Tool Review: Matco Tools 5-pc Air Hammer Socket Sledge Set
Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: This air-hammer socket wrench was a great tool to add to my arsenal of tools needed to get hard-to-reach nuts and bolts loose. Living in the “rust belt,” it is not uncommon to need unconventional tools to accomplish certain tasks.
Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop’s profitability?
A: Often, in automotive repair, technicians may find themselves needing to remove unrelated components to be able to access the component in need of replacement. This tool can potentially be a solution to access “hidden” hardware that would typically be inaccessible. Shortcuts that do not degrade service quality are a key factor in a shop or technician’s success. Efficiency ultimately equals profitability.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: This tool is designed to work as an accessory to a pneumatic air hammer (not included). The product comes fully assembled and ready for work.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: The tool can be a little tricky to use due to the complexity of angles, the length of the tool, and having to hold an air hammer at the same time. That, however, is not a complaint but more so the “nature of the beast.” Specialty tools often provide similar experiences.
Q: Did it come with any accessories?
A: The tool comes with a tray to keep the set nicely organized in your toolbox.
Q: What features did you like?
A: The long reach of the tool was great, along with its articulating head, which provided access to fasteners I couldn’t reach with conventional tools. I do like that the “hex” end of the tool is a 6-point. This prevents the tool from causing damage to the fastener while “hammering” it loose. This tool set can also save your conventional tools (including your own body parts) by keeping you from striking your conventional tools, yourself, or a coworker with a hammer.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?
A: More sizes! The first opportunity I had to use the tool, I needed a 15mm which is not included in the set. I hope there will be an expansion set in the future to fill in the missing sizes. Also, it would be nice to have a universal tool in this style that would accept a conventional socket. This could be a solution to needing additional sizes or socket depths.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: The first time using the tool, I used this to loosen the upper control arm bolts on a GM truck to perform an alignment. This offered a quick “zap” to the nut to break it loose. I’ve also used the tool to break turbo-flange nuts loose. I don’t think I could have broken them loose without having to remove other components out of the way had I not had this tool.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall?
A: An eight – my only complaint was I want more. I was bummed to find out that the first opportunity to use the tool, I was let down by not having the size I needed. I feel 15mm and 18mm should be included in the kit.
