When a 1/2" impact wrench needs strong breakaway force with reduced vibration, the AIRCAT 1178-VXL 1/2" VIBROTHERM DRIVE Composite Impact Wrench gives technicians a high-output pneumatic option for automotive, fleet, and maintenance fastening. Its 950 ft-lbs maximum torque supports suspension, brake, drivetrain, underbody, and equipment fasteners, while 1,300 ft-lbs of loosening torque helps break tight or corroded hardware free before run-down. The 7,500 RPM free speed provides controlled fastener speed for repeated shop work, and the 1/2" square drive fits common impact-rated sockets used across repair bays, tire shops, fleet garages, and MRO benches.
The 1178-VXL uses AIRCAT's VIBROTHERM DRIVE mechanism (a patented impact design built to reduce vibration while maintaining impact power), making it useful for technicians who handle impact tools throughout the day. AIRCAT states that the Vibrotherm hammer mechanism reduces vibration levels by 30% - 40% and increases mechanism life by 50%. At 4.50 lbs. and 6.40" long, the tool keeps a compact full-size profile, while the patented AIRCAT muffler system reduces noise to 86 dBA for lower sound output in busy service environments.
Type: VIBROTHERM DRIVE Composite Impact Wrench | Model: 1178-VXL | Drive Size: 1/2" Square Drive | Free Speed: 7,500 RPM | Bolt Capacity: 9/16" | Impacts Per Minute: 1,400 IPM | Max Torque: 950 ft-lbs | Loosening Torque: 1,300 ft-lbs | Weight: 4.50 lbs. | Length: 6.40" | Air Consumption: 8 CFM | Recommended Hose Size: 3/8" | Air Inlet: 1/4" NPT/BSP | Noise Level: 86 dBA | Vibration: 7.7 m/sec²
Features:
- Provides 950 ft-lbs of maximum torque and 1,300 ft-lbs of loosening torque for high-output 1/2" drive fastening and removal work.
- VIBROTHERM DRIVE impact wrench mechanism incorporates AIRCAT's patented impact design.
- Patented Vibrotherm hammer mechanism reduces vibration levels by 30% - 40% and increases the life of the mechanism by 50%.
- Latest patented AIRCAT muffler system provides low noise output at 86 dBA.
- Patented grip design supports controlled handling during repeated service, repair, and maintenance tasks.
- Compact 6.40" length helps the tool stay manageable around suspension, underbody, and equipment-service areas.
- 1/2" square drive works with compatible impact-rated sockets for common automotive, fleet, and industrial maintenance fasteners.
Applications:
- Automotive repair: Removing and installing suspension bolts, brake hardware, axle components, underbody fasteners, drivetrain bolts, and general service hardware within the tool's torque range.
- Fleet maintenance: Servicing pickups, vans, trailers, shop vehicles, chassis hardware, guards, panels, and accessory mounts that use 1/2" drive impact sockets.
- Tire and wheel service: Removing passenger-vehicle and light-truck lug nuts when fastener condition and torque requirements are within the tool's capability.
- Industrial maintenance and MRO: Running down and removing bolts on machinery covers, fixtures, equipment frames, access plates, and repair bench assemblies.
- DIY garage and restoration work: Useful for experienced home mechanics working on rusted automotive hardware, suspension repairs, drivetrain service, and project vehicles with a properly sized air supply.
FAQs:
- Q: What is VIBROTHERM DRIVE on the AIRCAT 1178-VXL?
A: VIBROTHERM DRIVE is AIRCAT's patented impact mechanism design for reducing vibration while preserving impact power. AIRCAT lists the mechanism as reducing vibration levels by 30% - 40% and increasing mechanism life by 50%. - Q: What is the difference between maximum torque and loosening torque?
A: Maximum torque is the tool's headline output rating, while loosening torque is the breakaway force used to remove tightened or stuck fasteners. AIRCAT lists this model at 950 ft-lbs maximum torque and 1,300 ft-lbs loosening torque. - Q: What air hose size should I use with the AIRCAT 1178-VXL?
A: AIRCAT lists a 3/8" recommended hose size for this model. Using the recommended hose helps maintain air volume so the tool can deliver proper speed and torque under load. - Q: Can I use chrome hand sockets with this impact wrench?
A: No. Use only impact-rated 1/2" drive sockets. Chrome hand sockets are not made for repeated impact loads and can crack or fail when used with a pneumatic impact wrench. - Q: Can the AIRCAT 1178-VXL be used for lug nuts?
A: Yes, the 1178-VXL can be used for many passenger-vehicle and light-truck lug nut removal jobs when the fastener condition and torque requirement are within the tool's capability. Final tightening should always be completed with a calibrated torque wrench rather than the impact wrench alone.
| SKU | Free Speed (RPM) | Bolt Capacity (in.) | Square Drive (in.) | Impacts Per Minute | Max. Torque (ft-lb) | Weight (lbs.) | Length (in) | Air Cons. (CFM) | Rec. Hose Size (in.) | Air Inlet NPT (in.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1178-VXL | 7,500 | 9/16 | 1/2 | 1400 | 950 | 4.50 | 6.40 | 8 | 3/8 | 1/4 |
| 1178-VXL-P | 7,500 | 9/16 | 1/2 | 1400 | 950 | 4.50 | 6.40 | 8 | 3/8 | 1/4 |
| 1178-VXL-2 | 7,500 | 9/16 | 1/2 | 1400 | 950 | 4.70 | 8.40 | 8 | 3/8 | 1/4 |
Looking for more information about the Aircat Pneumatic Impact Wrenches? For help choosing the correct Aircat Pneumatic Tools, please call (800) 608-5210 or email info@intlairtool.com
warning WARNING: This or other products sold on this website may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
