Re-torquing is a good procedure to use to check the status of terminals that are held in place with bolts or screws.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Always

Answer: (B)

Tightening hardware to the specified torque is the proper way to ensure a secure electrical connection, but using retorquing as a routine way to check the status of terminals isn’t reliable. Torque alone isn’t a definitive indicator of a healthy connection because conditions change with vibration, temperature cycles, and thread wear. A connection can loosen over time even if a retorque momentarily sits at the target value, and improper re-torquing can over-stress threads or damage the terminal.

The right approach is to install to the manufacturer’s torque specification and perform regular maintenance that includes inspecting for looseness, corrosion, damaged threads, and signs of overheating. If anything is found, tighten to spec or replace components, and use proper locking methods (such as thread lockers or locking washers) as recommended. In short, you don’t rely on retorquing to gauge status; you verify by torque to spec and physical/electrical inspection.