futuretech

Looking to buy. Currently have a cheap air model ($50) that requires 5.5 cfm at 90 psi. My compressor just burps. I need to buy a larger compressor or a hand-held rechargeable unit. Opinions?

Hi/Tek/Vette

electrics are little better than a breaker bar, say 240 ft/#
you need a real air impact like the / IR Titainium to do serious work

Zorlac

I bought a large (don't remember the size) compressor. It is worth it to me b/c of the growing air tool collection.

paint-tech

$300.00 for my snap on 1/2" driven uses 700ft lbs to break things loose, I aways use torque wrench for install. There is some good electric impacts but they are not as powerfull.

$$$frumnuttin'

got the 'wired' harbor freight 1/2" drive one...it's great...$59.

Vetteman Jack

The air impacts will generally provide a more powerful breaking force, but if you only need a moderate amount of torque, a good electric one will most likely do the job.

futuretech

wired impact?

Bob CTS

Have not had a fastner this will not remove.

$$$frumnuttin'

Vs. battery ...sometimes referred to as 'corded' unit.

blacksedan87

At the shop- we have both. The Snap-On is great to break lug nuts loose, but the techs seem to prefer the air tools for just about everything else.

00Corvette

It really depends on what you're going to be doing...

If you're sanding/painting...or using your tools A LOT. Meaning daily not just every couple weekends...go with AIR for sure.

If not, I would go electric...not having to deal with the air hose is really nice for one. The tools are a little better balanced also and no mess or oiling the tools/compressor.

It would really be best I think to just add an air compressor later on to an electric impact/ratchet and one of the nice 5 or 6 piece drill kits.


With air you can run die grinders, DA sander, rotary sander. board sander, paint guns, blower nozzle, air up your tires...you could probably get 3 or 4 tools for the price of one electric also(if you go electric, only get IR, Snap on or one of the good brands)

Dave68

Air tools are generally less expensive. DeWalt makes a potent cordless impact wrench. I found a used Craftsman (Professional) oilless compressor that is fairly quiet and capable of high enough flow and pressure for many 1/2-inch impact wrenches.

CHJ In Virginia

I use a DeWalt 18Volt unit that generates 220 FT Lbs of torque and am very satisfied with it. It is great at the track where a compressor usually is not available. My batteries are starting to go soft after 6 years of use, but can still dismount and mount 5-6 sets of tires before a recharge is required. Got to make sure you keep the batteries charged and do a full discharge once in awhile to keep it from getting a memory set. Either way get a good set of IMPACT sockets - do not use standards they can shatter from the rough use.

futuretech

Thanks guys. What do you think about air or electric ratchets?