[ryanslat]

I got a compressor for christmas. Santa kicks ass. The specs are:

3hp, 15gal tank
SCFM Delivery At 40 psi 4.9 SCFM
SCFM Delivery At 90 psi 3.5 SCFM


Is this enough to run an impact wrench? Or do I need a bigger one?

For $100 more I can get this
which has

SCFM Delivery At 40 psi 8.6 SCFM
SCFM Delivery At 90 psi 6.4 SCFM

 

[RookWV]

Bigger is always better!

It depends on the tool rating, some air tools work at really high psi and some don't.

 

[Joel_Cool]

RookWV said:
Bigger is always better!

+1
The smaller one should be OK for short bursts, which is typically what you use an impact wrench for. If you're using the impact wrench for a lot of bolts, you may have to wait for the pressure to build up.

 

[ryanslat]

I'm not going to be using it much... only for the occasional stuck bolt and tire rotations on my car. Plus, the impact wrench that comes with the bigger one is probably shit.

I'm more inclined to just keep the one I got.

Another Question: If I get an impact wrench that is rated for a higher cfpm than my compressor, can I still use it, though not at it's full potential? Or do I have to buy a weaker wrench? I'm thinking about future compressor upgrades.

 

[Scotteq]

The smaller one should be fine. Mine's the same size, and it runs my Impact wrench just fine.


Seats a bead on a tire quite nicely, as well.

Scott

 

[ryanslat]

Scotteq said:
The smaller one should be fine.

Cool. Thanks. That's what I wanted to hear.