Impact Wrench Question - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

ChadBice · 12-10-2008, 11:37 PM

I probably know the answer (you get what you pay for) but what should I be looking for in an impact wrench. When I bought my compressor, it came with an air tool set, which included an impact wrench. So, tonight, I thought I would start to remove the rear end from my truck. With my compressor set at 90 pounds, this crappy impact won't even remove the lugs from my wheels. It looks like I need a better wrench...any suggestions?

Stock72c10 · 12-10-2008, 11:39 PM

Let me guess, you got it at Sears.

ChadBice · 12-10-2008, 11:41 PM

Correct. Is that bad?

thirdstreettito · 12-10-2008, 11:42 PM

Get a Snap-On. The best of the best.

**leddzepp** · 12-10-2008, 11:44 PM

Don't buy one at Harbor Freight either....they suck

thirdstreettito · 12-10-2008, 11:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChadBice

Correct. Is that bad?

Yes. Sears in my opinion is for everything but tools. They are a "homeowner" store. Most homeowners dont need an impact gun, so they figure "who cares, screw em, lets make crap."

**truckdude239** · 12-10-2008, 11:58 PM

i use a blue point at work with about 175 psi behind it and it breaks just about any bolt loose i need it too

heres the one i use http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item....re&dir=catalog

cdowns · 12-11-2008, 12:55 AM

i've never owned or used an impact wrench ,never had a problem takin wheels off either

**El Jay** · 12-11-2008, 01:02 AM

Ingersoll-Rand, from Northern Tool.

Blue_71 · 12-11-2008, 01:08 AM

hands down without a doubt, ingersol rand titanium... 1000 ft lbs of nut-busting torque, and they even make a quiet (under 85 decibal) version. mac and matco both have impact guns which are actually ingersols with different covers.

and if your curious, ive had 2 craftsmans, 1 mac, 1 cambell hausfield, and 1 blue point.... i wouldnt trade my matco/ingersol for all of them together

krue · 12-11-2008, 01:29 AM

The IR is what we use at work on 1" bolts.

**Phuloi68** · 12-11-2008, 01:48 AM

Most of the better brands have different models that have different torque values. Some have good torque for tightening but not so good for taking off.
Having worked in a heavy industrial environment we used many impacts.
To give an example, we had to take covers off of a long screw conveyor. I was on one side with a new Chicago Pneumatic and my partner was on the other side with a new IR. We were both hooked up to the same airline.
I was knocking them off quickly and his was not busting any loose. Right away, he was *****ing about the IR being junk.
It turned out my impact was more of a heavy duty 1/2 " and his was more for light duty home use.
With that in mind, we called our different tool suppliers to come in, bring examples and info on the different models. IR and CP had 4 models each, and I don't remember about the other brands. We had about 20 different 1/2 impacts. We went out to another chain conveyor, rusted and corroded, used the same air line. The best one by far, was one of the Snap-on models.
Mind you, this was about 15 yrs ago so I don't know whats there today.

subalternnavert · 12-11-2008, 03:12 AM

I'm using an IR 231 classic at work right now and have never had a problem. Sure, it's heavy, loud, and vents out the front, but it gets daily use and has never stuttered.

One question, Chad: What size air line are you using?

70GMCer · 12-11-2008, 07:41 AM

I've used the Chicago Pneumatic thru Harbor Freight for a few years now. Never a problem breaking any nuts/bolts loose. I keep my psi as high as I can, around 175

Restrorob · 12-11-2008, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by subalternnavert

I'm using an IR 231 classic at work right now and have never had a problem. Sure, it's heavy, loud, and vents out the front, but it gets daily use and has never stuttered.

One question, Chad: What size air line are you using?

I've owned quite a few brands years ago, But been using the same gun ^^^^ daily for over 20 yrs. now. IMO, You can't beat a Ingersoll hooked to a 3/8" air hose with the pressure set at 120/130 lbs....

ChadBice · 12-11-2008, 10:37 AM

I have a 3/8" air line. The most air I can get out of the hose is 90 pounds.

Bus Ted Knuckle · 12-11-2008, 10:47 AM

Did you turn up the torque on the one you have? and oil it?

