Clamping Bolt Torque
Clamping force is a function of both a) the torque applied to the clamping bolts and b) how much the jaw is 'preloaded' (i.e. how far the two clamping screws are backed out before setting the position of the adjustable base). The most common issue we see is failure to back out the clamping bolts 2+ turns before setting the adjustable base position and clamping the part.
As a general rule, 20 ft-lbs [27 N-m] is a great 'general-use' torque spec for all versions of the SMW Modular Vise.
Vise Size |
Clamping Bolt Torque |
1/2" & M12 |
10-30 ft-lbs [14-40 N-m] |
1/4" & M6 ('Hobby') |
10-25 ft-lbs [14-34 N-m] |
The Mod Vise can be used at torques 5 ft-lbs [7 N-m] higher than listed above, however using the vise at the high end of the torque range is typically unnecessary and will wear the clamping bolts and threads at an increased rate. Replacement parts are available here.
Mounting Bolt Torque
The appropriate torque for the bolts securing the Mod Vise to the fixture plate is dependent on plate size and material. Please see our recommended torque specs on our Fixture Plate Knowledge Base here (reference the 1.0x⌀ column for your specific plate).
Jaw Hardware Torque
For the M5 and 10-32 jaw hardware bolts (in all vise models) is 35 in-lbs [4.0 N-m].
To avoid overtightening these bolts we highly recommend using a torque wrench. Older Gen2 reversible insert bars and customers using Mitee-Bite Talon Grips are especially susceptible to stripping the small hex in the low-profile bolts, as a solution to this we have moved to a Torx-plus bolt in our Castle Grip.