Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

On Jul 12, 8:24*pm, "Nonny" wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." *It's called an
impact screwdriver. *They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. *Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. *The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. *They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. *Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. *The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. *Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. *During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. *However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. *The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

On 7/12/2010 12:24 PM Nonny spake thus:

Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

I agree with you that this is a great tool. No batteries or power
required, either. Every toolbox should have one.


--
The fashion in killing has an insouciant, flirty style this spring,
with the flaunting of well-defined muscle, wrapped in flags.

- Comment from an article on Antiwar.com (http://antiwar.com)

On Jul 12, 2:33*pm, harry wrote:
On Jul 12, 8:24*pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." *It's called an
impact screwdriver. *They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. *Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. *The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. *They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. *Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. *The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. *Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. *During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. *However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. *The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Joe

Nonny wrote the following:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got cost
less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse pitched
screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area is a mated
shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft is a hex
holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy duty version
of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have a socket wrench-type
of shaft and apparently can also be used on bolts, but I've never
tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench that works well. Their
best application is in loosening frozen screws, where an inward
application of force and twisting motion is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to prevent
the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the bit twist
just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a frozen screw if
you're lucky, and you then follow up with a regular screwdriver to
finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and
every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells
appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll serve the
purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny


Yes. Put it next to the nut breaker. The tool to crack a nut that won't
twist off a bolt.

--

Bill
In Hamptonburgh, NY
In the original Orange County. Est. 1683
To email, remove the double zeroes after @

On 7/12/2010 12:48 PM Joe spake thus:

On Jul 12, 2:33 pm, harry wrote:

On Jul 12, 8:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:

Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

On a related note, I remember using an impact driver years ago to get
the doors off my VW van (big ol' Phillips-headed screws on the hinges).
Worked like a charm.


--
The fashion in killing has an insouciant, flirty style this spring,
with the flaunting of well-defined muscle, wrapped in flags.

- Comment from an article on Antiwar.com (http://antiwar.com)

"willshak" wrote in message
m...


Yes. Put it next to the nut breaker. The tool to crack a nut
that won't twist off a bolt.

No argument there. That's yet another one of those tools for when
all else fails.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

"harry" wrote in message
...


I find they usually break the stud/bolt
off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

I've not had that experience with mine. Are you thinking of the
pneumatic version? This is manual- kinda like the old Yankee
driver-drill.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

On Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:33:02 -0700 (PDT), harry
wrote:

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

That would be a malfunction between the tool and operator.

It don't happen here...never has.

Tips:

1) Hold your mouth right
2) Bite tongue only as needed
3) Twist tool as needed
4) Get a hammer out

"Nonny" wrote in message
...
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and only
get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got cost
less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse pitched
screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area is a mated
shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft is a hex holder
for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy duty version of the
Yankee drill we all remember. They have a socket wrench-type of shaft and
apparently can also be used on bolts, but I've never tried that, since I
have a pneumatic wrench that works well. Their best application is in
loosening frozen screws, where an inward application of force and twisting
motion is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the holder
and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a hammer. The
impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to prevent the head from
stripping, while the coarse threads make the bit twist just a tad.
Usually, that's enough to break loose a frozen screw if you're lucky, and
you then follow up with a regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's engine
and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I probably had to
use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and every time it saved
the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells appears to be a clone of my
old one and I suspect it'll serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is a great
stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about once every 1.5
years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If you keep it in the nice
little metal box it comes in, it always looks like new. It does take a
while to learn how to use it, though. And that is to use it FIRST, before
you strip the head off that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same
for setting a bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

"Joe" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 2:33 pm, harry wrote:
On Jul 12, 8:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Joe

Used to be the ONLY thing that would take those humungous short screws out
of starter casings. Boink! Done!

On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is a great
stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about once every 1.5
years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If you keep it in the nice
little metal box it comes in, it always looks like new. It does take a
while to learn how to use it, though. And that is to use it FIRST, before
you strip the head off that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same
for setting a bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist in
the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten the screw
or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but don't ask me how I
know this ...)


