Socket retainer on an impact wrench?

PJH

Well-known Member
I've been browsing electric impact wrenches, and noticed that some have a "Friction ring socket retention system", while others have the "Detent pin socket retainer". Is one better than the other? My old air impact has the friction ring, and sometimes it seems to hold too good.

Thanks
 
The detent pin is the most secure method of holding the socket, impact sockets have a small hole for the detent pin to engage, but you have to insert a wire or screw into the hole and push down the pin to remove the socket. But if you install the socket so that the hole and pin do not line up, then it is much easier to remove, but will also come off easier when you don't want it to come off! The friction ring is a decent compromise between being secure enough to hold the socket yet still be able to remove it without too much trouble.
 
You have to release the pin with a screw driver or punch.(something to fit the hole) Both styles are good and both are a pain to use. I believe the ring style is cheaper to buy.
 
What the others have said.

Really depends on how you are gonna use it. If you will be changing sockets frequently go with the friction ring and live with the socket coming off. If you will likely not be changing sockets much in a job the pin is a very secure method.

One other note with the pin you can put the socket on with the pin on one of the other sides of the socket and then you don't need to push the pin down to remove. Socket falls off easy this way though.

jm2cw

jt
 
both systems wear out I like to replace the clip best. they give you a new oring and clip when replacing. The little spring loaded ball thing is sometimes a pain to replace. Both can be a pain to get the sockets off especially if you are laying in a snowbank.
 
Thanks to all for the comments. The mention of pushing in the pin retainer with a sharp tool reminded me of my old 3/4" drive Snap-on ratchet with that funny looking pin. It's a bear to get a socket loose - I think I'll go with the friction ring.
 
Had a nice little Craftsman with the ring. The ring went missing so I paid Sears $18 for 2 new ones and the shipping. Put one of them on and could not get a socket off I was using. hot the socket with a hammer and the shaft the ring was in snapped off at the ring grove. I prefer the ball.
 
Over the years i have worn out a few American made CP and Snapon air gins in 3/8 & 1/2. I havent had a retainer ring last more than a few months And found the pin type to be a hassle. I just keep a loose hand on the socket and if not using a black one, make sure it does not have peeling chrome.
 

A tool with a locking pin will last the longest because it will be the least used took in your box... It will be your last choice :wink:

Retainer clips do ware out its a fact... Its almost impossible to replace one and it last unless you have the tools to do it properly...



https://toolfactor.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=1636

https://www.google.com/shopping/pro...mp;ei=lkIZVZrnE4udgwTh7oDACA&ved=0CFkQuSQ

By the time the clip wares out the tool is worn out... I own more air tools than the law allows I may replace one clip a year and that's under heavy use of all of them... I brought the clip tools replacing a clip is fast and long lasting :D
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top