1/2 air powered impact wrench

[Lynn]

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-1895-Impact-Wrench/dp/B01JBICLQW/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=TL15ZTDM6WUJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.IFqXtnrkiQi9lY4-jo-_j6n5TpkPW-HBzRqUYIe4moXn33EbqJ603np_u40ihiLeK7Vbe5C7d0sWSu5Z 4q9n1BIrAd5pNfAwxYKOCoWsh6s8zH3D7QJHIuu68fU118u7od PI9RLQXnwUNifhIkaQbVXF6UZ5KpzUAkRDOOxB8f4rvnXIimyV rEMvHivY6LyDHK0NhlCV-pduAHq_4DcdxKnV-ESgBZFYcZIN50EynZYmMLl4nr9t194-oK4qR7kosHuKq_FOLSRiNTMptNdcdDUu604rUNSsV7lMPuyNPk I.iEJ3pOzHuXud-grqvf_xDgPfM5Cnq3guSuchPLD0gF4&dib_tag=se&keywords=thor%2Bair%2Bimpact%2Bwrench&qid=1716215947&sprefix=thor%2Bair%2Bimpact%2Bwrench%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

[Lynn]

Test here: go to 7:20

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

[markinnaples]

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.

[Keith Seymore]

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

[Lynn]

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.

[markinnaples]

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

[scuncio]

https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-composite-air-impact-wrench-twin-hammer-1200-ft-lbs-red-58681.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12192885310&campaignid=12192885310&utm_content=161913026106&adsetid=161913026106&product=58681&store=3370&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6auyBhDzARIsALIo6v9w1RN9MpaKUZbiG_ir 1gRf6a6h43tKnDkplqThG0LuEIckwdjhEMgaAjVFEALw_wcB

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

[67since67]

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.

[Too Many Projects]

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/Ingersoll-Rand-1-2-in-Air-Impact-Wrench-600-ft-lbs-Max-Torque-Super-Duty-Pistol-Grip-231C/323818880

[69M22Z]

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/Ingersoll-Rand-1-2-in-Air-Impact-Wrench-600-ft-lbs-Max-Torque-Super-Duty-Pistol-Grip-231C/323818880

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

[67since67]

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/Ingersoll-Rand-1-2-in-Air-Impact-Wrench-600-ft-lbs-Max-Torque-Super-Duty-Pistol-Grip-231C/323818880

I guess I don't peek out from under my rock often enough, I didn't know IR made that small of impact!

Lots of good input here, I admit that I do use a battery driver for some small stuff, but battery weight can be annoying too.

[Lynn]

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.

Appreciate all the input.

I started out with a CP that looked just like yours, except it had the long shaft so I could use a reversible 3/4 one end, 13/16 on the other end socket. Back then that was about it for lug nuts. The SnapOn I have was a definite upgrade at the time. That CP was used when I got it, and could have already been near the end of its life.

I posted this same thread over on GJ. One of the guys just posted that he ordered a ThorG2 1895 yesterday. So, I will wait until he reports back (hopefully).

I have always liked Ingersol. Had a really good little portable IR compressor back in the 80s that was stolen one night. Still have the pocket knife that came with it, although it ended up all rusty. Don't remember where I left it that it was exposed to moisture. I have a year old HD gift card, so maybe that will give me an excuse to use it. Will be at HF tomorrow picking up some lift straps for the Museum project, so can look at the gun Tony posted. $119 looks pretty darn good.

Tony: Read this online: "The Earthquake XT is all or nothing. It is great for ripping tires off and doing front end work. Just don't try to start any lug nuts with it or use on torque sensitive fasteners." Have they remedied it on the new one? IIRC, it has the same innards as the Thor. May be thinking of another one. That used to be the beef with the Thor; the trigger only had two stages, and could not be feathered. The one I posted has a fully progressive trigger now.

One of my beefs with electric is that the ONLY time a battery decides to quit is when I am in a hurry. I realize I could avoid that just by switching out batteries more regularly. I also realize that if I ate less and exercised more, I would already be down to my ideal weight (BTW, I only have 8 pounds to go). Knowing doesn't always translate to doing. I have never had an air powered tool run out of air, and certainly won't now that I have a one man shop and a 15 HP compressor.

[olredalert]

----When I built my new garage 12 years ago now, I thought I made sure I had enough wall sockets. I only had a few electric tools at that time. Who'd have thought that electric stuff would become so prevalent. I now struggle to find an open spot to plug anything in. That and wires running all over the place. Guess its a good thing, but like Lynn I still like air power for some stuff!

