Torque Wrench – Checking Caravan Wheel Nuts

Table Of Contents

The caravanning world is full of innuendo. I really don’t have to think to hard about coming up with some examples. They are simply everywhere..If you’re a male and I didn’t know you and I asked you this.

“How often do you check your nuts?” You might give me a strange look, you might even try to physically harm me.

Now, let’s move onto the awning, we all over use the word erection when putting up an awning don’t we? Words like droopy and hard also apply here.

Wheel Nuts

I’ve never, ever checked if my wheel nuts were tight. I’ve never lost a wheel or even been aware that wheel nuts come loose. Even if they did you’ve got, what, 5 of them on each wheel. However, they do come loose, I know they do I’ve seen them on news feeds, be it twitter or facebook. I’ve recently noticed Police forces posting on twitter about caravan wheel working loose. I mean, there haven’t been loads, it’s not as if there’s some kind of epidemic, but enough to make me notice.

I don’t know about you, but as soon as I’m made aware of something like this, it starts to play on my mind. So, you start asking questions, you start reading more about it. You turn to twitter. Surely, I can’t be the only one who doesn’t regularly check wheel nuts.

Then in dawns on you, you’re in the minority. Most DO check their wheel nuts with one of their favourite caravan accessories. I then go into denial, I start telling myself I’ve never had to do this, I’m an experienced caravanner, it’s NEVER happened EVER.

The Right Tools

Don’t get me wrong, I have thought about this before, just a few months ago I was in the DIY store Homebase…I mean Bunnings, no it’s Homebase. Our local Homebase went through about 6 months being a Bunnings, it’s now a Homebase again. Whatever it’s called I did happen upon a torque wrench. Hmmm, I know this is the tool to tighten your wheel nuts. It differs from a normal wrench or wheel brace, in that you can set it to a certain tightness (these things are measured in Newton Meters, with the primary purpose of putting me off) When tightening your caravan wheel nut, once the desired tightness is met it will “click”.

The one I saw in Homebase was over £50. For the life of me I could not justify spending £50 one something I didn’t need. I could just make sure the wheel nuts are as tight as I can get them. Then I thought no more of it..

I’ve been looking at torque wrenches on Amazon. One I like the look of is the Milenco Caravan Wheel Torque Wrench Safety. It seems expensive but it has some nut indicators to let you know if the wheels nuts has loosened. Now I’m one for a gadget if it saves me time, so I think if I get this one I won’t need to check it every time? I could be wrong.

Sale

Milenco Caravan Wheel Torque Wrench Safety Set + 20 Wheel Nut Indicators*

Model Number: 2868
Item Package Quantity: 1
Package Weight: 2820 grams
Package Dimensions (L x B x H) in cm: 4.6 x 27 x 64

It’s cheaper than the one I saw in Homebase, but as I have no experience of torque wrenches so wouldn’t know a good one if it bit my on the bottom. Not that you really need experience of a torque wrench before buying one as they’ll all work. It gets good reviews on Amazon, so it’s certainly one I will consider. I need to check the wheel nuts before I go on our next trip.

There are, as always, cheaper alternatives and it doesn’t always mean the most expensive ones are necessarily the best, or cheapest is the worst. In the section on Amazon that tells you what most customers bought after viewing the Milenco one, the following one was listed.

Sale

Silverline 633567 Torque Wrench 28 – 210Nm 1/2″ Drive*

Chrome vanadium steel with reversible ratchet head
Knurled adjustment handle and locking ring for precise torque settings
Manufactured in accordance with EN ISO 6789 and DIN 3121 – Accuracy +/- 4 percent
Range 28 – 210Nm and resolution 1Nm
Includes 125 mm extension bar, 1/2″ – 3/8” drive adaptor (202Nm max) and storage case

As you can see, it’s quite a bit cheaper, less than half price in fact.

Which Torque Wrench Should I Buy?

Looking at the last one you’d need to buy a socket to fit your wheel, if you didn’t already have one. So at the moment I can’t decide which one although I’m leaning towards the Milenco one, purely because it has the indicator caps. Once I have decided I’ll do a review and pop it in the Product Reviews section.

Here’s a selection of torque wrenches from Amazon. Amazon’s best selling torque wrenches are…..

