Originally Posted by
PatrickGSR94
So regarding clicker torque wrenches, is it necessary to store them at their minimum setting? I didn't do that for years, but now I do wind them down to their minimum setting when putting away, usually either around 5-10 lb-ft or so, for my 3/8" and 1/2" drive wrenches.
Storing a torque wrench with the handle twisted to the minimum setting is what I was trained to do. It relieves the tension on the spring. Similarly, micrometers should be closed to zero, scales stored without weights on them, etc. Pretty much common sense.
I also learned not to set a torque wrench down on the side where the socket attaches but to lay it on its back or return it to the protective case.
Storing the device in the environment where it is to be used so that it is temperature stabilized is also best practice. If you work in the hot garage in summer then that is where your instruments should be stored rather than inside where it is air conditioned. Bringing the device from inside 70°f home to a 95°f garage can make very precise gauges do all kinds of crazy things.
This might seem overkill to some but it is very easy to do so why not?
RTFM when in doubt.
-Tim-