Impact Driver Question

Do impact drivers such as this one (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00947641000P) have a sort of clutch to allow slippage in case the screw is too tight?

The reason I ask is that I just bought this tool and was trying to work a screw out. Every time I hit the tool with a hammer, the screw did not move but the tool seemed to "slip".

I wasn't sure if it was working right or not. After some good effort I eventually gave up then tried my cordless impact wrench (that I normally use to get the lugs of my car tires) and both screws came out as though they weren't even tight.

This led me to question whether the hand tool is broken or working as designed in order to not strip the screw. If the cordless model (not a high end model) didn't take take the screws out so easily I wouldn't be asking this question.

Here is the cordless tool that was able to easily get the screws out (Goodyear 24v Cordless Impact Wrench)

http://images.craigslist.org/0102050...04ab006bcc.jpg

Seems that both the hand tool and cordless deliver the same torque (200 ft lbs).

I just want to make sure that the hand tool does in fact have some sort of built-in clutch. I'm considering returning it for another brand or exchange for like model.

 

I have this type impact tool in my box. Don't use it much, but it works. You have to **** it in the proper direction, place pressure in the direction you want the screw to turn, then hit the top with the hammer. It will work, but you have to get the feel for it first.

 

No clutch but you must hold them slightly tight in the direction you need it to turn. also make sure you had it set for the right direction they have a cam inside that when you hit them forces the turn and it is easy to mis the proper dir of rotation. I used to use them on my honda motorcycle a lot back in the early 70's

remember Murphy was an optimist

 

I do believe I had it turned in the proper direction and I held it in place pretty firmly. Is that enought or do you really have to grip it super hard in the direction you want it to turn?

Althought I had it firmly in that direciton I didn't give it all my might. Is this a muscle vs tool issue?

...Nice avatar speedwrench

 

This tool is more for loosening the screw/bolt than complete removal. Having it set right, hitting it with the hammer, helps to loosen the threads so you can remove it with the normal screwdriver/tool.