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Tool Review: Sunex SX4345 1/2" Impact

Nov. 15, 2011
Tom Karagianis tests the Sunex SX4345 1/2" Impact Wrench.

The new Sunex SX4345 1/2" Drive Impact Wrench delivers the power and dependability of all Sunex HD products. Its patented Quiet Tech exhaust system makes it the quietest impact wrench in its class, yet it produces 750 ft/lbs of power and 1,100 ft/lbs of breakaway torque. The variable speed trigger controls both power and speed range, and the one hand forward/reverse switch keeps one hand free during directional changes. Weighing only 4.3 lbs, the wrench is light enough to use all day yet can loosen even the toughest of fasteners.

The review

Tom Karagianis, owner of Tarkus Automotive in Milwaukee, WI, tested out the Sunex SX4345 1/2" impact. 

Tom enjoyed the fact that the tool didn't weigh as much as other impacts he's used. 

"It’s lightweight, because it’s made out of composite."

Tom also explained that the impact provided easy-to-use controls and simple operation.

He also appreciated the quiet operation. "It’s quieter than the other impacts we have in the shop."

Tom used the tool for undercar work, including wheels and suspension.

He suggested that technicians just starting out would find benefit from purchasing this tool, because it has the operation of more expensive tools, but with a smaller price tag.

"Sunex has been around for a long time, they make a good product. I think they’ll be good sellers because they’re quiet and lightweight, and they’re reasonable to buy."

About the Author

Erica Schueller | Media Relations Manager | Navistar

Erica Schueller is the Media Relations Manager for Navistar.

Before joining Navistar, Schueller served as Editorial Director of the Endeavor Commercial Vehicle Group. The commercial vehicle group includes the following brands: American Trucker, Bulk Transporter, Fleet Maintenance, FleetOwner, Refrigerated Transporter, and Trailer/Body Builders brands.

An award-winning journalist, Schueller has reported and written about the vehicle maintenance and repair industry her entire career. She has received accolades for her reporting and editing in the commercial and automotive vehicle fields by the Truck Writers of North America (TWNA), the International Automotive Media Competition (IAMC), the Folio: Eddie & Ozzie Awards and the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE) Azbee Awards.

Schueller has received recognition among her publishing industry peers as a recipient of the 2014 Folio Top Women in Media Rising Stars award, acknowledging her accomplishments of digital content management and assistance with improving the print and digital products in the Vehicle Repair Group. She was also named one Women in Trucking’s 2018 Top Women in Transportation to Watch.

She is an active member of a number of industry groups, including the American Trucking Associations' (ATA) Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC),  the Auto Care Association's Young Auto Care Networking Group, GenNext, and Women in Trucking.

In December 2018, Schueller graduated at the top of her class from the Waukesha County Technical College's 10-week professional truck driving program, earning her Class A commercial driver's license (CDL).  

She has worked in the vehicle repair and maintenance industry since 2008.

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