Full Review ⭐ Kielder KWT-002-08: 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2" 430Nm Impact Wrench Kit, 2 x 4.0Ah Li-ion TYPE18 Battery, 17, 19 & 21mm Impact Sockets, Charger & Case

Impact wrenches are a handy power tool used by mechanics and DIYers to quickly loosen and tighten bolts and nuts. They utilize compressed air or an electric motor to generate high torque output and save time and effort compared to using just hand tools.

Kielder is a UK company that manufactures power tools targeted at both professionals and hobbyists. Their KWT-002-08 impact wrench stands out with its 18V brushless motor, compact size, and included accessories. This review will provide an in-depth look at the features and performance of this cordless impact wrench model. We'll examine the key specs, ergonomics, battery life and overall value to help you determine if it's a suitable choice for your automotive or construction projects.

Overview

The Kielder KWT-002-08 is an 18V brushless cordless 1/2" impact wrench kit. This powerful tool delivers up to 430 Nm of torque, making it suitable for demanding automotive and industrial fastening applications.

The KWT-002-08 features Kielder's TYPE18 li-ion battery system, with two 4.0Ah batteries included to provide extended runtime. It has a durable steel hammer mechanism that delivers 2,400 impacts per minute. The 1/2" anvil chuck allows use of all standard impact sockets.

Key specs for the KWT-002-08:

• Voltage: 18V
• Torque: 430 Nm
• Impacts per minute: 2,400
• Drive size: 1/2"
• Included batteries: 2 x 4.0Ah Li-ion
• Kit includes charger, case, and impact sockets

This pro-grade impact wrench provides the power and runtime needed for automotive repair shops, fleet maintenance, industrial assembly, and other heavy-duty fastening tasks. The brushless motor gives it strength, durability and efficiency. The Kielder KWT-002-08 comes as a complete kit, with everything you need to get started using this powerful impact wrench right out of the box. It includes two 4.0Ah TYPE18 Li-ion batteries that provide long runtime, as well as a rapid charger to keep the batteries topped off.

For those looking for a bit less torque in a similar compact impact wrench, check out the Kielder KWT-012-83. This mid-torque model delivers 300 Nm of fastening force, while retaining the same brushless efficiency and battery system. It comes as a kit with 1 x 4.0Ah TYPE18 Li-ion battery and charger. The KWT-012-83 is ideal for automotive and general repair shop use where maximum torque is not required.

Kielder produces a full range of 18V cordless power tools to suit both pro and DIY users. The TYPE18 system provides seamless compatibility across all models when it comes to batteries and chargers. Whether you need compact impact drivers, high torque impacts, hammer drills, reciprocating saws, or circular saws, Kielder has a model to get the job done efficiently.

Design

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces. It weighs just 2.5 kg with the battery installed. The tool itself is made from a durable composite housing that provides protection against drops and impacts while keeping the weight down.

Despite its light weight, the impact wrench feels sturdy and solid when gripped thanks to the rubber overmold on the handle and grip areas. This provides a comfortable and slip-resistant hold. The compact size paired with the ergonomic grip allows you to use the wrench overhead or in other awkward positions without straining.

The dimensions are 270 x 85 x 230mm, so it can fit into tight engine bays or other constrained areas where a full-size impact wrench won't. Overall, the design focuses on portability and ease of handling while ensuring the tool can withstand job site conditions.

For even greater compactness and ease of use in tight spots, consider the Kielder KWT-155-06: 18v TYPE18 Brushless Cordless 1/4 Ultra Compact Impact Driver. This lightweight, ultra-compact impact driver measures just 130mm front to back. It utilizes a short head length combined with a 1/4" hex chuck to reach fasteners and hardware even when you can barely fit your hand in the space. Weighing only 1.1 kg with the battery, this micro impact driver helps reduce fatigue when working in cramped engine compartments or other tight areas.

The KWT-155-06 impact driver shares the same durable composite housing as the KWT-002-08 impact wrench for resilience against drops and hard use. It also has the rubberized grip for comfort and control. The extremely compact dimensions paired with the grip design give you excellent maneuverability and reduce hand and arm strain when accessing tight spaces at odd angles.

So if you need maximum compactness and access in very confined areas, the KWT-155-06 1/4" impact driver is an excellent choice to complement the versatility of the KWT-002-08 impact wrench.

Motor & Performance

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench features a powerful brushless motor that delivers impressive performance. It generates a maximum torque of 430 Nm, providing more than enough twisting force for automotive and heavy-duty fastening applications.

The motor utilizes advanced brushless technology which eliminates brushes and commutators. This results in improved efficiency, longer runtime, and enhanced durability compared to brushed motors.

The impact wrench has two speed settings - 0-1900 RPM and 0-2800 RPM. The lower speed setting allows better control when starting a fastener or working with delicate materials. The higher speed setting provides maximum power when driving large fasteners quickly.

Power delivery from the motor is smooth and consistent. There is no abrupt kickback or pulsing that can lead to overtightening. The variable speed trigger gives excellent control over the output. Overall, the brushless motor gives pro-level performance for demanding tasks.

Battery & Charger

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench kit comes with 2 x 4.0Ah 18V Li-ion batteries. Each battery has a capacity of 4000mAh, which provides ample runtime for most applications.

The batteries use high-quality Li-ion cells that deliver consistent power and have a long lifespan. With two included, you can continuously work by swapping between charged batteries.

