OK, Scotty... one last attempt.

Earlier today I spoke at some length with Mr. Roland LeClair, Chief Engineer at AKO, Inc., the company I referenced earlier that makes the "World's Finest" torque testing and measuring equipment. Mr. LeClair and I had a very nice discussion on the application of torque wrenches and why the length of the wrench should be taken into account. My summary of opinion was accepted by him as entirely accurate in principle and application.

Here's what I haven't explained (didn't want to try until I heard agreement from someone a lot smarter and more experienced with torque applications than me) and why the inclusion of the wrench length is necessary. A normal torque wrench used with no extension has a swing arc that is centered on the bolt. The wrench is calculated to reflect an accurate torque reading at a given handle length. When an extension enters the picture, the set torque delivered at the end of the wrench no longer has the center of the bolt as the point where force is applied. The force is now transferred to the extension, which has its own swing arc. Therefore the indicated force on the wrench is applied to the end of the extension and the calculation in effect must be re-figured to reflect accuracy. That's what the formula does for you through the relationship of the two lengths.

So, see, it's not "size", but "length" that matters after all. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

As for "other than in-line" extensions, yes - length matters there as well - to a lesser degree as the extension rotates to perpendicular to the handle, where it then becomes "zero effect". I posted the formula for those variables as well.

Now I don't know what your game is, or why you insist on playing it - but if you're unwilling to accept the explanation, I suggest that you do as I did and call some of the manufacturers of torque wrenches and tell them your news flash that they've got it all wrong. I'll bet they would hire you on the spot as Chief Engineer if you can convince them why they're wrong and you're right. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

And while you're doing that, perhaps you could explain to us why you believe that handle length doesn't matter. You've tried to make a big noise that I haven't offered any facts or "enlightening thoughts".... exactly what facts have you submitted as proof of your formula - other than saying that you're right and everyone else is wrong? C'mon... some "enlightening thoughts" from your perspective, please.

FWIW, I did ask Mr. LeClair to take a look at your formula to see if there could be any measure of truth in it..... His answer?.......... "Ummmmmm, not quite".

Sorry, Scotty..... that dog just won't hunt. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shame.gif" alt="" />

I'm done......... poor horse. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" />

Frank