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Help with Impact Wrench Decision
I want to carry an impact wrench, 6T bottle jack, and large torque wrench so as to change a LD flat tire if Roadside Assistance isn't available.  The impact wrench that I'm considering is this DeWalt.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/DEWALT-12V-MAX-1-2-in-Impact-Wrench-Tool-Only/5001671223

Is this wrench going to be able to do the job for me?   I'm appreciative of guidance.
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #1 –
Just make sure you get an impact rated socket.

When I remove the RV tires at home (with all my tools available), I use a breaker bar with the impact socket (impact not needed here, but I have it out) to loosen the lug nuts.  Jack up the wheel (I use my HWH leveling jacks, but a bottle jack of appropriate rating will do).  Run the nuts off with the impact driver.  Remove the wheel.

To get it back on - start the lug nuts by hand.  Run them on (in a star pattern making sure the wheel sits flush) with the impact wrench.  Lower the wheel.  Torque with the torque wrench.

For emergencies, I don't carry the impact wrench.  Sure, running the nuts off by hand is a pain, but I probably only have to do it for 1 wheel. 

I guess the point is the quality or strength of the impact wrench shouldn't be a huge issue if you have a breaker bar and a torque wrench.  Anything would probably do the job.

Rich
2003 MB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #2 –
Rich ... I'm not sure I'm strong enough to break a lug nut that is torqued to 150 ft. lbs, much less all of them.  I've changed lot of tires in my 76 years but never on a vehicle like an E-450.  Something to think about.   
 
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #3 –
Maybe a guy should carry a good 120V impact ( Milwaukee or such) and plug it into your generator. You could avoid the battery and charger and their added expense.

Jon
1994 MB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #4 –
Quote from: JonS  - 
Maybe a guy should carry a good 120V impact ( Milwaukee or such) and plug it into your generator. You could avoid the battery and charger and their added expense.
Unless said guy already has several other 20V tools by the same maker.    I’m going to add such a tool rather than shell out for a torque wrench.

Just occurred to me my Lazy Daze probably doesn’t have a jack either.
Dave

2017 TK
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #5 –
Ed,

I carry DeWalt 20V Max, Brushless impact wrenches, both 3/8” and 1/2” drive, as well as impact rated socket and extension (to reach the lug nuts).  I also carry a 1/2” drive breaker bar and cheater pipe just in case the DeWalt fails or I forget to load it (I use the DeWalt impact tools at home when not traveling in the coach). Finally, I carry a good quality torque wrench.

I thought that the above gear might be overkill. However, I’ve had to assist two friends with tire changes and the larger impact wrench was invaluable both times. Thankfully, I’ve not had occasion to change my own tire on the road!

As others including you have said, a better solution or perhaps primary solution is a membership with a reputable towing/emergency response service.

Warren


Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #6 –
Hi Ed,

I looked at the specs for the impact wrench you are asking about and noticed it is a 12 volt tool. IF I were investing in another tool it would be from the Dewalt 20 volt product line.

I will note that when I used Coachnet for a flat tire, the roadside assistant crew used a Dewalt 20 volt impact wrench to remove the lug nuts. Which model, I don't know, but it was impressive! I carry a Dewalt XR impact driver and impact sockets that can supposedly break loose lug nuts; but I  also have a good long breaker bar just incase. But I hope to never need that stuff on the road. The impact driver has gotten lots of use at home.

Steve K
Steve K

2003 Mid-bath
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #7 –

Have you thought about a Torque Multiplier?  This one says it provides a 1:64 torque amplified ratio.  I haven’t used one but maybe others can chime in to its effectiveness.  As for trying to break a lug nut torqued to 150 ft-lbs, I wouldn’t even try.  I do carry a long breaker bar and heavy duty torque wrench but that is for the 100 ft-lbs of torque needed to change a tire on the Jeep.

- John

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Fulltimer with a 2021 MId-Bath “Babe”, 1996 Cherokee “Scout” and “Bandit” the wonder dog 🐶
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #8 –
All this information is helpful to think this through.  Some reasons I want a cordless wrench is because I’m going to carry in it our cars just in case.  In addition, I already have some Dewalt batteries and chargers from some other tools.

The 20V wrench seems like a better idea than the 12V.   I’m also considering carrying a breaker bar as a backup for us or someone else.  I have a heavy duty torque wrench recommended by this Forum years ago (Andy Baird).  It might be a struggle for me to torque to 150 ft. lbs.  but I should get close for a few more years.