Stock72c10 · 12-11-2008, 12:29 PM

The reason I knew was because I bought (probably) the same air compressor with the "free" air tool set (a $99 value). The impact wrench is awful and most of the time will hit about two or three times and then just set there and leak air until I "tap" it on the concrete floor, then it is good for about two or three more hits. I have oiled it and hooked it up with only the OEM hose it came with (thought maybe my 50 ft. extension was the problem), no dice. It does say to run it at 90psi in the book, I tried higher with no better results. I plan on taking it back to see if they will replace it (isn't it their policy to replace any tools?). I bought the compressor to blow out my lawn irrigation system and figured the "free" tools were an added bonus, but unfortunately they are not hassle "free." Thank god for the old X wrench

**Yukon Jack** · 12-11-2008, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stock72c10

I bought the compressor to blow out my lawn irrigation system

Doubt this will be problem for you, but keep in mind that a high pressure compressor can damage a lawn system. Services that you pay to blow out lawn irrigation systems use a low pressure, high volume system to prevent damage to the lawn system.

streetstar · 12-11-2008, 01:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stock72c10

. I plan on taking it back to see if they will replace it (isn't it their policy to replace any tools?). :

The policy is for hand tools -- power tools have a different warranty and is dependent on the tool

I had a problem with $29 impact wrench from tractor supply. It finally quit working (after 3 or 4 uses) so i took it back and exchanged it for another identical one. The new one works great.

quality control sucks with the cheap wrenches i guess. Some work and some don't

Stock72c10 · 12-11-2008, 01:35 PM

I bought it for the large volume (it is a 33 cu. ft. compressor) and I set the line pressure at 80psi when blowing out the system. Have blown it out about 5-6 times plus the neighbors with no ill effects yet. The compressor is fine, it's just the "free" air tools that are pathetic. I guess you get what you pay for

As it is an "oil-free" compressor I am more worried about losing my hearing then blowing anything up

Thealien · 12-11-2008, 02:26 PM

Another 20+ year IR fan!!

BarryB · 12-11-2008, 05:53 PM

I have a 3/8 drive from Mac/IR. That little thing is strong, I don't turn it up when tightening because it will ring the head of the bolt off.

ERASER5 · 12-11-2008, 11:31 PM

I have had my old crappy Chicago Pneumatic for about 20 years now. I got it free because it had broken. I put a 6 dollar rebuild kit in it and had a working gun. And work it did. A lot. A few months ago it started to loose performance. The back plate bolts had come loose. I hosed off the guts, greased, and re-assembled. Good to go.

If I do replace the old gun, it will be with a IR.

68C15 · 12-12-2008, 06:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thealien

Another 20+ year IR fan!!

and another.
I have a 2112 (composite 3/8) a 2131 (composite 1/2) and a 231 (old style 1/2). we run 175 psi and 3/8 hoses. my 2112 will do what the boss's Snap-On 1/2 will not. I have to rebuild it about every 2 or 3 years but I have had it for over 10 now and it has never let me down. keep in mind I use it every day so your needs may be different. IIRC you can get one just like mine at Sears for around $200.
about the pressure, many of the cheaper compressors can not handle anything over 90 psi. it may burn out the motor or smoke the belt(s). if cash flow prevents you from upgrading to a better compressor you may try going to 1/2" hose with at least 3/4" piping between pump and hose.

12-10-2008, 11:37 PM	#1
ChadBice Registered User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Sand Lake, MI Posts: 45	Impact Wrench Question I probably know the answer (you get what you pay for) but what should I be looking for in an impact wrench. When I bought my compressor, it came with an air tool set, which included an impact wrench. So, tonight, I thought I would start to remove the rear end from my truck. With my compressor set at 90 pounds, this crappy impact won't even remove the lugs from my wheels. It looks like I need a better wrench...any suggestions? __________________ Chad '71 Chevy SWB

12-10-2008, 11:39 PM	#2
Stock72c10 classic=of recognized value Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Wichita, KS Posts: 317	Re: Impact Wrench Question Let me guess, you got it at Sears.

