Torque wrench vs
impact wrench

TORQUE WRENCH VS AIR IMPACT WRENCH: EXPERT TIPS 

Advantages of using a torque wrench (torque key)

Using an air impact wrench (also known as mechanical torque gun or eletric torque wrench) can be often favoured by mechanics to save time.
However, by not using a manual wrench you can damage the part being installed to the vehicle. An air impact wrench is a very powerful machine. 

The torque wrench uses a ball detent and a spring in the head of the wrench that makes a click as soon as the pre-set torque is reached. The use of an air impact wrench will not provide this feedback and the applied torque is indefinite. 

3 risks of using an air impact wrench (torque gun):

• Pierce the turning thread
  
• Bearing damage
  
• Ball pin is drawn too deeply within the housing

When to use a torque wrench (key)

• You should always use a torque wrench to fit steering and suspension parts. A torque wrench allows for more precise accuracy when installing MOOG parts and gives the mechanic a controlled torque.
• Nuts and bolts can also be subject to wear and rust so should always be replaced, and the tightening of bushes should always be done when the vehicle is at normal ride height.
• Also, when remounting the wheels, we recommend to use a torque wrench instead of an air impact wrench, in order to tighten the lug nuts. 

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