Panther Builders Manual

The following is from the FAA AC43.13-1B Chapter 7 Section 7-40. Only the most common information is included here, see AC-43.13-1B for more information.

TORQUES. The importance of correct torque application cannot be overemphasized.  Under torque can result in unnecessary wear of nuts and bolts, as well as the parts they secure. Over torque can cause failure of a bolt or nut from overstressing the threaded areas. Uneven or additional loads that are applied to the assembly may result in wear or premature failure. The following are a few simple, but important procedures that should be followed to ensure that correct torque is applied.

 

NOTE: Be sure that the torque applied is for the size of the bolt shank not the wrench size.

 

a. Calibrate the torque wrench at least once a year, or immediately after it has been abused or dropped, to ensure continued accuracy.

b. Be sure the bolt and nut threads are clean and dry, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.

c. Run the nut down to near contact with the washer or bearing surface and check the friction drag torque required to turn the nut. Whenever possible, apply the torque to the nut and not the bolt. This will reduce rotation of the bolt in the hole and reduce wear.

d. Add the friction drag torque to the desired torque. This is referred to as “final torque,” which should register on the indicator or setting for a snap-over type torque wrench. This is important for self locking nuts.

e. Apply a smooth even pull when applying torque pressure. If chattering or a jerking motion occurs during final torque, back off the nut and retorque.

f. When installing a castle nut, start alignment with the cotter pin hole at the minimum

recommended torque plus friction drag torque.

NOTE: Do not exceed the maximum torque plus the friction drag. If the hole and nut castellation do not align, change washer or nut and try again. Exceeding the maximum recommended torque is not recommended.

g. When torque is applied to bolt heads or capscrews, apply the recommended torque plus friction drag torque.

h. If special adapters are used which will change the effective length of the torque wrench, the final torque indication or wrench setting must be adjusted accordingly. Determine the torque wrench indication or setting with adapter installed as shown in AC43.13-1B figure 7-2.

i. The following table shows the recommended torque to be used when specific torque is not supplied by the manufacturer. The table includes standard nut and bolt combinations, currently used in aviation maintenance. For further identification of hardware, see chapter 7, section 11.