Impact screwdriver: making your own, operating principle, instructions for use

During plumbing work, a craftsman may often encounter a problem in the form of rusted fasteners. You can try to unscrew it with a regular screwdriver or apply WD-40 to it to remove the rust. But this may not always work out.

The splines can be torn off, the rust will not dissolve, or the tool will simply deteriorate. It is especially difficult to remove steel bolts from a metal base. Rust is a very strong “connector”, which makes it very difficult to unscrew the fasteners.

However, there is one tool that can handle such bolts without any problems. This is an impact screwdriver. With it, even the biggest problem turns into a small obstacle that anyone can cope with.

Operating principle of an impact screwdriver

The simplest version of such a screwdriver is made in the form of a special tool with a monolithic core, which begins with a tip and ends with a massive heel in the handle area. This product was in demand back in the days of the Soviet Union.

Modern models are equipped with a hexagon near the tip or on the handle, so they are able to transmit rotational force from the key. To successfully complete the task, it is advisable to use a screwdriver together, since one worker will be able to hold the tip in the screw slot and create torque with a wrench, while the other will strike the back of the handle with a hammer.

True, such a solution has some disadvantages . Among them:

The need for two partners to work together.
Lack of conversion of received energy into torque. Hammer blows only unscrew a self-tapping screw or screw, since they are capable of destroying rust and creating a certain vibration. The version of the impact-rotary screwdriver is more advanced, so it can transform the impact force into a rotational movement of the tip, which is very convenient.

In most cases, the term “impact screwdriver” means precisely a modernized solution, since the classic simplest version has long gone out of common use and has ceased to enjoy its former popularity.

In the improved version, the impact-rotating unit is located in the handle, and the sting is fixed on the gear and has characteristic oblique teeth. A clip with counter teeth is used as a handle. Under the influence of hammer blows on the heel of the handle, the clip begins to move along the axis, imparting a rotational movement to the tip through a gear drive.

In this way, a rotation of several degrees occurs, which is quite enough to loosen the protective connection and successfully unscrew the fastener using a conventional tool. As a result, the clip returns to its previous position by means of a spring.

Operating such a screwdriver is not difficult at all. The rotary mechanism is capable of providing a combined translational and rotational force on the screw slot, which is very effective for successfully unscrewing stubborn threaded connections.

Impact screwdriver: what does it mean, principle of operation

An impact screwdriver differs from a regular screwdriver in that it has a large and reinforced body made of high-strength metal. The package includes a set of bits: flat and Phillips. They are installed in the same way as on a regular screwdriver.

The impact screwdriver is equipped with a special device - a torque regulator, which is why it is sometimes called reversible. This instrument was popular back in Soviet times. True, in those years it had a simpler design with the presence of a monolithic core.

After some time, the tool underwent a slight modification, and it began to be equipped with a hexagon, which is installed near the tip. On some models it may be mounted on the handle. Therefore, such screwdrivers are capable of transmitting rotational force from the key.

Older models could only be used by two people: one master strikes the handle, and the second rotates the fastener. The modern product is a modified device that can handle any bolts. It is convenient to work with him alone.

In current modifications, the impact-rotating mechanism is placed in the handle, and the sting is mounted on the gear. Rotation begins when the impact force of a heavy object (most often a hammer) begins to act on the handle.

The clip begins to move around the axis, due to which the fastener moves by several degrees. This is enough for the connection to loosen and the bolt to be unscrewed. The mechanism returns to its original position due to special springs.

If you need to tighten the bolt, then you should do the same operation, but only in reverse order, i.e. tighten the fastener with a regular screwdriver, but not all the way, then install the impact tool and use a hammer to tighten the bolt or screw until it stops.

Attention! If you want to fix the fastener using an impact tool, then never screw it all the way with a regular screwdriver. If you do this, the impact may damage the housing or the surface of the work area where the screw is screwed.

Specifications

If you are going to purchase a screwdriver in a store, be prepared to understand the key technical characteristics and equipment of a particular model.

When reviewing these characteristics, it is not necessary to talk about the build quality and reliability of the material from which the tool is made. Trusted companies never use low-quality steel to produce such products.

You should pay attention to the presence of a reverse, which significantly expands the basic capabilities of the device, allowing you not only to unscrew rusty connections, but also to firmly tighten the screw in the place where it is needed.

