In this video, This Old House contributor Mark Clement explains how to properly use the power selection switch on the impact driver.
The “slow” setting is ideal for driving smaller screws, while the “medium” setting helps when slightly more power is needed but you want to conserve the battery. Choose a high-power setting for driving longer or larger fasteners.
Learn how to:
• Switch or toggle between power settings
• Determine which setting is best for your project
• Avoid stripping a screw or breaking off a screwhead
Pro Tip: According to This Old House Magazine, before driving a screw, make sure you use a tip that fits perfectly into the slot, cross, or square. “While a smaller tip might fit a larger drive, the rotational force won’t be spread evenly across the screwhead and may strip it.” This is one of the most common causes of stripped screws—using a mismatched driver tip.
To drive a screw with a drill/driver, switch the speed range to low to increase torque, or turning force, and adjust the clutch so it disengages the motor when the screw is fully set. As noted in This Old House Magazine, you’ll probably have to fiddle with the clutch setting a few times until you get it just right. Start the screw slowly, increase speed once it’s on the way, and keep your forearm aligned with the screw to minimize wrist strain and improve control.
