Snap-On Impact Wrench for 50 Bucks?!

So I’m at a garage sale this morning and this old guy had a Snap-On MG725 1/2” impact wrench. He said it’s been sitting in his shed for 10 years and just wanted it gone. I offered $50 and he took it! It’s a bit rusty but turns freely. Worth restoring or should I flip it? I’m still new to this stuff.

Nice score Tim! That MG725 is a beast, even the older ones. I’ve restored a few tools—if the motor spins and the air intake isn’t clogged, it’s probably fine. Give it a bath in some kerosene, hit the rust with a wire brush, and lube it up. You’ll have a $300 gun for peanuts. Flipping is fine if you need cash, but I’d keep it.

I second Paul. Those old Snappy impacts are tanks. I’d pull the clutch housing and check the hammer pins—they can wear. But even if they’re shot, rebuild kits are cheap. I’ve got one from the 90s that still out-torques my new Ingersoll. $50 is a steal. Just don’t blast it with an impact gun to loosen bolts lol.

Thanks guys! I’ll try the kerosene bath and maybe keep it. My electric impact from Harbor Freight struggles with lug nuts sometimes, so this will be my go-to. One question—what kind of oil do you use for the anvil? I got some 3-in-1, is that OK?

3-in-1 is too light. Grab some pneumatic tool oil (like the little bottles from Home Depot) or even ATF works in a pinch. A few drops in the air inlet before use. Also, don’t forget to put a couple drops in the socket hole where the anvil meets the hammer—keeps it from seizing. Post pics when it’s clean!