Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) How do you torque a lock nut?

[Crowhurst]

When attempting to maintain my truck I spend a considerable proportion of the time feeling rather stupid. Today's problem is how to set the correct torque on a locknut. The shop manual gives the torque setting for the valve lash adjuster locknut. However, the socket and torque wrench will prevent me holding still the centre adjuster, and the adjuster will rotate. The same is true with the transmission bands (which I will not touch, as the shifting is fine). Should I carry on as I have for the last 50 years, and snug them up by feel, or is there something I don't understand, or some tool I don't have?? Thanks. Nick.

 

[ndurbin]

I've always just done them by feel using the special Snap-on tool. But you can use whats called a crowsfoot socket (looks like the open end of a wrench) on the torque wrench. I'm not sure wether that well screw with the torque values or not.



Nathan

 

[Crowhurst]

Nathan, I think you're right, that the crowsfoot would change the torque value. Nick.

 

[DF5152]

while it is true the crows foot will change the torque value I dont think it will be significant to make a difference for what you are doing. If u need to have the xact value i can figure it out for you. Now as far as using it I have been building engines for a long time and although I have not built a Cummins yet I have never use a torque wrench while adjusting valve lash. I think you will be fine making the ajustment by feel. Now the band adjustment is a different story and you will probably need an inch pound torque wrench.

 

[Crowhurst]

Dan, thank you. I have the inch-pound torque wrench, but I will do it by feel, as you suggest. Nick.