Description
Factory chillers and air handlers rarely stop, and when they do, the HVAC contractor has a tight window. Compressor bolts, service valve flanges and fan hubs must go back to the maker’s figure. The Snap-on TER50A torque wrench gives the technician a live reading on a compact 3/8 inch drive. It shows newton meters and inch-pounds on one face.
Chiller plant tasks that fit a 60 N·m dial
Most mid-size refrigeration joints fall inside this scale. For example:
- Compressor terminal box covers, as well as suction or discharge flange bolts.
- Service valve bolts, plus filter drier housing bolts after a refrigerant job.
- Condenser fan hub and motor bracket bolts on rooftop units.
- Also, pump coupling and base bolts on chilled water loops.
US-built chillers often quote in-lb, while European units quote N·m. Because the TER50A carries both scales, nobody converts figures on site.
Catalog figures for the Snap-on TER50A torque wrench
- Socket drive: a 3/8 inch square.
- Newton meter scale: 60 N·m, in 1 N·m steps.
- US scale: 600 in-lb, in 20 in-lb steps.
- Body length 12-1/2 in, width 2-11/16 in, and head depth 1-1/4 in with the drive excluded.
- Storage case: PB9.
These figures come from page 334 of Snap-on catalog CAT1500i, in the Precise 1% Accuracy table. The same row offers the TER50FUA follow-up model and the TER50LA signal model.
TER50A or TER51?
Snap-on also sells the same 60 N·m and 600 in-lb scale on a 1/2 inch drive as the TER51. That version runs 15 inches long, so it gives more reach and takes larger sockets. On the other hand, the Snap-on TER50A torque wrench measures 12-1/2 inches. So it suits cramped plant rooms and 3/8 inch socket sets.
Oil, refrigerant and clean storage
In practice, compressor oil and refrigerant residue leave a film on every tool. Wipe the TER50A with a dry cloth after each job, then return it to the PB9 case. Keep it well away from brazing work, since flame and heat can harm the dial crystal. Also never pull past full scale, and never use the dial to break a seized bolt.
Buying the Snap-on TER50A torque wrench
Lost in HCM, partner of SMK Vietnam, supplies this wrench to HVAC contractors and plant maintenance teams. Send the part number and quantity to request a quote from Lost in HCM. For other ranges, see our torque wrench range. The maker’s own site, snapon.com, has brand details, and you can contact SMK Vietnam about this listing.
HVAC technician FAQ
Is 60 N·m enough for compressor flange bolts?
Often, but not always. Larger screw compressors may call for more, so check the manual and choose a bigger Torqometer if needed.
Can the TER50A show the reading after I let go?
It has a single needle that shows the torque achieved while you pull. To keep a second needle at the reading, look at the TER50FUA.
What papers ship with the TER50A?
Snap-on adds a C to the stock number for a certificate of calibration model. Ask Lost in HCM which documents come with this plain TER50A.
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