Do I really need to torque my bar clamp bolts??

[ducamonsta]

I dont own a torque wrench. and looking to replace my handlebar, can I just tight it with a regular wrench, but no overtight?

[Slide Panda]

No you don't need one. Hand tight plus a touch of medium loctite will do. Just don't go bonkers and try to make it as tight as you possibly can - just good and snug. Then check them after the next ride to ensure they are staying put.

[He Man]

Yes. A torque wrench is just a measuring tool.

When you think its not enough, or it can be a little tighter. stop. your probably tightening it too much already.

For the little things, when you use a torque wrench, you will get a hang of what 5lbs 10lbs and 15lbs feels like and you can pretty much get to those small numbers by memory, everything else I'd use a torque wrench for.

dont forget that force is multiplied when you use a long lever arm.

[DarkStaR]

Not really necessary for that.

Many can torque pretty good by feel, but if you have to ask that question, you'll probably need one at some point.

[jim_0068]

Not really necessary for that.

Many can torque pretty good by feel, but if you have to ask that question, you'll probably need one at some point.

beat me to it...i have worked on something mechanical since i was a kid and i RARELY torque anything unless it has to do with bearings lol and i've been fine. But it might be a wise investment for you, they aren't that expensive

[He Man]

also a used well known branded one is better than a new cheap one. keep that in mind.

[ducamonsta]

The cheapest one I found was $80.00 localy so for me thats expensive! Just for one wrench!

[He Man]

what brand is it?

[1KDS]

It's not just for one wrench, it's a measuring tool.  You don't need it for this mod but you may in the future.

[Veloce-Fino]

I bought one for ~$100 a few years back when I was rebuilding a 350 SBC.

From my experience you use a torque wrench for essential moving equipment. Torquing things such as heads, clutches, connecting rods, swingarms... etc. Your handlebars don't need to be as precisely torqued as a head or a connecting rod...

Chances are for a handlebar you can just go to "snug" and you have already exceed the recommended spec. No real harm if your over, just don't over do it.

[ngk12]

i have a torque wrench, but didnt use it when adjusting my bars. if you really want to torque the bolts, try sears for a decent priced wrench. they have a beam type torque wrench for about 30.00. i bought one about 10-12 yrs ago, and it still works well.

[ducamonsta]

i have a torque wrench, but didnt use it when adjusting my bars. if you really want to torque the bolts, try sears for a decent priced wrench. they have a beam type torque wrench for about 30.00. i bought one about 10-12 yrs ago, and it still works well.

This one is $80.00
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00944595000P?vName=Gifts&cName=Dad&sName=All&sid=IDx20070921x00003a&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=00944595000P

and this one $25.00
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00944690000P?vName=Tools&cName=Auto&MechanicsTools&sName=Torque%20Wrenches&sid=IDx20070921x00003a&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=00944690000P

These never go on sale! I guess If I really want to torque those bolts , Can buy it then return it! or search on Craigslist for a nice used one!
also a Digital would be nice!