An air impact wrench is an excellent equipment created for individuals looking to remove & tight bolts very quickly. It is pretty different when compared with the traditional power wrenches due to its ability to provide torque in rapid jolts that is pretty great. However, selecting the best air impact wrench for changing tires is a very difficult task considering the great number of options available out there.
Having a perfect tool will make sure you can deal with the worst nightmare, i.e., jammed bolts and changing tires. Most people make the mistake to spend money on a model after watching a TV commercial that hurts things pretty badly in the long run. At this blog, we work for making the selection process better and let them have awesome purchases.
What are the top 10 best air impact wrenches for changing tires?
We want to talk about the main thing first, i.e., which unit is the most suitable choice to make. There is excellent research & testing made by our team in the workshop for giving the options to make a top-class choice.
It takes us nearly 60 hours to create a list of the top 10 best impact wrenches for changing tires available to buy. Let’s check out all the models and invest money in the one you like most.
1. Ingersoll Rand Model 231C (editor’s choice)
The list begins with the Ingersoll Rand 231C thanks to its ability to tackle even the toughest challenges quite easily. It is a solid product having an adjustable power regulator to set variable power in a single direction and complete power on the other side. There is an exclusive Twin Hammer Plus impact mechanism for complete hard jobs pretty amazingly. The company delivers this unit in a fully lubricated condition for ensuring that you can use it straight out of the box. Furthermore, a maximum torque of 425 ft/ pounds allows the users to complete the job quickly.
It is a durable and powerful model that lets users fix difficult jobs in the garage. No matter, you have a workshop or just want to change tires occasionally; this impact wrench can be a great choice to make. This classically and reliable unit can be considered a perfect combination of power and performance.
It has an advanced mechanical mechanism that can remove the rusty nuts with minimal efforts. The company has done a fine job by crafting this unit in a lightweight design to make things convenient for the users. Overall, we will say it is a reliable choice that both professional mechanics and hobbyists can use without any difficulty.
Pros
- Extremely powerful impact wrench
- Highly durable & compact construction
- Super smoother operation
- Solid torque levels
Cons
- Ask for lubrication on a consistent basis
- Little bit loud operation
2. Nitrocat 1250-K Air Impact Wrench (runners up)
The next one is a composite model having a twin-clutch mechanism that can be considered perfect for top-duty & medium duty works. It is uniquely designed that stands out of the others available in the market with a great margin. There is almost little to zero noise created by the unit during the entire operation.
The biggest highlight of this unit is its ability to run at nearly 86-89 decibels that is pretty convincing. Another thing you will like about this unit is its two years warranty that is hard to find in most models. There is an ergonomic handle attached to the unit for adding a solid set of convenience while using. It is delivered by Ingersoll Rand who has a very positive reputation in the market.
It is an excellent wrench having a patented ergonomic Kevlar handle and housing that allows the unit to last long. Overall, we will say this unit has a top-class working life that will serve your needs for a pretty extended time.
Pros
- Backed by two years warranty
- Highly professional design
- Equipped with a patented ergonomic handle for extra convenience
- A hard twin-clutch mechanism for efficient use
Cons
- Very expensive air impact wrench to buy
- Little bit issues with leaking in air seal
3. Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMax (best for power to weight ratio)
This product is solely made for individuals who are looking for incredible power to weight ratio while buying an air impact wrench. The availability of this quality and the durable tool will let you remove even the toughest bolts while changing tires. It is equipped with top features that let the users complete work with a minimal level of fatigue.
There is a four-position regulator and one-handed push-button added to the unit for providing the required versatility and control. Completing automotive jobs with this unit will be a very easy task for sure. The manufacturer has used tough material to make this unit that ensures it can easily tackle difficult working environments. The biggest quality of this unit is its ability to supply a power of 1,350 foot/pounds of torque for completing the tire changing job quickly.
On top of that, there are proper arrangements for comfort made by the manufacturer with a rubber grip and smart trigger option. You will enjoy full control over the bolts while completing even the tough jobs. Overall, it can be a nice addition to your tool collection for changing tires very quickly.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable handling
- Equipped with a four-stage power control system
- Give an optimal level of control
- Minimizes air consumption
Cons
- Demands frequent lubrication
- Slightly noisy in a few cases
4. Aircat 1150 Killer Torque Impact Wrench (best under $150)
The fourth product is accommodated by this powerful & portable impact wrench that offers a torque of 1295 pounds/ feet. It is equipped with a patented quiet tool technology that makes sure you feel minimized noise for no disruption. If we compare it with other wrenches, this unit has a 15% larger rotor for providing solid power to the system.
