Tool Review: Mac Tools 1/2” Drive 50-250 ft-lb Direct Torque Wrench
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Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: Put on a socket, and adjust the torque setting by sliding the adjustment lock collar and twisting the handle.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: Adjusting torque was pretty easy, slide the locking collar and rotate the handle. Watch the window that has the correct torque scale and release the collar to lock it in. Holding down the spring-loaded lock collar is a little tricky while making adjustments at first. Overall, it was easy to use.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: It came in a plastic tube similar to what maps or posters would that threads together in the middle. It had foam cushion pads at each end to hold the tool in place. My torque wrench was shipped to my door and the tube was broken. I’d rather have a nice blow-molded case or a form-fitted drawer pad that most torque wrenches come in. There were no accessories included.
Q: Was there a manual included?
A: There is a Torque Calibration Certificate that matches the serial number on the tool. It states an accuracy of +/- 4 percent. The deviation test shows less than 1 percent taken at 50, 150, and 250 ft-lbs in CW direction.
The included one-page manual is easy to read and has a few illustrations as well, however, I feel it is incomplete. The Calibration Certificate does not have any data for CCW rotation and the manual does not say if you are able to use the tool in CCW to torque left-hand threaded fasteners. The manual does not give you the value of the marks on the lock collar and corresponding marks under the sight windows, but it was pretty easy to figure out.
Q: What features did you like?
A: The ratchet head contains fine gearing allowing for a shorter swing arc. With a 25” tool you need all the help you can get. I really like the forward/reverse dial design. Its low-profile design doesn’t catch on things and change direction.
The knurled edges and smooth operation make it easy to change direction with slippery fingers. Most large torque wrenches such as this have a bulky design that can get in the way. The hole in the handle making it possible to hang the wrench is a good feature as long as people aren’t careless, and make sure it’s on the hook and not left to swing and bang around.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: While the handle is comfortable to hold, I think it could be a little longer. To be able to get a good slow steady pull to get an accurate torque in the higher ranges, two hands are sometimes needed. I would also try to figure out a way to make the marks on the lock collar and handle more visible, and I would replace the convex window lenses with flat or flat magnified.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: I hand torque all wheels and axle nuts. I had a run on oil changes and tire rotations, so it got quite a workout on lug nuts. Most torqued between 70-90 ft-lbs. and I had a couple trucks that were 140 and 165 ft. lbs.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: I haven’t used another Mac torque wrench, but I have others that are manually adjusted, including a Craftsman that has the sight windows. Both are quite comparable. I like the length, forward/reverse dial, handle, and the lock collar design of the Mac better.
Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: It didn’t save a lot of time since it is still manually adjusted. The handle does make it possible to hang it from a hook, so you can keep it close to where you need it and save a trip back to your toolbox.
