lexivon lx-184 is it accurate long term?

[Jesiah_Black]

Finally upgraded torque wrenches because my F-250 calls for 165 ft-lbs and my old one tapped out at 150. Went with the Lexivon LX-184, rated to 250 ft-lbs. It looks nice on paper, comes with a cert and a case, but I'm always suspicious of mid-priced tools promising "pro" accuracy.

Question is, does this thing hold calibration after a year or two of real use? I don't care about the warranty fine print... I care about whether it's still within spec when I'm tightening lug nuts at 165. Anyone here had one long enough to see if it drifts, or should I have just spent more for a Snap-On/Proto and been done with it?

 

[emtalk]

Solid choice for the price point especially with the certification included! In my experience the longevity of a tool's calibration depends more on how you store it and use rather than just the brand name. If you're using it on an F-250 for lug nuts it will certainly get a workout at 165 ft-lbs so it's a good idea to reset the torque setting to its lowest value after each use. Higher-end brands like Snap-On often have better internal components and better build which might resist drift more. BUt if you take care of your mid-range tools, it can also last for many years.

 

[HerrFixIt]

Finally upgraded torque wrenches because my F-250 calls for 165 ft-lbs and my old one tapped out at 150. Went with the Lexivon LX-184, rated to 250 ft-lbs. It looks nice on paper, comes with a cert and a case, but I'm always suspicious of mid-priced tools promising "pro" accuracy.

Question is, does this thing hold calibration after a year or two of real use? I don't care about the warranty fine print... I care about whether it's still within spec when I'm tightening lug nuts at 165. Anyone here had one long enough to see if it drifts, or should I have just spent more for a Snap-On/Proto and been done with it?

The Lexivon LX-184 generally holds up well for several years of moderate use. I also second @emtalk about storage care. The absolute key for any click-type wrench, from this to Snap-On, is to always back the spring off to zero immediately after use. Storing it compressed is the fastest way to lose calibration. And since you're frequently tightening at 165 ft-lbs, I'd recommend having it checked against a certified tester annually, just for peace of mind. Never drop it, always zero it. Treat it right and it should serve you fine without needing the premium price tag!

 

[farmer Pet3r]

Finally upgraded torque wrenches because my F-250 calls for 165 ft-lbs and my old one tapped out at 150. Went with the Lexivon LX-184, rated to 250 ft-lbs. It looks nice on paper, comes with a cert and a case, but I'm always suspicious of mid-priced tools promising "pro" accuracy.

Question is, does this thing hold calibration after a year or two of real use? I don't care about the warranty fine print... I care about whether it's still within spec when I'm tightening lug nuts at 165. Anyone here had one long enough to see if it drifts, or should I have just spent more for a Snap-On/Proto and been done with it?

I agree with @emtalk how you treat it is everything. for heavy use like F250 lug torque, the key is to zero it out after every use and keep it in the case. if it lasts 3-4 years, you won the value battle

 

[juhn.tho]

165 ft-lbs regularly, you're working it harder than most DIYers but not abusing it like a shop would. The honest answer is you won't know for another year whether it holds, some people get lucky with Lexivon, others see drift around the 18 month mark

 

[chateaudechambord]

If you always reset it to zero after use and store it in its case, it generally holds calibration well. That said, mid-range wrenches can start drifting around 18 months, so checking it against a certified tester once a year is wise. For careful DIY use, it should serve reliably without paying for Snap-On or Proto.

 

[the winner takes it all]

I’ve seen a few of those hold up just fine as long as they’re treated right. Zero it out after every use, don’t drop it, keep it in the case. At 165 ft-lbs you’re using it, but not abusing it. I’d just plan to have it checked once a year for peace of mind. For DIY or light truck work, it’s usually good enough without spending Snap-On money.

 

[bridger]

Ok, so how do I, not a pro mechanic have my torque wrench tested?