Nitrocat 1100-K vs. 2135TiMax

[pipsters]

Hi new here.

Looking at getting an impact to replace my Kobalt one for home use. The Kobalt is good, it took the axle nuts off a 15 year old car, but I want something more powerful.

Looking at the Nitrocat 1100-K twin hammer, around $180 locally at Northern Tool including tax, or buying a 2135TiMax online for around $265.

One reason I am looking at the 1100-K is if you look closely on Nitrocat's web site they mention that the 1200-K isn't recommended for tire shops. That makes me think they (twin clutch design) aren't as durable as the 1100-K twin hammer design.

I've read the 2135TiMax is a great gun and will last but I'm not sure I need to spend the extra money on something that will be used maybe once every few weeks for a few hours. Plus I read you have to use special grease, not that big of a deal but just adds to the hassle.

Thoughts?

This site is great, exactly what I was looking for. I am just delving into the more technical aspects of car repair working on my cars, having just recently pulled my first engine out of an older Volvo 850 to steal it's ****** for my car (basically free after I bought and sold the stuff on the donor car).

 

[mtkst19]

either gun i think would do you ok. i have had both a ir 2135ti and a aircat 1k-m. the aircat was a little heavier feeling in the hand, but they both worked well.

 

[JASTECH]

Welcome!
I have the 1200k airkitty and it is awsome to say the least! Fits my hand nice and it is not real noisy so no ear plugs required unless OSHA is coming for a visit.

Thanks, JASTECH

 

[nexum1919]

Nitrocat 1200K is twin clutch oil bath design, need no lubrication other than the oil in air line. The reason they do not recommend that gun might the the twin clutch not being compatible with torque sticks. Torque sticks work best with heavy and slow hitting single dog hammer mechanism, this gives them enough time to 'recoil' and 'recover' from the shock and reset themselves between hits. With smooth and seamless impacting of a twin clutch (or even twin hammer), they might not have that time to recoil back to normal and end up winding up and being extremely inaccurate.
well, torque sticks are ill advised at best. i usually run the nuts snug or impact them a little with the lowest forward setting then follow up with torque wrench once the car is on the ground. i lay my torque wrench down next to the vehicle right by the drivers door so that i don't forget to follow up after just snugging them down. (that way you cannot get into the drivers seat without stepping over the torque wrench) sometimes you need to lower the car after putting the wheels back on, but still have it up raised a little to work under the hood, and with constant interruption etc, i can see how easily one can forget to follow up with a torque wrench.

it doesn't really make sense to me that makers of nitrocat does not recommend their product on the basis of 'not long lasting enough'

i have the nitrocat 1200K, and also the aircat mini 1500-TH (a very lightweight and compact 1/2" 600ftlbs gun). I use the 1500TH regularly, only take the 1200K out on tough axle nuts, caliper brackets, etc.

 

[a.pengue]

i actually called aircat today to ask for info on some of their impacts, one question was why the 1200 nitrocat wasnt recommended for tire shops, and the answer was because it was to save their *** in case anybody complained about it breaking lug studs right off, because the twin-clutch mechanism is very powerful. (there is a 3speed power management system for that though, with first speed rated at 200lbs max, so im sure this only applied to full torque and and a good, solid press on the trigger for a minimum of 5 seconds.) so basically its to save their *** from the many people that dont know how to properly install a wheel with an impact wrench without overtightening.. to ensure that their complaints when stuff breaks is not valid

 

[Marlin]

i actually called aircat today to ask for info on some of their impacts, one question was why the 1200 nitrocat wasnt recommended for tire shops, and the answer was because it was to save their *** in case anybody complained about it breaking lug studs right off, because the twin-clutch mechanism is very powerful. (there is a 3speed power management system for that though, with first speed rated at 200lbs max, so im sure this only applied to full torque and and a good, solid press on the trigger for a minimum of 5 seconds.) so basically its to save their *** from the many people that dont know how to properly install a wheel with an impact wrench without overtightening.. to ensure that their complaints when stuff breaks is not valid

Don't believe everything you are told, I'd be willing to bet the real reason is that they don't hold up in a high volume tire shop.

 

[pipsters]

I'm actually almost fully decided on the 2135tiQmax. One thing I like about it is numerous parts availability now and into the future. It seems to be iconic. Great reliability. I'm a weekend guy so provided I take care of it, it should last me a lifetime. I'm a little skeptical about the Nitrocat's moving parts and I've read over and over how after about a year of shop use they start losing steam. The twin hammer is a proven design.

