Is a FastFix Impact Driver chuck adapter feasible?

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Dec 30, 2007
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Ok, so here's my idea: So it sounds like Festool doesn't have any intentions of releasing an impact driver, at least not anytime soon. So, my question then becomes, could Fes or an aftermarket company make a mechanism that would attach to, say, a C12, that would essentially be a FastFix chuck that has a hammer and anvil mechanism internally, that would transfer the rotational force of the C12 shaft into a rotational impact force? Basically, rather than having the impact driver mechanism mounted internally like most standard impact drivers, this would be an external accessory that creates the same or similar utility. Granted, I know the Fes drills are geared lower than a dedicated impact driver, but I'd be ok with somewhat lower performance as compared to a Makita or Panasonic, but there are situations where an impact driver is invaluable, particularly in remodeling. What I'm saying is, I wouldn't need the Festool FastFix Impact Driver to be able to pop the lug nuts off my truck, but rather I'd be looking for something to break loose stubborn or rusted fasteners in old cabinets or doors.

I think this idea would really catch on for a number of reasons:

---Festool already has the interchangeable chuck system integrated into their drills, so this accessory is an item that would be of interest to anybody already owning a Festool drill.

---This would further expand the capabilities of their already diminutive C12.

---This would appeal to a wider audience, and might bring in customers who might not otherwise consider a Festool drill. I have a lot of coworkers who won't consider a cordless tool (or SYSTEM) if an impact driver isn't offered. Likewise, it took me roughly 5 years of mulling before I FINALLY broke down and bought a Festool drill, and a big reason for my final purchase was the offering of the depth-stop chuck. If an impact driver chuck was offered, I would have bought my C12 years ago!

I see a few problems, am I missing any?

--- I'm not sure if the other FastFix chucks are rated to handle the increased stresses that would be placed upon them? If so, Festool could solve that by simply making the output shaft of the impact driver adapter the same as the right angle adapter, so only the Centrotec or 3-jaw chuck would be compatible.

--- Is the FastFix anchor itself strong enough to withstand an impact driver force?

--- Am I incorrect that there is a large market for this? Would you buy one if offered?

Anyways, this idea is still forming in my head. Any ideas or thoughts?
 
This is  a Good idea.  I am not sure if impact rotor housing needs to be secured from the torque of the input shaft...hmmmm may have to go and buy an old impact at a pawn and mess with it.......just to "satisfy my own curiosity"

Craig
 
I'm thinking the teeth that we use to keep the 90 degree and eccentric chucks at whatever angle can help to support the housing. My main concern is adding in some kind of torque buffer to keep from splitting hex socket at the end of the driveshaft. I'm thinking that if they built the rotary hammer as a flywheel, it would lend enough momentum to help dampen the shock somewhat. I'm also thinking that the receiving socket should be a really snug fit around the driveshaft to support it from the outside. I'm guessing that there's more to it than that, but I'm willing to bet that Festool's engineers have enough experience in general, and enough understanding of how an impact driver works, that they could make it all happen.
 
I'd love to have a Festool cordless, but went with Makita because I can't imagine not using an impact driver now (I routinely drive in VERY large lag bolts with mine) and I love the total lack of torque on my wrist at the end of the drive.  I also love the lighter weight and better balance.  I do drill with my um, drill, but any and all fasteners are with the ID.

I'd be all over the Festool impact chuck.  In fact, I'd go so far as to say I'd by two Festool drills, leaving one set up exclusively for ID duty.
 
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