools in my shop and some have been very worthy that I needed to get my work accomplished. I have been going to them often since they first opened. One concern I have recently is their trend toward creating 'brand names' and then boosting prices considerably which is the whole reason I shop there in the first place. My hope is that they keep the present inventory and do not switch to the higher profit "brands". Good review. Take care. Doug

[@hughj.5762]

Mine just blew apart but I was able to find all the pieces and reassemble thanks to this video. I used loctite on the screws this time. Good as new.

[@floridaredneck]

I know, it's been a long time, but not for me. This is what happened. I needed a torque wrench for a while now, but couldn't pay what they cost and I knew about this one. But I wasn't convinced until I saw you. So, with Harbor Freight, I got so frustrated about their coupon and discount crap that I all but stopped shopping there. It's like you have to jump through all those hoops just to buy something at the same price the guy before me paid. I had unsubscribed from their emails because it was just too time consuming. Anyhow, I needed this damn wrench to fix a slow leak so I finally bought one today. When I went to use it, the selector wouldn't twist past 30lbs, and that was tough. I took it back and they agreed it was defective and gave me another one. It's not as easy to turn as yours is, but with a little bike oil, I made it work. The guy at the store said it would loosen up after using it, but I only bought it for tire changes (to tighten), so I won't use it that much. Thank you so much for your motivation and for making me go to their coupon page before I went. Kicking and screaming I did because I just want to go and not dick around online. Anyway, it was on sale for $18 (I don't use .99 mess) down from $22, which I would have paid without hesitation. Then they had a coupon for guess what? 20% off all torque devices! So I paid $14.39 for it (plus FL tax). I just wanted to tell you that you made a difference in my day. I appreciate you and I won't forget you. I subscribed too! Jon

[@Justicejamesb]

Great review. I have the same wrench, I use it to torque on my lugs, works wonderful, no complaints.

[@joej2353]

And at that price, you could replace it every five years for good measure and not feel the slightest bit guilty.

[@patrickday1391]

I'll echo other comments here that you provided a great video review. Thank you! I'm repairing a Top-80 motor for a paramotor and much of it is aluminum. I'll dial down the torque to be sure but I wanted to make sure that (so long as I took care of it and used proper technique) that this would do the job. I'm sure down the road a few years I'll upgrade but I really just needed something that was better than, well nothing at all. While I'll still take care, I want to thank you for giving a thorough review with a test and your honest opinion.

[@blackjaminboy]

I bought the 1/2" and 3/8" after my buddy left my craftsman in lay on a small amount of break cleaner and the plastic handle fused to the adjustment collar. I have not been disappointed for the price point, good tools do not always have to be expensive such as handle tools for the average DIYer

[@Dat1derfulSound]

Got mine (1/2 dr.) for $14 with discount seven yrs ago and it still works. The screws came loose, one totally, and lost it. Luckily, I found the same size in my bucket o' boltz collection. Now, if I could only find a store that would let me check the calibration for free..... 😁 Btw, thanks for the review.

[@lexustech48]

Professional technician here. I own both Matco and Snap-on torque wrenches, 2 in 1/2" and 1 in 3/8". 99% of the time the 3/8" and 1/2" do the job. But occasionally Lexus throws a monkey wrench in there with an inch pound torque spec. I think Ill pick up a 1/4" version from HF and give it a whirl!

[@SportBikeAnthony]

Funny this video came up. I had just bought a 1/4 inch, and 3/8 inch torque wrench from harbor freight 2 weeks ago. The 1/4 inch worked great, but the 3/8 was way off. Ended up busting an oil cooler housing because the aluminum couldn't take the 50ftlbs of torque it did when it was set to 27ftlbs. Luckily it was on the one I took off, and not the replacement one. Dumb luck that I tried it on the old one first. Anyways, I tried adjusting it all the way out but it still over torqued bolts. Got a replacement one that was fine. If you get a HF one, be sure to calibrate it first. They work great, but don't trust It out of the box like I did.

[@fredanderson7728]

I own two different torque wrenches from Harbor Freight and I really like them. They may be basic, low end torque wrenches, but they work well for what I paid for.

