best torque sticks

Best Torque Sticks? These 6 Torque Stick Sets Are Worth The Buck

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Throughout the years, there’s been quite a number of innovations made to help improve our day to day lives. The automotive industry has been at the forefront of such innovations and for good reason, it’s only a multi-trillion dollar industry after all.

One such innovation is the torque stick, if you’re old-school, you may still be using the old torque wrench or maybe the hand-tightening way, but if you want to explore or looking to buy one, read on! This is garagechief.com’s list of some of the best torque sticks in the market.

In a Hurry? Here’s Our Best Torque Stick Set

Our highlighted PICK is none other than the Neiko 02450A. This product is a ½” drive torque limiting extension bar set, made of chrome-molybdenum steel combo and comes in a 5 piece set of 65 to 140 ft/lbs. (90 to 190 Nm). Top of the line product with rave reviews online for your torquing needs.


Best Torque Sticks – Comparison Table

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Editor's Choice
Neiko 02450A Torque Limiting Extension Bar,...
Capri Tools 30083 Torque Limiting Extension Bar...
ARES 70367 - Torque Limiting Extension Bar Set -...
ABN 1/2in Drive 8in Long Color-Coded Torque...
Astro 78810 10-Piece Torque Limiting Extension Set
STEELMAN 60167 9-Piece 1/2-Inch Drive Torque Stick...
Set
5 piece 65 to 140 ft. / lbs. and ½” drive
5 pieces at 65 – 140 ft. / lbs. and ½” drive
5 piece at 65 - 140 ft / lbs set and ½” drive
10 pieces at 65 – 150 ft. / lbs. set, ½” drive
10 piece at 65 to 150 ft. / lbs. set, ½” drive
9 piece at 45 - 140 ft-lb ½” drive torque stick set.
Editor's Choice
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Neiko 02450A Torque Limiting Extension Bar,...
Set
5 piece 65 to 140 ft. / lbs. and ½” drive
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Capri Tools 30083 Torque Limiting Extension Bar...
Set
5 pieces at 65 – 140 ft. / lbs. and ½” drive
Image
ARES 70367 - Torque Limiting Extension Bar Set -...
Set
5 piece at 65 - 140 ft / lbs set and ½” drive
Image
ABN 1/2in Drive 8in Long Color-Coded Torque...
Set
10 pieces at 65 – 150 ft. / lbs. set, ½” drive
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Astro 78810 10-Piece Torque Limiting Extension Set
Set
10 piece at 65 to 150 ft. / lbs. set, ½” drive
Image
STEELMAN 60167 9-Piece 1/2-Inch Drive Torque Stick...
Set
9 piece at 45 - 140 ft-lb ½” drive torque stick set.

Torque Stick Reviews 


Capri Tools 30083 Torque Limiting Extension Bar...

Capri Tools 30083

The Capri Tools 30083 model is a torque limiting extension bar set that comes with 5 pieces at 65 – 140 ft. / lbs. and ½” drive. A must partner with your impact wrench for tightening fasteners, this product boasts consistent torque accuracy for that much-needed safety, giving you that peace of mind when driving.

It is built for hard work and made of the renowned chrome-molybdenum steel combo which is among the strongest steel used for heavy-duty tools.

Color-coded and well fitted for convenience in storage, identification, and portability.

What do people say about it?

The Capri Tools 30083 is getting rave reviews online, people say that it is as good as advertised. Very accurate and durable and has very nice packaging. All torque sticks are fitted nicely and the organization in the case is also very convenient, not mentioning the design of it.

People are just so confident that they are not over-tightening their lugs because of the product. Some customers may have stated that this torque stick is not for battery impact wrenches, so make sure to watch out for that tiny detail.

Overall, it’s one of the best torque sticks set out there and the reviews are evident enough.

Check price at Amazon here >>


ARES 70367 - Torque Limiting Extension Bar Set -...

ARES 70367 Torque Stick Set

The Ares 70367 is a torque limiting extension bar set that comes with ½” drive 8 inch long chrome and molybdenum made impact grade bars.

Specially designed to work with an electric or pneumatic impact tool, each bar limits its effective output to a specific amount of torque by flexing when that certain amount is exceeded to absorb it and prevent overtightening.

