9
A lead mechanic in Atlanta told me to always torque by feel, not the wrench
This was about three years ago during a heavy check on a 737. He said, 'If you've done enough of these, your arm knows the click better than any tool.' I argued that ignoring the calibrated torque wrench was asking for trouble, especially on critical engine mounts. He just shrugged and said he hadn't had a callback in twenty years. I still use the wrench every single time, but his confidence stuck with me. Has anyone else run into this 'by feel' mindset on the line?
4 comments
Log in to join the discussion
Log In4 Comments
hayes.michael1mo ago
Ever consider his feel got calibrated by using the wrench for years first?
2
kim2681mo ago
No way, twenty years without a callback on engine mounts?! That's pure luck, not skill. The wrench is there for a reason, especially on something that critical. I'd never bet a plane's safety on my arm feeling right.
0
phoenix3581mo ago
What torque spec do you trust for that bolt?
3
the_jessica20d ago
Exactly, that wrench isn't just for new guys. It's the backup check for when your arm feels off, even after years. Skipping it on engine mounts is just asking for trouble.
3