The tire changing work doesn’t take much time when you use this equipment for this job. There is a 2 years warranty offered on the parts and labor by the manufacturer. The presence of high-quality composite housing allows the machine to tackle accidental falls quite easily. In terms of comfort, the users won’t feel much fatigue thanks to the ergonomically designed handle.
The assembly process doesn’t take much time for the buyers as the manufacturer delivers it in pre-assembled condition. Another exciting thing you like about this unit is it has nearly 98% favorable reviews from the buyers. Overall, this air impact wrench is an excellent choice to make for individuals with this budget.
Pros
- Superb maneuverability level
- Equipped with a user-friendly handle
- Very quiet operation
- Different speed settings
- Solid torque power
Cons
- Vibrates too much with rusted bolts
- Poorly written manual
5. Campbell Hausfeld ½” Impact Wrench (best air impact wrench for auto repair)
If you want to buy an air impact wrench for completing the auto repair works, then we suggest shopping for this model without any further research. It is a ½ inch impact wrench having a wonderful construction with 5.2 pounds for better convenience. There is a one-year limited warranty offered on the unit for giving great peace of mind against manufacturer’s defects.
No matter, you want to lose tight bolts or looking to perform repairs with ease, this unit can be very useful for completing these jobs. There is a 3-speed power regulator for making the speed selection convenient & easier. The manufacturer has used top-quality composite material for giving a highly durable finish.
It causes reduced vibration during the operational process for minimized fatigue. If we talk about the complete performance, we will this unit is a solid package that deserves your investment for sure. The chance of facing any issue while using this air impact wrench is quite rare for most buyers.
Pros
- Fully lightweight construction
- Equipped with an ergonomic soft handle
- Causes very limited level fatigue
- Available at a very affordable price
- Backed by a one-year warranty
Cons
- Attain scratches quickly
- Average power
6. Workpad ½ inch Composite Air Impact Wrench (best budget-friendly pick)
We have tried to tackle the needs of buyers with all price ranges and that’s why this model is added to the list. It is a quality model made for individuals having a slightly limited budget. This professionally designed unit allows the users to complete tire changing jobs and general-purpose things quite quickly.
The thing that we want to talk about most about this impact wrench is its handle exhaust and muffler for minimized noise during the entire operation. There is an integrated three-position regulator for convenient & easy use of the buyers. It is a solid choice for individuals who often have to change tires on a variety of vehicles. During the testing process, the technicians feel that this product completes the job of tightening or loosening bolts quite easily.
There is no compromise made by the manufacturer despite reducing the price to a greater level. The special heat treatment process used on this impact wrench ensures maximum life to the tool. It is a small tool that you can even take while traveling with a minimum issue.
Pros
- Equipped with three power settings
- Sold at an affordable price
- Give perfect value for the money
- Very powerful air impact wrench
- Give extraction power
Cons
- Complaints about missing instructions manual
- Pretty average controlling
7. Ingersoll-Rand 2130 Air Impact Wrench (best heavy-duty impact wrench)
There is no way that we can miss the name of this equipment in the list of best air impact wrench for changing tires in any manner. It is superb equipment having a twin-hammer mechanism for boosting the durability of the unit. This unit is less than 7.5 inches long that allows the users to fit it easily in tight places.
There is a full stroke tease throttle added to the unit for providing a maximized level of stroke. It has a variable trigger speed system to make the controlling better. This top-quality model is made using composite housing for ensuring the durability of the system. It has simplified maintenance structures that allow the unit to waste a very limited amount of energy.
It has addable lengths for allowing the fasteners to reach the tough areas. There are spring-loaded detent balls added to the unit for easy dropping & losing work. In simple words, we will say this air impact wrench is an excellent wrench using which you can change tires with minimum ease.
Pros
- Capable to reach difficult areas
- Solid power of 550 ft/ lbs power
- Extremely lightweight construction
- Three power settings system
- Easy to glide & use
Cons
- Little bit noisy operation
- Average build
8. Ingersoll Rand 2145Qi Max (best ¾ inch air impact wrench)
An impact wrench that surprises our team during the testing process is the 2145QiMax due to its ability to complete maintenance & repair work with ease. It is an ultra-lightweight pick having a solid set of functions that every DIY user will love to have. Another thing that we love about this air impact wrench is the manufacturer’s focus on the areas with limited space.