SaleBestseller No. 1

ATsafepro 1/2″ Drive Torque Wrench Set,Car Wheel Torque Wrench 20-230 Nm with 3/8” Adapter, Dual-Direction Adjustable 72 Tooth for Car Motorcycle,Truck,± 3% Accuracy*

1: ± 3% High Accuracy: Industrial grade torque wrench 1/2″ set has a torque range of 20-230 Nm/14.8-169.7 lbf.ft.; Adjustable torque wrench set is fully calibrated and tested for accuracy to IS and ASME requirements. Includes individual certificate of calibration with each set. We are full of confidence in high-quality wrenches.
2: Torque Wrench Kit (3pcs): Package includes 1*1/2″ high precision torque wrench Car Wheel , 1*extension rod, 1* 1/2-3/8” socket . This means that you can /choose the appropriate wrench head and conversion head to use according to different work needs. Whether dealing with large bolts or tightening smaller nuts, this set offers a variety of accessories for you to choose from, allowing you to flexibly handle various tasks
3: Thick and Durable: Professional 1/2″ drive car weel torque wrenches is made of hard-wearing, rust-resistant chrome-vanadium steel for a comfortable grip, non-slip, and corrosion-resistant. The Nm and FT-LB double scales use laser technology, which is clear and easy to read, not easy to wear, and suitable for most applications.
4：Easy to Use: When the adjustable torque wrench moto set reaches the preset torque value, the torque wrench will make a “click” sound, which you can hear or feel, reminding you to stop applying force, so as not to damage your items due to excessive torque. When not in use, please adjust the wrench to the minimum torque value to prolong the service life of the torque wrench.
5:Wide range of uses: Wheel torque wrench set adjustable in two directions. The blade of the torque wrench head can adjust the direction of use at any time, so that the wrench can be used in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Wrenches can be used for the maintenance of automobiles, SUV, trucks, etc., as well as for equipment installation, electrical engineering, product assembly,tire replacement, etc.

SaleBestseller No. 2

VonHaus Torque Wrench – with 3/8 Reducer and Extension Bar – Ratchet Wrench 1/2 Drive, 30-210Nm, 470mm Long Reach Handle with Carry Case for Car, Bike and General Repairs*

SIMPLE SCALE ADJUSTMENT: Maximise the safety and performance of your bike, car, or machinery with the VonHaus ½ torque wrench. Accurately adjust the locking nut to a torque level between 30-210Nm using the clear engravings.
LONG-REACH HANDLE: At 470mm long, use the reversible torque wrench to tighten and loosen hard-to-reach bolts with ease. Work with precision and comfort thanks to the firm grip handle.
STORAGE CASE: Included in the torque wrench set is a bicycle torque wrench, ½-⅜” socket, and ½” extension – all supplied in a robust carry case. Inner blow moulding ensures secure transportation and protection.
CALIBRATION CERTIFICATE: The bike wrench comes with a certificate of calibration, ensuring 4% tolerance. What’s more, the click system lets you know exactly when your torque has been reached.
OUR BRAND PROMISE: Established in 2009, VonHaus is the helping hand you need to craft your dream home, inside and out. Give your DIY tool collection a sturdy home with our Torque Wrench.

Bestseller No. 3

ETOOLAB 1/2 Torque Wrench Dual-Range【20-230Nm/10-170lbf-ft】±3% Precision, 72 Tooth Dual-Direction Adjustable Torque Wrench for Bicycle, Moto, Car Maintenance—3pcs*

????【????????????????????????????????-???????????????????? ????????????????????】ETOOLAB torque wrench utilizes military-grade steel as its base material, coupled with professional surface rust protection methods tailored to usage habits. While ensuring user comfort, it enhances product strength, wear resistance, and rust resistance. offers a more comfortable experience and a longer lifespan!
⚙️【±????% ???????????????????????????????????? & ???????????????????????? ???????????????????????????? ????????????????】Our torque wrench 1/2 drive meets the high precision standard of ±3% and comes with a traceable serial certificate. You can use it with confidence! Moreover, its graduation ring is tightly locked, with smaller incremental values, ensuring precise and consistent torque output even after multiple uses. This reduces the hassle of frequent adjustments. It is undoubtedly an excellent tool for your work!
????【????????????????-????????-????????????????】The scale of this 1/2 drive torque wrench is laser-engraved, using a black background with white markings. dinamometrica de 1/2 ensures clear and easy readability of the scale, even in sunlight. With a dual-scale design, users can conveniently read torque values in two different units according to their preferences, without the need for conversion!
????【???????????????? ???????????????????? ????????????????????】This torque wrenches has been upgraded to have a louder “Click” sound. We conducted over 25,000 tests to ensure that each product produces a click sound volume of no less than 45dB when the torque value exceeds 34 lbf·ft. When you hear the distinct click sound, it indicates that the preset torque has been reached, signaling you to stop applying force. You no longer need to worry about damaging your mechanical components.
????【????????????????-????????????????????????????????】Our torque wrench set features a 72-tooth dual-directional ratchet head, allowing for easy operation in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. It is designed with an adjustable locking ring, making it effortless to adjust the preset torque value. Additionally, it includes a quick-release head design, along with a 1/2″ drive 5″ long extension bar and 1/2″ to 3/8″ drive reducer, making it capable of tackling complex repairs even in tight spaces.

