1/4 drive air ratchet - anyone use one?

[buzzer]

As per title... thinking of buying a 1/4 drive air ratchet and interested if anyone has one and recommends it...

[DVandrews]

The torque application is a bit indiscriminate, bearing in mind the size of the fasteners on which it will deployed there is a risk of stretching or stripping bolts and threads. I use an portable electric wrench with torque settings for 1/4 and 3/8 driving, I only use air for 1/2 tooling.

Dave

[Auntieroll]

I've used one for years, mainly for removing and refitting trim, lights etc; but can be useful for stripping motorcycle engines and especially K series cam box/carriers with their many small fasteners.
I personally would not buy a high end one unless it was to be used on a daily basis, they can save a lot of time when rebuilding by being used to "run up" fasteners prior to them being torqued up to the correct figure.
If space is available a 1/4 drive speed brace is nearly as good, should be a lot cheaper too.

[Mr2Mike]

DVandrews said:

The torque application is a bit indiscriminate, bearing in mind the size of the fasteners on which it will deployed there is a risk of stretching or stripping bolts and threads

Air ratchets don't tend to produce a lot of torque IME, far less than you can apply by hand anyway.

[ridds]

Is space an issue?

If not just use a battery drill with a 1/4 drive attachment. Much easier to control and quieter!