Question about using a torque wrench on oil drain plugs - is it really worth it?

I was working on a 2015 F-150 at my buddy's garage last Saturday and he INSISTS on torquing every single drain plug to spec, while I've always just done it by feel after 10 years in the business. He showed me three pans that cracked from overtightening and two that leaked from being too loose, which got me thinking. Do you guys actually break out the torque wrench for something as simple as an oil change, or am I just being lazy about it?

2 comments

2 Comments

thompson.xena16d ago

Totally agree, I started torquing mine after two leaks in a row.

the_taylor15d ago

Used to roll my eyes at torquing but @thompson.xena you made me a believer after my third leak!