Air Tools?

[Ethan Blank]

The rear diff in my Miata is toast. I'm going to replace it in the next few days.

Any thoughts regarding using an air impact wrench (which I do not yet own)? Am I just as well served using a corded impact wrench? Any recommendations on cost effective options?

I will be removing the driveshaft and axles from my '93 Miata, and I am highly confident that the relevant bolts were last touched 184,000 miles ago, in 1993 in Hiroshima. From what I've read on the internet, a 3/4 impact wrench might make the job easier (or even possible).

If I do need to get an air impact wrench, what air compressor system do I need?

Thanks!

[Nick325xiT 5spd]

It's been my experience that bolts that old won't necessarily respond to impact tools. A breaker bar with a 4-6' pipe on it works well.

[Ethan Blank]

In other words, save my money, right?

Thanks, Nick!

Anytime I've tried to loosen a bolt on my Miata, no matter where it is (but in particular, a bolt that's been exposed to the environment, under the car, for 18 years!) has been frozen, and needs a great deal of effort to loosen.

I already started with the PB Blaster last night, I probably will spray all relevant bolts once per day for at least a week before starting on the actual removal process. Whether that will make a difference or not, who knows?

[ventsyv]

From what I've seen an impact wrench (corded) did a quick work out of a bolt I've struggled with for a couple of hours. Is it going to help on your 18 year old bolt? I don't know, but its worth the try. If the impact wrench doesn't do it, you know for sure nothing will do it.

A 4-6` breaker bar as Nick suggested is a respectable tool for the job as well. Still sometimes you have to work in a narrow space and I think because of that impact wrench is the better option.

[Ethan Blank]

Thanks, Vic. Very helpful.

For the air impact wrench, what type of compressor do I need? I assume that the 12 volts are not sufficient to power an air impact wrench, that I need a gas powered compressor.

Good to know your experiences on Harbor Freight stuff, that is where I am looking and will probably buy from.

From what I've heard, a 3/4 wrench is what's needed here.

[Nick325xiT 5spd]

You want a tank that's at least a few gallons if you want to be able to run the impact gun for more than a few seconds at a time. I'd be ambivalent about an HF compressor.