--
The fashion in killing has an insouciant, flirty style this spring,
with the flaunting of well-defined muscle, wrapped in flags.

- Comment from an article on Antiwar.com (http://antiwar.com)

harry wrote:

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.

Screwdriver mode? You mean when they have a srewdriver tip in the socket?

The whole point of these things is that they didn't chew the philips screws up.

On Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:38:18 -0700, David Nebenzahl
wrote:

On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is a great
stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about once every 1.5
years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If you keep it in the nice
little metal box it comes in, it always looks like new. It does take a
while to learn how to use it, though. And that is to use it FIRST, before
you strip the head off that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same
for setting a bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist in
the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten the screw
or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but don't ask me how I
know this ...)

Okay, I won't ask. But I know you live in Berkeley.

David Nebenzahl wrote:
On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is
a great stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about
once every 1.5 years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If
you keep it in the nice little metal box it comes in, it always
looks like new. It does take a while to learn how to use it,
though. And that is to use it FIRST, before you strip the head off
that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same for setting a
bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist in
the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten the
screw or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but don't ask
me how I know this ...)

And one of the tricks is not to twist it all the way before you hit it for tight
screws. That way it applies more force down into the head for the rotational
force it generates, which reduces risk of stripping out the screw head.

On Jul 12, 4:46*pm, "Bob F" wrote:
David Nebenzahl wrote:
On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. *If you know a tool guy, one of these is
a great stocking stuffer. *Like you said, you only need it about
once every 1.5 years, but when you do, nothing else will work. *If
you keep it in the nice little metal box it comes in, it always
looks like new. *It does take a while to learn how to use it,
though. *And that is to use it FIRST, before you strip the head off
that bolt. *One or two smacks, and you're done. *Same for setting a
bolt. *A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist in
the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten the
screw or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but don't ask
me how I know this ...)

And one of the tricks is not to twist it all the way before you hit it for tight
screws. That way it applies more force down into the head for the rotational
force it generates, which reduces risk of stripping out the screw head.

Here's the link that I found

http://www.harborfreight.com/impact-...ase-37530.html

Robin

rlz wrote:
On Jul 12, 4:46 pm, "Bob F" wrote:
David Nebenzahl wrote:
On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is
a great stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about
once every 1.5 years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If
you keep it in the nice little metal box it comes in, it always
looks like new. It does take a while to learn how to use it,
though. And that is to use it FIRST, before you strip the head off
that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same for setting a
bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist
in the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten
the screw or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but
don't ask me how I know this ...)

And one of the tricks is not to twist it all the way before you hit
it for tight screws. That way it applies more force down into the
head for the rotational force it generates, which reduces risk of
stripping out the screw head.

Here's the link that I found

http://www.harborfreight.com/impact-...ase-37530.html


That thing has a finger guard on the grip! What kind of wimp would want that?

On 2010-07-12, Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine......

These were a requirement for a motorcycle mechanic, as ALL Japanese
motorcycles used phillips oval head screws everywhere. If they were
the least bit tight or stuck, you'd strip out the phillips slot. The
only alternative was an air impact wrench, a 3/8" drive butterfly
model the hands down favorite.

I'd be very leary of a HF driver. It's been my experience that Korean
made drivers are the best, the Japanese made drivers the worst. It's
not the driver at issue here, but the bits. Japanese phillips bits
are like those crappy bits they sell by the gross and lumber yards for
cordless drill guns. They wear out or twist. My Korean phillips bit
looks brand new, 45 yrs later, and I've assembled and disassembled too
many motorcycles to count. Somehow, I don't see Chinese steel hanging
in there for the long haul. Hold out for a Korean driver if you're
going to be doing phillips head screws.

BTW, a 2 lb sledge is perfect for driving:

http://tinyurl.com/28yg5oa


nb

On Jul 12, 2:24*pm, "Nonny" wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." *It's called an
impact screwdriver. *They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. *Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. *The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. *They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. *Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. *The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. *Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. *During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. *However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. *The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

ransley wrote:
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

Not even in the ballpark.

Ever read before you post?

