Use an impact to remove angle grinder nuts

**projectswithrich** · Sep 19, 2021, 11:06 AM

This impact spanner makes changing cutting wheels and grindings much quicker.

**NortonDommi** · Sep 20, 2021, 04:06 PM

For un-doing yes but the nut does not need to be cranked down hard for installation.

**projectswithrich** · Sep 20, 2021, 04:32 PM

Correct, snug is fine. Plus it will be difficult to get off if you really cinch it down. This isn't a very strong impact so it works great for quick disc changes.

**remidgett** · Sep 20, 2021, 05:04 PM

Really good idea. I wonder how well the nails will hold up over time; nail steel is pretty soft; it seems they'd bend after several uses.

**projectswithrich** · Sep 21, 2021, 03:23 PM

It definitely could be an issue over time depending on how tight the nuts get after use. Mine usually don't get much tighter than the initial torque so I haven't had an issue so far. This version was the proof of concept and I do agree that the only weak point would be the pins so on future variations it would be a good idea to go with hardened pins. Mcmaster has some 5/32 dowel pins with a 4100lb breaking strength. P/N: 98381A490 Those could be a permanent solution. If anyone has any other idea feel free to post.

**paulzephyr** · Sep 20, 2021, 05:33 PM

For a cheap and easy tool this is just brilliant. Strange how the easy stuff is the hardest to think up.

**katy** · Sep 21, 2021, 09:14 AM

Thanks, but no thanks, it could be OK for some people. Personally I could change a lot of disks in the time it would take to get the impact, an air hose and the special tool out.
FWIW, for convenience, I have several grinders w/different disks on them.

**tonyfoale** · Sep 16, 2023, 02:21 AM

Originally Posted by katy

Thanks, but no thanks, it could be OK for some people. Personally I could change a lot of disks in the time it would take to get the impact, an air hose and the special tool out.
FWIW, for convenience, I have several grinders w/different disks on them.

Precisely. I couldn't agree more. Powered tools are great when you need them, such as the angle grinder itself but there seems to be an unstoppable trend towards the idea that every tool has to be powered. I often grab a hacksaw or file to do simple jobs, that others would take to a power saw or linisher, because it is quicker overall.

**hemmjo** · Sep 16, 2023, 04:47 AM

Originally Posted by tonyfoale

Precisely. I couldn't agree more. Powered tools are great when you need them, such as the angle grinder itself but there seems to be an unstoppable trend towards the idea that every tool has to be powered. I often grab a hacksaw or file to do simple jobs, that others would take to a power saw or linisher, because it is quicker overall.

I totally agree, while someone is getting the power tool, I had the spanner close at hand, have switched disks, and back at work. The tool DOES have its place. I have one old angle grinder that the spindle lock has fallen out, I can see using it for that.

Everyone has their own work methods. If it works for them go for it.

**Jon** · Sep 24, 2021, 05:27 PM

Congratulations projectswithrich - your Angle Grinder Key is the Homemade Tool of the Week!

Clever little tool, and yes, adding a magnet is a reasonable next iteration.

Some more good builds from this week:

Slab Flattening Jig by Dragonhand
Vise by orioncons36
Trailer Neck Rebuild by Frank S
Parting Tool Bit Holder by uv8452
Trigger Clamp Modification by projectswithrich
Portable Hydraulic Power Pack by warsztatOdZera
Thread Milling Insert by bbutcher85
Tap and Die Holder by uv8452
Wall Chaser by fox craft
Parallel Guide and Circle Jig by Didpoolhall
CNC Guide by fergiomaria
Battery Health Tester by rgsparber
Sticker Alignment Tool by rgsparber
Pin Spanner by Frank S
Folding Trailer by fawabros

projectswithrich - we've added your tool entry to our All Homemade Tool of the Week winners post. And, you'll now notice the wrench-on-pedestal award in the awards showcase in your postbit, visible beneath your username:

You've also been granted free lifetime Supporting Member status. I've stopped your paid recurring subscription, so you won't have to pay for membership again.

And, you'll be receiving a $25 online gift card, in your choice of Amazon (US-only), PayPal, or bitcoin. Please PM me your current email address and award choice and I'll get it sent over right away.

Nice work!