Full Review ⭐ Makita TW140DZ: 12V Max Li-Ion CXT Impact Wrench - Batteries and Charger Not Included

The Makita TW140DZ is a compact and lightweight 12V impact wrench designed for automotive and light industrial applications. This tool delivers impressive torque and fastening speeds in a small package, making it ideal for tight spots and repetitive tasks.

The TW140DZ utilizes Makita's 12V Max Li-Ion battery system, providing sufficient power for most common fastening jobs. At only 2.6 lbs with battery, it reduces user fatigue during extended use. The variable speed trigger allows precise control of output, while the 1/4" hex chuck accepts standard impact sockets.

Overall, the Makita TW140DZ combines performance, ergonomics, and versatility into a highly portable impact wrench suitable for mechanics, automotive technicians, and construction workers. Its compact size and lower voltage requirement compared to 18/20V models make it a great choice where access is limited.

Power and Performance

The Makita TW140DZ features a compact yet powerful 12V brushless motor that delivers an impressive 140 Nm of max torque. This high torque provides the power needed to drive larger fasteners like lag bolts and other threaded hardware into wood, metal and concrete.

Despite the small 12V battery, the impact wrench can produce up to 2,600 RPM for efficient fastening. The brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for maximum runtime. It also produces less noise and vibration compared to brushed motors.

The 12V Max CXT lithium-ion battery provides sufficient power for most common fastening tasks while keeping the tool lightweight and compact. While not as powerful as 18V or higher voltage tools, the TW140DZ still packs impressive performance into a small package.

For professionals who need maximum power in an ultra-compact size, the Makita DTW300TX2 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Impact Driver is an excellent choice. This lightweight impact driver delivers a whopping 300 Nm of max torque, 50% more than the TW140DZ. It uses Makita's latest brushless motor technology for faster driving speed and longer run times per charge.

The DTW300TX2 comes as a kit with two 5.0Ah LXT lithium-ion batteries, providing enough juice for all-day driving. Rapid Optimum Charging technology allows the batteries to charge in just 45 minutes. An ergonomic grip and low vibration make this impact suitable for extended use.

With triple LED lights to illuminate the work area and a built-in speed control, the DTW300TX2 provides pro-level performance. It can drive large fasteners and lag bolts into dense materials like engineered lumber with ease. An impact driver is designed for speed, while an impact wrench emphasizes maximum torque. The DTW300TX2 strikes a balance between the two.

Makita's Star Protection Computer ControlsTM protect the batteries from overloading, over-discharging and overheating. The LXT batteries use high-quality cells for long-lasting performance over many charging cycles. Overall, the DTW300TX2 is an excellent choice for professionals who need a fast, powerful impact driver.

So in summary, the ultra-compact TW140DZ offers surprising capability for a 12V tool, while the 18V DTW300TX2 provides best-in-class power and runtime. Choose the TW140DZ for light jobs where portability is paramount, and the DTW300TX2 for demanding tasks that require high torque and extended runtime.

Size and Weight

One of the standout features of the Makita TW140DZ impact wrench is its compact size and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 1.8 lbs with battery, it's one of the lightest 12V impact wrenches on the market. The tool itself measures only 5-3/8" long, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Despite its small footprint, the TW140DZ delivers impressive torque and power.

The lightweight build is ideal for overhead work or projects that require extended use. You won't fatigue as quickly thanks to the impact wrench's ergonomic shape and reduced heft. This makes the TW140DZ a great choice for automotive technicians, construction workers, and homeowners alike. Even with repetitive tasks, the wrist-friendly size prevents discomfort.

Overall, the compact dimensions and featherweight construction of the Makita TW140DZ open up its versatility for users. It can tackle tasks in confined areas that bulkier models can't, while remaining comfortable during prolonged use. When you need portable power without the burden of extra size or weight, the TW140DZ is a leading solution.

For even more power in a compact size, check out the Makita DTW1002Z 18V Li-Ion LXT Brushless Impact Wrench. With 900 ft-lbs of max torque, it delivers unrivaled strength while still weighing just 2.9 lbs with battery. The DTW1002Z measures only 5-5/8" long for excellent maneuverability. Its brushless motor also enhances efficiency and runtime. If you need a high-powered impact wrench that won't wear you down, the DTW1002Z is worth considering alongside the TW140DZ.

With either Makita impact wrench, you get the benefit of more compact dimensions and reduced weight compared to the competition. This makes the tools comfortable and easy to handle for extended periods of time. Whether you opt for the 12V TW140DZ or the more powerful 18V DTW1002Z, you can complete jobs in tight spaces without tiring yourself out. Makita's lightweight but durable construction allows their impact wrenches to go places bulkier models can't.

Battery and Charging

The Makita TW140DZ comes without a battery or charger included. It is compatible with Makita's 12V Max CXT Lithium-Ion battery line, which offers batteries ranging from 1.3 Ah to 5.0 Ah. The larger the Ah (amp hour) rating, the higher the battery capacity.

With a 2.0 Ah battery, users report around 30-40 minutes of consistent use before needing to recharge. The 5.0 Ah battery provides over an hour of runtime. Charging time is around 22 minutes for the 1.3 Ah battery, and 59 minutes for the 5.0 Ah using Makita's rapid optimum charger.