[@jasonerb2577]

For all the more times you actually need to torque nuts and bolts, I love it. I've never had an issue with it's accuracy. The tooth thing...that's knit picking. You're not supposed to use a torque wrench to tighten nuts and bolts, just to torque them once they're already tight. That's more of an issue with ratchets. I have a set of ratchets (not HF) that the screws in the face plate kept coming off of just like that torque wrench...a drop of thread lock and they're good as gold. I've worked in a professional diesel shop, and for my money in my toolbox at home, I'll take the HF torque wrench every time and twice on Sundays.

[@bbrad628]

I regularly use a 1/2” Harbor Freight torque wrench to torque my truck lug nuts and I haven’t lost a nut or wheel yet.

[@MrTtmich]

I'm impressed with your test which using the real numbers and facts. I am glad to see that the torque wrench's accuracy is plus/minus just few pounds especially from an old and well used wrench. I will buy one for my casual use of this torque wrench.

[@dimefever1006]

For what I paid $9.99 it's a good tool...I use this over the craftsman I bought years ago.

[@charlieclingan9273]

I have had the Harbor Frieght torque wrench for 2 years and have used it heavily without any issues at all and it it is still within 10 percent accuracy I would say that's pretty good for 10 bucks!

[@obtainiumgaming4472]

Thanks for a solid review. I need to replace 6 plugs and coil packs on a Mazda CX-9 and have to take the manifold off. This tool will give me piece of mind and more money in the pocket.

[@rescuedmx3717]

A great, simple and straight forward review!! I think I’ll go buy one! 👍🏼😜Thanks!

[@MichaelStroup]

The really question is how you kept your receipt looking so good for 8 years? Mine all look faded after a few days no matter how i have tried to store them.

[@richie2dicks468]

Michael Stroup receipt paper is thermal and heat sensitive store in a cool dark dry place. Sunlight will ruin

[@ShainAndrews]

LOL. I was thinking the same thing. Lucky if I can keep one of those receipts looking good for a week.

[@alexmachado3622]

Yup. I thought the same, I think it’s legit though. It is hard to keep a receipt new looking.

[@xxdizannyxx]

The secret is human semen, use a nail polish brush and apply a light coat then let it sit until it has dried then store the receipt in between the pages of a book.. this way you can have one semen coated receipt per page and store the book.

[@aguilayserpiente]

HF Armor All.

[@tinabrown9617]

I know this is an older review....but i have a question! Have you ever oiled yours in the time you ve owned it? If so, what did you prefer to oil with, and where did you apply? Thank you.

[@bradnoyes7955]

8 years? I couldn't get 8 uses out of the 1/2" Harbor Freight Torque Wrenches I had. The first one failed (stopped clicking, so it basically became a breaker bar) and nearly caused me to twist off a bolt in an engine block (still had to replace the bolt). Its replacement failed the same way, but luckily while torquing lug nuts on my car and I just thought, this seems too tight for 100 ft lbs. Tried it on my truck (150 ft lb lug torque spec) and the HF torque wrench set at 100 ft lbs didn't click even with over 130 ft lbs applied, I lowered the setting on the wrench and it didn't start clicking again until it was set at around 35-40 ft lbs. The 2nd and 3rd replacements both failed this way as well, but I cannot return them, they will only exchange them. At this point they have been demoted to lug nut only use where over torquing poses little risk of damage and is easily detected. However, I have not had any issues with the 3/8" HF torque wrench.

[@hichcoc]

Mine didn't click either...

[@Garth2011]

Brad N I'm smiling. A 3rd purchase of the Harbor Freight ? Time for Craftsman or some other

[@alexmachado3622]

Not purchase, replacements. They’re lifetime, no receipt needed to get another one. Just your phone number

Question: How many bolts did you remove with the wrench? Even though it's marked with an OFF you NEVER use a torque wrench to remove a bolt or nut. They are ONLY for tightening. Instead of ON and OFF they should be marked RIGHT and LEFT.

[@soilmanted]

Hmm, does the small end of each spring make contact with the pawl, which is the way you have them situated, or does the large end make contact with the pawl, or doesn't it make any difference. My springs went flying away and when I finally found them, I put them back with the large end touching the pawl. Ratchet seems to work but maybe it is better to turn them around?

[@racekar80]

I use my HF wrench to torque my race car lug nuts. Had it calibrated at the track last year. After 6 years it’s within 2%!

