Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench & 3/8" Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Automotive Combo Kit

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench & 3/8" Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Automotive Combo Kit (model 3010-22) has quickly become a staple in my workshop. As someone who frequently tackles both heavy-duty and medium-duty automotive tasks, this combo kit has proven its worth time and again.

Unpacking and First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the quality of these tools is evident. The kit includes two impact wrenches—a 1/2" high torque and a 3/8" mid-torque—along with two M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 batteries, an M18 & M12 multi-voltage charger, and a sturdy contractor bag. The bag itself is well-constructed and embroidered with the Milwaukee logo, a small but appreciated touch that speaks to the overall attention to detail.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of these wrenches is exceptional. Both tools feature a POWERSTATE brushless motor, which promises long-term durability and efficiency. The 1/2" wrench weighs in at around 7.5 lbs with the battery, while the 3/8" wrench is a more manageable 5 lbs. Despite the heft, the ergonomic design and rubber overmold handles make them comfortable to use for extended periods.

One of the standout features is the friction ring anvil, which allows for quick and easy socket changes. The wrenches also come with a tri-LED work light surrounding the anvil, providing excellent illumination in dark or tight spaces. This is particularly useful when working under a car or in poorly lit areas.

Performance and Usability

The 1/2" high torque wrench is a beast. With a maximum fastening torque of 1,100 ft-lbs and a nut-busting torque of 1,500 ft-lbs, it effortlessly handles even the most stubborn fasteners. I recently used it to remove a crankshaft damper bolt on a Buick V6, a task that it accomplished with ease. The 4-mode drive control, including an auto shut-off mode and bolt removal mode, provides versatility for different applications. Mode 4, which limits tightening torque to 50 ft-lbs while still offering high loosening power, is particularly useful for avoiding over-tightening.

The 3/8" mid-torque wrench is equally impressive, albeit for slightly less demanding tasks. It offers up to 600 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque and 550 ft-lbs of fastening torque, making it perfect for medium-duty applications like engine teardown and motorcycle maintenance. Its compact size and lighter weight make it less tiring to use over long periods, and the 4-mode drive control ensures you can adjust the power to suit the task at hand.

Battery Life and Charging

The included M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 batteries are a significant upgrade. They offer long runtimes, and the built-in isolation system helps secure the connection and control vibration. I found that a single charge could last through most of a workday, even with heavy use. The multi-voltage charger is a nice addition, allowing me to charge both M18 and M12 batteries, which is convenient if you have other Milwaukee tools.

Additional Features

Both wrenches feature variable speed triggers, allowing for precise control over the torque and speed. The forward and reverse settings are easy to switch between, and the tools remember the last mode setting even after changing the battery, which is a small but useful feature.

One minor gripe is the small size of the button that controls the impact setting. I often found myself having to remove my work gloves to change settings, which can be a bit inconvenient. However, this is a relatively minor issue in the grand scheme of things.

Durability and Warranty

Built to last, these tools are made in Vietnam and come with Milwaukee's 5-year limited warranty. The batteries, which are assembled from cells made in Malaysia, Korea, and Singapore, come with a 3-year warranty. This gives me confidence that these tools will stand up to the rigors of daily use in a professional setting.

Real-World Applications

In practical use, these wrenches have proven to be invaluable. The 1/2" wrench made quick work of heavy-duty tasks like removing differential pinion nuts and working on farm equipment. The 3/8" wrench, on the other hand, was perfect for more detailed work where precision and lighter weight were more critical.

The LED lights around the drive adapter are another thoughtful feature. They provide ample lighting, which makes a noticeable difference when working in dimly lit environments. The tools also have a balanced feel, which reduces fatigue and makes them easier to handle during extended use.

Conclusion

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench & 3/8" Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Automotive Combo Kit is an outstanding addition to any workshop. The combination of power, durability, and thoughtful design features makes these tools exceptionally versatile and reliable. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a serious DIY enthusiast, this combo kit is well worth the investment.

I highly recommend this kit for anyone in need of robust, high-performance impact wrenches. The long battery life, powerful torque, and ergonomic design make it a pleasure to use, and the comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind. Milwaukee has once again delivered a product that lives up to its reputation for quality and innovation.