Hi there, I got myself a 16" breaker bar recently to make it easier to undo the wheel bolts.

A breaker bar seemed like the ideal tool to use (correct me if i'm wrong), the extra length giving a bit more leverage and all that.

Now I know it was only a cheap one but surely it should withstand undoing a wheel bolt - the first time I used it the knuckle joint started distorting.

What sort of torque should they handle ? if I remember right the wheel bolts on my S60 are around 140Nm - and I know they are because I always use a torque wrench when fitting them.

I have done a quick google but couldn't come up with and specifications, any ideas ?

In all honesty, I do not think CHEAP breaker bars were designed with any minimum load requirement...

You're lucky you didnt get yourself hurt in the process...

Thanks for your reply ampangbear, having looked around the cost would be better described as mid-ranged (compared with the like of Snap-On anyway)

But what I really need to know (before complaining) is a breaker bar a suitable tool for removing the likes of wheel bolts - I know you are not supposed to use a torque wrench to 'break torque' and loosen nuts and bolts so what is the alternative.

I can't find any reference even on Snap-On's site with regards to the sort of torques that these tools could be used at. All I keep reading is how people use a breaker bar to get maximun leverage and torque (but they dont say how much)

I dont regard 100-140Nm as very high torque - it could probably be applied with a normal ratchet. So I believe this one in particular to be of poor quality and should be returned.

Well, I have just pooped into Halfords whilst out and about and answered my own question really.

Having failed to find any manufactures specs for a tool like this online the high street store had the answer.

A similar 16" breaker bar from Halfords (Guaranteed for life) priced at £12.99 is suitable for torques upto 390Nm according to the packaging!

Well within the realms of removing wheel bolts - so i'm off to contact the seller and search for a better quality tool (or go back down to halfords)

I hope this is of use to others and thanks again for you help.

Im no fan of Halfords as a rule but their tools do seem much better these days. Personally i got a cheap breaker bar off ebay last year and i seem to remember it being specked at 240NM. I've given it some right stick and is still fine. Either way wheel bolts should be just fine.

Now that you mentioned it, i never actually realised the max would be. I mean, when i used it, i just set it at 81 and push / pull.

Thanks for the information...

Well this one was bought on eBay and the guy has agreed to accept it back for a refund and to cover the postage costs incurred - so off to post office in the morning.

ampangbear ... set it at 81 ... push / pull ?
Are you thinking of an actual torque wrench ?
Is a breaker bar something different in Kuala Lumpur ?

The tool in question just has 16" handle with a knuckle joint at the end with a 1/2" square drive for a socket.
No settings, just brute force.

The one that i used is quite similar. Hmmm... Let me check it out again, and update. :)