What's the secret to using an impact wrench
 

I've got an old but lightly used Blue Point / Snapon impact wrench running off a decent size IR compressor (not sure but probably 80 gal. twin cylinder) and 1/2 hose. It doesn't have enough power to loosen tightened lug nuts (works fine if they are first broken loose with a breaker bar). Impact wrench is from the late 80's but I have always had a problem with using it for wheels. I always see mechanics using their impact wrenches with no problem. Am I doing something wrong? Or are the better impact wrenches used for wheels? Is it just too small for using on wheels (physically its about the same size as what I see being used in shops). How much PSI should be running to the wrench under normal use? Thanks in advance.

Most air wrenches have a dial to adjust the power output make sure it's on the highest setting, 90psi is generally recommended but run mine on the full 120psi that my compressor has.

Thanks I'll check it but believe it is set to highest power. I'm running at 100 psi. I'm wondering if gun is too small for lug nuts. It is 1/2" drive though which should be fine.

i run my compressor high shutoff at 135 lbs, and all my air tool at that pressure.

either the torque knob on the gun is set real low, or the gun is wore out.

Thanks. Probably need to increase pressure running to it. Its an old gun but hardly used maybe a dozen or so times since I bought it. Looks new doubt its worn out.

all my air guns are over 40 years old. the newer one are not made very good anymore.

If you haven't run any oil thru it try that, some oil for air tools can help a lot sometimes..

Thanks guys. Got to change rear brakes on Tues. Will let you know how I make out.

I'm also using a Snap On 1/2" impact from the middle 80's---it was their most powerful at the time. I use it probably three times a year but oil it every time before connecting the air hose. So far its been flawless---best $260 spent. :)

It'll easily remove my E250 lug nuts as long as my wimpy older compressor can keep up---its a volume hog it would seem.

The Blue Point stuff isn't as well made or as long lasting as the formerly USA made Snap On tools----perhaps its just reached the end of its life?

Its Blue Point. I think it just might be too small for job. Still looks new.

What size lug are you working on?

My decades old Chicago Pneumatic isn't the man it once was, and it takes some doing at 90 psi to remove 100 lb/ft lugs.

I think it was 22mm. Is it just me or is JWA hot as hell, lol...

OMG I've overshot my original intentions with Christie's photo! }> :D }> :D

The "real" JWA is NOT nearly as attractive nor nearly as much a woman, all man in fact! :-X22

I have a few other babes I post from time-to-time just to keep things interesting.

LOL, I darn near posted that JWA was a guy but wanted to see where it went.:-missingt
Have to love the Internet.;)

If I were more mischievous I'd have let that play out-----but a sense of fair play and full disclosure seemed slightly more appropriate.

Next time though.................. :D :D :D

BTW that photo of Christie Brinkley is fairly recent, past few years at most. While its the glam'd up version even without all that she's still quite gorgeous even at 60! Oh yeah..................