The TEKTON 24335 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench is a high-quality, durable, and reliable tool designed for both professionals and home mechanics. This wrench stands out because of its remarkable precision, build quality, and user-friendly design. In this review, we'll examine the various features, advantages, and potential drawbacks of the TEKTON 24335 to help you determine if it's the right tool for your needs.
TEKTON 24335 Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench's Specifications
- Range: 20 to 250 inch-pounds
- Accuracy: ±4%
- Resolution: 1 inch-pound
- Drive size: 1/4 inch square drive
- Material: Metal frame with rubberized grip and padded carrying case
- Ratchet mechanism: Micrometer style ratchet that provides precise clutch adjustment
- Length: 9.5 inches (extended)
- Width: 2.5 inches
- Height: 2.25 inches
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
Design and Build Quality
The TEKTON 24335 is a 1/2-inch drive click torque wrench that operates in a range of 10-150 ft.-lb. (13.6-203.5 Nm). It sports a sleek, all-steel design, which is not only pleasing to the eye but also durable. There are no plastic parts, which adds to the overall robustness of the wrench and ensures it can withstand regular use without compromising its functionality.
It's also worth mentioning the wrench's size. With a length of approximately 18 inches, it's long enough to provide good leverage but compact enough for easy storage and use in tight spaces.
Accuracy and Precision
The TEKTON 24335 is pre-calibrated to an accuracy of +/- 4%, which is more than sufficient for most automotive and general mechanical applications. This high level of accuracy ensures you can apply the correct amount of torque to fasteners, preventing under- or over-tightening that could potentially damage components or compromise safety.
Ease of Use
One of the most significant advantages of the TEKTON 24335 is its user-friendly design. The high-contrast, dual-range scale is easy to read, even in low light conditions. It allows you to measure torque in either foot-pounds or Newton-meters, making it versatile for different tasks.
The click mechanism of the TEKTON 24335 is both reliable and intuitive. When the desired torque is reached, the wrench produces a noticeable click sound and a physical impulse, which can be felt through the handle. This alerts the user to stop applying force, preventing over-tightening.
The reversible ratchet head drives in both directions and measures torque in the clockwise direction. This feature increases the versatility of the wrench, allowing it to be used for a wider range of operations.
Maintenance and Storage
The TEKTON 24335 comes with a sturdy storage case, ensuring it is protected when not in use. This is an important feature as proper storage can significantly extend the lifespan of a torque wrench.
For maintenance, it's recommended to return the wrench to its lowest setting before storing it. This helps to maintain the calibration and longevity of the wrench.
Pricing and Value
Compared to other torque wrenches in its class, the TEKTON 24335 offers significant value for its price point. It offers a high degree of accuracy, durability, and ease of use, which are features usually found in more expensive models.
Possible Drawbacks
Although the TEKTON 24335 is an excellent tool overall, it does have a few potential drawbacks. For instance, it does not come with a certificate of calibration, which some professionals might require. Also, it only measures torque in the clockwise direction, which may be limiting for some applications. Lastly, the wrench does not offer extremely high torque settings, which could be a problem for some heavy-duty operations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the TEKTON 24335 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench is a high-quality tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its accuracy, durability, and user-friendly design make it a great choice for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. While it does have a few limitations, these are minor when considering the overall quality and performance that this torque wrench provides. It is a reliable, well-built tool that could be a valuable addition to any toolbox.