Made with resilient chrome/molybdenum steel with rust/corrosion resistant coating of manganese phosphate. Perfect for tightening hard to reach places and will prevent overtightening on rounded lug nuts, sheared stud bolts, and warped rotors. It’s color-coded too!

What do people say about it?

This product is no brainer a winner. People say that it’s perfect for its price, and a great value for their money. It’s also of course very accurate and because of its color-coding, it is very easy to use. Every car enthusiast is recommended to have this on their arsenal.

There are some reports about its durability thought that there are instances that the sticks are not that durable and that a few experienced that the product snapped in half in just a few days of use.

But overall this product is a steal and works very well.

Check it out at Amazon right here >>


ABN 1/2in Drive 8in Long Color-Coded Torque...

ABN Torque Limiting Socket Extension Bar Set

ABN’s torque sticks are ½” drives at 8 inches long, color coded that comes at 10 pieces at 65 – 150 ft. / lbs. set. Fit for use on hard to reach places, it can quickly work on nuts and bolts at awkward angles and difficult to reach areas, suited for heavy duty torque applications.

Boasts a secure hold system with a ball on the male end to help hold a socket and spring-loaded ball detent locks to avoid parts from slipping into machinery. Very durable, built to last chrome/molybdenum steel combo and manganese phosphate for defense against rust and corrosion for long-lasting heavy-duty tools. Laser-etched sizing on the shaft for ease in identification. And comes in an easy storage case also designed for portability.

What do people say about it?

Everyone is saying that it’s definitely a good set to have in your garage. It’s a good value for your money and that case (its organization and stick design) is awesome. Works on any impact wrench and very durable.

Although there were some complaints about its accuracy, overall, this kit is a great buy and you’ll see it listed on a lot of other torque stick reviews.

Check the ABN’s torque stick set at Amazon >>


Astro 78810 10-Piece Torque Limiting Extension Set

Astro Pneumatic Tool 78810

The Astro Pneumatic Tool 78810 is a 10 piece limiting extension set. It includes 10, 1/2” drive 8 inch torque limiting extensions from 65 ft. / lbs. to 150 ft. / lbs. It offers accurate torque for wheel nuts to the appropriate levels. Very efficient and prevents damage caused by impact wrenches.

It requires no maintenance or calibration at all. Made highly durable with the renowned Chrome / Molybdenum combo and with Matt finish, it will surely last you for a long while. It’s also color-coded for convenience.

What do people say about it?

Very accurate people are saying that they no longer need to double check with their old torque wrench after they’ve gotten used to it. Great value for your money and a very expansive set for a wide range of applications. People are also raving of its durability.

There’s some inaccuracy reported for some of the sticks on the set, for example, the stick that measures for 100 ft. / lbs. produces 80 – 130. But really we can’t find many negative reviews about this product and it’s definitely one of the best out there so be sure not to miss out on it.

Check it out at Amazon here >>


STEELMAN 60167 9-Piece 1/2-Inch Drive Torque Stick...

Steelman 60167 

The Steelman 60167 is a 9 piece ½” drive torque stick set. Perfect for protecting your wheels, wheel studs, and brake rotors for it reduces the risk of overtightening on lug nuts which may result in sheared stud bolts, rounded lug nuts, and warped rotors. Boasts unique combination of torque rating and socket size, the sticks measure at 8-5 / 8 inches.

Also made in the most durable chrome/molybdenum steel combination it’s made to last for a long while. It’s designed to flex to limit torque to the preset amount and is powder coated for maximum corrosion protection and for ease of identification. These sticks are maintenance and calibration free.

What do people say about it?

A bit pricey as per reviewers but it’s still a good value for your money. Also, there were some accuracy issues reported but overall these torque sticks are one of the best out there. It’s very durable and convenient, plus are very efficient to use in hard to reach places.

It comes in a very expansive set that people won’t have to buy any other products for their needs. Recommended product to have under your shed for your lugs and bolts and wheels.

Check more details at Amazon >>


Neiko 02450A Torque Limiting Extension Bar,...

