ETCG's Air Tools and Compressor

[@Bobherry]

I got my first air compressor today, It was from Harbor Freight and is working great!

[@jeanpaulvargas3645]

I used kzbin.infoUgkx4ynqaujg7rZKFapA8s29kTpRszJGa3-K this for the first time today to replace the front wheel bearing on my rwd 98 dodge dakota. This had absolutely no issue removing or reinstalling the lug nuts and it took off the axle nut without any struggle. Sounds like it's got some muscle to it. Time will tell

[@dwightcarter6334]

Change out the drain valve on the bottom of the air compressor tank with a brass 90 and then an in line ball valve. It makes it way easier to get to, easier to open and close, and you can direct it into a bucket and keep the mess off the floor. Love the channel!

[@FA-sr6lx]

good idea

[@Ipoditouchreview3r]

i have a craftsman cordless 1/2'' impact gun and i love it! Not that much torque but it can always take off tires if torqued to the correct speck.

[@Theredeemedchild2]

My dad bought me a 60gal ingersoll rand and it is by far my favorite thing he has got me. I just recently moved and I'm looking to hard pipe it in with 1 inch copper.

[@CLaM734]

Hey Eric! If you're still considering fixing that broken 1/4" ratchet, I know for a fact mac still makes it. I have the identical sealed head ratchet that I dropped and broke few months ago. I gave mac a ring to get the necessary repair parts and it was at my door step soon after.

[@josephmiddeton5004]

Put a 5 gallon plastic tray under the compressor when purging to help the stains and slips 🤙

[@jeremycole6873]

I have a 60gal and have always wanted more power come to find out bigger hose makes 100% difference never knew it would make that big of a difference

[@czarpeppers6250]

If you ever do any interior detailing for your cars, you should look at getting a Tornador. I use to detail at a GM dealership and they had those, and they are absolutely incredible for detailing interiors. It is pretty easy to get a show room level look with pretty minimal effort. Cleaning the carpets, dash, getting in all the air vents, absolutely must have for anyone who has an air compressor. I use to have an old Volvo 240, and my interior always looked pristine because I had access to the thing. Since I stopped working there I have wanted my own air compressor just for one of those Godly tools.

[@robin1987100]

Vertical compressors are nice, save a lot of space in a tight space + easy to move around. (i put mine outside when i use it, crazy thing produces like 98dB). Be sure to use large diameter hoses and large bore fittings, that really helps to get the most out of your tools. Not sure what pressures you can get in the US, but go for high pressure, you don't have to use it (most tools don't allow for it) but its nice to have it available. If only as buffer for the larger tools.

[@robby844]

The tools I use see around 175-180 pounds everyday. Never had any issues with them. But then again I don't buy cheap air tools.

[@robby844]

***** True, The first thing I always do is remove those dumb long tang air fittings. They drop a lot of flow. The fitting I use have a 1/4 inch hole in the middle. Anything above 10 SCFM requirement is a 3/8 hole fitting and my big tire guns have the glad hand style lock so there is no restriction.

[@TheMrmpsmh]

I got the Hazet 9012M impactgun and its amazing! its a 1/2" and its tiny only 4.4" long and 1.3kg light. It is rated at 811 ftlb for loosen and 500 ftlb for tighten. I work on busses, so basically trucks and it does the job if dont ask too much from this little machine, like loosening truck wheelnuts

[@YoungChristopher1]

100% agree on that max 3/8. Got one from someone who quit at a cheap price and it's my go to air gun.

[@mudkicker7812]

Work at a bus shop, have a Cornwell CAT2135 1/2“ inch, IR Titanium 1/2“ and can say although the Titanium is more rugged and dependable, the CAT2135 is a monster. Only problem is I twisted the anvil off the CW. Since Cornwell insist on screwing there sales people over, I haven't been able to secure a replacement in like 3 years. Thank you Cornwell. My 1/4" air ratchet is a Central pneumatic from HF, it is 5 years old and gets the job done. My 3/8" ratchet is a Cornwell, it has been in my lower drawer since owning it, barely ever touch it. My most used tool is a 3/8" Impact wrench from Cornwell. It's a ballsy little fucker that just won't quit. Cornwell reversible whizzer, Mac 1/2“ drill, Husky 3/8" drill, Mac Air Hammer, in my opinion Mac Tools makes the best Air Hammers. Both my straight and angle grinders are Central pneumatic, after 7 years they work fine, although I never use the straight job. Swivels are weird on air tools, great when needed, but I the way when not needed. Sometimes the floppies can become a nuisance.