[@BloodStainedTear]

haven't had a problem with the screws but have had a problem with the adjuster binding

[@lorenfok1097]

So for the casual DIYer who only need a torque wrench few times a year this is perfect. Low cost, functions. And if it ever breaks or you abuse it, life time warranty no questions asked.

[@mrsemifixit]

Is torque affected by how it’s held? For example if you hold the head with one hand (to keep it in place) while turning the handle with the other hand as oppose to just using one hand

[@AllAmericanDreamChaser]

A very in depth video. GREAT JOB! Thank you!!👍😀

[@maestrovso]

Thanks for making this. I am surprised it is that accurate. I wish you would check a few torque levels along the range. I suspect the linearity may not be that great. For me I would be quite content with say 5% accuracy.

[@glennpurcell5206]

Had a friend who winters in PHOENIX AZ. pick me up the 1/2'' model from HARBOR FREIGHT....3 years ago..........Have used it on my trucks,my outboards, trailers and wife's Ford Escape........works just fine!! buddy has a didgital wrench he paid over $150. he is a local professional diesel mechanic...... mine is within a couple ft./lbs. of his on various settings. Its cheap and it works.!!! Glenn in B.C. Canada.

[@Max-oi9es]

Make sure you tighten the screws down before your first use. I didn't and ended up exploding the internals after the screws fell out. The second one I used Lock Tight.

[@DonBMW]

Great advice. I’m totally going to do this. Thanks!

[@robd3061]

I have a cheap torque wrench that I bought at Pep Boys about ten years ago. I believe it was $20. It looks very similar to the HF (probably comes from the same manufacturer in China). I use it for lug nuts, only. Effort feels consistent going from one lug nut to the next, but I have not tested it, so I don't know its accuracy. The adjustment mechanism is a bit crude and the markings are a bit difficult to read, but it gets the job done. It's been reliable, though its used infrequently. I always store it with the adjustment unloaded. Next time, I'd prefer one with a longer handle for more leverage.

[@sanityone649]

Note: you also want to make your setting coming from low to high. Never from high to low. Reason. The internal adjustment screw always has a little slack in it…otherwise you couldn’t turn the handle… so to ensure repeatability…always set ur desired torque value coming up from low to high. If you pass your desired torque setting…go below it and adjust back to it. Also, set your wrench to its lowest torque setting when your finished. These wrenches are typically plus or minus 3 % of indication.

[@anonymike8280]

My experience with Harbor Freight is very good. The 3/8 and 1/2 produce a very definite click and they probably are quite accurate. The advice to set it to zero after use is important. If you do not it will lose its accuracy according to all sources. These tools are not meant for constant use, but if the number of bolts you need to set to torque in a year is less than a few dozen these will be good enough for you with any standard production vehicles or bicycles. My only problem experience is with the 1/4 torque wrench. You have to learn how to recognize when it clicks and get the feel of or you might risk overtorquing small bolts and damaging threads in aluminum and allow parts.

[@SAXONWARLORD1000AD]

I'm not sure about testing a HARBOR FREIGHT wrench with a HARBOR FREIGHT test device

[@mnight207]

I agree. Kind of a conflict of interest

[@alexlatta2878]

How? For there to be a conflict of interest, the torque wrench and the torque adapter would have to be off by the same amount intentionally. One way to dispel this is to test the adapter with a freshly calibrated torque wrench. Also, probably the more interesting part of the test would be the consistency of the torque wrench. It was within +/- 4% of the torque setting, however the consistency deviated by almost 6% of the torque setting. All-in-all, this test shows that the wrench does what harbor freight claims it does (They claim it is accurate within +/- 4%.) This test needs to be done over the complete range of the tool to be complete.

[@Tekmatic]

I for one can attest to the harbor freight torque wrenches being horribly inaccurate. You might get lucky, you might not. I'd rather have a better than 50% chance that the one I pull of their shelf is going to work correctly.