Bestseller No. 4

Amazon Basics 3/8 Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 15-80 ft.-lb, 20.4-108.5 Nm*

3/8 inch torque wrench with a range of 20.4-108.5 Nm;Remember to unlock before adjusting the torque value;Make sure to lock after adjusting for the stability of working torque;After the work, please loosen the locking ring of the wrench and adjust it to the lowest value for the next use.
Durable ratchet head made from hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V); bright, full polish chrome finish wipes easily clean and resists rust and corrosion.
High-contrast and dual-range scale that is pre-calibrated to ± 4%; Tips: For precise scale adjustment, please use the imperial scale. The conversion formula between the imperial scale and the metric scale is: 1 N⋅m = 8.86 in·lb.
Includes sturdy plastic case for storage and portability.
Device marking are in ft-lb however N-m conversion chart can be seen in the images/User Manual.

SaleBestseller No. 5

ATsafepro Torque Wrench 3/8 Inch, Drive Click 5-60 Nm Torque Wrench Auto, Dual Direction Adjustable 72 Tooth Bike Torque Wrench for Bike and Motorcycle Car Maintenance*

1: ± 3% high-precision: The torque range of industrial grade torque wrenches is 5-60 Nm/3.7-44.3 lbf.ft, and adjustable torque wrenches have been fully calibrated and tested according to DIN ISO and ASME. Includes individual certificate of calibration with each set. We are full of confidence in high-quality wrenches.
2: Heavy Duty and Durable: Professional 3/8″ drive torque wrench , non-slip, and corrosion-resistant. The Nm and FT-LB double scales use laser technology, which is clear and easy to read, not easy to wear, and suitable for most applications.
3: Easy to use: When the adjustable torque wrench set reaches the preset torque value, the torque wrench will make a “click” sound, which you can hear or feel, reminding you to stop applying force, so as not to damage your items due to excessive torque. When not in use, please adjust the wrench to the minimum torque value to prolong the service life of the torque wrench.
4: Precise Commissioning: Install components with calibrated precision – torque range from 5.0 to 60.0 Nm, fine-tuned to 0.5. Helps ensure that components on the bike or cars are tightened to the correct torque and that the clamping force is evenly distributed on each clamping surface. 3/8torque wrench helps prolong the life of high performance components and prevents damage from over-tightening.
5: Wide Range of Uses: Dual Direction torque wrench adjustable The blade of the torque wrench head can adjust the direction of use at any time, so that the wrench can be used in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. Great for stems, seat clamps, lever clamps, chain sets, rotors and headphones,automobile spark plug replacement, bicycle and motorcycle maintenance wrench, equipment installation, electrical engineering, product assembly, etc

SaleBestseller No. 6

Uharbour Torque Wrench 1/2 Inch, 100% Calibrated with Certificate, 20-230 Nm Range with Lock Mechanism, ±3% Error Accuracy, 72 Teeth*

Elevate your automotive maintenance and repair game with our Torque Wrench 1/2, meticulously engineered to meet the demanding needs of car enthusiasts and professional mechanics. This versatile tool boasts a wide torque range, spanning from 20 to 230 Nm, making it ideal for a variety of automotive applications.
What sets this Torque Wrench Car apart is its user-friendly design, featuring dual-direction capabilities and a 1 Nm adjustment with a secure lock. This means you can easily fine-tune your torque settings to suit the specific requirements of your car projects, ensuring precision and accuracy at every turn of the wrench.
Precision matters in automotive work, and that’s where our Torque Wrench shines. With a remarkable ±3% error accuracy, you can trust that your fastening tasks are completed with the utmost precision, preventing over-tightening or under-tightening. This means peace of mind knowing that your car components are secured with the exact amount of force they need.
The 72 teeth mechanism adds to the efficiency of this tool, making ratcheting swift and smooth, even in tight and hard-to-reach areas. No more struggling with awkward angles or challenging spaces – our Torque Wrench 1/2 simplifies the job.
Built to last, this torque wrench is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use, ensuring that it remains a dependable companion for years to come. When it comes to keeping your automotive projects running smoothly and safely, trust in the quality and precision of our Torque Wrench Car. It’s the tool you can rely on for all your car maintenance and repair needs.

