Do I need a torque wrench?

[xagna]

I am about to do my very first coilover install on s13.

Do I need a torque wrench? I have other wrenches and sockets. If I do, what size do I need for coilover installs?

Do I also need spring compressor?

Thanks.
Modified by xagna at 11:18 AM 5/18/2005

[navysnail]

it is good practice to torque bolts correctly, but it isnt nesissary. if it were me, on somthing like suspention which you are trusting your life on, i would either buy one or borrow one. besides, if you are serious about working on your car, you will need one anyways.

[Meantime]

Coilovers usually arrive as an assembled unit, so you shouldn't need a spring compressor. In the bizarre event that they don't, you can rent one or buy one for $35 at Autozone.

I highly recommend getting a torque wrench, especially when you're dealing with bolts that are indirectly containing 2600+ lbs of weight. They're not very expensive and a good investment.

[xagna]

Thanks for your replies.I don't know what kind of torque wrenches are out there though.What sizes are available and for this which should I get?

[Meantime]

Sears has a good selection. I recommend the dial-type as they're more accurate than the bow type (you'll know the difference when you see them). Mine only goes up to 75 lbs-ft but that's enough for 95% of the work on the S13. Craftsman also will calibrate the wrench for you.

Just make sure you don't get the one that's calibrated in lbs-inches like I did and then wonder why the heck the thing keeps clicking...

[Red coupe]

yeah I got sears when I bought mine. I got the 3/8th 5-80 ft/lb. its nice beacause it will work for small things like valve cover bolts and such but I have to use my crappy 12 point socket set for bigger bolts such as lugs, at some point Ill get a 1/2 inch 20-200 ft/lb (ok I dont realy remember the max but its pretty high)

[ricebike]

u can also "rent" them from parts suppliers (ie pepboys, advance autoparts, autozone) & return them w/in 10 days or so for free... it's better than guessing if they're tight enough.

i've also got a harbor freight one & it's pretty reliable as well

[Fenvy]

yeah the habor freight one will run you about 20$

that's the one I have and it gets the job done