The next important factor is represented by the design of the handle, which is intended to hold the device and the body. If there is a polyurethane, rubber or polyethylene lining on the body, it is much more convenient to hold the screwdriver. If the pad has a “bulge” in the heel part, this has a positive effect on operational safety. In most cases, screwdriver manufacturers follow two paths:

The dimensions of the case do not change, while the screwdriver remains highly reliable, but cannot be used in extreme and cramped conditions.
To expand the scope of application and improve ease of use, the dimensions of the metal case are reduced, although the reliability of the tool suffers because of this. When choosing the ideal solution, you should carefully weigh all the features and only then make a purchase.

It is no secret that popular brands produce screwdrivers along with an additional set of attachments, because without these elements the tool is simply ineffective. The screwdriver comes with a holder for standard bits, and the kit also includes several universal bits.

The market for such products is overflowing with attachments for various splines and hexagons. When purchasing these parts, be careful and consider the build quality. This is a very important parameter that determines the reliability of operation and service life of the screwdriver.

Comparative characteristics of impact screwdrivers from different manufacturers

Topex impact screwdrivers are ideal for household needs.

Impact tools from the FORCE brand can be used not only by private users, but also by professionals who need an effective screwdriver every day. The most common model of this brand is FORCE 5064. It is of high quality and can withstand significant loads. These include working with a screwdriver in heavy industrial environments, service stations, etc. The tool is ready to serve for a long period, and during operation it is very effective.

If you want to purchase a quality product, you may prefer one that is produced within the walls of the KRAFTOOL plant. The German manufacturer guarantees quality and safety. However, before purchasing, you need to be prepared for the fact that screwdrivers from this company will have a slightly higher cost, but they cope with the installation and dismantling of threaded connections, in addition, they are superior to many analogues. In the kit you can find hardened impact bits made of chrome vanadium steel; for a long period they will cope with unscrewing stuck fasteners. The set includes 4 bits with a diameter of 36 mm, as well as 2 bits with a diameter of 75 mm.

Design of an impact screwdriver: 1 – nozzle, 2 – head, 3 – handle.

TOPEX percussion instruments are produced in Poland. If you are a home craftsman and need a screwdriver for private use, a product of the named brand will be just right, whereas for professionals, a tool of this level will not be enough.

However, the price will pleasantly surprise any buyer; it makes the instruments of this brand very popular.

The set of impact tools from TOPEX contains 6 screwdrivers, which are based on high-quality CrV steel, this will protect the working surface from destruction, extending its life. Due to the fact that the magnetic tip is hardened, this greatly simplifies the work.

The Jonnesway SL 9.11 mm impact screwdriver acts as a universal tool, which is why it can be used in domestic conditions and heavy industry. But this does not make the product excessively expensive. The screwdriver will be able to exhibit long service life and outstanding performance.

Advantages and disadvantages of the tool

Like any tool, such a screwdriver has its advantages and disadvantages . Working with it, experts note a number of key advantages:

Effective distribution of impact energy.
Much less need for physical effort. The classic version requires stronger and more intense blows.
Possibility of operation without the help of a partner.

As for the disadvantages, they are practically absent, however, if the basic rules are not followed during operation, such disadvantages often appear:

Possibility of damage to the impact-rotating unit. The version of the simplest impact screwdriver is made of a monolithic structure, so its service life exceeds the modernized solution. To prevent unexpected damage, it is enough to avoid too strong impacts on the impact-rotating mechanism.
Tendency to wear out quickly. Gear teeth and races are very exposed to friction associated with shock loads. With prolonged use, their service life deteriorates significantly.

What is an impact screwdriver and how should it be used?

Welcome! An impact screwdriver is what people call it, and its full name is: “Impact rotary screwdriver.” Recently, we have been asked questions about this unit very often, someone asks: How should it be used? For some people are interested in its purpose, but for others they just need to find out how much it costs and what types it has. Let's begin to analyze these issues.

What is an impact screwdriver used for?

It is needed to loosen the tightening, as well as to strongly tighten the nuts that require this by design, for example, the screws that secure the door lock on the car body must be tightened only with an impact rotary screwdriver, otherwise, when tightening these screws with a regular screwdriver, during operation car (over bumps, potholes, etc.), the tightening of these screws will weaken and eventually they will come out completely.

Note! The photo just above shows the lock and the very screws that need to be tightened with an impact screwdriver (The screws are indicated by arrows). The photo was taken using the example of a VAZ 2109 car!

How to use an impact screwdriver?