On 7/12/2010 5:44 PM Bob F spake thus:

ransley wrote:

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

Not even in the ballpark.

Ever read before you post?

Ransley? Nah. Too much trouble.


--
The fashion in killing has an insouciant, flirty style this spring,
with the flaunting of well-defined muscle, wrapped in flags.

- Comment from an article on Antiwar.com (http://antiwar.com)

"Bob F" wrote in message
...
rlz wrote:
On Jul 12, 4:46 pm, "Bob F" wrote:
David Nebenzahl wrote:
On 7/12/2010 3:21 PM Steve B spake thus:

Best $10 you'll ever spend. If you know a tool guy, one of these is
a great stocking stuffer. Like you said, you only need it about
once every 1.5 years, but when you do, nothing else will work. If
you keep it in the nice little metal box it comes in, it always
looks like new. It does take a while to learn how to use it,
though. And that is to use it FIRST, before you strip the head off
that bolt. One or two smacks, and you're done. Same for setting a
bolt. A couple of smacks, and it's there.

Also, it should be pointed out that the tool should be set to twist
in the correct direction before applying it, so you don't tighten
the screw or bolt instead of loosening it. (Sounds stupid, but
don't ask me how I know this ...)

And one of the tricks is not to twist it all the way before you hit
it for tight screws. That way it applies more force down into the
head for the rotational force it generates, which reduces risk of
stripping out the screw head.

Here's the link that I found

http://www.harborfreight.com/impact-...ase-37530.html


That thing has a finger guard on the grip! What kind of wimp would want
that?

Well, hell, not me, for one. I used to have a finger there, but there was
this incident with an impact driver and ..............

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

"ransley" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

reply: There's an 18v. manual impact driver? I want one!

Steve

On Jul 12, 9:02*pm, "Steve B" wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message

...
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

reply: *There's an 18v. manual impact driver? *I want one!

Steve- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

I dont know what the difference is between Manual Impact and one of
the new 18v impact drivers is, but they are labeled as an Impact
Driver, Some are not big but all major cordless tool makers offer them
and they are cheaper than many drills. I saw at sears several big and
very heavy 24v inpact drivers by maybe Sears and Dewalt that looked
like they could do any job on a car, and there are many more lighter
duty units, lighter than drills for screws. For screws they surpass
drills in heavy work like making decks. Popular Mechanics magazine
just did a review of 9 LiIon Impact Drivers, but not the big ones I
saw at Sears.

Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got cost
less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse pitched
screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area is a mated
shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft is a hex holder
for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy duty version of the
Yankee drill we all remember. They have a socket wrench-type of shaft
and apparently can also be used on bolts, but I've never tried that,
since I have a pneumatic wrench that works well. Their best application
is in loosening frozen screws, where an inward application of force and
twisting motion is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to prevent the
head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the bit twist just a
tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a frozen screw if you're
lucky, and you then follow up with a regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's engine
and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I probably had to
use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and every time it saved
the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells appears to be a clone of my
old one and I suspect it'll serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

I haven't spoken to my wife in 18 months.
I don't like to interrupt her.

Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got cost
less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse pitched
screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area is a mated
shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft is a hex holder
for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy duty version of the
Yankee drill we all remember. They have a socket wrench-type of shaft
and apparently can also be used on bolts, but I've never tried that,
since I have a pneumatic wrench that works well. Their best application
is in loosening frozen screws, where an inward application of force and
twisting motion is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to prevent
the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the bit twist
just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a frozen screw if
you're lucky, and you then follow up with a regular screwdriver to
finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's engine
and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I probably had to
use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and every time it saved
the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells appears to be a clone of
my old one and I suspect it'll serve the purpose longer than I'll ever
need.

Nonny


I agree with most of this thread except the above "hold the screwdriver
firmly while tapping on it with a hammer".

Tapping it? I hit it with a 2# sledge like notbob mentioned.

Joe wrote:

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Bought mine way back when for the exact same reason - to fix my motorcycle.
It (the impact screwdriver) was a K-mart branded unit, sold in a little red
metal case, with four bits and two socket (3/8 and 1/2) adapters.
Invaluable tool.

