Full Review ⭐ Sealey 10.8V: 2Ah SV10.8 Series 3/8" Sq Drive Cordless Impact Wrench Kit - CP108VCIW

Impact wrenches are powerful cordless tools that utilize rotating blows to deliver high torque for driving and loosening fasteners. They are commonly used in automotive repair for tasks like changing tires and working on brakes. The Sealey brand has been manufacturing tools since the 1960s and is known for producing quality power tools at reasonable prices.

The Sealey SV10.8 Series is one of their latest compact impact wrench models. The SV10.8V CIW kit reviewed here includes a 10.8V lithium-ion impact wrench, two 2Ah batteries, a charger, and a carry case. With 110Nm of max torque, it's designed for most common automotive fastening jobs. We'll take an in-depth look at the performance and features of this new addition to Sealey's cordless power tool lineup.

Design & Build Quality

The Sealey 10.8V impact wrench features a durable and robust design built to withstand heavy use in automotive repair shops and garages. The housing is constructed from a rugged composite material that provides protection against drops and impacts while keeping the tool lightweight. Despite the composite materials, the wrench still feels solid and sturdy in hand thanks to the metal gearbox and motor inside.

Ergonomics are excellent with a compact size and rubberized soft grip handle that allows for comfortable operation even when using the tool for extended periods. The handle has a triple lobe design that helps counteract reaction torque and gives excellent control.

The battery pack uses Samsung lithium-ion cells and locks securely into place on the bottom of the handle with a simple slide and click mechanism. Overall the Sealey 10.8V impact wrench is thoughtfully designed for longevity and ease of use in demanding shop environments.

In addition to the 10.8V model, Sealey also offers a Sealey 12V SV12 Series 3/8" Sq Drive Impact Wrench Kit with 2 Batteries (CP1204KIT). This slightly more powerful 12V version delivers 135Nm of torque for tackling tougher fastening jobs. It has the same durable composite housing and ergonomic design as the 10.8V model.

The 12V wrench comes as a kit with two 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery packs and a 30 minute quick charger. The batteries use Samsung cells for long life and fade-free power. One battery can be charging while the other is in use for continuous operation.

Like the 10.8V wrench, the 12V SV12 Series model has a brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime. It generates minimal heat and noise even under heavy loads. The brushless design also eliminates the need for regular maintenance like brush replacements.

An integrated LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility in dim settings. A variable speed trigger provides precise control over the RPM for specific applications. At max power it delivers a fast 2,600 RPM.

The SV12 Series has a durable full metal gearbox and anvil for longevity. It has a 1/2" anvil with friction ring for quick and easy socket changes. The compact size makes it easy to access tight spaces.

Weighing only 1.95kg with battery, the 12V wrench combines power and portability. It's a versatile cordless impact wrench suitable for automotive, construction, industrial and home DIY uses. Backed by a Sealey 3 year warranty.

Power & Torque

The Sealey 10.8V impact wrench comes equipped with a powerful brushless motor that delivers a maximum torque of 240 Nm. This high torque output makes the tool well-suited for lug nuts and other stubborn fasteners.

The wrench has two speed settings - 0-1900 RPM and 0-2800 RPM. The lower speed setting allows for more control and precision when needed, while the higher speed is great for powering through tough bolts quickly. Switching between the speeds is easy with a thumb switch right on the tool.

At 10.8 volts, this is a very capable mid-range cordless impact wrench. While higher voltage models like the Sealey 18V: 1/2 Sq Drive Cordless Impact Wrench - Red may have even more torque, this Sealey provides ample power for most automotive and DIY applications. The brushless motor also delivers efficient power transfer for extended runtime.

Overall, the power and torque specifications of this impact wrench make it a versatile choice suitable for most medium-duty fastening tasks. The dual speed settings add even more utility. With 240 Nm of max torque, this tool can handle lug nuts, axle nuts, brake caliper bolts, engine mount bolts, suspension components, and more. The variable speed trigger gives you precise control when needed for accuracy.

In addition to power, the compact size and lightweight design improve maneuverability in tight spaces. The integrated LED light illuminates dark areas. And the lithium-ion battery holds a charge for up to 18 months.

While cordless impact wrenches with 18+ volts may have a bit more power, the Sealey 10.8V model offers a great balance of performance, portability, and value. For most DIYers and home mechanics, it has ample torque for common tasks. And the versatility of the dual speeds and compact size make it a useful addition to any automotive toolkit.

Battery & Charging

The Sealey SV10.8 Series impact wrench comes with a lithium-ion 2Ah battery. This gives the tool decent runtime to complete most automotive and DIY jobs before needing a recharge.

The 2Ah battery capacity provides enough juice for around 30-60 minutes of continuous use depending on the task. This battery size is fairly standard for an impact wrench in this class. It's not the largest battery, but provides a good balance between power and portability.

When it's time to recharge, the battery fully charges in around 60 minutes when using the included rapid charger. This allows you to get back to work quickly if the battery dies mid-job. The rapid charger helps minimize downtime and keeps productivity high.

One downside is that only a single 2Ah battery is included in the kit. Some users may want to invest in a second battery for extended runtime by hot swapping when one battery dies. But the included 2Ah pack should be sufficient for most users given the fast 1 hour recharge time.