Thank you for this help.
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #9 –
Another thought, it might be good to carry the necessary tools needed to change a tire as I've heard some reports of towing service providers showing up without the necessary tools.  In that case, you might want to reconsider using their services anyway.   ;)
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #10 –
Good luck with any battery power impact wrench breaking the lugs nuts after they have had a good chance to rust.
None of my air or battery-powered impact wrenches will break loose the lug nuts until they have been loosened using a long 1/2" breaker bar along with a 4' piece cheater pipe. It takes a large amount of force to overcome 140 ft/lbs of torque plus the rust.

While we carry a full tire changing kit, it's a lot of work to change a tire. Our kit consists of two large hydraulic jacks, 2- 12" square 3/4" plywood boards, along with the mentioned breaker bar and cheater. Do use two jacks, along with several wheel chocks to keep the rig from shifting.
My biggest problem changing a tire on the road is removing the spare and getting the flat back on the back of the rig, the tire and wheel are very heavy to lift.
I have the same problem with our Jeep's big wheel and tire assembly and have set up a simple crane to lift the flat back onto its holder on the tailgate.
More here.
Tire changing

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #11 –
Quote from: Ed & Margee  - 
Rich ... I'm not sure I'm strong enough to break a lug nut that is torqued to 150 ft. lbs, much less all of them.  I've changed lot of tires in my 76 years but never on a vehicle like an E-450.  Something to think about.   

You just need more leverage! 

Work smarter, not harder.  Long lever - pushing down with your body weight. 

As Larry wisely points out, moving the tire is a tougher problem. 

Rich

2003 MB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #12 –
“Do use two jacks, along with several wheel chocks to keep the rig from shifting.”

What size & weight rating are your jacks, Larry?  I need to buy a second one, for the reason you mention.

W
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #13 –
Quote from: WhiteElk  - 
What size & weight rating are your jacks, Larry?  I need to buy a second one, for the reason you mention.

We carry an 8-ton and 12-ton hydraulic jack.
Add a small tarp to lay on when positioning and using the jacks.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #14 –
I bought a cheap heavy-duty corded impact driver from Harbor Freight, which is always in the LD, and don’t expect to wear it out. I have an inverter to provide AC when needed, but the generator would be just fine, too.
2013 27’ Mid-Bath
2005 Honda CR-V
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #15 –
Hi Ed;  my E350 chassis 'TK affects both space and weight limitations, so I opted for more versatility.   I carry this impact mechanical wrench,  CRAFTSMAN 1/2" DRIVE IMPACT DRIVER # 9-47641 USA MADE | eBay.  (Mine is originally new 50 years ago, in better shape), along with a (harbor Freight) socket just for the wheel lug nut.  https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-drive-sae-impact-deep-socket-set-13-pc-69560.html.  And a small hammer:  https://www.harborfreight.com/3-lb-hardwood-drilling-hammer-67817.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12169518939&campaignid=12169518939&utm_content=114845767897&adsetid=114845767897&product=67817&store=348&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1vSZBhDuARIsAKZlijQuAQNbhUAQoWDoPDF4CrME97SRK80xqNbWUzLMT8uLT-qkeOK14vQaAvNsEALw_wcB   It has other uses too. 
   For changing tires I also carry a :  HF  https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-drive-25-in-breaker-bar-62729.html   . The diameter of the pivot pin at the end of the wrench connecting to the 1/2" drive is important.
   While all of this weighs about as much as a motorized impact wrench, it is easier to store and can be used in other combinations. I'd worry about being able to control an electric impact driver.
    I do have a 7 gallon air tank mounted underneath near my gas tank, so I could take my air operated 1/2" drive impact wrench, but it is mostly for the air horns, and airing up tires.   RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #16 –
Quote from: RonB  - 
"I carry this impact mechanical wrench"
 
I have one of these, but never thought of using it on lug nuts. Is it capable of doing the job?

 
I try not to break the rules but merely test their elasticity.  '88 22RL converted to Rear Dinette
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #17 –
Hi Dazed.  Yes, the impact wrench does loosen even overtightened lug nuts. Some persons using industrial strength air wrenches at tire installers tend to over do it. Others do use torque wrenches.  Usually I can remove lug nuts just with the 25" breaker bar. Depends on how strong you're feeling that day. Who tightened it last and what tool they used also factors in.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #18 –
“   I do have a 7 gallon air tank mounted underneath near my gas tank, so I could take my air operated 1/2" drive impact wrench, but it is mostly for the air horns “

What sort of compressor and air horns do you have, Ron? 
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #19 –
"I carry this impact mechanical wrench..."