Jon

On 7/13/2010 9:28 AM, Jon Danniken wrote:
Joe wrote:

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Bought mine way back when for the exact same reason - to fix my motorcycle.
It (the impact screwdriver) was a K-mart branded unit, sold in a little red
metal case, with four bits and two socket (3/8 and 1/2) adapters.
Invaluable tool.

Jon



The one i have is actually a 3/8" square drive with the hex adapter. I
first bought it when i encountered a camshaft retainer in some v-8 i was
working on that had giant phillips head screws holding it.

http://www.google.com/products/catal...d=0CDUQ8wIwAg#

--
Steve Barker
remove the "not" from my address to email

"ransley" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 9:02 pm, "Steve B" wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message

...
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

reply: There's an 18v. manual impact driver? I want one!

Steve- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

I dont know what the difference is between Manual Impact and one of
the new 18v impact drivers is, but they are labeled as an Impact
Driver, Some are not big but all major cordless tool makers offer them
and they are cheaper than many drills. I saw at sears several big and
very heavy 24v inpact drivers by maybe Sears and Dewalt that looked
like they could do any job on a car, and there are many more lighter
duty units, lighter than drills for screws. For screws they surpass
drills in heavy work like making decks. Popular Mechanics magazine
just did a review of 9 LiIon Impact Drivers, but not the big ones I
saw at Sears.

reply: A manual impact driver is driven by a hammer. An electric is driven
by a motor. An electric drill with an impact setting is an electric impact
wrench, not an electric impact driver. HTH.

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

"LSMFT" wrote in message
...
Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got cost
less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse pitched
screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area is a mated
shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft is a hex holder
for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy duty version of the
Yankee drill we all remember. They have a socket wrench-type of shaft
and apparently can also be used on bolts, but I've never tried that,
since I have a pneumatic wrench that works well. Their best application
is in loosening frozen screws, where an inward application of force and
twisting motion is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to prevent the
head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the bit twist just a
tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a frozen screw if you're
lucky, and you then follow up with a regular screwdriver to finish the
job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's engine
and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I probably had to
use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and every time it saved
the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells appears to be a clone of my
old one and I suspect it'll serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

Wrong.

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

Steve B wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 9:02 pm, "Steve B" wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message

...
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

reply: There's an 18v. manual impact driver? I want one!

Steve- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

I dont know what the difference is between Manual Impact and one of
the new 18v impact drivers is, but they are labeled as an Impact
Driver, Some are not big but all major cordless tool makers offer them
and they are cheaper than many drills. I saw at sears several big and
very heavy 24v inpact drivers by maybe Sears and Dewalt that looked
like they could do any job on a car, and there are many more lighter
duty units, lighter than drills for screws. For screws they surpass
drills in heavy work like making decks. Popular Mechanics magazine
just did a review of 9 LiIon Impact Drivers, but not the big ones I
saw at Sears.

reply: A manual impact driver is driven by a hammer. An electric is
driven by a motor. An electric drill with an impact setting is an
electric impact wrench, not an electric impact driver. HTH.

And, an electric "impact driver" is unlikely to be of any use when an impact
driver is needed.

Steve B wrote:
"LSMFT" wrote in message
...
Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got
cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area
is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft
is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy
duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have a
socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion is
needed. To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to
prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the
bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a regular
screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and
every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells
appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll serve the
purpose longer than I'll ever need. Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

Wrong.

Agree. Anyone who can say that doesn't have a clue what an impact driver does.

"Bob F" wrote in message
...
Steve B wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 9:02 pm, "Steve B" wrote:
"ransley" wrote in message

...
On Jul 12, 2:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:





Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

Its now one of the best ways to drive wood screws, there are many 18v
models avalaible at any box store

reply: There's an 18v. manual impact driver? I want one!