 

[pipsters]

i actually called aircat today to ask for info on some of their impacts, one question was why the 1200 nitrocat wasnt recommended for tire shops, and the answer was because it was to save their *** in case anybody complained about it breaking lug studs right off, because the twin-clutch mechanism is very powerful. (there is a 3speed power management system for that though, with first speed rated at 200lbs max, so im sure this only applied to full torque and and a good, solid press on the trigger for a minimum of 5 seconds.) so basically its to save their *** from the many people that dont know how to properly install a wheel with an impact wrench without overtightening.. to ensure that their complaints when stuff breaks is not valid

That doesn't make any sense, because to be honest, their -1100k twin hammer is actually listed as having the same working torque. It just throws up more BS flags.

 

[pipsters]

Oh just wanted to say the difference from the 1100/1200 to the 2135tiQmax is about $100. $100 over owning the gun for 5-10 years really isn't much per year. Then factor in the fact that I can probably rebuild that 2135 for half the cost of a new Nitrocat. It's pretty easy justifying .

 

[a.pengue]

the service rep claimed that the twin hammer has more bpm than the twin clutch design, but hits at a force considerably lower than the twin clutch.
Ive heard of so many good reviews for this gun from people using it heavily for years without problems. I have also heard probably the same amount in negative reviews. From my point of view they are delicate and picky guns, only take a certain type of oil and have a more than often maintenance schedule (a couple drops in inlet every night and a couple more before using it, and they strongly adivse not to use marvel air tool oil) so i ordered one and should be getting one in about a week. Im going to take great care of it and hopefully it lasts me a while. Yes, i am taking a chance on their dependability, but from what i can gather, most reasons it wont hold up a long time is mostly because it is not well maintained, oiled, and it is more delicate to water.

Oh just wanted to say the difference from the 1100/1200 to the 2135tiQmax is about $100. $100 over owning the gun for 5-10 years really isn't much per year. Then factor in the fact that I can probably rebuild that 2135 for half the cost of a new Nitrocat. It's pretty easy justifying .

Ive read many reviews on IR's, especially the max series. Now ive used them many times before, and i know they are nice reliable guns, but in my many read reviews, i have also seen many people complain about how long they last, having to rebuild them every 6 months, etc etc etc. These people probably dont take very good care of their tools. Will my nitrocat last as long as i hope it will? I hope so, but we'll see, im comfortable taking the risk and won't beat myself up for taking a high risk, high return chance on it.

 

[09-JK]

the service rep claimed that the twin hammer has more bpm than the twin clutch design, but hits at a force considerably lower than the twin clutch.
Ive heard of so many good reviews for this gun from people using it heavily for years without problems. I have also heard probably the same amount in negative reviews. From my point of view they are delicate and picky guns, only take a certain type of oil and have a more than often maintenance schedule (a couple drops in inlet every night and a couple more before using it, and they strongly adivse not to use marvel air tool oil) so i ordered one and should be getting one in about a week. Im going to take great care of it and hopefully it lasts me a while. Yes, i am taking a chance on their dependability, but from what i can gather, most reasons it wont hold up a long time is mostly because it is not well maintained, oiled, and it is more delicate to water.


Ive read many reviews on IR's, especially the max series. Now ive used them many times before, and i know they are nice reliable guns, but in my many read reviews, i have also seen many people complain about how long they last, having to rebuild them every 6 months, etc etc etc. These people probably dont take very good care of their tools. Will my nitrocat last as long as i hope it will? I hope so, but we'll see, im comfortable taking the risk and won't beat myself up for taking a high risk, high return chance on it.

So how long have you worked for Aircat?

 

[pipsters]

I had the same thoughts. Still undecided by still leaning toward the 2135.

 

[a.pengue]

So how long have you worked for Aircat?

lol youre crazy. if the aircat doesnt prove itself in terms of reliabilty, ill get the TI, until then im open to other possibilities. What i was trying to prove with my super long post that no one prolly cares about is that its one of those guns you just gotta try to see how it is. theres negative reviews on every product out in the entire world, even the best of the best. Who was to know 20 years ago if IR was a respectable company? probably no one....

pipsters - if you have the money, stick with the 2135. You KNOW its a good gun. For me, i still cant get over imagining having an impact that is quiet, smooth, strong.. if it really does all that and lasts, ill be extremely happy, if not.. IR has been here for like 30 yrs.. i think they'll stick around long enough for me to buy my next impact if all goes to hell lol. I already got a nitrocat coming in the mail so, what can i do

 

[Rickntenn]

You wont be unhappy with the 2135 . I have seen guys abuse these ( not reccomended) and they just keep working.

 

[MattT]

So how long have you worked for Aircat?

The guy is correct in saying negative air tool reviews should be viewed with caution. What's left out of some reviews is the "I've been running it straight off the, 175psi, tank with no particle filtration or water removal" and it only lasted 6 months Or "I've been running it on my 110v tire inflator" and it lacks power

 

[gfd_703]

I have the 2135ti and love it. The only problem is it will make you want a 2125ti 3/8 gun which is the best investment I have ever made.