[@Sparks68]

Two different devices made by two different suppliers purchased at two completely different times. If you thing "Pittsburgh" actually manufactures the tools with its brand marking, you're delusional. They come from all sorts of sources in Taiwan and China. The fact that the two devices come into agreement with less than 5% variance actually gives me some confidence that both are good enough for most work. Precision needed for alloy aircraft and race car fasteners is another matter, but we're not dealing with that here. We're usually dealing with grade 1 or 2, perhaps some grade 5, and the occasional grade 8 steel nuts and bolts commonly found on a car or light truck. I'm not really a big fan of the Harbor Freight torque wrenches simply because of their sloppy adjustment mechanism and difficult to read micrometer setting markings. However, they work, and for the guy who might need one every couple years versus 8-10 hours a day 5-6 days a week turning wrenches professionally, they're cost effective. Who can rationalize spending $400 on a Snap-On torque wrench if they're going to use it twice a year - at most - and more likely once a year or every two years. The (Amazon) Tekton, Lowe's Kobalt and Home Depot Husky are a step up for a little more money and I'm happier with them.

[@Patrick94GSR]

I actually wasn't aware of storing it on the lowest setting until a couple of years ago, but I do that now for all my torque wrenches. I just picked up a 1/4" drive HF wrench yesterday, and did a quick and dirty comparison to my 3/8" Craftsman wrench by setting the HF to 120 in-lb and the Craftsman to 10 ft-lb, and then bumping them up to 144 in-lb and 12 ft-lb respectively, both tightening a 10mm bolt. Both wrenches seemed to read and click the same on both settings, so I'm happy with my $20 HF purchase.

[@igotakai5644]

Is this Harbor Freight brand or just a brand they sell, like Pittsburgh Pro or Central Pneumatic for example? I can't read the name on the case. Thanks!

[@adamsaint2890]

I have what I believe to be this exact wrench, sold in the UK by Toolstation under the LASER brand. It comes calibrated with a certificate, my cert says at 120 lb/ft the wrench actually clicks at 120.5 lb/ft. I store it properly (unwound, in its case) and it has served me well. What more do you want for £30?

[@rejointheeu1779]

Hi! It's a good review. Does anyone know the size of the screws that keep falling out! Mine wasn't working and then I noticed that one of the screws was missing. If this happens, the tool is useless. You'd think the manufacturer would have applied some locktite to prevent this. I can't locate the screw anywhere on the net.

[@padraicmcguire108]

Impressive. Torque wrenches are pretty simple things. If you take care of them, they will be accurate for decades. My 1978 vintage Craftsman is still accurate to about 3% today. Sadly my 1999 250 ft-lb Craftsman Digitorque died when its paper indicator roll started freewheeling. A new 90T 250 ft-lb ICON torque wrench more than replaced it!

[@fredbeer6950]

You kind of sound like Linus tech tips

[@louispeters2105]

What would the "torch diferencial tolerances" be on most applications? Engine heads/valves from 360 mopar to gy6 150cc scooters should have different torch tolerance range with MAJOR diffrences in problems from being "out of spec". Could you give more explenation on your test #'s relevance? Acuracy within tolerance perameters

[@kasquaskannachehukapapansk9857]

It's amazing how they managed to stamp that tiny Taiwan on the center pivot pin.

[@randylee2549]

@Tool Teardowns I am going to install a pressure switch on my Allison transmission in my Duramax pick up, 9 foot pounds or 108 inch pounds, would you trust your Allison Trans to a now $20 pittsuburg HF TR? the options are a 30 base Capri in pound (1/4") or a Capri Diamond drive at 45 (fancier, same wrench same tolerance, or a $40 Tekton, those are my options~ thanks!

[@mayeri3083]

Got a little bit upset after snapping two bolts on my caliper pin brackets while tightening them. Not sure why it happened but was using a 3/8 of an inch harbor freight torque wrench.

[@williams215s9]

Why I’m afraid to use mine. My wife came home with that same exact one and I’m afraid to use it on my dirt bike lol. I wanted a good one.... I may just use my regular ratchet lol

[@theopiner402]

A ten dollar torque wrench is better than no torque wrench!

[@shadiahmad9986]

$10 torque wrench with +-2lb accuracy is better than a $300 torque wrench with +-1lb accuracy.

[@Mentorcase]

The thing I can't stand about the one I have is how hard to read the scale is with my aged eyes!

[@troymeredith521]

AvE did a video on a simple trick so you can see the markings more clearly. Look up "Simple Mechanic's Tool Customizing Trick". Beware of strong language if you're not familiar with AvE.

[@maximusmax4557]

I hit the markings with some black nail polish, let it dry, then removed the access with nail polish remover and a paper towel. Even with "good" eyes, the characters are substantially easier to read!