You won’t feel difficulty in storing work when this classy unit is not in use. There is an incredible level of torque offered to the users ensuring that you can complete the tire changing job with ease. The availability of a seven vane motor gives additional power and force for completing the tasks effortlessly. Also, the maintenance cost of this high-quality unit is quite low minimizing the extra burden after shopping.
It weighs less than 8 pounds allowing the users to move the unit quite easily from one place to another. This unit is made from top-quality material for working in tough circumstances. You will also get a two-year limited warranty on the unit for staying worry-free for an extended period.
Pros
- Extremely durable construction
- Give a terrific level of stability
- Super easy to carry anywhere
- Consistent power with a tight grip handle
- Very low maintenance cost
Cons
- Doesn’t come with an LED light
- Lack of speed trigger might be an issue for a few buyers
9. Chicago Pneumatic CP7748 Air Impact Wrench (best lightweight air impact wrench)
The ninth air impact wrench we wish to recommend is the CP7748 that isn’t only with lightweight composite material, but also provide a solid torque of 922 lbs/ feet with ease. It is a well-built unit having a contoured handle for giving an extra level of comfort. The biggest highlight of this unit is its twin hammer clutch and top-quality rotor to cause a minimal level of fatigue on the hands.
Besides that, there is a thermal plastic rubber handle attached to the unit for giving utmost comfort while changing tires. It is manufactured by the Chicago Pneumatic brand that has a very positive reputation in the market. You will find a super forward/ reverse switch on the backside to make things smoother for the users.
It completely looks like the company has put special focus on comfort because this unit can work brilliantly on oily tires. There are three positions of torque you can select according to convenience. It ensures everyone can select the speed to complete the job appropriately.
Pros
- Highly balanced machine to use
- Equipped with top-quality motor
- Extremely easy to operate
- Causes very less fatigue
- Superb for tire changing process
Cons
- Bad customer support
- Leaks air in few units, but the numbers are quite less
10. AirCat 1057-TH Impact Wrench (best one-hand air impact wrench)
If you are looking for an air impact wrench that you can use even with a single hand, then the 1057-TH is a proper choice to make. It is a very compact & lightweight construction having a solid jumbo hammer mechanism to provide solid power. There is a patented silencing technology attached to the unit for keeping the noise level under 89 dBA.
This air impact wrench can turn out to be a blessing for individuals who don’t want to spend too much time on this work. There is an ultimate level of comfort guaranteed due to the trigger & power management switch located on the unit. On top of that, the users will be happy to know it weighs less than 3 lbs. which ensures you can easily operate this machine without facing too much fatigue.
It has low weight aluminum alloy casing for allowing the users to safely move the unit. We find it an extremely solid air impact wrench using which you can have a reliable experience without feeling too much tiredness. The thing we want to tell the users are investing money in this air impact wrench is a profitable affair everyone can make.
Pros
- Very low weight construction
- Equipped with patented silencing technology
- Give impressive sort of power
- Available at an affordable price range
- Provide ultimate controlling
Cons
- Little bit complicated operation
- Missing manual complaints in a few packages
Tips to maintain the air impact wrench for smoother running
There are certain ways that you can use for making the running smoother & effective for your air impact wrench. Most buyers don’t care about the maintenance of your tools that reduces their life. Allow us to give you a few tips for prolonging the life of an air impact wrench below:
Avoid using incorrect sockets or bits
Sockets or bits are a very important component while using an air impact wrench. It is strongly suggested that you should never use the wrong or damaged socket. It only not reduces the longevity of the tool but also causes the chance of injury to the user.
Regular Cords Inspection
Buying an air impact wrench isn’t enough if you don’t care about it properly. You should check the cords consistently for identifying any wear & tear. It is strongly suggested to avoid using an impact wrench with damaged cords. You should either think about repairing or replacing the tool in case of this issue.
Checking Components Regularly
A common mistake that people often make is using the impact wrench even if it has damaged parts. However, you should always repair the unit first in case of such an issue. It is advisable to take the help of a professional for repair & maintenance work.
Lubrication
If you are one of those individuals who doesn’t use impact wrench regularly, then it is ideal to lubricate the machine whenever you use it. Use the quantity of grease & cleaner as mentioned in the manual. It will ensure proper airflow during the tire changing process.