12-10-2008, 11:41 PM	#3
ChadBice Registered User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Sand Lake, MI Posts: 45	Re: Impact Wrench Question Correct. Is that bad? __________________ Chad '71 Chevy SWB

12-10-2008, 11:42 PM	#4
thirdstreettito Resident of Here Join Date: May 2008 Location: Wesley Chapel, FL, USA Posts: 7,716	Re: Impact Wrench Question Get a Snap-On. The best of the best. __________________ ~Bradley~ 2004 Black GTO LS2/T56 too much to list Miss having a truck

12-10-2008, 11:44 PM	#5
leddzepp Moderator Join Date: May 2007 Location: Southern Cal Posts: 19,992	Re: Impact Wrench Question Don't buy one at Harbor Freight either....they suck

12-10-2008, 11:58 PM	#7
truckdude239 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Lewisville, Nc Posts: 10,228	Re: Impact Wrench Question i use a blue point at work with about 175 psi behind it and it breaks just about any bolt loose i need it too heres the one i use http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item....re&dir=catalog __________________ David fuller Ase Certified Mechanic Click here to help support our board!! 1971 Chevy c-10 under going a 4.8l LSx swap Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=421305 2007 Honda Accord my daily 145kmiles 2002 Honda Accord 4 door With 330k(sisters car) 2005 toyota Avalon 228k( brothers car) 2002 Sububran 5.3 245k 2000 Tahoe 5.3l 378 General manager for Marco's Carwash & lube Last edited by truckdude239; 12-11-2008 at 12:03 AM.

12-11-2008, 12:55 AM	#8
cdowns Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: daytonabeach Posts: 22,956	Re: Impact Wrench Question i've never owned or used an impact wrench ,never had a problem takin wheels off either __________________ 71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY

12-11-2008, 01:02 AM	#9
El Jay Gone to greener pastures Join Date: May 2007 Location: Gateway to the Delta Posts: 7,354	Re: Impact Wrench Question Ingersoll-Rand, from Northern Tool. __________________ '69 Chevy 1/2 T LWB Stepper: Daily Beater '72 GMC 3/4 T Fleet: Another Daily Beater '72 Plymouth Gran Coupe: ? "Ah women. They make the highs higher and the lows more frequent." Friedrich Nietzsche "Never kick a fresh turd on a hot day." Harry S. Truman GUN CONTROL: Never having to say, "I missed you." Always fire two warning shots into your attacker's chest area before putting a bullet between his eyes. Paraphrased from Louis Awerbuck

12-11-2008, 01:29 AM	#11
krue Designated A-hole! Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: South Mississippi Posts: 36,450	Re: Impact Wrench Question The IR is what we use at work on 1" bolts. __________________ "If it ain't broke, fix it 'til it is!" Being stupid ain't illegal. We're Still Debt Free Except for the House!!! www.daveramsey.com 70 GMC SWB Stepside project "Green Booger" soon to be 6.0l/4l80e 93 S-10 "Poppaw's Truck"

12-11-2008, 01:48 AM	#12
Phuloi68 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Valparaiso, In Posts: 1,114	Re: Impact Wrench Question Most of the better brands have different models that have different torque values. Some have good torque for tightening but not so good for taking off. Having worked in a heavy industrial environment we used many impacts. To give an example, we had to take covers off of a long screw conveyor. I was on one side with a new Chicago Pneumatic and my partner was on the other side with a new IR. We were both hooked up to the same airline. I was knocking them off quickly and his was not busting any loose. Right away, he was ***ing about the IR being junk. It turned out my impact was more of a heavy duty 1/2 " and his was more for light duty home use. With that in mind, we called our different tool suppliers to come in, bring examples and info on the different models. IR and CP had 4 models each, and I don't remember about the other brands. We had about 20 different 1/2 impacts. We went out to another chain conveyor, rusted and corroded, used the same air line. The best one by far, was one of the Snap-on models. Mind you, this was about 15 yrs ago so I don't know whats there today. __________________ Phuloi68 Indy survivor Norwood survivor Big Sandy survivor for those who fight for it... F R E E D O M** has a price the protected will never know.