[scuncio]

Lynn - I've only used this impact for really tough stuff so it's hard for me to say. I'll try a lighter touch on the trigger and let you know if it works.

[Lynn]

I think you can tell by the presence or lack of presence of the roll pin in the handle. I went by HF today. Some of the Earthquake XT Extreme torque models are made by Astro Pneumatic (who makes the Thor). The earlier ones have a roll pin in the handle. After a few years it starts leaking air. But, those are the ones that don't have a progressive trigger.

HF had both designs still on the shelves, and strangely priced the same.

[MosportGreen66]

Great topic and one I just dealt with also. The trigger on my Ingersoll Rand 231C stopped working. It was only 3 year old tool which has near tripled in cost post pandemic. I sent it to IR to have it repaired but to not much surprise they don't fix the broken tools anymore - IR only offers a coupon for a new machine. In the few weeks it has taken to get to this point with IR, I bought a brand new Snap On PT850HV off eBay (brand new in box) for about 50% off retail price. I used it this weekend and it is a complete beast/well worth the $. Not sure I'd buy one new from Snap On only because of the $800 price, but for less than $400, I'd thrilled to have it.

About six months ago I bought a Snap On CT9050DB 1/2 inch battery impact to use with greater flexibility for all the reasons discussed here - especially for when I'm trailering on the road. Amazing tool. The technology is awesome. My brother has a beast of a DeWalt battery impact which is also one I'd suggest. I don't recall the PN.

Dan

[Too Many Projects]

Road trips with battery tools is so much nicer than a ratchet or lug wrench to change a tire...:biggthumpup:

[JRSully]

I HAD all air stuff over the years, lines and outlets all over the garage, but now I have 18v Milwaukee impacts/sockets and these things are animals. I can just leave them on the workbench for weeks and go blow the lug nuts off anything at anytime. For me its time, grab it, use it, throw it back on the bench. No pulling the air lines over the myriad of crap in my garage, no "oh crap, there's no air in the compressor", yada yada. I still have all the air stuff though, lol

[69M22Z]

I HAD all air stuff over the years, lines and outlets all over the garage, but now I have 18v Milwaukee impacts/sockets and these things are animals. I can just leave them on the workbench for weeks and go blow the lug nuts off anything at anytime. For me its time, grab it, use it, throw it back on the bench. No pulling the air lines over the myriad of crap in my garage, no "oh crap, there's no air in the compressor", yada yada. I still have all the air stuff though, lol

Exactly.

[Lynn]

Not here to debate air v. cordless electric. As I stated earlier, I do have some cordless. Under the hood, I doubt I will ever use my SnapOn air ratchet. I have a SnapOn electric that is about the same size, and I don't have to worry about pulling the air hose across the fender. I ALREADY have a DeWalt cordless 1/2 inch impact wrench. I just prefer the air power.

To each his own. I am not trying to convert anyone to what they don't prefer.

[napa68]

I just prefer the air power.

Me too. I have a Milwaukee 1/4-3/8" electric ratchet I use in certain applications. I also have an 18v Milwaukee 1/2 that I use when I am on the road (in the event I have to change a tire). I still prefer air as well for wheels, suspension work, and heavier torque needs. My CP is getting old and a bit tired. My next one will be a Snap On:eek2:

[Jonesy]

I use air still for some things. I have always had Snap On that I got mostly off ebay.
Never had an issue with any of that stuff for 30 years so far. The battery powered stuff is very convenient.

[Canuck]

Our Snap on rep says he hardly sells any air tools any more. It’s all electric. I have a Snap On Electric 1/2 drive that has about 1050 ft lbs capacity (advertised)and it works great.
Model cT9080
https://shop.snapon.com/product/CT9080-Series-18-V-1-2%22-Drive-Cordless-Impact-Wrench/18-V-1-2%22-Drive-MonsterLithium-Cordless-Impact-Wrench-(Tool-Only)-(Red)/CT9080DB

[Vern B]

Just bought this last week from Harbor Freight for $129. I had some lug nuts on a trailer that I couldn’t break loose with two other 1/2” lighter duty battery tools I have, this tool took them off effortlessly

Only time I’ve used it so far, but I’ve got 3 bolts to get the blades off my zero turn that I struggle with at times, so if that goes as well as the lug nuts, I’ll give them a good review.

I found a HF coupon for this tool online.

https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-composite-ultra-torque-air-impact-wrench-twin-hammer-1500-ft-lbs-70080.html?event_id=182713&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12192884287&campaignid=12192884287&utm_content=155845690209&adsetid=155845690209&product=70080&store=&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq9jTuLGvhgMVc1j_AR0eqwGyEAQYBCAB EgIQq_D_BwE