Magazine for the auto service professional
Issue link: http://asp.epubxp.com/i/392413
64 | September/October 2014 CP7732 impact wrench An ultra-compact workhorse Text and photos by Mike Mavrigian I t seems as though every pneumatic tool maker these days is offering a compact version within their impact wrench lineup. Another welcome entry in this increasingly popular market is Chicago Pneumatic's CP7732. This model features a 1/2-inch drive, while its cousin, CP7731, features a 3/8-inch drive. Here we'll review the 1/2-inch drive model. When a new tool is introduced by a maker with the reputation of Chicago Pneumatic, you naturally expect high quality and superb design. The CP7732 is certainly no exception. In short, it does not disappoint. The frst aspect that pops out is the size: The main body measures a scant 4.4 inches in length, which provides the obvious ben- eft of being able to work in tight confnes. The other feature that you'll immediately notice is the color. While color has noth- ing to do with function, the reddish/orange body is distinctive and instantly draws your eyes to this little beast. For any shop that stocks multiple air tools (and in many cases, the shop's arsenal of air tools may be jumbled in a heap on a common shelf), the color stands out in a crowd and screams for your attention. As a result, this little work- horse may become one of your "go-to" tools. In accordance with its compact profle, the weight is a mere 2.9 lbs. While size and weight alone seem attractive, the design of the grip, trigger and forward/reverse control is as ergonomically sweet as you'd like. The grip is comfy, the trigger is nice and broad, with no sharp edges to dig into your fngers, and the forward/reverse lever is conveniently located immediately behind the trigger for easy one-hand opera- tion. The speed dial is incorporated behind the trigger as well, with clearly marked white-on-black 1, 2 and 3 markings, with a nice, big white arrow on the directional lever. The reason to pick a compact small- profle gun in the frst place is to use it in confned spaces. The intuitive one-hand operational features complement the size, with no need to use a second hand or to re- orient your working hand to change wrench direction. Construction features include a steel front and a lightweight aluminum body. Operational features worthy of note is the mind-numbing 450 ft.-lbs. maximum torque capability in reverse, a free speed of 9,000 Tool Review The CP7732 measures a scant 4.4 inches long at the head, ideal for tight spaces.