How to use an impact wrench

[dalepres]

I just got this impact wrench for working on my tractor but I've never used an impact wrench before. I did also buy a Tekton impact socket set.

https://www.portercable.com/product...s-and-wrenches/75-amp-12-impact-wrench/pce211

I was mostly thinking of removing bolts when I bought it but now I realize I also need to put them back on and there is no torque adjustment or limit and I am sure I don't want to torque to 450 ft-lbs nor do I want to snap the bolts.

For the professional mechanics here, or anyone else, how do you use a torque wrench properly and safely without over-torquing? Do I stop it at the first hammering? Do I just not use it to put the bolts back on?

 

[sberry]

It takez a while and some of it can be gauged by looking at rotation. But for a new user, clean threads, lightly oil, run them back up a few smacks and use a torque wrench. Doesn't have to be terrible expensive, a H F thing would be dandy.

 

[98ssuck]

Most of the things I work on aren’t torque critical. So I tighten them to snug with a impact. The sound of the impact changes when things are snug. The ones that are torque critical I might use a impact to run the nut down. But then use a ratchet to tighten or better a torque wrench when I have a spec.

There are 3 things to keep in mind with impacts ( I’m assuming that this is your first one) .

1 Technology has advanced way past the corded impact you bought. Cordless brushless tools with have torque and speed setting that can be set by experienced users to help prevent over tightening

2 The torque ratings for impacts in general is optimistic.

3 Anything you overtighten, break and cross thread will be a learning experience for you. Be cautious as you get familiarized with the tool.

 

[dalepres]

I wish the forum had a Like or Thanks feature. Since it doesn't, thanks to sberry and 98ssuck; both very helpful responses.

 

[bobcatdan]

That thing isn't going to snap many bolts. No idea what you have for a tractor, but a couple ugga dugga will do the job.

 

[Lucid Moments]

2 The torque ratings for impacts in general is optimistic.

I agree with everything you said, but want to add a qualifier for this one. Torque ratings for impacts in general is not so much optimistic as they are complete and total marketing horse ****. And my apologies to all the horses out there making fine fertilizer that is actually useful.

 

[larry_g]

When installing threaded fasteners whether bolts or nuts ALWAYS start things by hand a couple of threads to make sure that your in alignment and not cross threaded. Only then apply the rattle gun.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Junkdrawer Dog]

You have to use a chart that converts ugga duggas to ft.-lbs.. j/k