Steve- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

I dont know what the difference is between Manual Impact and one of
the new 18v impact drivers is, but they are labeled as an Impact
Driver, Some are not big but all major cordless tool makers offer them
and they are cheaper than many drills. I saw at sears several big and
very heavy 24v inpact drivers by maybe Sears and Dewalt that looked
like they could do any job on a car, and there are many more lighter
duty units, lighter than drills for screws. For screws they surpass
drills in heavy work like making decks. Popular Mechanics magazine
just did a review of 9 LiIon Impact Drivers, but not the big ones I
saw at Sears.

reply: A manual impact driver is driven by a hammer. An electric is
driven by a motor. An electric drill with an impact setting is an
electric impact wrench, not an electric impact driver. HTH.

And, an electric "impact driver" is unlikely to be of any use when an
impact driver is needed.

Right. They are two very distinct tools that work on two entirely different
principles. Mr. Ransley was in error to compare the two. You MAY be able
to remove some screws with an electric impact, but if it's really in there,
all you will do is either strip it out or break the tip. The shock of the
hammer, coupled with the twist at the moment of shock is what knocks the
fastener loose. If one notices, the bits are black, indicating a hardened
steel. It all happens in an instant, and only happens once per blow. If
you are all lined up, and hit it right, it only takes one to two blows.
What amazed me was the price of these little jewels versus the work they do,
and do well.

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

"Bob F" wrote in message
...
Steve B wrote:
"LSMFT" wrote in message
...
Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got
cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area
is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft
is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy
duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have a
socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion is
needed. To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to
prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the
bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a regular
screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and
every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells
appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll serve the
purpose longer than I'll ever need. Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

Wrong.

Agree. Anyone who can say that doesn't have a clue what an impact driver
does.

Are you saying that about what an impact driver does, or that I say the
statement is wrong?

If you are saying that putting a screwdriver bit in an electric impact is
the same as a manual impact driver, I disagree with you.

If you are saying that someone who thinks they are the same and equal is
wrong, then I agree with you.

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

"Steve Barker" wrote in message
...
On 7/13/2010 9:28 AM, Jon Danniken wrote:
Joe wrote:

Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Bought mine way back when for the exact same reason - to fix my
motorcycle.
It (the impact screwdriver) was a K-mart branded unit, sold in a little
red
metal case, with four bits and two socket (3/8 and 1/2) adapters.
Invaluable tool.

Jon



The one i have is actually a 3/8" square drive with the hex adapter. I
first bought it when i encountered a camshaft retainer in some v-8 i was
working on that had giant phillips head screws holding it.

http://www.google.com/products/catal...d=0CDUQ8wIwAg#

--
Steve Barker
remove the "not" from my address to email

It seems to be that the standard statement from anyone who has used a hammer
and impact driver for the first time is, "Aha! Got that sucker." After
that, you can listen to all the falderal you want, and will hear a lot, but
you KNOW what will work to get those BIG suckers out that have been torqued
in purposefully so they will stay. When I ran into my first few before I
got an impact driver, I thought, "How in the world did they get that sucker
in there, and how do I get it out?"

Steve

visit my blog at http://cabgbypasssurgery.com watch for the book

Steve B wrote:
"Bob F" wrote in message
...
Steve B wrote:
"LSMFT" wrote in message
...
Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area
is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy
duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have a
socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed. To use the impact screwdriver, you place the
appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to
prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the
bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need. Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

Wrong.

Agree. Anyone who can say that doesn't have a clue what an impact
driver does.

Are you saying that about what an impact driver does, or that I say
the statement is wrong?

If you are saying that putting a screwdriver bit in an electric
impact is the same as a manual impact driver, I disagree with you.

If you are saying that someone who thinks they are the same and equal
is wrong, then I agree with you.

I thought I was quite clear. I agreed with you, and commented on the previos
claim.

Steve B wrote:
"Joe" wrote in message
...
On Jul 12, 2:33 pm, harry wrote:

On Jul 12, 8:24 pm, "Nonny" wrote:






Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox
and only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an
impact screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I
just got cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded
area is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the
shaft is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a
heavy duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have
a socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion
is needed.

To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in
the holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it
with a hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping
to prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make
the bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a
regular screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each
and every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight
sells appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll
serve the purpose longer than I'll ever need.

