Changed my mind about using air tools for lug nuts after a shop incident

I used to be that guy who always used an impact gun for everything, including tightening lug nuts down on semis. Thought I was saving time and that my torque wrench was just for show. Then last month at the shop on I-85 in Charlotte, a buddy of mine had a wheel separate from a Pete going 55 on the highway. The hub threads were stripped clean from years of impacts being slammed on. That sound of aluminum grinding against concrete stuck in my head. Now I always hand-start with a ratchet and finish with a torque wrench, even if it adds five minutes per wheel. Has anyone else seen what overtightening does to wheel studs over time?

2 comments

2 Comments

clairer7915d ago

Yep, seen studs snap clean off on a grain hauler last fall.

diana_black2215d ago

Had a similar thing happen on an old trailer of mine a couple years back. Switching to grade 8 studs and torquing them to spec with a torque wrench instead of just impact gunning them on made a big difference. Also started keeping a spare set of studs and nuts in the toolbox, cheap insurance when you're running through hilly country. Your mileage may vary depending on how heavy you're loading each time.