[@devinsmith4151]

These cheap ones are great for torquing wheel lug nuts. But its kind of tedious to use in a shop environment. The modern digital torque wrench is great for angle which is great for TTY bolts. So for DIY and home use, it makes sense to use something as cheap as this.

[@DonBMW]

Thanks Bruh! Working on my $500 Toyota and had to make a choice. $350 Matco or $15 Harbor Freight. The choice was easy.

[@zoravar.k7904]

Man tools in the us are expensive. In europe we can get german made hazet wrenches for 150-200 euros. This harbour freight one costs around 25 euros. All after tax.

[@FourthWayRanch]

it's hard to know where it's set at, i think it slightly covers the bottom of the line maybe?

[@cadenhancock4805]

Thanks guy, torque wrench randomly fell apart and needed to know how to put it back together.

[@FreshlySnipes]

Question for you: I got this torque wrench from HF a couple months ago. I was changing the torque spec and the bolt on the back came off, a washer and 2 small pins fell out. I put the pins back in but each pin has a pointy end and a flat end. Which end goes into the wrench handle?? The pointy end or flat?? I can’t seem to find an answer. Thanks!

[@sethallison5682]

TO BE HONEST: I had one of these not work brand new out of the box. You may think who cares, it’s cheap? Not the point. The way I found out it didn’t work was by over tightening head bolts after a head gasket replacement. I realized it wasn’t clicking after I had probably WAY over tightened the bolts. Went to Home Depot and bought a husky model. I’m sure most of these are honestly fine but if you’re working on a customers car maybe don’t take a risk.

[@T3m0ur]

Awesome FREAKING REVIEW

[@T3m0ur]

I bought it today!

[@jeepgarage]

an I wrong or your % are wrong ? from 70 to 68.4, it's 1.6, devided by 70 is equal to 0.0228 x 100 = 2.28% Any way, that was cool

[@jdmDC2ftw]

I just bought a 1/2 torque wrench from HF to torque down lug nuts. My sockets seems to come off the anvil easily and the detent pin seems normal. Is the sockets falling off easily a normal thing for the HR torque wrenches?

[@dtrrtd774]

Have you run the accuracy and deviation test back to back with one of the expensive torque wrenches using that same torque adapter setup? It may reveal how much of the variation was from the tester setup as opposed to the torque wrench. The long socket used isn't really ideal for the measurement as some of the forces are displaced, unless supported at the head as it looked like you were doing. It'd be interesting to see if the pricier ones are indeed capable of tighter accuracy and consistency.

[@dtrrtd774]

2009G8Gxp I haven't had any issues with my hf wrenches, so I would like to see if the assumption that everyone takes for granted is true, that the expensive wrenches are noticeably more consistent and accurate. I'd be impressed if they could produce a comparative set of measurements all within 2%. The other assumption is that the digital torque adapter itself is accurate.

[@stephenkacin9683]

Just bought it and my brother needed an 8o lb torque. The bar was so hard to turn we never did get it up to 80. 20 lb was easy. Why is this and is it normal for this Pittsburgh Tool?

[@identifiesas65.wheresmyche95]

How do you know that the torque adapter is accurate? They just always are?

[@detroitpyro2859]

Thx for Video, can I buy the 1/2 inch and use an adapter to make it 3/8 inch. If so why would anyone buy the 3/8 inch, it would seem to me that the better option is buy the 1/2 inch and buy the adapter to go to 3/8 inch.

[@harrisoncloke3734]

I just returned a 3/8" 5-80 ft/lb Click Type to Harbor Freight yesterday after nearly two months because it wouldn't torque properly, it caused a bolt head to dig into the plastic upper intake manifold of a Buick 3.8l Series II V6. The cashier must have known that they were junk because I was never offered an exchange, I was given a refund.

[@robertrada1660]

That torque wrench came from Taiwan not China so its really good..there a mile difference between Taiwan and China..

[@applejacks971]

1,355 mile(s) to China... You need a new map :) If you haven't seen Tommy Boy, then you won't get the reference

[@saymynameasmr4794]

I’ve seen similar numbers on snap on. Kudos

[@177bandit]

...good torque wrench for the money,if you need ultra precision,then you should invest in a digital torque wrench from renown manufactures,but for the average DIY this is a good value.