Nonny

--
On most days,
it's just not worth
the effort of chewing
through the restraints..

I find they usually break the stud/bolt off.....................Or if
it's in screwdriver mode chew the head up.


Sounds like you have it confused with some other tool, an air impact
tool, maybe?
Had one in my tool box since the 1960's and it was the only thing that
would disassemble the early Honda motorbikes for repair. Worked well
with the retaining screw on many of the import cars brake discs and
drums. We learned to apply Kroil liberally before exceeding the yield
point of the fastener.
Possibly the most under-rated but useful tool around.

Joe

Used to be the ONLY thing that would take those humungous short screws out
of starter casings. Boink! Done!




There was also a "Wheel Operated Screwdriver" quite useful for those
flat head slotted starter pole piece screws. I don't know if they are
still in use.

It was like a manual arbor press with a pivoting screwdriver bit turned
by a steering wheel like thing centered around the arbor.

You laid the starter in a V-block, pushed the bit down hard with one
hand on the arbor press handle and then pushed or pulled on the
"steering wheel" with your other hand.

For stuck screws in small portable junk I've jury rigged something like
that by chucking a screwdriver bit in my drill press so I can push down
really hard against the screw head while I pull on the drill press pully
with my left hand. It woilks well.

I too have had an impact screwdriver for maybe 40 years, but it's
screwed up fasteners more often than it's done the job for me. I don't
think about using it much anymore.

Jeff

--
Jeffry Wisnia
(W1BSV + Brass Rat '57 EE)
The speed of light is 1.8*10e12 furlongs per fortnight.

"Bob F" wrote

I thought I was quite clear. I agreed with you, and commented on the
previos claim.

Okay. Now I'm sure, too.

Steve

On 7/13/2010 10:39 AM, Bob F wrote:
Steve B wrote:
wrote in message
...
Nonny wrote:
Harbor Freight sells one of those "tools you put in your toolbox and
only get out rarely when all else has failed." It's called an impact
screwdriver. They've been around forever, and the one I just got
cost less than what I paid for one 55 years ago.

What they are is a very heavy solid steel handle with a coarse
pitched screw thread inside, so to speak. Inside the threaded area
is a mated shaft with reversing toggle, and on the end of the shaft
is a hex holder for various screwdriver bits. The tool is a heavy
duty version of the Yankee drill we all remember. They have a
socket wrench-type of shaft and apparently can also be used on
bolts, but I've never tried that, since I have a pneumatic wrench
that works well. Their best application is in loosening frozen
screws, where an inward application of force and twisting motion is
needed. To use the impact screwdriver, you place the appropriate bit in the
holder and hold the screwdriver firmly while tapping on it with a
hammer. The impact forces the bit into the screw, helping to
prevent the head from stripping, while the coarse threads make the
bit twist just a tad. Usually, that's enough to break loose a
frozen screw if you're lucky, and you then follow up with a regular
screwdriver to finish the job.

The first one I had I bought as a teen to work on my motorcycle's
engine and had it for around 40 years. During that 40 years, I
probably had to use it a dozen times at the most. However, each and
every time it saved the day for me. The one Harbor Freight sells
appears to be a clone of my old one and I suspect it'll serve the
purpose longer than I'll ever need. Nonny


Put a screwdriver bit in your impact drill. Same thing.

--
LSMFT

Wrong.

Agree. Anyone who can say that doesn't have a clue what an impact driver does.



second that. One is totally different than the other.

--
Steve Barker
remove the "not" from my address to email

"jeff_wisnia" wrote

I too have had an impact screwdriver for maybe 40 years, but it's screwed
up fasteners more often than it's done the job for me. I don't think about
using it much anymore.

Jeff

I have had just the opposite experience. However, I use Kroil or PB Blaster
and let it sit overnight before attacking it. I've never tried it, but with
those penetrants, it might just come out with a regular screwdriver. I've
got a couple of those big mama honkin screwdrivers, but have never had a
lot of luck with stuck screws (machine bolts) with those. My wrists are not
strong enough any more. Just mainly use them on humungous screws or as a
prybar or lever. But don't get TOO energetic.

Steve

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