[@blackbear92201]

Great video. Very helpful to hear from a professional like Eric.

[@AutoTechMadsen]

I also have the ratchets and 3/8 impact, its been about 10 years and they are indeed some of the best.

[@2koolforyou88]

Thanks for the behind the scenes of what tools you use

[@ktmracer2365]

I have a whole drawer just full of die grinders. Im surprised you arent running air swivel fittings so useful especially on air ratchets. I personally like air tools over electric, I found my two electric impacts come air in handy sometimes when i working with someone else on a project and they are using the air but they arent very durable like my air impacts. im always worried about getting oil and grease inside the electric motors plus they burn out after a few years and get hot which cause it not to work as good, not to mention they are a lot more heavier in weight and harder to fit in tight places. but anyways nice to see the video. I like to see what automotive is like compered to heavy duty industry

[@BoredNotanymore]

1. Change compressor oil regularly. 2. Dehumidifier in the air line is usually a good thing (can cause pressure drops). 3. Air tools should be oiled regularly (oiler in the air hose does it automatically).

[@lajoyalobos2009]

I seem to prefer corded or air over cordless unless it's for something quick and simple. Having both of your batteries go flat in the middle of a project is extremely frustrating, that or the fact that replacement battery prices pretty much mean getting a whole new tool sometimes. AZ heat may take a toll on battery life but it also means dry air and little to no rust.

[@1944johndeerel]

I just bought a Napa professional torque dominator 1/2" impact wrench and it's rated for 1200ftlbs break away torque I can't wait to see how well it works. I wanted something with more power than my cordless impact wrench I have a 1926 Champion 30 gallon compressor I am not using it for making a living like yourself but if it works I am a happy camper

[@powergrower]

dude sum of your vids have saved my so much time trouble and money just want to say thanks and keep up the good work

[@johnfranks]

I got a Mac Tools AR1776 from the pawn shop for $30. Score! Its a beast! Swivel quick connectors help with the hose problem.

[@macmaniacal]

wut. Never oil air tools? that's a first time I've heard that. "apply 4 or 5 drops of pneumatic oil into the air inlet and run it for several seconds. Maintain this tool regularly by performing the same oiling application every 3 to 4 hours of operation"

[@JonBecker81]

Woah! I just started watching your channel and then this one popped up. You’re like a completely different person now. Different voice and all.

[@h2bbuilt]

Eric you should make a compilation video of how all these tools helped you out on the toughest jobs.

[@pcofranc]

Nice enjoyable tour of you air tools. Kira is right that IR if feed with 150+ psi should blow the Honda crank bolt off in a split second. My 20 year old 450 ft/lb harbor freight impact gun did when I removed the quick disconnect fitting and screwed in a 1/2 ID 10' hose directly in to the gun and turned my compressor up to 165 psi. The bolt came off and went flying out of the socket. It was so fast it was like a gun shot.

[@minilogoguy18]

If you're looking for an awesome 1/4 air ratchet Matco has the best, super small palm ratchet, great for timing covers and other tight areas. Doesn't put out too much power so you can tighten valve covers down with confidence without worrying about snapping small bolts.

[@Ag_n_Mech]

A swivel joint for the air hose is a definite must have

[@TechSeller]

Hi Eric, you mentioned that some people say not to oil your air tools???? Really????????? If some one said that to me, after I fell down laughing, I would run away never consult them about anything....that is scary!!!!! Love your vids Sir....keep it up! Thank you!

[@Lorddarthvader1701]

This is a good size, runs whatever air tools I run, particularly the cut off wheels, it runs just fine, I run a 60 gallon. works like a champ

[@hobieslug45]

bought a cheap 3/4 gun from harbor freight. so far it took off honda crank bolts using the same air hose you have. a little oil does seal up the vanes in an air gun and can some times make the difference in breaking a bolt free.

[@JUKE179r]

I got an IR 231C impact wrench (the older U.S. made one not China like the newer ones now) for $25 at a Georgia pawn shop. It's beat all to hell but still works great!

