Quick answer: The lowest usable return torque must exceed the actual assembly resistance at the relevant end position, with the project's required margin.

Which point determines whether a mechanism returns completely?
A high maximum torque cannot correct an inadequate final return. Drum radius, seals and guides may change resistance through travel. Identify where return stops and compare the local spring output with local resistance. Avoid evaluating the whole motion with a single nominal torque.

A practical verification method
Measure residual torque and breakaway resistance at the last part of return, then inspect whether the assembly reaches its defined parked position.
| Item | What to record | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Reference configuration | Part or assembly identity and drawing revision | Make comparisons traceable |
| Test conditions | Relevant position, direction and operating condition | Compare the same characteristic |
| Decision evidence | Measure residual torque and breakaway resistance at the last part of return, then inspect whether the assembly reaches its defined parked position. | Resolve the specific question before approval |

Use the result in an engineering request
Describe the observed condition and the required function separately. Include the relevant drawing revision and your results from the check above. If an acceptance limit has not been established, identify it as an open design input rather than treating a successful trial as approval.
Review the related Leading Spring product information. For a project-specific review, send the mechanism description, available geometry and the evidence relevant to this decision through the contact page.
Editorial note: AI-assisted engineering guidance, prepared from the topic-specific reasoning shown here and the company’s public product context. Illustrations explain decisions; they are not customer-case photographs or test results. Product-specific suitability requires review against your approved requirements.