…AND last but not least

Neiko 02450A – Wheel Torque Sticks

This was our highlighted pick earlier, and we’ll discuss it more in detail. This drive torque limiting extension bar set comes in a 5 piece 65 to 140 ft. / lbs. chrome/molybdenum steel package.

This torque limiters are very durable used for heavy-duty impact drivers. It’s specially designed to limit lug nuts and fasteners from over-torquing. Sticks are color-coded and engraved with its torque limit for long-lasting and easier identification.

Spring-loaded ball feature on male end to secure sockets and ball hole at the drive end to lock onto your impact tool driver to prevent dropping during operation.

What do people say about it?

It’s one of those products where you can’t find any negative reviews for it. It’s because of one simple thing, it works exactly how it is advertised. Very durable very accurate and a very good value for your money. Good to have wheel torque sticks for all your needs.

There are some complaints about inaccuracy but not as much as to tarnish its reputation as our top pick. It’s a great choice for sure, just check all of the reviews online, you won’t be disappointed.

For a simple tool (not that expansive) it’s definitely a good buy for you.


More About Torque Sticks And Buying Guide

What to look for when buying torque sticks

  • Look for the right torque stick setting.

    As you’ve read our reviews you may have noticed that we keep pointing out on the torque stick settings range. You may prefer to buy single sticks or a set but one thing you need to be mindful of is the setting of the torque stick you are purchasing.

    Settings range from 60 with unit ft. / lbs. up to 150 ft. / lbs., so be sure to know what you are looking for and be mindful of the right torque stick setting for your needs.

  • Single torque stick or a full set?

    Neiko Drive Torque Limiting Extension BarAs mentioned you have the option to buy a single or universal torque stick but also purchasing a whole set wouldn’t hurt. Yes, a single stick may be easier to bring around or maybe more efficient but a full set also comes with its own advantages.

    For one, you won’t lose everything in one go. Also, compatibility with some impact drivers should also be taken into consideration.

    How sure are you that your universal torque stick would work on all kinds of impact drivers? With an expansive set, you’ll have more options plus they all come with great packaging in a good case nowadays plus they are color-coded.

  • Identification

    The reason why we buy all these tools is for ease and convenience. But what happens if they are all over the place, all over your shed or garage? That sure beats its purpose, to begin with, right?

    Fret not, these torque stick sets nowadays comes in color-coded and have engraved identification on them, well most do so be sure to go get ones that are indeed labeled properly. For convenience and for long-lasting identification, so that you’ll work more efficiently.

  • Calibration or maintenance needed?

    There are kits or sticks out there that still need calibration and maintenance but it’s important to take note that there are some that don’t need any of that anymore.

    Most of the time advertised as an added premium to some brands, there are torque limiting sticks that are ready to go anytime, anywhere without the needs of any calibration or maintenance for maximum efficiency.

  • Accuracy

    color coded torque stick setOf course, what’s a torque stick if it’s not being accurate right? Make sure to read some reviews, like this one to be sure you are getting a great value for your money as there are sticks that are not as accurate as advertised.

    Be thorough, got to Amazon for reviews as it’s a good place to get good and honest reviews about product efficiency.

  • Convenience

    If you opt to buy an expansive set of torque sticks, be sure that it comes with an easy to carry, portable case. Make sure that the sticks are well fitted inside it. Not only does this help in storage and transportation it will also help your tools last for a very long time.



Importance of a Torque Stick (Why should you buy it?)

Well, I have my old but reliable torque wrench, why would I need these fancy torque sticks?

That may be true but we’ll try to convince you a little bit more.

  • These sticks are made to last.

    Torque Limiting Extension Bar SetMade with one of the most durable chromemolybdenum steel combinations, these torque sticks are made to last you for a while, and with proper storage, it will last you a lifetime.

    Also, these tools are made to resist rust and corrosion, so they are built to survive all the elements. Pretty tough tools that will definitely be a good bang for your buck!

  • Cost-effective

    What’s more annoying than tools breaking during application? It’s when they cause damage to your vehicle at the same time.

    These torque sticks are made so that your wheels, nuts, bolts, and rotors won’t break or be damaged.

