Originally Posted by berg

Depending on the wheel, you may need an extension for the socket.

I can't remember do you add or subtract torque when using an extension?

Originally Posted by ronjenx

If it's a regular straight extension, like you would get in a socket set, no change in torque required.

If it's an extension to make the length of the torque wrench longer, set it to a 90 degree angle. No change in torque required. Otherwise, there is a math formula to do.

It is generally accepted practice that crow's feet need no compensation.

Originally Posted by berg

Can't beat them. Rugged, dependable and reasonably priced.

I have a Craftsman.

But do you really need to set your lug nuts to a specific torque?

If a specific torque was required to safely attach your wheels, wouldn't there be some sort of torque wrench supplied with your jack and spare? And wouldn't there be some safety warning lable saying "wheel lug nuts must be torqued to XXX ft/lbs before driving"?

Just get them good and tight with the factory lug wrench.

Thats all I have ever done and have never had a wheel fall off yet.

If you do use a torque wrench remember to use it only to set the torque. Not to loosen the lug nuts.

What ever you do. Make sure you can loosen the lug nuts with the factory lug wrench or whatever wrench you will be carrying with you. When (not if) you have a flat is not the time to realize that you can't change your tire because you can't loosen the nuts. (Experience talking here)

Originally Posted by SI-Jeeper08

I've never had a clue what the torque specs were on any of my vehicles. I remember my dad telling me "tighten 'em down as tight as they'll go, then give 'em another half turn." Never had a wheel fall off yet.

Originally Posted by Geezle

Ditto, my dad taught me pretty much the same thing.

I can see the obvious problem with under tightening, but is there any negative to over tightening, aside from having a hard time getting them off later?

Originally Posted by ronjenx

Damaged wheel
Warped rotor
stripped nut
stripped or broken stud

But what do I know. I've been applying proper torque for 37 years. The one time I didn't ('62 VW bus, 32 years ago), the right rear wheel disappeared up into the body.

Originally Posted by SI-Jeeper08

I guess I'm fortunate not to be strong enough to get them that tight by hand then. They seem to come off easier after I've rotated them myself than after I've bought new tires installed at the tire shop.