How to use an Impact Wrench Properly
Discussion
E-bmw said:
RGG said:
When loosening a bolt/nut can any torque setting be used without running the risk of stripping the threads?
Yes, with the caveat that you can still shear the bolt/stud.If it's a nut that is being loosened there wouldn't or shouldn't be that possibility?
You can certainly shear a stud when removing a reluctant nut from it.
Impact guns have the advantage that 1) its a hammer action 2) since its the gun itself which does the work, it is all rotating (so long as the gun is straight), whereas if you're using a wrench there is the danger of putting some side force on as well as rotational.
Impact guns have the advantage that 1) its a hammer action 2) since its the gun itself which does the work, it is all rotating (so long as the gun is straight), whereas if you're using a wrench there is the danger of putting some side force on as well as rotational.
The fact you're asking this is a good sign. I mainly use 3/4" impact air guns at full torque setting for loosening (it only has one setting), but I pick and choose my battles.
I clean up any visible threads with lube and possibly a wire brush.
I also use mine as an air ratchet sometimes by loosening by hand first, then finishing it off with the impact.
I also consider the consequences of failure/damage. E.g. a driveshaft nut can cause more financial damage than a snapped wheel stud.
I'd rather clean threads etc and not need it, than to wish I could have gone back 5 seconds and cleaned them.
The biggest mistake I see is people using them as an alternative to a torque wrench. It's ok to use them to tighten things to a lower torque then finish up with torque wrench.
A torque stick to limit torque might be useful to you if you're not sure.
I clean up any visible threads with lube and possibly a wire brush.
I also use mine as an air ratchet sometimes by loosening by hand first, then finishing it off with the impact.
I also consider the consequences of failure/damage. E.g. a driveshaft nut can cause more financial damage than a snapped wheel stud.
I'd rather clean threads etc and not need it, than to wish I could have gone back 5 seconds and cleaned them.
The biggest mistake I see is people using them as an alternative to a torque wrench. It's ok to use them to tighten things to a lower torque then finish up with torque wrench.
A torque stick to limit torque might be useful to you if you're not sure.
Edited by johnsmith222 on Wednesday 12th February 00:30
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