An impact wrench is a very helpful tool for making mechanical automotive jobs run smoother and faster. It can aid in the changing of tires and even the rebuilding of an engine. An impact wrench is a hand-held pneumatic tool that relieves you from the fatigue of using a manual socket wrench. Below, you will find some basic information on how an impact wrench works and how to use it.
Step #1: Prepping Your Tools
In order to use an impact wrench, you will need an air compressor, air hose and air tool oil, in addition to the impact wrench. First, the air compressor should be plugged in and ready to run. Then, adjust your air compressor to a range between 90 and 100 PSI in order to be fully compatible with most impact wrench models. Connect the air hose to the air compressor outlet and extend the length of the hose. Always make sure that there are no kinks or stoppages in the air hose before connecting it to an impact wrench. Now, place four to five drops of your air tool oil into the air inlet of your impact wrench. There are small bearings on each end of the rotating turbine that turns the wrench’s socket end. Using the air tool oil should be performed in this manner each time you use the wrench because without good lubrication, these turbine bearings will fail. Once this is done, it is time to start using your impact wrench.
Step #2: Operating the Impact Wrench
First, plug the air hose into the impact wrench’s air inlet. Then, pull the trigger to make sure you know which direction the wrench is turning before you use it. There is a small button just above the trigger on the hand grip that can be moved left, right, in and out to determine whether the socket end turns clockwise, counterclockwise, forward or reverse in direction.
Test the torque adjustment screw on your impact wrench. Most pneumatic wrenches have a torque adjustment that determines how much air flows to the turbine driver, which turns the socket end of the wrench. Typically, torque adjustment settings are measured in numbered levels from one to ten, one being the lowest setting. After you have tested the impact wrench, use it on something that you need to. For instance, to remove a car wheel’s lug nuts, simply set your wrench to a counterclockwise motion, firmly place the socket end of the wrench around the lug nut (making sure the the two ends are the same size of course), and pull the trigger. It’s that easy, and it cuts down considerably on time and energy spent constructing and deconstructing auto parts.
So go forth, and use your impact wrench today! For more DIY car tutorials, be sure to visit Eastwood.com.