[@ASEmastermechanic]

Just a few comments Eric, The 60 gallon requires 220 and if you do not have it in a garage, it costs about $300-500 to get the line installed. Some older Craftsman ones, though smaller, also run on 220, I learned the hard way. You should drain tank everyday you use, not one in a while. Electric impact is NOT powerful, air is the way to go, New IR run 780 ft. lbs. I use 1/2" for suspension etc. I also use bigger nipples to increase air flow, helps a lot. Also check the IR 2025 Max, cool tool.

[@mdiller47591]

I agree, oil your air tools. I've rebuilt countless air tools as an industrial maintenance tech. Many have single side shielded bearings and rely on oil mist to keep them lubricated from the open side. I soak all new vane packs for IR air grinders and impacts in oil as well. Grease for output bearing is a good idea as well. That's the bearing that's most likely fail. That port on the IR impact probably greases the impacts hammers too. You wouldn't believe the crud from old shop piping!

[@gt40f]

The 3/8 impact is a CP badged as a Matco. The first 1/4" air ratchet Mac still makes that one. It has the thinnest head of all the 1/4" ratchets.

[@MossyOak83]

that is a genious idea putting the regulator on the air drill, i always get annoyed trying to hold a constant speed and burning up bits while drilling

[@p.r.gaffney6671]

I know this is late for comments, but I have a CamHaus 3.5 HP 20 gallon tank on a 115V that puts out 6.8 SCFM @90 and 7.4 @40 and I use a 3/8" hose with 1/4" inlets and have zero problems with my tools. I'm just a DIY guy and don't use my tools to the max like some others who have commented. Do you use your air tools for projects other than automotive? I use a cut-off tool for metal shaping and grinding and was just wondering if you've ever done similar. Fun video to watch.

[@slpip]

My first compressor was a Campbell Hausfeld 2 hp 20 gallon with 5.6 SCFM @ 90 psi. Your compressor air tank is 26 gallon. Just the motor is small for a large tank. Should get at least 2 HP to 3 HP compressor.

[@eurokid83]

I've got that exact same MAC/IR composite 3/8" drive impact gun. It's a good tool.

[@ASEmastermechanic]

Electric impacts are cool when you go to the junkyard especially on cold days, I sure envy guys when I see them, the good quality ones are very expensive (Snap On +Ingersoll Rand). Craftsman electric impact has about 200 pounds, that sucks. Plus if it is not ion, the battery begins to die slowly when you need it the most. The newer IR impact gun is the 2135TiMax, I got it and I love it, replaced the one that you got in your video. Like you said, it comes down to individual choice. Great videos.

[@brownranchcustoms1651]

one of the guys at the shop where I work has a Snap-on air hammer that dang near makes the floor shake

[@chrischiampo8106]

Can't take a Day off have to be there to oil my Tools Daily 😎👍🏼

[@mlb0611]

done it for years most shop air is not regulated so 150-175psi at the hose depending on pressure drop, the biggest issue is keep it lubed and if you get water out of the lines add a water trap.

[@theshipyardtechnician2934]

I use ATF for my air tools. Works like a charm

[@popupJunky]

Mac still makes you sealed head 1/4" air ratchet. I actually just bought one and love it.

[@David-bc4rh]

That rusty water means there's dirt getting sucked into the piston intake and it mixes with the condensation in the tank , causing corrosion. Its highly likely that there's a build-up of dirt behind the drain plug. It would be worthwhile to unscrew the inspection port and spray down the inside with water and clean it out. Air pistons need an air filter, but most of these compact enclosed units just have an open hose in there.

[@dollman0]

I have used the napa tool oil and now am using lucas tool box buddy for my tool oil. the purpose of the oil is lube and it flushes out grime and deals with water in ur tools. The last thing you want it to get your air tool out and its rusted up solid, happened to my CP guns before. the grease lubes the hammer in ur impact to prevent undue wear from dry metal hammering together. the electric impacts are handy but kinda weak, the guys I work with have them because we do trailer work on big rigs

[@ryanh3299]

Eric, you're sealed head Mac 1/4 inch air Ratchet should be repairable, I have the exact one (use it all the time as a flat rate tech) it broke just like yours and all the parts are avaliable. fixed mine just ask week.

