Would like some fresh input. Looking into impact wrenches. Sick of changing out wheels using the tools that came with the car. Any recommendations which impact wrenches to consider. I have read to steer clear from Harbor Freight tools. Right now, cost is not important. Just want to know which impact wrenches to consider. Cordless? Ones with air compressor. I want to use the tool mostly for taking off lug nuts and putting them on. I understand people suggest to tighten by hand, but I want to use an impact wrench for on/off applications of lug nuts.

 

Installing lug nuts with an impact wrench is the first step toward replacing wheel studs and brake rotors. Start by hand, tighten with a torque wrench.



Go to a pawn shop and haggle for a cheap air impact gun. Almost any brand/model will get lug nuts off.

 

actually if its just quick/occasional use like the lug nuts i'd get an electric impact gun. some of them have some rather high torque (i think the one i have is 210 ft-lbs and it wasn't expensive) and its a lot faster than getting your air compressor charged up every time you want to use it. far more portable too if that helps any. i would not get a cordless. they don't have the torque and the battery doesn't last.



i have both a beat up electric and a smaller air impact gun around if i see the need for it. just depends on the situation. the electric is a mastercraft from canadian tire but i guess that doesn't help you much in the US...



Stocker is very correct for tightening the lug nuts down. NEVER torque them with an impact, thats asking for trouble. torque wrench all the way.

 

I have torque limiting impact extensions that seem to work well. I rarely use them for tightening, but I have tested and they're within about 10% of correct. Still makes me nervous.



I have a 900 ft/lb 3/4" drive air impact for breaking loose stubborn bolts. If I was just removing lug nuts occasionally I would get a 110v electric. I have one of those also and it worked fine for that.