How an air impact wrench works.

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Everyone has come across that tough nut that simply won't budge and you can't get it to move at all. Lug nuts on your car or trailer can be especially difficult to remove with a hand wrench. The easiest and most powerful tool to use is an impact wrench. An impact wrench is completely different tool from a drill. The main reason is the "impact" action of the tool.

The wrench works by spinning up an electric or air motor, which then applies a sudden shock of twisting power to the fastener, typically once every five seconds. The "impact" force is impressive, but it can be little unnerving to begin with. The constant hammering of the impact wrench will loosen even the most stubborn nut. These wrenches can be used on virtually any nut, although the forces involved mean safety is an issue, so wearing goggles is a good idea.

As is the case with pneumatic versions, you should only use the black sockets provided with the tool - these are shatter-resistant and designed to handle the forces involved. Standard chrome-vanadium sockets could easily crack under the strain.