I went out to check the slack on my chain. I realized that even if it were out of spec, I couldn't adjust it properly according to the manual because I don't have a torque wrench to set the axel nut correctly.

Is there any easy but safe way around the problem, aside from buying a torque wrench for $70 at homedepot?

didnt use one to do mine, just loosened the axel nut and like kerry said on the adjustment bolt on the back do a quarter turn each side until you get it right then tighten.

thats how I did mine.

okay, so what are the dangers of not having the axel nut torqued to spec? The manual says 65 N*m (or lb*ft, I forget)

The only thing you have to be concerned about is if it's too loose, even then nothing can happen because the cotter pin is there to stop the nut from moving at all. If too tight you will notice it when trying to push the bike if the rear wheel isnt rolling freely, I just did mine up fairly tight and checked the rear wheel for free movement.

Over here most bikes don't have a cotter pin, Most people I know don't use a torque wrench and I am not aware of anyone ever having a problem.

Quote from: Cal PriceOver here most bikes don't have a cotter pin, Most people I know don't use a torque wrench and I am not aware of anyone ever having a problem.

If they do not have a cotter pin, I bet they use a self locking ("aircraft") style nut with a nylon insert that performs the same function.

Don't know where you are at, but around here Harbor Frieght has them for around $20.

auto zone has 3/8" drive ones for 26.

waiting for kerry to post his Craftsman torque wrench pictures...

Quote from: Jazzzzzwaiting for kerry to post his Craftsman torque wrench pictures...

I'll save Kerry the trouble.... here's the thread...  :mrgreen:

http://gstwins.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=18066&highlight=torque+wrench