Machinery Tools Power tool advances From battery or plug-in impacts, to 5,000 lumen LED lights, these power tool advances are sure to make jobs easier. By Dave Mowitz Dave Mowitz In 1982 Dave came to Successful Farming as a senior editor first covering agronomic topics and then machinery. He went on to serve the nation's farmers as executive editor of Successful Farming Magazine and editor of the Ageless Iron Almanac, a bimonthly publication covering the hobby of agricultural collectibles. Dave recently retired from the Successful Farming family but continues to serve the organization as a contributing editor. Successful Farming's Editorial Guidelines Published on September 17, 2020 Close Battery or Plug-In Impact Metabo's MultiVolt ¾-inch impact wrench operates on a 36-volt battery or 120-volt plug-in. The WR36DAQ4 model turns out 812 foot-pounds of tightening torque or 1,328 foot-pounds of nut-busting reverse torque. Features for the tool include a four-stage electronic speed selection (speeds from 0 to 1,500 rpm), variable-speed trigger, battery fuel gauge, brushless motor, and LED work light. The WR36DAQ4 (8.8 pounds) retails for $499 (tool only). Go to metabo.com. Inch Impact Sets Torque Limits The CP7782TL-6 is the first 1-inch torque limited-impact wrench on the market designed to avoid overtightening fasteners. That function limits forward torque to around 370 foot-pounds, ideal when working with tires. Otherwise, the wrench turns out up to 1,920 foot-pounds of torque in reverse. The tool's aluminum housing and shock-absorbing bumpers protect the tool from daily use, while the ergonomic D-handle provides a comfortable grip. Online prices for the tool range from $690 to $800. Go to cp.com. Four Settings to Suit the Job Delivering 1,500 foot-pounds of maximum torque puts Ingersoll Rand's ½-inch impact at the top of its class. For added measure, the W7152 offers four power settings (maximum, one half, wrench tight, and hand tight) so the tool can be set to a specific need and to prevent overtightening. Other tool features include a shadowless circular LED task light, steel-reinforced frame, chemical-resistant housing, and optional 2-inch extended anvil. The W7152 (tool only) retails for $199. Go to ingersollrandproducts.com. 5,000-Lumen LED Light You can fine-tune the light output from DeWalt's DCL074 All Purpose Light using three variable brightness settings starting with the maximum 5,000 lumens. Capable of running for up to 11 hours (at low setting), the light can be used freestanding, hung from a hook or rafter, or mounted on a tripod. Features include an impact-resistant lens, durable roll-cage design, and a free Tool Connect app that allows you to control and monitor the light remotely using a smartphone. The DCL074 retails for $199, which includes a three-year warranty. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit