1/2 air powered impact wrench
 

My 55 year old SnapOn impact wrench is nearing the end of its life. Technology has come a long way. Even new, this one could barely eke out 300 lbs.

It has served me well, but several times while removing body bolts on the LT-1, it would just hiss. I oil it regularly, so that isn't a problem. I am sure it is just wearing out. Don't know that I want to go to the time and trouble to rebuild it, given how much stronger the new generation of guns are.

So... have to decide on a new one. I can't imagine I am going to do this long enough to wear out another one; so does not have to be top of the line.

This one has received good reviews, and is under $200 on Amazon. The previous model got horrible reviews because of the non progressive trigger. Apparently, that has been fixed on this one.

Hoping someone has actually used one of these. Would like input.

Gun:
https://www.amazon.com/Astro-Tools-1...1zcF9hdGY&th=1

Test here: go to 7:20

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyTOD0kwOZY

For what it's worth, I've retired all of my pneumatic power tools and gotten electric ones. They just offer more bang without the need for air. Might want to at least check them out.

Me too.

I'm sensing the days of running air lines all over the shop are over.

One less thing to trip over.

K

I already have the air lines. I much prefer air to electric for many things. For instance, I use an air drill when I can't use the drill press. When a large electric drill "catches" it twists the chit out of my arms and shoulders; and with two artificial shoulders, I just can't take it.

I don't trip over air lines. I have drop downs on reels everywhere in the work end of my shop where I might need air. I even have drop downs on BOTH sides of my lift.

I DO have a small SnapOn 1/4 inch drive cordless ratchet, that I use continuously on small stuff. I keep a 3/8 adapter on it, and use it with most of my 3/8 sockets. In fact, it is my go to for putting on lug nuts!! That way I don't have to worry about over torquing as it maxes out at about 35 pounds; just get out the torque wrench for final torque. Yes, I still use a torque wrench for lug nuts. I realize there are torque sticks that work quite well (I even did comparisons using sticks and torque wrench at my brother's shop and was impressed with how "close" they were), but I like the peace of mind I get using a proper tool for the job. And, I don't have to settle for "close".

I have a large DeWalt electric 1/2 inch impact that I got with a bunch of crap I bought. Just don't like it. It is great for taking in the car on a trip; but when I have a car on the lift, I ALWAYS reach for the air power... even though the old SnapOn is starting to fail. I am set in my ways and really prefer air power. I am entitled, as I just turned 71.

I don't blame you for using what has worked well for you in the past.
Sometimes new isn't always better.

https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-...gaAjVFEALw_wcB

I love this one from HF. It's a beast.

I preferred the CP (Chicago Pneumatic) 734 because it was lighter and more compact compared to others. Better torque finesse with the trigger also. Wore out one and replaced with this one probably 45 years ago.
In 20 plus years of cars and light trucks never found any need for something bigger.

Lynn, I'm with ya and have used air tools for over 50 years, BUT I now have a Milwaukee 1/2" 18 volt brushless impact and haven't pulled my Ingersol Rand air gun out of the drawer for over a year. This is THE best upgrade in a tool I have done. I've since bought their 3/8 gun, speed ratchet and 1/2" capacity drill too. I still use air for many things, but not for basic wrenching anymore. These tools are far more powerful than my old air tools and no compressor running. Consider it... Otherwise, I would look into another Ingersol impact for air. Yes, they are spendy, but quality still counts for strength and dependability.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Ingersol...231C/323818880

What Mitch said. Bought same tools Mitch listed. Don't really use air tools anymore.