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Micrometer setting torque wrench indication

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 31 of 36 on Aircraft Materials, Hardware, and Processes. ACS element AM.I.E.K8 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhen a micrometer setting torque wrench reaches the value it was preset to, how is that indicated to the operator?

  1. AA sharp impulse or breakaway click
  2. BA pointer that moves along a fixed scale
  3. CA torque value shown on a handle dial
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. A sharp impulse or breakaway click

  • A — correct The micrometer setting torque wrench is preset to the desired torque, and when that torque is reached the operator notices a sharp impulse or breakaway click.
  • B — incorrect A pointer moving along a scale describes the deflecting beam wrench, which is read visually rather than preset.
  • C — incorrect A value read from a dial mounted on the handle describes the dial indicating wrench, not the preset micrometer setting type.

BACKGROUND

The torque wrench is a precision tool consisting of a torque indicating handle and an appropriate adapter or attachment, and it measures the turning or twisting force applied to a nut, bolt, or screw. The three most commonly used torque wrenches are the deflecting beam, dial indicating, and micrometer setting types. With the deflecting beam and dial indicating wrenches, the torque is read visually on a dial or scale mounted on the handle. The micrometer setting wrench is instead preset to the desired torque, and the operator feels and hears a sharp impulse or breakaway click when that torque is reached. Because it is a precision measuring instrument, a torque wrench must be visually inspected before each use and tested at periodic intervals to ensure accuracy.

STUDY TIP

Learn the three common torque wrench types by how the reading is obtained: two are read visually while in use, and only one is set in advance and signals by feel. Pair that with the requirement for visual inspection before each use and periodic accuracy testing.

KEY POINTS

  • The three common torque wrenches are the deflecting beam, dial indicating, and micrometer setting types.
  • Deflecting beam and dial indicating wrenches are read visually on a dial or scale on the handle.
  • The micrometer setting wrench is preset and signals the set torque with a sharp impulse or breakaway click.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch11 "Torque Wrench"
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MORE ON AIRCRAFT MATERIALS, HARDWARE, AND PROCESSES

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.