[@gjmarsh8787]

Thanks Eric, great explanation - it helps us DYIers.

[@nialljamesbuckley]

amen on that damn honda crankcase pulley... i bought your timing belt video last year and i had to take it off again last month - STILL took a 5 foot breaker bar and everything i had to get that thing off.

[@acscolo]

Dragging around an air hose is a drag. I'm slowly replacing my air tools with cordless versions. However, I do think you need a 1/2 air impact gun when you really need the torque.

[@mikejens2271]

I've been used transmission fluid as air tool oil for years with no problems.

[@christopherwilliams4647]

How often and how much do you use are you supposed to grease your ir impact guns?

[@cbmech2563]

Eric , if you need power try a Nitrocat/Aircat. 3/8 rated at 500lb and 1/2 rated at 1200lb off 900 on, I've broken new 1/2 grade 8 bolts . And they are QUIET . twice the power and 1/2 the noise of a new snap-on

[@alcyr5655]

Just a regular DIY kinda guy. Lubricate all my air tools, but anything dedicated to body work, only gets a couple of drops and ran off to the side till lube stops coming from air exhaust port. It's sketchy at best. I keep my drain valve slightly cracked at all times. Small tinfoil pan to catch moisture, under the compressor. Also buy these cheap ass water filters, water separators, from Princess Auto, Canada's version of Harbour Freight. Little plastic balls about the size of a golf ball. They screw inline between your air hose and tool

[@Johnlc081102]

You need a teflon ball-jointed drain valve on your compressor! I pieced together the brass plumbing needed to so that i could get to it with my foot so I don't have to get on my hands and knees to open and close the vent. Then again, I use my compressor very rarely though, so i open the drain to vent the pressure and moisture every time I use the thing, but the design of my Craftsman compressor is nearly identical to yours.

[@antonkolding7563]

I work at a shop, where we use deblock oil, and we oil our air tools daily, all i can say for sure is, that the air gun itself wil outlast the grabbing ring

[@Liamautomechanic]

air tools makes it easier on the old bones, saves a pile of tinkering, and time aswell. good vid there eric.

[@jtman04401]

Yes that 3/8 impact gun is built for Mac (and Cornwell) by IR. I had a TI2135 like yours and got rid of it and bought a Snapon MG725 to replace it. The ONLY reason is the Snapon slows down quicker when you let off the trigger compared to the IR which free wheels allot longer. I do miss my 2135 though. Those are the lightest best balanced 1/2" guns on the market with mega torque. I wish I had kept mine. I love my Snapon but it is quite a bit heavier then the IR.

[@Pr0v1nc3]

Good thinking on that air drill pressure adjuster.

[@shingleful]

Bostitch has a good hose called Prozhoze its light weigh and has no pull we use then only in construction & roofing, and yes we oil the guns every time we pull them out, we did not do that before and went thro a couple guns

[@room101935]

My advice is to get the biggest cfm output pump but dont forget that it will need a higher hp motor to drive it. It's not just the size of the tank it's the rate that the tank will fill.I have a 3hp 50ltr compressor in my van which is just enough but could be better. I now a truck tyre fitter that has a compressor that runs off the engine of the van and is 32cfm 100ltr tank mounted under. that thing will run a 1" gun no problem.

[@robby844]

I've run my Harbor Freight air guns at 200 psi on my gas engine air compressor and never had trouble. The problem with 90psi is that it won't take most bolts loose.

[@mikegiammarino3126]

Great video, thank you, Mac oil is not easy for me to find, what else could I use?

[@airbrushingbynick6071]

When You use the 3/8 ratchet do you use a larger hoze? That's what I'm trying to say dude.

[@RideForLifeCR250R]

I now have the MG31 snapon 3/8", used to have that same Blue point 3/8" impact which as you said the torque is weak.

[@johnimburgia4321]

Eric, I noticed the impact wrenches and die grinders are in the yellow area on the compressor chart. Will a compressor of that size power the mini die grinder and impacts?

[@austinmorris2638]

if you have time you ought to cover the first aid backpack you have in the background in this vid. Many people dont realize how important it is to have aid close to car work.

[@dmana3172]

I just stripped the screw for the caliper on both side and I would not be able to get it off. What tools do I need to get it off and replace it with the new screws? I was trying to put in new brakes, but I couldn't. Any advice would be appreciated.

