tool engraving

[andrew clark]

Is there any way to enhance the engraving on tools to make them easier to read? I’m especially need help with the scale on my torque wrench.

Topic

[James O’Hara]

So long as it is engraved/pressed in there is a groove for something to sit in. If it is laser engraved though these will not help you at all. 5 min fix version is to grab dirt rub it over the engravings and wipe off the wrench with a dry clean shop towel.

Easiest way is to pick a color that contrasts highly to whatever is engraved. Buy a good quality paint try to find one corrosion resistant. Run the torque wrench one turn past the min mark. Use some break clean to the area clean then isopropyl alcohol to clean it off. Then get a small paint brush acid brush whatever and brush the paint into the groove. Wipe the surface gently with a paper towel to get the surface paint off but, leave the paint in the engraved/pressed area. This is more of a permanent fix.

The laser engraved on the left and pressed engraving on the right. Laser engraving wears off due to it only being an extremely small depth into the surface and 90% of the time its silk screened acid and or paint not actually laser. The one on the right and if you used a hand engraver that is when the above solutions will work.

[Jon Hart]

As above is my sockets are fading and are suitable for painting I tend to use touch up paint and a little applicator spear to drop a fine layer of paint in there and then I’ll just put a touch of clear over to stop the paint chipping.

You can go down the line of getting them engraved but it’ll probably cost you more than the sockets are worth and if it doesn’t chances are those sockets are warranted for life and engraving them will void the warranty.

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