Everything is very simple! Take this screwdriver in your hands and, along with it, also take a hammer, or something else with which you will hit the impact-turning screwdriver.

When you have collected all the necessary things, apply the impact screwdriver to the screw that you need to unscrew, and after you have applied it, make one blow with such force that you think will be needed to unscrew this screw and not deform the surface.

After one or several blows have been made, put this screwdriver aside and then completely unscrew this screw that you previously unscrewed using a rotating impact screwdriver.

To tighten the screw you need, do the same operation but only in reverse order, that is: First, tighten the screw until it starts to turn with a little force, and then take the screwdriver in your hands and, by hitting it with a hammer, tighten this screw until stop

Note! Do not use a regular screwdriver to tighten the screw in need of impact until it stops, because if the screw is screwed all the way with a regular screwdriver, then when hit with a shock rotary screwdriver, the screw can damage the car body, thereby being screwed in more strongly!

How much does an impact screwdriver cost?

In fact, it's different everywhere. But this is understandable, because each owner of his store sets his own price for the product, and not the one that is written somewhere, let’s return closer to the question. If you take a screwdriver only for yourself and for your car, then the most ordinary impact screwdriver will do, which will cost you 200-500 rubles.

And if you are a service station worker and you need a screwdriver to be more convenient and to unscrew screws faster, then your price range starts from 600 and ends at 3,700 rubles.

Note! The entire price range is only approximate, and in most cases it happens that service station workers use an impact screwdriver purchased for 200 rubles, and the owners of their cars use a screwdriver whose price reaches 2100 rubles and more!

What types of impact screwdrivers are there?

The most basic type of screwdriver comes in the form of a regular bit, how to use it was written a little higher, and the greatest value of this screwdriver lies in its price, which is no less than 300-900 rubles.

The next type is a screwdriver in the form of a regular screwdriver, that is, outwardly it is no different, but inside it has a special mechanism installed that helps in the right situations to use it as an impact screwdriver, and in unnecessary situations just like a regular screwdriver. Its price range fluctuates a little higher and sometimes even reaches 3,000 thousand rubles, and starts at approximately 800 rubles per piece.

Additional video clip: You can study in more detail how to use an impact rotary screwdriver in an interesting video clip located just below:

How to use an impact screwdriver

To make the unscrewing process as simple and high-quality as possible, it is enough to avoid irreparable mistakes and follow a number of separate rules:

The fastener is pre-prepared for unscrewing, so it is cleaned of visible rust and wiped with a rag. The joint is then coated with a special chemical, such as WD-40, a highly effective cleaner. Brake fluid and kerosene perform well.
Next, you need to fix the tip in the slot, maintaining strictly perpendicular placement relative to the screw head.
Then you should hit the end of the handle with a hammer with approximately medium force.
The blows are repeated until the screw head begins to move relative to the axis. Try to check the propeller's progress after each blow.
Unscrewing is completed using a regular screwdriver.

If the tool is equipped with reverse , many experts recommend setting the tightening mode after each movement of the head, repeating the blows several times, and then unscrewing the hardware again. This is explained by the fact that with this approach, rust elements are removed from the threads particularly well.

To avoid trouble, it is recommended to follow safety precautions:

It is important to first put on good work gloves or gloves on your hands, which will prevent the handle from accidentally sliding during processing.
Don't put too much effort into your punches. You can get by with a regular hammer weighing up to 500 grams.
The strikes should remain light. Do not tilt the hammer, as the hammer can easily slide off the screwdriver, which will cause additional problems.

Using the tool at work

Before starting work, you need to clean the screw head as much as possible and especially the slot into which the working attachment is inserted. To do this, you can use a brush with metal bristles. Then apply a drop of brake fluid to the head to wet out the rust. Can also be used:

universal aerosol lubricant WD-40 or any equivalent;
antifreeze;
kerosene;
any machine oil.

After applying to the joint, you need to give the lubricant a little time so that it penetrates into the loose structure of the rust.

Next, you should select the desired attachment for the tool, trying it on the slot. As a rule, the kit of such equipment includes the necessary set of various bits and attachments. It is important to correctly insert the desired nozzle into the head of the rotating mechanism - screw the cartridge with the nozzle into the slot as tightly as possible . Now you need to make several light blows with a hammer on the heel of the striker, while holding the power screwdriver so that its axis coincides with the axis of the fastener being unscrewed.