[@adilkhan7020]

Great information for people new to air tools !

[@lenny38138]

You try not to, but you will get some water in your air tools. I found that BLASTER 404 AIR TOOL CONDITIONER works great to remove calcium and varnish. If your air tools start running slow try 404. This stuff works.

[@mabast007]

Hey Eric, got a question about my car. It is 2000 Avalon. The car shakes when it reaches 55mph. Before I took the car to a nearby shop, both have told me that you need tires. I suspected that would be the issue. The car, definitely needed a tire, but for that shaking didn't believe them. But I went and put a set of tires and still have the same problem. I have a break hesitation as well. What is this shaking come from? Thank you.

[@Collins328]

Eric, Snap-On 3/8 Cordless Impact.... you'll never regret the purchase.

[@spelunkerd]

By the way, Eric. Happy teachers day!

[@aznnp77]

***Nevermind, I guess you answered it in this video. Any advantage to getting oil vs electric? Kinda like gas vs electric lawnmowers right? Hey Eric, can you do a video on selecting a cheap but efficient air compressor, impact wrench, and required accessories? I've seen pancake air compressors for like $60-70 but I heard those are only good for blasting dust and filling tires. Then you get your bigger ones that start at around $150-180, and go up to like $300-400. I guess I can do without one, but I've always wondered how much I'd have to spend to get a decent setup.

[@trentwheeler6161]

aznnp77 his size air compressor at 26 gallon is decent. It's a minimum requirement. can't even air up tires without waiting for the compressor to build up again when it comes to pancake compressors. i owned a 2 gallon for years. took four minutes to build up the tank from zero to 120 psi! Takes only a few minutes to fill my 60 gallon 240 volt to 150 psi. stay away from oil free as well.

[@hondaguy453]

I remember I was trying to bust a crank bolt on my buddy's '94 Prelude, but wasn't able to until I oiled my gun haha. Now I oil that thing at least 3x a week.

[@fuzzy19111]

Got the husky. looks the same as this and it WILL get ya through.....but....I miss the air I had at the shop. High pressure and lots of volume...I want a bigger compressor!

[@russelljames417]

ETCG what brand of quick connects do you use?

[@stwhite5135]

I repaired air tools for Chicago Pneumatic. Put a drop or two of light (10W) oil in your air tool when you are through with it for the day. It is still warm and the lube will do a better job.

[@chaytonruijsenaars3971]

i dont know about you but none of my air tools are ever "warm" after use, they are all stone cold like holding a piece of dry ice, especially die grinders and stuff like that, i just oil them before i use them

[@FishFind3000]

FlyingWldAlaska77 yea with compressed air running thigh them they will get colder. Ever open the drain on your compressor and it freezes solid with ice in the middle of June? It does for me. When compressed gasses expand the cool down a lot.

[@chaytonruijsenaars3971]

same principle as a refridgerator works, and our compressor does that too, when we drain the water it freezes to the inside of the pipe and breaks off and throws chunks of ice, once i had a die grinder get hot when it started seizing up, must have had a bur in a port, was a chinese one so its very possible, but i let it stop and went again and it still runs fine, but if your air tools are getting hot you got problems

[@kurasoe]

Eric, is that SCFM enough for impact wrenches? I want a 110v electric compressor for house / car and it needs to be portable. Biggest issue has been finding one with enough SCFM for impact wrench. I'm not a professional mechanic or contractor, so I doubt I need anything with a super large tank. The 3-5 SCFM @ 90PSI is fine for nailers but for impact wrench I have heard you should have like 10-12 SCFM @ 90PSI or whatever the tool is rated for, which is what has been holding me up (cost for something with that much SCFM @ 90PSI). As per this video, I guess not... thoughts? This could help me out.

[@robby844]

A standard 1/2 inch impact will run okay on 5 SCFM. 90% of them are rated at 5. If you are running a shop then yes 10-15 SCFM is what you are looking for.

[@circusboy90210]

I'm a shade tree mechanic and own a 80 gallon 5 hp dual stage compressor , I"m suprised you own such a small compressor.

[@circusboy90210]

ok if you say so , then why does my little 6" da keep that busy?? 80 gallons and another person even with 5 hp and a dual stage (working a gun) is keeping that very busy. I could imagin a 26 gallon compressor keeping the pump running a lot more ofter sir. no disrespect intended.

