Tool for precision tightening of automotive wheel lug nuts

Abstract

This tool would make automotive wheel lug nut tightening an exact science, insuring precision from one job to the next. Chances for human error are minimized; once the tool is correctly applied to the lug nuts, there is no need to rely on any particular expertise from the mechanic, as the tool takes over setting the wheel properly, and then applying the final correct torque in accord with manufacturer's specification.

Claims

1. This tool would provide for the simultaneous, power-driven, precision tightening of automotive wheel lug nuts, thus minimizing the chances for human error.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] While tool company engineers would ultimately determine the size and shape of the apparatus, general dimensions, as I see it, would be about the size of a laptop computer, but thicker in depth. The device would rest on a portable rolling dolly frame, positioned so the screen is waist-high to the average person. The front face of the device would have a digital read-out screen, which would display the torque values chosen by the operator from a set of push-buttons, also on the front of the device. Projecting from the back of the device would be five, flexible, goose neck-type lines, each about twenty-four (24) inches in length; these torque transmission lines would be placed on the lug nuts by an appropriate size socket.

[0012] A storage chest for the sockets (eg., ¾, ⅞), different length goose neck lines, and other items, would be part of the portable dolly frame. The best power source is probably pneumatic, but tool company engineers could use other sources, such as a re-chargeable battery incorporated into the portable dolly frame.

[0013] The device would be operated as follows: The mechanic begins as usual by placing the wheel on the hub, and, by hand, each lug nut on the threaded stems of the hub; from the device a goose neck line, with the appropriate size socket on-end, is placed on each lug nut; the mechanic then chooses an initial low torque, such as 30 ft/lbs, from the push button dial on the face of the device—the torque values chosen appear on the digital screen; power is switched on, and simultaneously all lug nuts are tightened to 30 ft/lbs, setting the wheel evenly on the hub in preparation for the final torque application; using the push button dial, the mechanic now chooses the proper final torque from manufacturer specifications—typically 100 ft/lbs; power is switched on again, and, simultaneously, all lug nuts are driven to the precise tightness, according to specs. The torque transmission lines are removed from each lug nut—and a precision put-back of the wheel has been completed.