Mobile Tire Changing Pros: Should you use cordless or air impact wrenches?
January 30, 2018
Getting the job done quickly is for sure the main concern for all tire changing specialists, even more while being on the road. One of the most important things to consider is which tool to use to do the job.
For a couple of years, the tire shop business has been evolving quite a bit. Tires are now changed more and more outside of traditional tire shops, we saw the arrival of new actors offering roadside assistance or tire changing services at convenient places for customers like their home. Along with these new services offering, came specific needs in terms of tools and equipment for operators.
If pneumatic tools have historically been the preferred choice in the tire changing industry, thanks to design and performance improvements, cordless electric tools have now become more popular, especially in applications requiring a high level of mobility. If there are pros and cons to each solution, each type of tool has its own particularity.
The benefits of electric cordless impact wrenches:
Often seen as the best solution for mobile tire changing specialists, electric cordless tools offer a lot of benefits justifying to be favored by operators. Indeed, tool manufacturers have developed high performance cordless electric impact wrenches to be able to work everywhere at any time, which is very much appreciated because of the freedom of movement they allow. Mobility is without any doubt the main benefit of this technology, even more for mobile technicians who are sometimes not able to park close to the job, or are working in difficult conditions. These situations require high running time which has been enabled thanks to the new Lithium-ion batteries (up to 6 Ah / 9 Ah).
Even if cordless impact wrenches are still a little bit heavier than similar air tools, they provide great comfort and ergonomics to operators. New tools are even coming out with great new functionalities, such as overtightening prevention or no-impact screwing options.
It’s important to remind that if cordless power is no longer questioned, such technology is still (and will always be) dependent on the battery charge level. Dear cordless tools users: don’t forget to always check your tool power level to be ready anytime.
The benefits of pneumatic impact wrenches
Whatever your choice, don’t forget that a torque wrench is necessary to tighten properly any wheels.
For tire changing applications, the best choice between cordless electric and pneumatic impact wrenches will differ mainly if you are looking at a workshop or a mobile job. Even if both options are good, pneumatic version will be preferred by operators who like lightweight tools, when cordless impacts will be chosen by mechanics who are looking for higher freedom of movement. Pneumatic and cordless impact wrenches are your best partners for everyday tire changing, and depending on your specific needs, both versions can be complementary.