Whats Next? Smart Bolts

[dsquire]

While out stumbling around on the Internet I Stumbled across this, Smart Bolts.

 http://www.smartbolts.com/?gclid=CKP-pu_xuaACFVl35Qod2Cz3Uw

Apparently you can tell just by looking at the bolt how much tension it is under. Could be a good idea but I bet they are expensive. I wonder if they make them in 2-56 size for our engines.

Cheers 

Don

[andyf]

..... I bet they are expensive. I wonder if they make them in 2-56 size for our engines.
Don

You'd win your bet, Don. According to this review, about $20US each   
Fascinating idea, though.

Andy

[75Plus]

This brings up the question "How tight is tight?" Once the indicator turns black how do you determine if it is over torqued? I can see how it would be easy to over torque while using a socket which covers the indicator. Not all bolts of a certain size should be torqued the same. Torque depends on application.

These bolts are probably used by the government since it assumes we the people are too stupid to tighten bolts properly. It is also the only user that can afford them.

Joe

[chuck foster]

how tight is tight 

my rule is tighten the nut or bolt till it breaks then back it off a quarter turn 

chuck 

[websterz]

Can I get one of those installed in MY head to check MY stress level? 

[Darren]

I've tuned and re-built quite a few engines over time and I've yet to use let alone own a torque wrench !!

And yes I "hammered" two of those engines for quite a few years after they were re-built, never a problem in the torque regard.

[Festus42]

These look like a great idea, I will with hold actual judgement until I see actual test data on their accuracy. I can see these being useful in confined spaces where using a socket is not practical/possible. They could also be useful for field repairs where you may not be able to properly calibrate torque wrenches.

[Topos]

how tight is tight 

my rule is tighten the nut or bolt till it breaks then back it off a quarter turn 

chuck 

Now that is STRETCHING our credulity, mate!  Bet it will TORQUE someone off.