How to Adjust the Torque on an Impact Wrench

by Finn McCuhil
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Air Tool image by Joelyn Pullano from Fotolia.com

The hammering action of an impact wrench makes life easier when loosening stubborn nuts and bolts. Using one to tighten a fastener into position again at the proper torque is a bit harder to do. The amount of force applied by an impact wrench to the fastener depends upon the amount of air pressure available. While some manufacturers equip their wrenches with air regulators, many do not. In these cases, you have two options that will allow you to adjust the torque.

Regulate Line Pressure

Step 1

Turn on your compressor and allow it to run until it reaches its shutoff pressure.

Step 2

Attach the impact wrench to the compressor with an air hose.

Step 3

Reduce the working pressure available to the line by adjusting the pressure regulator on the compressor.

Regulate Tool Pressure

Step 1

Attach the tool air regulator to the impact wrench.

Step 2

Attach the air hose to the tool air regulator.

Step 3

Adjust the tool air regulator to achieve the desired amount of torque.

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