When extending torque measurement toward the handle, what must be done before applying torque?

• A. Apply the corrected torque using the appropriate formula
• B. Use the same torque setting
• C. Increase torque by the extension length
• D. Reset the wrench to zero

Answer: (A)

When you extend the torque wrench toward the handle, you change the lever arm length. A longer lever means the same push force creates more torque at the fastener, so you can’t use the same setting as you would with no extension. To hit the desired torque, you must apply a corrected torque by using the appropriate calculation that accounts for the new effective length of the lever. For example, if the extension length increases the lever, the indicated torque on the wrench must be adjusted downward (according to the formula that relates the wrench’s handle length, the extension length, and the desired torque) so the actual torque at the fastener matches the specification. This is why the correct choice is to apply the corrected torque using the proper formula. Using the same setting would tend to over-torque, resetting to zero or simply increasing the setting would not correctly compensate for the longer lever.