I finally got an air driven impact driver (which I should have gotten a long time ago) and I see that there are also air driven ratchets.

How do the air ratchets differ from the impact driver? Do they also spin the socket fast? Are they also useful for breaking loose fasteners? Is the major difference between the ratchet and the impact gun the size, or are there circumstances where the ratchet works much better?

thanks for any feedback,

ez

 

air ratchet isn't fast, it's slow. It's not meant for breaking loose bolts, that's what the impact gun is for. The air ratchet is just that, a ratchet that is powered by air rather then u turning the handle and forcing it. It just spins it for you. It's pretty torquey, but it's nothing compared to an impact gun. An impact gun is the only thing u should be using to open up stubborn bolts and the air ratchet should be used only for tightening down/loosening bolts that are small.

 

Thanks Kevin, that's exactly what I needed to know. I think I'm going to get one because with all the wrenching I do on our cars and my motorcycles, any time saved is becoming more and more valuable.

I think every man should be issued an air compressor at birth.

ez

 

Having both on hand helps. The ratchet and a long extension helps get into those anoying bolts that you have to reach as long as your arm is with a wrench to get. It allows you to turn a bolt without turnng a wrench in cramped spaces.

 

Impact and air ratchet are a must for any backyard mechanic IMO

Get one you won't be disappointed

 

Thanks for the additional feedback fellow fitfreakers.

I'm gonna pick up an air ratchet this weekend.

ez