Bestseller No. 7

KRETLAW 3/8″ Torque Wrench Set 30PCs, 5-60 Nm Drive Click Torque Wrench (72 Teeth ±3% Accuracy) with Extensions, Sockets, Adapter for Bike and Motorcycle Car Truck Maintenance*

Comprehensive 30-Piece Set: This premium torque wrench set includes everything you need: a 3/8″ torque wrench, 100mm 1/4″ and 150mm 3/8″ extension bars, a 1/4″-3/8″ adapter, 11 short 3/8″ hex sockets ranging from 6mm to 21mm, 13 3/8″ bit sockets including PH, H, and T-series bits, as well as 14mm and 16mm spark plug sockets.
Safe and Reliable Operation: When the preset torque value is reached, the wrench produces a clear “click” sound and a noticeable vibration, signaling to stop applying force. For low torque settings, it’s recommended to work in a quiet environment to easily hear the click.
Dual-Direction Adjustable: Each 3/8″ torque wrench is professionally calibrated to an accuracy of ±3%. The 72-tooth reversible ratchet head allows for both clockwise and counterclockwise use, and the quick-release button ensures fast, hassle-free socket changes.
High-Quality Materials: Made from high-strength 40 Cr-V steel, this torque wrench is highly resistant to corrosion. Its ergonomic, non-slip handle provides a comfortable grip and enhances work efficiency. For longevity, it should be set to the minimum torque value after use.
Versatile Applications: Perfect for maintaining bicycles, mountain bikes, and motorcycles, this torque wrench excels in adjusting stems, seat clamps, pedals, and chainrings. It’s also useful for equipment installation, electrical work, and handling wheel bolts and nuts.

Bestseller No. 8

Uharbour Torque Wrench Set 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 Inch, 3-25, 5-60, 20-230 Nm, Adapter, 3% Accuracy, 72 Teeth Ratchet for Car, Motorcycle, Bicycle*

Versatile set for various applications: with a torque range of 3-25 Nm (1/4 inch), 5-60 Nm (3/8 inch) and 20-230 Nm (1/2 inch), this set is perfect for working on cars, motorcycles and bicycles.
HIGH PRECISION WITH CUSTOM CALIBRATION The three torque wrenches included in the kit are all fully calibrated and come with their own calibration certificate that includes the exact serial number of each tool. This ensures that each torque wrench is precise and fully traceable in its measurement to avoid damage to sensitive parts and ensure safe installation.
Accuracy of ±3%: ±3% accuracy guarantees accurate torque measurements to avoid damage to sensitive parts and ensure safe installation.
FLEXIBILITY WITH ADAPTERS The kit includes 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch adapters, making it compatible with a wide range of tools and inserts.
72 TEETH RATCHET MECHANISM The 72 tooth ratchets provide precise control even in tight spaces as they only require a small return angle.

Bestseller No. 9

Sealey 3pc Micrometer Style Torque Wrench Set – STW900SET*

Ranges: 1/4″Sq Drive 5-25Nm, 3/8″Sq Drive 20-120Nm and 1/2″Sq Drive 40-220Nm.
Scales graduated in both Nm and lb.ft.
Calibration tolerance in accordance with BS EN ISO 6789-1:2017.
Wrenches are individually tested to standards with ±4% accuracy and each wrench is issued with an individually numbered test certificate. Aluminium knurled handle for comfort and control. Supplied in EVA tray.
LIFETIME WARRANTY GUARANTEE FROM A REPUTABLE UK COMPANY – Founded in 1978, Sealey is a large family run business with a vast product range. Trusted by professionals, all Sealey products are thoroughly tested and backed by unrivalled aftersales service.

Bestseller No. 10

Silverline 962219 Torque Wrench 20 – 110 Nm 3/8″, Silver*

Chrome vanadium steel with reversible ratchet head
Knurled adjustment handle and locking ring for precise torque setting
Conforms to EN ISO 6789 e DIN 3120 – Accuratezza +/- 4%
Action range 20 – 110 Nm and 1 Nm resolution
Includes 75 mm extension bar, 3/8″ – 1/4” adapter and carrying case

CaravanVlogger Uses….

So, after making your way through the rest of the article, which one did we buy after our research? Well, we did go for the Milenco in the end. Check out our unsponsored review of the Milenco Torque Wrench. Did we consider it a good buy, or an expensive mistake?