Tool Review: VIM Tools Digital Torque & Angle Meter
Q: How did the tool function as far as saving you time?
A: Being able to complete the torque and angle with one piece of equipment certainly saves time. The only way to do this normally is with a digital torque wrench. Using this tool may also allow a smaller ratchet to be used to get into a tighter space. One thing I found to be handy with this tool was I no longer need to carry a torque wrench in my truck — I replaced it with the VIM digital torque meter. I own a mobile diagnostic business and I carry a torque wrench with me in case I get a flat tire while I’m on the road. Some days I can cover up to 250 miles. If I get a flat, I’m not a fan of guessing on wheel torque. This tool fits easily in my tool bag where a torque wrench wouldn’t. So, if you are a mobile technician this tool is a must!
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: All that was needed was to read the instructions and install the batteries. Without reading the instructions, the functions can be confusing since some buttons you need to hit multiple times to move to different functions.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: The product was very easy to use, there’s no special tool or ratchet required and it comes with a 3/8 adapter.
Q: How was its packaging?
A: The packaging is nice and the foam tray that comes with it is a really nice accessory if you are going to keep it in a toolbox.
Q: Was there a manual included?
A: Yes, a manual came with it and it was easy to understand. Read the manual when you receive this tool. There are several functions that you may not realize it has if you don’t. The tool can track torque as you go and then also show peak torque instead of live tracking.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I like the ability to do angle and torque with one tool. The memory settings are also a nice touch.
Q: Is there any way you would improve this tool?
A: It’s slightly large. A smaller size may make it easier to use it tight spaces. If there was a 3/8 and 1/4 version of this tool that may help bring the size down. I could see a use for both when trying to tighten small bolts in tight spaces.
Q: What types of jobs did you use this tool for?
A: Torquing wheels, brake calipers and other jobs where correct torque specs are crucial.
Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool?
A: I have used angle gauges before that were magnetic and sat on top of the ratchet or whatever you were trying to track the angle of. This tool was better because since it is attached directly to the ratchet or breaker bar, you don’t have to worry about finding a way to get it to sit just right like we did with the magnetic ones. Also being able to use this to do the entire torque process — the actual torque as well as the final torque to X angle — is nice. This is significantly cheaper than a digital torque wrench and takes up less space.
The VIM Tools' Digital Angle and Torque Meter 1/2” and 3/8” Sq. Dr., No. DATM1238, is designed to turn any ratchet or breaker bar into a torque/angle measuring tool. The meter can be used to recalibrate any type of torque wrench and has 30 memory settings for torque and 30 for angle. Peak and track modes are available for torque reading and ratchet mode is available for angle reading. A color-changing display and audible alarm indicate progress when reaching the target value (green backlight below 80 percent, orange above 80 percent, and red at 100 percent or above). The compact and lightweight tool also has a power-saving mode that turns on after two minutes of inactivity.