Charging the batteries is straightforward with the included charger. It charges one battery at a time, with each battery taking about 60-90 minutes to fully charge from empty. This quick charge time minimizes downtime between tasks.

In terms of battery life, you can expect around 150-200 bolts removed or tightened per full battery charge. The exact amount will depend on the task intensity and bolt size. With two batteries, you'll get 300-400 bolts worth of runtime before needing to recharge.

The batteries also feature protection against overheating, overloading, and over-discharging. This preserves battery health and ensures safe operation. Overall, the included Li-ion batteries and charger make an excellent power system for the impact wrench.

Accessories

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench kit comes with a handy selection of accessories to get you started.

In the case, you'll find 2 x 4.0Ah 18V Li-ion batteries that deliver ample runtime for most applications. The included rapid charger fully charges the batteries in around 45 minutes.

For socket needs, Kielder includes 3 impact sockets - 17mm, 19mm, and 21mm. These chrome vanadium steel sockets fit lug nuts and other fasteners commonly found on automotive and machinery applications. An extension bar is also included for reaching tight spaces.

To keep things organized, the impact wrench, batteries, charger and sockets all fit neatly into the included blow mold carry case. This makes transporting the kit easy and prevents any lost parts.

A belt clip is also provided so you can keep the impact wrench handy. The clip is made from durable nylon and rotates 360 degrees for comfort and accessibility.

Overall, the accessory bundle in this kit provides all the key components you need to get started using the impact wrench for a variety of tasks. The case keeps everything together in one place for convenience.

Ease of Use

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench is designed for easy handling and operation. It has an ergonomic grip that provides a comfortable and balanced hold. The tool weighs only 1.4kg, making it lightweight enough to maneuver into tight spaces.

Changing sockets is a breeze thanks to the 1/2" anvil with a through-hole design. Just insert the socket and it locks into place securely. A ball-lock retention pin prevents the socket from coming loose during heavy-duty use.

The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the torque output. Squeeze lightly for lower speeds or all the way for maximum power. There's also a forward/reverse selector so you can quickly change directions.

An LED light illuminates the work area to help you see when working in dim conditions. The battery fuel gauge lets you monitor remaining runtime at a glance. Overall, the impact wrench is designed for quick socket changes, comfortable handling, and intuitive speed/direction controls.

Applications

The Kielder KWT-002-08 impact wrench is ideal for a wide range of applications, from automotive repairs to construction projects and home DIY tasks. Its versatility and power make it a useful addition to any toolbox.

For automotive uses, the KWT-002-08 can handle lug nuts, brake caliper bolts, suspension components, and other stubborn fasteners on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The 430 Nm of max torque provides plenty of power for most automotive fastening needs. Mechanics will appreciate the compact size which allows access into tight engine bays.

In construction, impact wrenches excel at driving large lag bolts into wood, assembling scaffolding, and securing deck boards and fencing. The KWT-002-08 has ample torque for these demanding applications. The brushless motor maintains power driving many fasteners in succession. With the long-lasting batteries, contractors can work efficiently on job sites without running out of power.

For home DIYers, this impact wrench simplifies all sorts of projects requiring screwed, bolted, or lagged connections. Fence building, securing deck boards, assembling outdoor playsets, and other tasks around the house and yard are made much easier with an impact wrench doing the hard work. The KWT-002-08 allows driving fasteners quickly without fatigue.

With variable speed control and compact size, the KWT-002-08 impact wrench can handle a wide variety of fastening tasks. It's a versatile power tool useful to both professionals and DIYers working on vehicles, construction projects, or home improvements.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful 430 Nm of torque allows for heavy-duty fastening and loosening of bolts
• Brushless motor provides efficient power and longer runtime vs brushed motors
• Compact and lightweight design improves maneuverability in tight spaces
• Variable speed trigger gives precise control over tightening/loosening speed
• 18V battery platform offers long runtime between charges
• Fast charger fully charges batteries in around 30-60 mins
• LED light illuminates dark work areas
• 3 year warranty provides peace of mind

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately adds to initial cost
• Lacks features like battery fuel gauge or belt clip
• May be overpowered for light DIY use
• Impacts from loosening stubborn bolts can be jarring with extended use
• Not compatible with other 18V battery platforms

Conclusion

The Kielder KWT-002-08 18V impact wrench is a powerful and versatile cordless tool suitable for automotive and construction use. Its brushless motor provides high torque up to 430Nm for efficient fastening and loosening of bolts and nuts.

The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle in tight spaces. Variable speed control allows precise control over the power output. The included 4Ah batteries deliver long runtimes between charges. Rapid charging gets the batteries topped up quickly when needed.

The kit includes useful accessories like impact sockets to get you started right away. The carrying case neatly stores everything together for portability. Overall the Kielder impact wrench is an affordable option compared to more premium brands.

For DIYers and automotive enthusiasts, this impact wrench has all the core features needed for most tasks. The power and runtime is sufficient for typical weekend projects. For professional use, a higher end model may be preferable. But for most buyers, the Kielder KWT-002-08 offers great value and reliability.

So in summary, this is a capable and budget-friendly impact wrench well suited for home mechanics and hobbyists. It may lack some bells and whistles of pro-grade tools, but delivers solid performance for the price. For those seeking an affordable cordless impact wrench, the Kielder model is definitely worth considering.