I need a torque wrench (in lb) for checking pinion bearing preload on my TJ's Dana 44. I need the type with the pointer and scale (not the click-type) that is accurate in the 10 to 30 in lb range.

Randy's Ring and pinion has one for $56 (ouch). Sears doesn't carry them.

Any national auto chains (Pepboys, NAAP, etc.) carry these?

Use a $5 fish scale and a regular wrench. measure the distance from the center of the nut to the spring atachment point, make sure you pull perpendicular to the wrench.

4" lever arm, 5# fish = 20 inch-pounds

I thought about that. Would have to first deduct the weight of the wrench/moment-arm and factor in the wrench's center of gravity

hmm ive hear 8lbs on a fish scale...... but you could try home depot, or lowes..... im sure sears catolog has it....

Here's one:

http://buy.snapon.com/catalog/pro_det.asp?qt=1&INV_ONHAND=&FREIGHT=&qty=1&Item_id=8679&PartNo=TQS2.5A&Price=292.95&ListPrice=292.95&FORMNAME=13&Desc=TORQOMETER%2C+Torque+Driver%2C+U.S.%2C+Standa rd+Basic%2C+480+in+oz.%2F30+in+lb.&SUB_Cat_ID=825744&SUB_Cat_NAME=Torqometer+Torque+Drivers+-+1%2F4%22+Drive&Cat_ID=825329&Cat_NAME=Torque&group_id=968&group_NAME=U.S.+Reading+-+Standard+2%25+Accuracy+-+1%2F4%22&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

Get a load of the price! This is a quality tool for the professional. :rolleyes:

But I like the idea in the above post better.

AJ

Holy sh*t! Did they slip a decimal point in the price for the Sanp-on?

Where's my fish-scale?

Sears has 'em. So does most of the parts stores.

I bought one at Napa for $12

Find your local SK dealer. They sell Snap-On quality at a Matco price.

http://www.lickbike.com/i2608950.htm