A torque limiting mechanism used for securing fasteners is described. The torque limiting mechanism consists of a shaft (36), a torque gear (66) having a plurality of ball bearings (64), a thrust bearing (86) and a variable force applying subassembly (96). The torque limiting mechanism further consisting of a lock bushing (52) and retaining ring (60) placed circumferentially around the proximal end of the shaft. The lock bushing and retaining ring reduce structural misalignments and increase the accuracy of the device.
