Milwaukee 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring

The Milwaukee 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench (model 2564-20) stands out as a versatile addition to any mechanic's toolkit. This tool is designed to tackle those hard-to-reach fasteners, where traditional wrenches and even standard impact wrenches fall short. Over the past few months, I've had the opportunity to put this right angle impact wrench through its paces, and I have come away with a detailed understanding of its strengths and areas where it could improve.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you'll notice about this tool is its robust construction. Milwaukee has a reputation for high-quality, durable tools, and this right angle impact wrench is no exception. The head profile measures just 2.2 inches, allowing it to access tight spaces where other tools simply can't go. At 13.32 inches in length, it might appear a bit long, but this length is necessary to deliver the torque and leverage needed for stubborn bolts.

The tool weighs in at just under 3 pounds, which is relatively lightweight considering its power output. The balance of the tool, especially when the M12 battery is attached, feels well-calibrated, making it easier to handle for extended periods. This is particularly beneficial when working on projects like brake pad replacements or engine repairs where you might be in awkward positions for a while.

Performance and Power

One of the standout features of this right angle impact wrench is its “nut-busting” torque of up to 220 ft-lbs. This is more than sufficient for most automotive tasks, including removing lug nuts, caliper bolts, and even some suspension components. The tool also offers a maximum fastening torque of 200 ft-lbs, ensuring bolts are adequately tightened without over-torquing.

The 4-Mode Drive Control is a useful feature, allowing for RPM and IPM adjustments to suit various tasks. The Auto Shut-off mode is particularly useful for preventing over-tightening, which can be a concern when working with more delicate components. The Bolt Removal Mode is another excellent addition, offering controlled loosening of fasteners, which helps avoid stripping threads or damaging bolts.

Usability and Comfort

The tool's compact design truly shines in tight spaces. Whether I was working on an exhaust manifold or trying to reach a bolt behind a brake assembly, the right angle impact wrench allowed me to get the job done without having to resort to manual tools. This saved both time and strain on my hands and wrists.

However, the head size, while compact, can still be a bit bulky for extremely tight spaces. In some instances, I found myself needing to use an extension to reach certain fasteners. This is a minor inconvenience, but one worth noting if you often work in very cramped environments.

Battery Life and Motor Efficiency

Powered by Milwaukee's M12 battery system, the right angle impact wrench offers decent battery life. On a full charge, I was able to complete several tasks without needing to swap out the battery. The brushless motor contributes to this efficiency, ensuring that the tool runs cooler and lasts longer.

That being said, having a spare battery on hand is always a good idea, especially if you're working on larger projects that require more time. The M12 battery system is compatible with a range of other Milwaukee tools, which is a bonus if you're already invested in their ecosystem.

Practical Applications

In practical use, this tool excels in a variety of scenarios. For example, when changing the brakes on my Honda Odyssey, the caliper bolts are located in a tight spot behind the brake assembly. The right angle impact wrench made short work of these bolts, saving me considerable time and effort.

Similarly, during an engine repair where space was at a premium, the compact design allowed me to remove and replace fasteners without having to disassemble other components to gain access. This kind of versatility makes the tool an invaluable asset for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench performs admirably in most situations, there are a few areas where it could be improved. Some users might find the head size a bit too large for the tightest spaces, necessitating the use of extensions. Additionally, while the tool's power is generally sufficient, it may struggle with heavily rusted or frozen bolts. In such cases, a more powerful impact wrench or a breaker bar might be necessary to break the initial bond before switching to the right angle impact wrench.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench is a well-rounded tool that offers a combination of power, versatility, and durability. Its compact design and high torque make it an excellent choice for automotive work, especially in tight spaces where traditional tools fall short. The 4-Mode Drive Control and additional features like Auto Shut-off and Bolt Removal Mode add to its usability, making it a reliable tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

If you're looking for a right angle impact wrench that can handle a wide range of tasks with ease, the Milwaukee 2564-20 is a solid investment. While it may have some limitations in extremely tight spaces or with heavily rusted bolts, its overall performance and build quality make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. I would definitely recommend this tool for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile right angle impact wrench.