Vines
Active Member
I’ve read that you mostly can’t accurately check the “tare torque”, using a torque wrench. Most articles I’ve read indicate that it’s not an accurate way to check.
One article indicated a dial type torque wrench would be more accurate, but the consensus seems to be you can’t tell.
So to the many posts here indicating the torque was at 80Lbs;
Is it possible that it just can’t be read correctly, and the torque was right, or pretty close to 129Lbs ?
When you are experienced with cars you develop an arm torque wrench. Basically if you go to take a nut off and its already somewhat loose, then chances are it was never properly tightened. This is then confirmed roughly by checking how much force it takes to TIGHTEN a different bolt that has not been touched. You will never get super accurate when checking tightening torque afterwards but its close, within 10 or 20% Finding a lug nut move with a wrench set to 80 ft-lbs is quite concerning, and could certainly lead to a loose wheel if the car is driven hard.
As to why its happening from the factory, I have no idea. If the book says 129 ft-lbs then I go with the book.