Overall, the 2Ah lithium-ion battery provides decent runtime paired with fast charging to keep this impact wrench running with minimal downtime. The battery capacity is suitable for general automotive and DIY use, though high-volume professional use may benefit from a higher capacity pack or second battery.

Comfort & Handling

The Sealey CP108VCIW impact wrench is designed for comfortable handling during prolonged use. Weighing only 1.4kg including the battery, it has a compact and lightweight body that reduces fatigue on the arms and wrists.

Despite its light weight, the tool feels sturdy and well-balanced in the hand. The rubberized soft grip handle provides a secure hold and allows the user to easily control and maneuver the wrench. It also helps absorb vibrations, making the impact wrench comfortable to use even for extended periods.

The 3/8" square drive is conveniently located, allowing easy socket changes with one hand. The wrench handles smoothly during operation with minimal vibration. The brushless motor provides quiet and smooth performance. Overall, the ergonomic design and vibration damping allow the user to work comfortably and productively.

Noise Level

The Sealey SV10.8 Series impact wrench operates at a reasonable noise level, comparable to similar cordless impact wrenches in this class. It produces around 80-85 decibels when running, which is loud but won't damage your hearing during short or moderate use.

Compared to noisy air impact wrenches that can exceed 100 dB, the SV10.8 runs quieter for improved comfort and safety. While extended exposure without ear protection isn't recommended, it won't leave your ears ringing after just a few minutes of use.

The brushless motor design results in less noise and vibration versus brushed motors. So while not whisper quiet, the SV10.8 impact wrench runs smoothly and relatively quietly for a power tool of this type. The noise level shouldn't be an issue for most users.

Accessories

The Sealey 10.8V Impact Wrench Kit comes with a few handy accessories to get you started.

In the box, you'll find:

• 3/8" square drive impact wrench
• 2Ah Li-ion battery
• 110V charger
• Blow mold case

This covers the basics you'll need to start using the impact wrench right out of the box. The included 2Ah battery provides decent runtime, while the charger allows you to easily recharge the battery overnight.

The blow mold case is a nice addition, giving you a way to store and transport the impact wrench and battery together. It helps keep everything protected while not in use.

Optional accessories available include:

• Higher capacity 3Ah or 4Ah batteries for extended runtime
• 12V car charger for charging on the go
• Additional tool attachments like sockets or extensions to increase functionality

The wrench has a standard 3/8" square drive, so finding compatible accessories from Sealey or other brands is straightforward. Overall, the included accessories are sufficient for most users, but having the option to expand capabilities down the road is a nice perk.

Value for Money

The Sealey 10.8V Impact Wrench offers very good value for money given its features and performance. At around £120, it sits at the lower end of the price scale for cordless impact wrenches yet still packs a punch with 270 Nm of torque output. This makes it suitable for most automotive and DIY applications.

You get Sealey's usual 3-year warranty on the tool which gives peace of mind for such an important investment. The battery and charger are covered for 1 year which is also reasonable.

Considering you get the impact wrench, a 2Ah battery, charger and storage case all included, it's a very competitively priced package. Many cheaper impact wrenches don't include a case or only come with a single battery.

The build quality seems decent given the price point and Sealey is a reputable UK brand that makes affordable but reliable power tools.

Overall for the price, the Sealey 10.8V impact wrench kit represents excellent value as long as you don't need ultra-high torque capabilities. It can handle most everyday jobs and is cheaper than big name brands like Makita or Milwaukee while still offering good performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle and transport
• Good power and torque output for fastening and loosening nuts and bolts
• Long battery life up to 150 nuts per charge
• LED light is useful for working in dim areas
• Variable speed trigger offers good control
• Decent value for money compared to similar models

Cons

• Plastic casing feels a bit flimsy and prone to scuffs
• Charger is slow and takes 3-4 hours for a full charge
• No battery level indicator so difficult to monitor charge
• Chuck doesn't accept other drive sizes besides 3/8" square
• Quite noisy at higher speeds

Conclusion

The Sealey 10.8V cordless impact wrench is a capable tool suitable for automotive and light industrial applications. Its compact size makes it easy to handle in tight spaces, while still providing respectable power and torque for most common fastening tasks.

The brushless motor and lithium-ion battery technology deliver efficient performance with less noise and vibration compared to brushed motors. Two speed settings adapt to different applications.

An integrated LED light is handy for working in dim areas. The kit includes two batteries for continuous work, and the charger has a storage mode to maintain battery health.

Overall build quality is decent but not heavy duty. The plastic housing feels solid yet lightweight.

For DIYers and home mechanics, the Sealey 10.8V impact wrench hits a sweet spot between price, power and portability. It can handle most bolts on cars, motorbikes, machinery, appliances, furniture and more. The cordless convenience makes it easy to use almost anywhere.

For professionals who use impacts daily, a higher voltage 18V model may be a better choice for demanding tasks. But in a home garage or workshop, this Sealey 10.8V impact provides ample power for typical weekend projects and repairs. It's a cost-effective way to save time and effort on all kinds of bolt-tightening tasks.