ZigZag

Hello all, I would like people who know about this subject to give me a line on a torque wrench that I can use to fit into those tight areas at the header where I can get in there sucessfully to tighten header bolts to the 18 lb max that i need. I just am not having any luck getting in there for all the bolts.

jackthelad

Isn't it more a case of how long (or short) an extension is needed? Size wise the smallest you can get are 1/4" drive, but they top out at 200 inch lbs, i.e. 16.67 ft lbs. I would say that is pretty close - maybe just an extra tweak when it clicks would do it. You will have to shop for the right size socket.

Fast one

18 foot lbs is 216 inch lbs so the smallest wrench would be a 1/4" drive torque wrench with at least that capacity. For example, Lowes has a 1/4" drive torque wrench with a 250 inch lb rating and is 8" long for $55.

ZigZag

I actually described my issue in correctly. I have a quarter inch torque wrench I'm looking for something, a swivel or extension I can use to get into those tight spots.

grinder11

I've NEVER torqued my exhaust manifolds OR headers. Never had any come loose, and never stripped any threads, either. Sometimes, you have to develop a "feel" for tightening some fasteners. Some things are just inaccessible for a torque wrench.......

Fast one

Some things like the fuel line(s) can be disconnected and moved out of the way for better access.

rwcantrell

Pretty sure swivel joints throw your actual fastener torque value to the low side. Unless you do the maths and adjust for the angles. I don't do the maths for that. I did once for a weird home crow's foot setup thing once. But it was hard. I think it was on a motorcycle, those get more mechanical love.

Gordy M

Sometimes a set of crows feet will work in those tight places, simply put a similar size nut in a vice and torque it to 18 lb-ft and then change to the crow foot and check to see if it will click at that amount of torque and adjust accordingly..

Sydwayz

I've never retorqued my header bolts.
But look into a set of swivel sockets:

vette4fl

Torquing is not necessary. Just tighten to 1/4 turn before it breaks…

Mike98SilVert

I use this for torquing my spark plugs. Excellent and accurate tool.
I bought it at Northern Tools.

ZigZag

Thanks everyone

grinder11

Yes. Extensions also do, but to a lesser extent....