Tool Review: FLEX Power Tools 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench
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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: The tool serves as a powered alternative to hand tools. Impact guns are an invaluable tool that is used extensively day in and day out by automotive technicians.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?
A: A 1/2” impact wrench is a tool that even an entry-level technician will have in their toolbox and directly impacts a technician's efficiency. As stated above, they are invaluable.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: Just fully charging the Li-ion battery before getting to work.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: It operated like most battery-powered impact guns.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: It was shipped in the blow molded case with the tool itself, a 6Ah Li-ion battery, and a charger.
Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual, and was the manual easy to understand?
A: Yes, a start-up guide was included. I referenced the manual for battery care best practices, but outside of that, the tool is intuitive in its use.
Q: What features did you like?
A: The auto control modes are useful; it also has a better light than most of its competition in the market.
Q: Is there any way you could think of to improve or add to this tool?
A: This tool is heavier than other 1/2” impacts that I've used, battery or pneumatic.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for? Please provide a few specific examples.
A: My time with this tool consisted mainly of wheel lugnut removal and suspension repairs.
Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you’ve used like it?
A: This is my first exposure to anything from FLEX Power Tools, though I am no stranger to impact guns. For battery-powered impact guns, in 1/2”, I personally own two other brands. And while this does have some features that others do not, like vibration suppression, better lighting, and multi-mode functions, this unit is heavier than others.
Q: What are your overall thoughts on this tool?
A: It’s quality-built and has plenty of power. It comes in a well-organized case; its layout and functions are well thought out by FLEX and intuitive to the user. You get a lot of features for the price point, and FLEX has many options in the 24V space to fit many needs while keeping consistency in the brand and battery tech.
The 1/2" High-Torque Impact Wrench, No. FX1472-1H, from FLEX Power Tools, delivers up to 1,500 ft-lbs of maximum torque. Dampeners deliver vibration suppression that isolates the user and the tool from vibration for reduced fatigue and maximum control. The cordless impact wrench features two auto control modes: Bolt Auto Stop mode prevents over-tightening, breaking, or stripping, while Bolt Removal mode stops the tool when the bolt is loosened. A multi-light LED delivers bright illumination in dark areas. The kit includes the 1/2" impact wrench, 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery, and a 280W Rapid Charger.
About the Author
Erik Screeden
Technical and Multimedia Content Director
Erik Screeden is the Technical and Multimedia Content Director for the Vehicle Service & Repair Group. Erik is an ASE Master Automobile Technician with L1, and L4 credentials, who has been in the industry for over 25 years in various capacities. During that time, Screeden was a technician. He started out at a Ford dealership and continued to several independent repair facilities as well as spent time in the specialty aftermarket at a GM-specific performance shop. After his time as a technician came to an end, Screeden transitioned into a role providing scan diagnostic and J2534 tool support. He was then able to parlay his experience as a technician and a support specialist and use that in several technical sales roles.
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