torque screwdriver

[Eric and Megan Swope]

Hi. I have a fernco adapter, that I am going to use on a drain pipe that is connecting pvc and copper (I am using the fernco adapter as the union). On the directions, they suggest tightening the metal clamps to 60 lbs. of torque. I have heard of a torque wrench, but is there a such thing as a torque screwdriver? If so, are they relatively cheap. I don't want to spend a super amount of money for this one tool, when the pvc drain and fernco adapter only cost about $10 together. Thanks for any advice on the tool and where to buy (if not to $$$$).

[RicodJour]

union). On

The Fernco has a hex head with a slot (or Philips). You could just borrow a torque wrench. There are torque screwdrivers (check eBay) but they're usually lower capacity - measured in inch-pounds instead of foot-pounds.

If you have a cordless driver/drill the instruction manual may tell you the approximate torque at each setting, or you could call the manufacturer and ask.

Or you could put a 12" ratchet on the sucker and press down on the end with a bathroom scale until it reads 60 pounds.

Honestly though, I don't think you have to be so precise with the torque. If it leaks a little, tighten it up some more.

R

[Tekkie®]

Eric and Megan Swope posted for all of us...

Yes, and they are $$$. Google does it again.

[Eric and Megan Swope]

Thanks for your replies. I double checked the label again, and it was ripped, but all of you are probably correct in that it is inch pounds. So that aside, is it worth me getting a torque wrench (They aren't that cheap) for this one job, or should I just do as some of you said, tighten it, check for leaks, and if it leaks tighten a little more. Thanks again.

[Doug Miller]

For five foot-pounds? No. Don't bother.

That's the idea.

-- Regards, Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)

Nobody ever left footprints in the sands of time by sitting on his butt. And who wants to leave buttprints in the sands of time?

[Doug Miller]

Better check that again - I bet it says 60 INCH-pounds. That's 5 foot-pounds.

-- Regards, Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)

Nobody ever left footprints in the sands of time by sitting on his butt. And who wants to leave buttprints in the sands of time?