MXA TEAM TESTED: FIXT PROTORQUE 3/8-INCH-DRIVE T-HANDLE

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WHAT IS IT? The Fixt Pro T-handle is a high-quality, innovative tool that is a simple and long-overdue way to work on your motorcycle.

WHAT’S IT COST? $159.99.

CONTACT? www.fixtproducts.com or (844) 349-8776.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Fixt Pro Torque 3/8-inch-drive T-handle.

(1) How it’s used. The Fixt Pro torque T-handle works just like a regular T-handle, except it makes torquing bolts from 4 to 20 foot-pounds simpler than ever. You don’t have to set the torque, and there’s no need for recalibration. Laser-etched marks are located around the top of the T-handle shaft. Even numbers from 4 to 20 foot-pounds are marked, and tallies represent the odd numbers in between. Simply find the torque settings in your manual, put on the correct-size 3/8-inch-drive socket and tighten until the insignia lines up with the desired torque. Warning: do not loosen bolts with this tool.

(2) Durability. This is not a cheap, pot-metal tool you buy from your local supermarket. Made in the USA, it is constructed out of high-grade stainless steel and 6061 anodized aluminum and comes with a one-year warranty.

(3) Usability. We used this for everything and anything that needed to be torqued within 20 foot-pounds (unless the torque setting had to be spot-on). Why? We found that there is a small window for human error. The click of a standardized torque wrench is more dummy-proof. Still, we preferred the Fixt torque T-handle over regular T-handles, as it had a much less rigid feel when snugging the bolts.

(4) Accuracy. We tested the accuracy of the Fixt torque T-handle against standard torque wrenches. It was accurate.

(5) Options. The Fixt Pro torque T-handle can be ordered with different torque settings other than foot-pounds. Inch-pound (48 to 240) and Newton-meter (6 to 27) values are also offered. It is also available in black, orange, blue, green and red.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? It doesn’t prevent human error.

This tool replaced our standard torque wrench for a multitude of applications.