This is a tool I haven't run into before. How does it work? Does it go between your ratchet/breaker bar and socket? Then what happens?
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #20 –

"Add a small tarp to lay on when positioning and using the jacks."

Some kind of ground protection is essential. In the past I've used a tarp, but stones poke through. A large flattened cardboard box is better, and costs nothing. It can be stored under the mattress when not in use. But it can still be uncomfortable on rough ground.

Here's what I use now. It's more expensive than a tarp, but much more comfortable. It's a 2' x 4' bamboo mat, made of roughly 3/4" wide slats, similar to a tambour door. It rolls up to about 3" in diameter, so it's easy to store. And although it's not much thicker than a flattened cardboard box, it's way tougher--no more rocks poking me in the ribs!

I've been using this for years now. Yes, it's  more expensive than a tarp or a cardboard box, but when you find yourself underneath a vehicle as often as I do, the comfort it provides is worth the cost.

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #21 –
I carry this baby. Like others, I used to carry a breaker bar and cheater but these battery jobs have convinced me for sure. I have lots of tools but most have a cord hanging out of them or need air. The batteries have really changed everything. I had to run a bunch of staples the other day. What a pleasure to use the little Ryobi stapler.

For laying on the ground, I carry a yoga mat in the rig. I've been crawling around on the dirt and gravel so long it seems natural!
jor

09 27' MB
10  Suby Forester
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #22 –
E450 lug nuts can be broken loose with a high-end pneumatic impact wrench...sometimes, it depends on the build-up of rust. A 1/2" breaker bar, along with a 3' cheater bar is what works for me. Got to love leverage.
I have been fortunate only having to change an RV tire on the road once, a blowout on a very hot summer day.
My battery 1/2" impact cannot break the lug nuts loose on our LD but it is very useful in spinning the lug nuts off, once loosened.

The hand impact tool Andy asked about is used with a socket and a big hammer. Hammering the tool is supposed to twist the nut, breaking the frozen loose ...sometimes. I have had one in my toolbox for decades but rarely use it due to its ineffectiveness compared to electric or air-powered impact wrenches.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #23 –
Hi Andy, Dazed, left out my reference to the tool.  CRAFTSMAN 1/2" DRIVE IMPACT DRIVER # 9-47641 USA MADE | eBay   It just translates inward force from a 3# hand sledge hammer (also good for tent stakes) into a bit of rotational force to break loose a tight bolt. No cord, no battery, or air supply. Inclined planes have been around a while.  You can use a hand to rotate it, but it is easier to switch to ratchet and socket, or breaker bar and socket. For the high torque of a hammer blow I have an impact air wrench socket. I think that is a 6 point for strength.  To get into a deep dish like a dual wheel I have a 8" 1/2" drive extension. Often the breaker bar is all I need. I don't do this on the road unless I have a flat. While I do have a 1/2" drive air impact wrench, my air compressor isn't up to much volume. A 2 gallon tank, 120VAC unit.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Help with Impact Wrench Decision
Reply #24 –
I've always been able to get off the lug nuts on my vehicles, although sometimes it required standing on an 18" breaker bar and bouncing up and down. But I'm thinking that someday some lazy mechanic may apply more torque than I can un-torque, so perhaps I should have some kind of impact tool to fall back on. The question is what kind.

Although I carry an inverter in my truck, I'd much prefer not to use an AC-powered tool. I have a number of Ryobi One+ 18V battery-powered tools, so that's an obvious choice. But I gather that you folks have had less than stellar results with battery-powered torque wrenches. (Can anyone speak about Ryobi's version in particular?)

The hammer-driven impact tool has the virtues of being compact and relatively inexpensive. But from what Larry wrote, it may not always work.

So... is an AC-powered impact wrench the only sure solution? Or should I follow Rich's example and just continue carrying a breaker bar and torque wrench, as I do now?
Andy Baird
2021 Ford Ranger towing 2019 Airstream 19CB
Previously: 1985 LD Twin/King "Gertie"; 2003 LD Midbath "Skylark"