OneGuyInCA

It may be because it's a cheap kit that I got which could explain it all... but I bought this impact wrench kit from HF:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=92208

<img src="http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/92200-92299/92208.gif">

The 1/2" driver is suppose to deliver up to 230 lb/ft @ 90 psi.

Well... this unit can't even take the lug nuts off my tires which is torqued at 89 lb/ft.

Am I doing something wrong? Thoughts?<ul><li><a href="http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=92208">http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=92208</a</li></ul>

4Driver4

What kind of compressor are you using? Size, pressure, etc.

Kris Hansen

Lugs have a tendency to get tighter over time.

If you want an inexpensive yet powerful impact, Craftsman has a few that are around $100.. Mine is older, but it's rated for 425 in reverse I think, has NO problem with lugs..

What are you running for air pressure?

::zuprong::

With tools, like with many other things, what you pay is what you get. I suggest you spend money on quality tools. They will preform much better, and probably save you money in the long run.

audikillsbmw

Then I torque them down with a TQ wrench.

OneGuyInCA

at 150 PSI Max. Set to 90 PSI operating pressure.

<img src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImage/7605b215-17bd-4355-a394-cb736248cac3_300.jpg">

Specs are:
3.25 HP (1.8 HP running)
4.9 SCFM
4.5 Gallon

It might be because it's too small of a compressor but the impact wrench specs are lower so I'm not sure.<ul><li><a href="http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/OIL-FREE-AIR-COMPRESSOR/EN/index.htm">http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/OIL-FREE-AIR-COMPRESSOR/EN/index.htm</a</li></ul>

Just Me

most home compressors are the weak link.

while hf may not be the best, i doubt it is the culprit here.

230 lb-ft does not sound like a lot, however, although it probably translates into a lot of jerk.
Yes, jerk is a real technical term :-) First derivative of acceleration.

4Driver4

I run mine between 100 and 110.

OneGuyInCA

^^ Really? That I haven't tried. And no problems or concerns with too much pressure?

jasaab

great for little stuff but you neeed a big one for the hard nuts. Impact tools relly only good for removing not installing. Thus buy yourself one that has at least 425 ft-lbs.