Torque Angle Gauge

A torque wrench tightens down nuts or other fasteners. This tightens down individual fasteners, but these are usually on a larger component.

A torque angle gauge is used in conjunction with your torque wrench. While the wrench makes sure the individual fastener is at to proper setting, the gauge itself is used to make sure that all of the bolts or whatever are tightened over the whole component, like the valve cover. This is calibrated in degrees, which is far more accurate. In many cases, using the gauge instead of the measurements on the wrench itself provides a more accurate torque of the component.

This really sounds a lot more complicated than it is. If you need a more detailed account of this, there are several DIY websites that can give you more instructions if needed.

An example of an application that requires this level of precision would be the automotive repair industry, where it is vital that all components must be exact and in accordance with the manufacturer specifications in order for the car to run at peak performance.

These gauges can be as simple or as complicated as you want them to be. The same holds true for their cost. The simpler the gauge is, the less expensive it's going to be. The more complicated, with a lot of bells and whistles, the more you can expect to pay. It really depends on your needs as well as your budget.

One example of a simple torque angle gauge tool is available through Amazon. The KD Tools 3336 gauge is for use with a 1/2" drive tool, and is used to install a number of fasteners that need a specific angle after the pre-torque load has been performed. The gauge itself is calibrated in increment of five, and includes a rotating pointer. This product uses a 1/2" square driver, and features holding rod that is adjustable so you can hold the gauges position.

Snap-on is one of the premium makers of precision hand and power tools for the automotive industry. They also offer a torque angle gauge, this one with a ½" drive as well. This product is calibrated in degrees and has a clear casing with large easy to see numbered increments. It also has an adjustable handle to hold while in use. Snap-on also provides a limited lifetime warranty, so even though this may be a little more expensive that the average person wants to pay, it is well worth it.

These manual type gauges are all not that expensive, and you can expect to pay anywhere from $10-$100 depending on the brand and where you buy it from. Any digital or sensor device is going to cost you far more than this, and can run anywhere from $400 well into the thousands of dollars. Here are a few of these digital components, just to see a few examples.

One of them is the Mark-10 MG Economical Force Gauge. This is able to test forces up to 500 pounds. It is compatible with other Mark 10 stands and equipment. This gauge rugged aluminum housing that is reversible, and can be hand held or mounted on a stand. There are easy to use buttons that can be used to select measurement. Recall compression and tensile loads, and to reset the gauge to zero. It is battery operated, and allows up to 30 hours of continuous use.