    Of course, it pays to know how to use your torque sticks before application to prevent any other damages on your devices but using it is very simple, to begin with.

    You’ll save more money than you initially thought you would with these torque sticks, you have our word.

  • Time Saver

    Speed and accuracy are what this tool boasts to provide. And really it delivers. It’s a very convenient tool to use, it’s essentially automatic, it works on a variety of wheels, nuts and bolts and its good for hard to reach places.

    You no longer need to wonder what tool to grab next for your next wheel maintenance. Whenever it involves tightening, it’s the go-to kit.

    Plus as mentioned they are labeled appropriately for ease of identification.

  • Safety

    Almost everyone that drives needs this tool. The torque stick is made for above all “safety”. Driving with peace of mind is important especially if you know that your wheels are secured and in place.

    Not only that, you not only protect yourself or your family when on the road. You also minimize any chances of untoward accidents and protect the people around you such are pedestrians and other drivers.

    With top of the line accuracy and speed in the application, torque sticks will make sure your car is good to go, safe to go at all times. That’s a lot of things off of your mind for sure.


How to use a Torque Stick

wheel torque sticksTorque sticks are very easy to use, just make sure to clean the application area, your wheels, nuts, bolts, rotors and you can use any impact driver to tighten them properly.

Just use your impact gun to tighten until there is tension on your fasteners and the wheel pulls uptight. You can go over your fasteners again just to be sure if you want to.

There’s really nothing more to it, just a little bit of practice and familiarization then you should be able to enjoy its benefits.


Best Torque Stick Set FAQ’s


Q

What exactly are torque sticks?

A

It’s a tool used with an air impact wrench to avoid over-tightening of fasteners when installing wheels. It works by flexing when a limit (torque limit) is reached. When it flexes it resists further tightening of a fastener.


Q

Are torque sticks accurate?

A

Yes, very accurate and reliable. Users say that they are generally within the 10 ft. / lbs. range.


Q

What is proper torque for lug nuts?

A

If the studs and lug nuts are between 12 X 1.25 mm to 1.5 mm the proper torque for the nuts is 70 to 80 ft. / lbs., 14 X 1.25 mm to 1.5 mm is 85 to 90 ft. / lbs., ½ inches is at the 75 to 85 feet / pounds. range and lastly, 9 / 16 inch is at 135 to 145 ft. / lbs. range.


Q

Can you use an extension on a torque wrench?

A

Yes, as extensions do not affect the accuracy.


Q

What is torque?

A

Torque is a twisting, that causes rotation.


Q

What is a torque wrench?

A

Torque wrench (best ones are here) is a tool used to tighten a fastener such as a nut or a bolt. It is used to apply a specific torque to such fasteners. Usually, in the form of a socket wrench, its internal mechanisms allow for its function. It is crucial for applications where the tightness of screws or bolts are of utmost importance.


Q

What is the measurement of torque?

A

The measurement of torque is the Newton meter denoted as Nm.


Q

What is an impact wrench?

A

It is a socket wrench power tool, specially designed to deliver high torque output, usually paired up with impact wrenches as one of the rather commonly used air tools.


Q

What are some of the best brands out there for torque sticks?

A

Capri Tools, Astro, Neiko, ABN, Sunex Tools, Genius tools, ARES and Steelman are some of the best torque sticks manufacturers out in the market.


Where can I buy these torque sticks?

As with a lot of things nowadays, you can get your torque sticks anywhere from your local hardware store, local automotive shops, and even better order online for discounts and promos to get the best value out of your money.

Amazon is a good place to start as it’s got product reviews from a variety of users all over the country if not the world.

So you are sure that the product you are ordering is tried and tested from different conditions.


Best Torque Sticks – Bottom Line

As always, safety and convenience are a top priority when working on your vehicles. Here at garagechief.com we make sure to give you those two important elements.

Torque sticks are just one of the many innovations we have come up with and it sure will won’t be the last. Speed and accuracy is its game and it’s also what we do need in this fast-paced world.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the best torque sticks in the market, including our Top Pick: the Neiko 02450A 1/2” Drive Torque Sticks.

So be sure to use those torque sticks to good use!


[Disclaimer]

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


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