Differences between a screwdriver and an impact driver

Many people mistakenly think that an impact driver is a good alternative for a screwdriver, but this is deeply misleading. Both devices differ significantly from each other not only in design properties, but also in their operating principle. The screwdriver transmits impact force in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. By the way, this distinguishes it from an impact drill, which is capable of creating shock loads along the axis of rotation. True, a screwdriver only facilitates the process of unscrewing and tightening an already rotating screw.

The functionality of such devices is completely different:

Impact screwdrivers perform the initial “breaking” of a screw that has become too “stuck” to the connection.
An impact-type screwdriver reduces the required pressure on the tool when performing the task.

After studying all the features of the tool, be sure to watch the corresponding training videos that will allow you to decide on a specific model from a specific manufacturer. In this case, you will be able to make the right decision and purchase a truly useful and reliable tool that will serve you for a very long time.

Technical Parameters of Impact Screwdriver

Each manufacturer strives to make their product not only high-quality, but also multifunctional. The impact-rotary screwdriver, depending on the technical features and configuration, is determined by the following characteristics:

Reverse. A good tool will definitely have a reversible design. This function is not always needed, which is why they are absent on products from the USSR era. The presence of reverse affects the cost of the tool, but is not always justified by necessity
Material of manufacture. Products from the times of the USSR were made of steel, and in this form they went on sale. Modern models are rarely found without a surface coating, which is polyurethane, rubber or polyethylene. The presence of a coating on the metal base not only provides additional protection for the tool, but also eliminates the possibility of slipping and electric shock when working with electrical devices.
Lever. The role of the handle in a conventional tool is to apply physical force. In an impact screwdriver, the role of the handle is slightly different - it is an integral part of the impact-rotating mechanism, and is also intended to hold the product during work

This is interesting! Every home craftsman has encountered a situation where a fastening connection cannot be unscrewed. Typically, this situation is familiar to car owners when the rusty bolt securing the door canopies cannot be unscrewed. For such purposes, a special bit is put on the impact screwdriver, which performs the corresponding actions.

Bolt removal tool

Impact rotary devices are supplied with several options for replacement bits. Moreover, manufacturers equip their tools not only with Phillips and flat bits, but also with hexagons and an asterisk. Bits with different diameters do not have to be included in the set with the product, since ordinary bits from standard screwdrivers are suitable for such a screwdriver.

What are percussion instruments for? Everyone can answer this question independently as soon as they use the product. These tools will always come in handy if a home craftsman has them in his arsenal. If there is an urgent need to use a tool, but have not yet had time to buy it, then for this there is the possibility of making an impact screwdriver with your own hands.

Instructions for use

To successfully unscrew a rusted fastener, it is enough to treat it with a rag or a special product in time. Then the screwdriver is installed on the head of the hardware, preferably perpendicular to it. At the next stage, several blows are made with a hammer on the end of the screwdriver. The success of the upcoming event directly depends on the strength of the tool in the worker’s hand. To eliminate the possibility of your palm sliding along the handle, it is enough to wear a glove, which will significantly reduce the risk of serious hand injuries.

If the fastener changes its direction angle relative to the axis, it is enough to make a few more intense blows, and then change the operating mode to tightening. In this case, you will effectively get rid of rust and significantly simplify the remaining work of unscrewing. If the fastener moves out of place, it can be removed using a regular screwdriver.

It is possible that after performing the above actions, the hardware will not change its direction and will remain in the same position. To solve the problem, simply treat the connecting fasteners with high-quality brake fluid, waiting about 30 minutes. Under the influence of such a “bath”, the upcoming dismantling will be as successful as possible, even if the fasteners are very rusty.

If this does not solve the issue, you will have to break out the fasteners. In this case, it is advisable to use a strong hammer and carefully follow the dismantling instructions.

To carry out dismantling work, you should use the following tools:

Impact screwdriver.
With a hammer.
With a rag.
Brake fluid.

Making your own impact screwdriver

Many people try to make such a tool with their own hands, claiming that the upcoming action does not require special effort or skill. It is enough to take into account all the details of the instructions and avoid mistakes at the assembly stage.

When making a homemade screwdriver, you need to take the rotor from the electric motor and cut everything off it, leaving only the bushings and shaft. A piece of steel pipe should be placed on the sleeve to be used as a handle. At the opposite end, a nut is inserted into the scrap, which will prevent damage to the handle. At the next stage, all parts are connected to each other by welding.

Basically, making a high-performance impact driver at home is not as difficult as it may initially seem. If you doubt that you can carry out such an assembly yourself, simply study the existing instructions and watch video tips.