 

[srmofo]

Spend the extra $15 bucks and get the QTimax

 

[a.pengue]

Spend the extra $15 bucks and get the QTimax

might as well.. i know i would. Whats 15$ when your already ready to spend $270..

 

[srmofo]

I have only owned 2 impact guns in my 11 years of wrenching professionally. Both are the composite IRs and both still work. I rebuilt the first IR twice with a $30 service kit. I havent had to touch the IR QTiMax and I have had it over a year. These things get used 6 days a week/ 10 hours a day. I rarely drop them but it does happen occasionally and nothing has broke.

A few drops of oil every few days, and a pump or 2 of grease when I think about it.... or when I leave on vacation a few days.

 

[a.pengue]

A few drops of oil every few days

everyday! everyday! lol

 

[a.pengue]

anybody know where to find lightweight air tool oil, with no detergents? on the CH website they say all oils start off as 30weight and additives and detergents are added to create air tool oil. too complicated to find this damn air tool oil

 

[srmofo]

I just use marvel. No idea whats in it though

 

[rayzor32]

just buy non-detergent 30 weight motor oil. why cant u use regular air tool oil

 

[a.pengue]

the nitrocat uses a rotor.. 10weight non- detergent oil seems to be recommended for those.. aircat actually advises not to use marvel air tool oil on their twin-clutch products.. im calling them monday to get the full scoop.

 

[mrholeshot]

I've never owned or even used an air cat. I have own a lot of IR air guns including a few 2135TI. For my tire and brake guy I furnished him a IR231-4 extended anvil. I was always afraid he might break lugs off with the 2135. They are very light, powerful and durable guns.

 

[a.pengue]

just confirmed that the nitrocat will lose power over a couple of years, (less if not oiled everynight and before using it), as stated by the nitrocat manufacturer manual. it is normal and actually needs to be dissassembled and cleaned and regreased. it is part of the routine maintenance to follow by the user and the power will be fully restored

 

[yellowbox]

aircat,nitrocat....stay away!!!!!!!
i bought a aircat th1000 lasted 14 monthes under heavy use , but well maintained
warrenty is 12 monthes
i now i need to send in to get repaired , or take to local place.....
i replaced with ingersol rand , best 300.00 i will ever spend at least it will last for years not monthes
remember when you send anything to aircat under warrenty they will REQUIRE copy of receipt , warrenty card you fill out is not enough beware .....

 

[yellowbox]

just confirmed that the nitrocat will lose power over a couple of years, (less if not oiled everynight and before using it), as stated by the nitrocat manufacturer manual. It is normal and actually needs to be dissassembled and cleaned and regreased. It is part of the routine maintenance to follow by the user and the power will be fully restored

********.....................

 

[a.pengue]

kinda hard to know when you havent owned one. ill find out soon enough. then again that seems to apply to their 1000tc models, i dont know if the new generation ones it applies. what happened to your aircat yellowbox? which symptom did it have. ive read so many online reviews about the aircats. maybe 1 in 15 was a negative review, and 5 out of 15 were under heavy use for years and still no probs. im sure 4 out of 5 with negative reviews are just not maintaining their guns as the manual describes, and that includes using the right air tool oil, (not marvel) filters/water separators, and as well as not running them in excess of 90 psi and 120 psi for the nitrocats. greasing the anvils, leaving the nitrocat inlet pointing up during the night with a few drops of oil. yes it requires more maintenance then other guns, but if not follow maintenance then why buy it? im sure mine will last a while

 

[bowtie3]

I wouldn't buy anything but IR because of reliability, plus part will be available forever and those 2135s are stout as hell.

 

[yellowbox]

kinda hard to know when you havent owned one. ill find out soon enough. then again that seems to apply to their 1000tc models, i dont know if the new generation ones it applies. what happened to your aircat yellowbox? which symptom did it have. ive read so many online reviews about the aircats. maybe 1 in 15 was a negative review, and 5 out of 15 were under heavy use for years and still no probs. im sure 4 out of 5 with negative reviews are just not maintaining their guns as the manual describes, and that includes using the right air tool oil, (not marvel) filters/water separators, and as well as not running them in excess of 90 psi and 120 psi for the nitrocats. greasing the anvils, leaving the nitrocat inlet pointing up during the night with a few drops of oil. yes it requires more maintenance then other guns, but if not follow maintenance then why buy it? im sure mine will last a while

mine just stopped working took off a lugnut , then after that had no power whatsoever, squeeze trigger nothing happens
i maintained gun per specs , it would take off any nut/bolt i was impressed with the power it had .... my air tools get used hard
the question is .....how can a ingersol rand air tool last years with little/no maintanence , but aircat i got lasted 14 monthes with maintanence
i will take gun in to get repaired and use at home ....

 

[a.pengue]

u need to maintain it more than per specs, make sure you get clean dry air, and do not grease the anvil, you're not supposed to. I oil mine minimum twice a day, sometimes 3 times if im using it alott