The tool is optimized for Makita 12V Max CXT batteries to provide the best power, runtime and performance. Third party batteries may fit the tool but may not deliver the same experience. Overall the battery life is decent given the compact 12V power source. Larger projects may require multiple batteries or the higher capacity 5.0 Ah option.

Comfort and Handling

The Makita TW140DZ features an ergonomic rubberized grip that provides excellent comfort and control during use. The grip helps absorb vibration and impact, allowing you to work longer without hand fatigue.

Despite the compact size, the impact wrench feels very solid and substantial in your hand. The rubberized grip gives you a secure hold, even when wearing gloves or dealing with oily fasteners. The grip design makes it easy to hold the tool in various positions.

This impact wrench produces minimal vibration during operation. The internal mechanisms help dampen the typical vibration from this type of power tool. Less vibration reduces strain on your hands, arms, and body when using the tool for extended periods.

The compact head design provides excellent maneuverability in tight spaces. You can easily fit this impact wrench into areas where larger models won't go. The short head length gives you better visibility and control when working in confined areas.

Overall, the Makita TW140DZ offers outstanding comfort, balance, and control for an impact wrench of this size. The rubberized grip and minimal vibration allow for comfortable use even during demanding, high-volume fastening tasks. The compact head provides versatility for accessing fasteners in tight spaces.

Durability

The Makita TW140DZ is built to withstand tough job site conditions and frequent professional use. It has an all-metal drivetrain with all-metal gears that provide increased durability and longer tool life. The gears are precisely cut and heat-treated for maximum strength.

In addition, the tool housing is engineered for job site impact resistance. It is made from a protective rubberized coating that absorbs shock if dropped. The bumper design surrounds the motor and switch to protect the internal components. This helps reduce repairs and downtime on the job.

Overall, the Makita TW140DZ is designed and constructed with durability in mind. The all-metal gears and impact-resistant housing allow it to stand up to heavy daily use by professional tradesmen without breaking down. This results in an impact wrench built to last on demanding job sites.

Features

The Makita TW140DZ impact wrench comes with some great features that make it a versatile and convenient tool.

One handy feature is the built-in LED light. This illuminates the work area to help you see when working in dimly lit spaces. It's a simple addition but makes a big difference when trying to get a job done in a dark corner or unlit area.

Another useful feature is the variable speed trigger. This gives you control over the speed and power of the impact wrench. Pull the trigger lightly for lower speeds and more precision. Pull it all the way for maximum speed and torque when you need to power through a stubborn fastener. This variability lets you match the power to the task at hand.

Applications

The Makita TW140DZ is ideal for automotive mechanics and technicians working in garages. Its compact size allows access into tight engine bays and hard to reach areas. The 1/4" hex chuck is suitable for most automotive fastener sizes. With 140 ft-lbs of torque, it provides adequate power for tasks like loosening stubborn lug nuts, removing bolts on exhaust systems, and general disassembly/reassembly. The variable speed trigger allows precise control over the torque applied. This helps prevent overtightening or damage to more delicate components.

The 12V battery platform makes the TW140DZ well-suited for medium duty fastening jobs. While not as powerful as 18V or higher voltage tools, it has ample torque for tasks like driving lag bolts into wood, securing decking, assembling furniture, and other around-the-house DIY projects. The brushless motor design maximizes efficiency and runtime. Overall, the TW140DZ hits a nice sweet spot - compact and portable enough for automotive work, yet powerful enough for common fastening tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use in tight spaces
• Brushless motor provides high power and durability
• Variable speed trigger gives you control over torque
• Anvil mechanism provides 1,400 in-lbs of max torque for driving and removing stubborn bolts
• Extremely quiet at only 79 dB for comfortable extended use
• LED light illuminates dark work areas
• Protective bumper helps prevent damage if dropped

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately adds to initial cost
• No fuel gauge on tool to indicate remaining battery level
• Plastic torque adjustment ring may be prone to breaking over time
• May lack power for heavy duty automotive applications
• Short battery life compared to larger 18V impact wrenches
• No belt hook for hanging or storing tool while working

Conclusion

The Makita TW140DZ is an excellent choice for automotive mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and other professionals who need a compact but powerful impact wrench. Its small size makes it easy to use in tight spaces, while the 12V motor delivers impressive torque for such a small tool. The variable speed trigger gives great control, and the built-in LED light is handy when working in dim areas.

Overall, the Makita TW140DZ punches above its weight class in terms of power. It's lightweight, comfortable to handle, and engineered for durability. The tool itself is thoughtfully designed, with useful features like the belt clip, LED light, and variable speed trigger. While you'll have to purchase batteries and a charger separately, this gives you the flexibility to choose from Makita's range of 12V Max batteries.

For those seeking a versatile, portable impact wrench that doesn't compromise on performance, the Makita TW140DZ is easy to recommend. It's ideal for automotive repair and maintenance, general fastening applications, and other jobs requiring compact but capable impact power. Just be sure to buy a suitable battery and charger to unlock the TW140DZ's full potential.