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Very often we have to unscrew rusted bolts or screws. An ordinary screwdriver is practically useless in such cases. Even if you try to unscrew it with a simple screwdriver, you are guaranteed to knock off the tip and render it unusable. In this case, an “unusual” screwdriver comes to our aid, namely an impact screwdriver . Let's talk about it...

In appearance, you can immediately distinguish an impact screwdriver from a regular one. The drum has a reinforced steel body and is several times larger than its “brother” in size. The kit usually includes 2 or 4 bits (cross and flat). The bits are inserted in the same way as into a regular screwdriver.

The impact screwdriver has a torsion switch (reversible), usually you still use it to unscrew it, but if you need to tightly tighten any part, the reverse will come in handy.

Operating principle

The principle of operation of an impact screwdriver is very simple - during an impact, the bit rotates in the required direction, and not at all by much (1-3mm), but these millimeters are quite enough to knock off a stuck bolt. Next, you can use a regular screwdriver. The main purpose is the initial phase of unscrewing, when it is impossible to do it manually.

How to use an impact screwdriver? Having previously set the reverse on the screwdriver, carefully place the bit on the stuck bolt and start hitting with a hammer until the bolt moves from its dead point. If you have a screwdriver on your household, it can easily replace an impact screwdriver. As you can see, the impact screwdriver works simply and effectively.

Each tool usually comes with instructions, and an impact screwdriver is no exception. But often such instructions are written in a foreign language. In this case, you can download the instructions for the impact screwdriver on the Internet, there are plenty of them here.

Impact screwdriver FORCE

FORCE impact screwdrivers are widely used not only by ordinary users, but also by professionals who need an effective impact screwdriver for every day. One of the well-known models on the Russian market is FORCE 5064. Let’s take a look at it.

FORCE 5064

High quality impact screwdriver, renowned for its ability to withstand very heavy loads. Such loads include working with a tool at heavy industrial enterprises, service stations, car service stations, etc. But it is also irreplaceable in daily use.

If you want to purchase a tool that will last for years and at the same time be simple and effective, FORCE 5064 is exactly what you need.

By looking at the photo of an impact screwdriver you can visually assess its power.

Stayer Impact Screwdriver

German goods have long been known among our citizens as high quality and safe, with all the attendant consequences. Despite the slightly increased price, they are in great demand among all segments of the population. The German company KRAFTOOL was no exception. This company occupies a leading position in the world of building materials.

Stayer 2565-H6

An impact screwdriver for installing and dismantling threaded connections copes well with the tasks and is superior to many analogues. Hardened impact bits made of chrome vanadium steel are capable of unscrewing stuck bolts very well for a long time.

The screwdriver kit includes 4 36mm bits and 2 75mm bits. The price is higher compared to the Chinese counterpart, but the quality is worth it.

Topex impact screwdriver

TOPEX is a Polish company producing tools for construction. This is one of the few companies that produces more than one and a half thousand products in the “hand tools” category. The majority of tools (a screwdriver is no exception) are intended for amateur use, and it is highly not recommended to use tools of this brand at a professional level.

The availability of products of this TM makes the products even more popular. TOPEX brand tools can be purchased both in small construction tool stores and in large supermarkets.

Impact screwdrivers TOPEX x6

A set of TM TOPEX impact screwdrivers consisting of six different screwdrivers will help you unscrew any necessary bolt. High quality CrV steel protects your screwdriver from damage, thereby preserving and extending its service life. The hardened magnetic tip greatly simplifies the operation of the tool. This type of screwdriver is intended for household use, but they have also performed well in heavy industry.

Screwdriver Jonnesway SL 9.11mm

The Jonnesway SL 9.11mm impact screwdriver is a universal tool that is designed to work in both domestic and heavy-duty industrial environments. The tool has a good price/quality ratio. The screwdriver has a long service life and excellent performance. Professionals often resort to the Jonnesway model because it meets all their expectations.

Conclusion

The choice of impact screwdrivers on the market is limitless, so everyone will choose a tool for themselves. Here is a list of the most popular and in-demand screwdrivers, but in reality it is much more. When choosing an impact screwdriver, pay attention to brands, they may be a little more expensive, but they will exceed all your expectations. And among the cheap options there are decent ones, but there are very few of them. Therefore, do not spare money on construction tools, because the stingy pays twice.

Finally, watch the video about impact screwdrivers