[@nickl2642]

I Use PB Blaster to oil up my air tools, works fu##in fantastic

[@ikesurg6161]

QUESTION: I'm about to change my rotors, shocks, and struts! I can see the bolts are big, rusty, and look as if they're going to be a pain. I know I'm going to need a compressor! Would an 8 GALLON be strong enough for a project like that?

[@chovalin]

I Surg gallons is just the capacity of the compressor, if you have it plug in, it will be refill automatically,what you really need to know or to have is, the horse power of the motor and the PSI that can be use with the tools you need

[@chovalin]

I Surg gallons is just the capacity of the compressor, if you have it plug in, it will be refill automatically,what you really need to know or to have is, the horse power of the motor and the PSI that can be use with the tools you need

[@tylordupont2068]

always oil air tools they even tell you to put 1-2 drops of oil daily or after 30 min to an hour of use and they will last almost for your entire life that way, i have air tools my friends grandfather gave me that he used for 30 years

[@Hammerman1234567]

have you done a video like this for your electric tools too, such as the Dewalt hand drill thing you used in the Pontiac Montana exhaust manifold video?

[@Hammerman1234567]

Ive been thinking of getting some electric tools because I only have a very small garage to work in with almost no room for a big compressor or much room to maneuver hoses and whatnot, so what you said about freedom of movement with the electric tools really resonated with me. I found this video extremely helpful and informational and it would be amazing for me if you did happen to have a video like this about what sort of electric tools to look for.

[@nialljamesbuckley]

what kind of bits do you use for your air hammer usually? i have a cheap little madeinchina air hammer that came with a pretty standard chisel kit - works well enough but does more damage because the bits are pointed - is there something else i should be using for automotive work?

[@SUPERJJMJ]

Thanks for the video I use marvel mystery oil mixed with wd-40 for my air tools

[@shepd3]

I wish I could fit a 26 gallon tank somewhere at my place! Unfortunately, I don't have a garage, just a driveway, and leaving something like that outside would just have it rusted and destroyed in a weekend. :( So I had to go with a 5 gallon model so I can put it in the shed when I'm done. Unfortunately, it means I get 5 seconds from an impact wrench. Only thing I can think of is to get a reserve tank and leave that outside, and connect up to that with my portable unit.

[@guubagaaba8391]

I have a mac flat head like yours , only difference is the head swivels into four positions !!!!!!!! (0,90,180,270) wonderful tool !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@firmamentsky]

How come you preferred industrial over automotive air fitting?

[@shepd3]

What do people think about using an inline oiler instead of dripping it into the tools? It's what I use. The only disadvantage I find is that it gets your hands greasy after a while.

[@jacobdorp]

Eric you need an ingersoll rand air dryer, for ur tools to keep the moisture out of em

[@stevejobs101]

I've found that i've started using less and less air tools lately. Just about anything I do can be done with battery powered tools

[@tomgon9323]

Hey Eric, Lately I've noticed a lot more LED specifically Cree LED headlight bulbs coming to market what are your thoughts about these? Perhaps you could do a video comparison or just what you think. Thanks, Tom

[@ad356]

i have 60 gal campbell hausfeld version. it has a belt driven cast iron pump so you can replace just the motor or the pump in the event of failure. i dont like oil free units as the pump and motor are one unit and they are more difficult to service. they also dont last as long, a cast iron pump has life in the thousands of hours. i have had mine since 2007 and i have done everything with it including sandblasting; i have never had to put a penny into it except oil change

[@TerdFurg3zon]

If you're going all-out for air tools, consider Sioux, CP, US Tool, Dotco/Cleco, or Taylor.

[@franks551]

Hey Eric do you work at home or at a shop ?

[@RideForLifeCR250R]

Yes the mac and matco 3/8" impacts i believe are in fact IR's.

[@madjimms]

18v lithium tools are pretty badass. I'm jealous of your tools Eric :-D

[@Brock1912]

What is it with those Honda crank bolts? Mine won't take the big hex tool to hold it steady, so I bought a 1" impact. Gets her off every time. We call it "the problem solver", it has saved us on a couple other hub and lug nuts that a 1/2" couldn't remove.