Impact Wrench
Thread Starter
JK Jedi
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 4,470
Likes: 1
From: Westchester, NY
hellbound remember that an air impact wrench runs on volume of air, so an impact wrench operated with an undersized compressor will not perform up to expectations. The impact wrench specs will show a recommended CFM figure- the compressors available will also show this same CFM figure they will produce. Don't purchase a 3/8'' drive impact wrench, they are not strong enough for suspension work. A 1/2'' air impact wrench with a max torque output of about 250 ft pounds is all the home mechanic or hobbiest should try to use. These impacts are available up to 600-750 ft pounds, you will break off lug studs and break or stretch suspension bolts with an impact that powerful. A compressor of 5-6 hp with a minimum 30 gallon tank is your most all-around reallistic size. A 7hp 60 gallon is available from Harbor Freight etc etc for around $399.00 or so. Remember an air operated ratchet is good only for small work that is pre-loosened. The only difference between a 3/8'' or 1/2'' drive air ratchet is the size sockets that can be used. The power output is the same. Remember don't go over factory torque values on your suspension, tighter IS NOT BETTER. The suspension bolts will stretch- leading to possible failure or unwanted loosening down the road. A battery- powered impact torque output falls off as the battery discharges, they aren't safe to use on suspension work.
Ok so now I have two conflicting opinions. So now I should be only using the larger tank as recommended by Sears?
Also now you have me worried as I tightened my track bar bolts to 135. I thought the ride was much better after doing so but maybe its not good since the torque spec is 125.
JK Junkie
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 2,472
Likes: 4
From: Virginia Woods
hellbound my advice is based on 35 years of personal compressor ownership and 35 years of professional auto repair experience using air impacts and air ratchets on a DAILY basis. My viewpoint is from the perspective of long-term usage for various projects down the road. Undercapacity in purchasing a home-use compressor is the #1 complaint of guys who own a compressor. I know once you purchase an impact you'll want to do your lug nuts etc., a 1/2'' impact is required for this kind of work. If you like woodworking or other home projects around the house then an upsized compressor will operate drills, nailers, sanders and spray guns. Of course you can purchase a pocket-sized compressor and impact which will cost you 50-60% of the cost of the larger stuff and you will be stuck at that lower level of performance. Just a few thoughts, best of luck!
10% or so variance in your torque won't hurt you, wrenches vary that much....
10% or so variance in your torque won't hurt you, wrenches vary that much....
Last edited by TINMAN080; Mar 29, 2009 at 08:17 PM.
Thread Starter
JK Jedi
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 4,470
Likes: 1
From: Westchester, NY
hellbound my advice is based on 35 years of personal compressor ownership and 35 years of professional auto repair experience using air impacts and air ratchets on a DAILY basis. My viewpoint is from the perspective of long-term usage for various projects down the road. Undercapacity in purchasing a home-use compressor is the #1 complaint of guys who own a compressor. I know once you purchase an impact you'll want to do your lug nuts etc., a 1/2'' impact is required for this kind of work. If you like woodworking or other home projects around the house then an upsized compressor will operate drills, nailers, sanders and spray guns. Of course you can purchase a pocket-sized compressor and impact which will cost you 50-60% of the cost of the larger stuff and you will be stuck at that lower level of performance. Just a few thoughts, best of luck!
Also any input on what I said about torquing the trackbar to 135?
JK Jedi
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 7,215
Likes: 10
From: Georgia
Here is hands down the BEST 1/2" impact ever made. The Ingersoll Rand Super Duty. It will go 425 LB FT and features adjustable torque output. They are famous for their "double anvil" design. They are really tough. I have one about 25 years old and it's still a bad beotch.
Ebay item #200322413204
That's 109 buskc and FREE SHIPPING. That's one hell of a deal.
Ebay item #200322413204
That's 109 buskc and FREE SHIPPING. That's one hell of a deal.
Last edited by RedneckJeep; Mar 29, 2009 at 08:31 PM.
JK Junkie
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 2,472
Likes: 4
From: Virginia Woods
Most every torque wrench will vary from any other torque wrench- no two things on this earth are the same. For example your tire pressure guage- I've never seen two read the same. LOL A 10% variance or so on a torque value won't cause you any grief, it's massive overtightening that will cause problems. All automotive values target a general area of torque, voltage, pressure or what have you. You should be in good shape. Your compressor and impact purchase should be based on future needs also, to keep from having to rebuy down the road- my two cents worth....
JK Newbie
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 97
Likes: 0
From: Lakeside, CA
Here is hands down the BEST 1/2" impact ever made. The Ingersoll Rand Super Duty. It will go 425 LB FT and features adjustable torque output. They are famous for their "double anvil" design. They are really tough. I have one about 25 years old and it's still a bad beotch.
, but mine can take anything off, I bought it when I was 25, I'm now 56! It still runs strong.
Last edited by johnnyd; Mar 29, 2009 at 08:43 PM.