12-11-2008, 03:12 AM	#13
subalternnavert Tire goomba extrordianaire Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Boiling Springs, PA USA Posts: 132	Re: Impact Wrench Question I'm using an IR 231 classic at work right now and have never had a problem. Sure, it's heavy, loud, and vents out the front, but it gets daily use and has never stuttered. One question, Chad: What size air line are you using? __________________ I was told recently by an old friend that the most telling thing he's seen from me is when we were in a bar with other friends reminiscing and mourning lost loves. The others talked of women and fun. I missed my '64 GMC.

12-11-2008, 07:41 AM	#14
70GMCer Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Joppa, Maryland Posts: 4,408	Re: Impact Wrench Question I've used the Chicago Pneumatic thru Harbor Freight for a few years now. Never a problem breaking any nuts/bolts loose. I keep my psi as high as I can, around 175 __________________ 1997 GMC Sierra Ext 1965 Mustang

12-11-2008, 10:37 AM	#16
ChadBice Registered User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Sand Lake, MI Posts: 45	Re: Impact Wrench Question I have a 3/8" air line. The most air I can get out of the hose is 90 pounds. __________________ Chad '71 Chevy SWB

12-11-2008, 10:47 AM	#17
Bus Ted Knuckle Son of a gun Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas Posts: 1,636	Re: Impact Wrench Question Did you turn up the torque on the one you have? and oil it? __________________ Bill BEATERS ARE NEATER

12-11-2008, 12:29 PM	#18
Stock72c10 classic=of recognized value Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Wichita, KS Posts: 317	Re: Impact Wrench Question The reason I knew was because I bought (probably) the same air compressor with the "free" air tool set (a $99 value). The impact wrench is awful and most of the time will hit about two or three times and then just set there and leak air until I "tap" it on the concrete floor, then it is good for about two or three more hits. I have oiled it and hooked it up with only the OEM hose it came with (thought maybe my 50 ft. extension was the problem), no dice. It does say to run it at 90psi in the book, I tried higher with no better results. I plan on taking it back to see if they will replace it (isn't it their policy to replace any tools?). I bought the compressor to blow out my lawn irrigation system and figured the "free" tools were an added bonus, but unfortunately they are not hassle "free." Thank god for the old X wrench



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12-11-2008, 01:35 PM	#21
Stock72c10 classic=of recognized value Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Wichita, KS Posts: 317	Re: Impact Wrench Question I bought it for the large volume (it is a 33 cu. ft. compressor) and I set the line pressure at 80psi when blowing out the system. Have blown it out about 5-6 times plus the neighbors with no ill effects yet. The compressor is fine, it's just the "free" air tools that are pathetic. I guess you get what you pay for As it is an "oil-free" compressor I am more worried about losing my hearing then blowing anything up

12-11-2008, 02:26 PM	#22
Thealien Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Pine Ridge Florida Posts: 4,120	Re: Impact Wrench Question Another 20+ year IR fan!!

12-11-2008, 05:53 PM	#23
BarryB Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Blountville, Tn. Posts: 3,904	Re: Impact Wrench Question I have a 3/8 drive from Mac/IR. That little thing is strong, I don't turn it up when tightening because it will ring the head of the bolt off. __________________ We could learn a lot from crayons... Some are sharp; some are pretty;and some are dull. Some have weird names; and all are different colours;but they all have to live in the same box. You may be only one person in the world, But you may also be the world to one person. * Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once. Two rules in life. 1. Never sweat the small stuff! 2. Everything is small stuff!

12-11-2008, 11:31 PM	#24
ERASER5 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Indiana Posts: 4,859	Re: Impact Wrench Question I have had my old crappy Chicago Pneumatic for about 20 years now. I got it free because it had broken. I put a 6 dollar rebuild kit in it and had a working gun. And work it did. A lot. A few months ago it started to loose performance. The back plate bolts had come loose. I hosed off the guts, greased, and re-assembled. Good to go. If I do replace the old gun, it will be with a IR. __________________ '70 GMC C1500 LWB Power disc brakes. WooHoo! Posi 6 Lug Dana 60

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