Avoid Applying Over Torque
The next tip you need to follow while using an air impact wrench is never applying too much torque while using the machine. The reason behind that it can result in damaging the studs and sockets to a great level. Furthermore, this unit can even result in causing dangerous accidents.
Best Air Impact Wrench for changing tires: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can an air impact wrench used for removing lug nuts?
If you ask us technically, we will say you can remove the nuts with an air impact wrench. However, there will be a need for a hex shaft for squaring the drive adapter for attaching a lug nut socket with the tool.
2. Can we use regular sockets with an impact wrench?
You can’t use a regular socket with an impact wrench because it can crack up easily during the working condition. The reason behind that it normal sockets aren’t made as per the recommendations for impact wrenches.
3. How often we should lubricate the air impact wrench?
According to experts, it is important to lubricate the impact wrench before every use for preventing corrosion as much as possible. Lubricating the motor will only not help in increasing the life of an impact wrench, but also make the tire changing operation smoother.
4. Is there any substitute for air tool oils?
Although it is strongly suggested to use the air tool oil for lubricating the air impact wrench, you can think about using automatic transmission fluid, hydraulic oil, and synthetic oil too.
5. Why my impact wrench is kept losing power?
The operation of air impact wrenches slows down when a great sort of dust and grit accumulated in the tool. These deposits greatly affect the performance of the impact wrenches. It can be easily avoided by simply lubricating the impact wrenches on a regular basis.
6. What is the right way to use an air ratchet wrench?
Well, there is no rocket science involved when it comes to using an air ratchet wrench. Lubricate the tool properly followed by connecting the wrench to the air supply. Switch on the compressor and pushes the trigger for letting the ratchet spin.
7. How powerful an air impact wrench should be changing tires?
For most vehicles, a ½ inch impact wrench is sufficient thanks to the power and flexibility for handling work. It has enough power for performing the fastening & removing bolts task.
8. Is an air impact wrench worthy to buy?
Well, they are actually a pretty good investment that can make your job to change tires quite easier. You can quite easily put things back with the availability of such an amazing tool.
9. Does air impact wrenches work for screws?
An air impact wrench can work for driving screws, but this tool performs best when used for nuts & bolts. It is a quality impact wrench having the ability to deal with a variety of different sizes effectively.
How we have selected the best air impact wrench for changing tires? Buying Guide
There are lots of characteristics needed to acknowledge while making the selection of an air impact wrench. Most buyers don’t take them seriously and end up regretting the decision later on. We have made a list of factors that can greatly affect the selection process with proper explanation.
Torque
The main thing to look for in the air impact wrench is the required power for performing the tire changing job adequately. These models are available in a variety of power ranges for fulfilling the needs of all buyers.
We believe that a ½” air impact wrench is enough for dealing with the needs of most buyers with ease. So, the buyers shouldn’t buy the one with a size less than ½“.
Budget
The next thing that you need to care about greatly during the selection process is the price of an air impact wrench. It ranges anywhere from US$ 50 to US$ 500 depending on the size & torque level of the unit.
As our sole purpose is to change tires behind buying this unit, we will say you to not spending more than U$ 200. The reason behind that is this job can easily be done with the models available in this price range.
Noise Level
The next thing you have to care about while investing in an air impact wrench is how much noise makes during the entire operation. As a thumb rule, we suggest buying the model having a sound level of less than 100 dB to ensure minimum disruption.
While you can think about shopping the models with more than this level of noise, you may feel a little bit of disturbance that you can easily avoid.
Grip
There is a need for proper grip to use the air impact wrench comfortably during working on the tires. We have only mentioned those models that give you proper control and comfort in the testing phase.
Most of them have an ergonomic grip and soft cushioning material to give extreme level comfort.
Durability
Another important thing that we should never miss while shopping for an air impact wrench is what kind of durability it offers. There should be quality material used for creating the inner and outer housing of the unit to let it easily deal with accidental falls.
We understand that it is hard to know about durability before use and that’s why we have added only models that are made from quality material in this post to make the selection easier.
Conclusion
Investing in the right air impact wrench will let you loosen up even the toughest nuts and bolts with ease. There won’t be a need to spend too much time tinkering with the car with the availability of the right tool. We understand that making the right selection isn’t an easier task when you have lots of options out there.
However, the list we have presented here will make the selection of the best air impact wrench for changing tires super easily and better. Don’t forget to tell us about the model you choose from this article to let others know about the performance.
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