Donald,
I was talking about length of 3/8" hose. A smaller run of hose will work better than a longer run even if both are the same diameter.
A 1/2" hose would probably be even better, but I haven't seen them available around here (admittedly, I haven't really been looking. 3/8's does fine for me). But make sure your compressor can handle it. My buddy has a small Craftsman compressor with 1 hp running power. Mine of the same tank size has 2 hp running, 2.5 peak. Mine will operate my impact wrench with my 3/8" hose, while his won't. With 1/4" hose on my compressor, the impact wrench doesn't have nearly the same torque as the 3/8's hose (won't even remove lug nuts set at 95 ft/lbs). I've read that impact wrenches need a minimum of 2 hp, and that is consistant with my observations. My air ratchet doesn't run very well on his 1 hp compressor, or even my 2 hp with 1/4" hose. With 3/8's hose on mine it is fine.
Even though most air tools say 90 psi, for stubborn stuff I set mine to 115 psi. It goes through the air quicker, but it's the initial "burst" that breaks things free. But I don't make it a habit of running it that high just because the manufacturer of my tools says to use 90 psi. I don't know if any damage would be done or not using it for an extended period of time at higher pressure, but better safe than sorry. I doubt the few times I've cranked it up is really going to wear out my tools faster. But I could be wrong.
It may be one of those situations where you'll have to cut or split the nut. Sounds like you know what you're doing, using PB Blaster and heat would have been my next recommendations. But sometimes things just won't come off without cutting. Slicing the sides of the nut with a Dremel cut-off wheel works for me. And if careful, you can slice almost through the sides, then a sharp blow with a chisel will pop the rest off so you won't damage the stud's threads. Double check how the stud is attached, because it may be necessary to replace it if it gets damaged removing the nut. If it is pressed in, hopefully you'll be able to pound it out. Then you can take them to Home Depot and match a new set.
As for threadlocker, I'd assume the manufacturer used it. Nissan did on my car. But I doubt any threadlocker from the manufacturer is holding you up when you're using an impact wrench.
Like I said, sounds like you know what you're doing. Keep at it, you'll get it. I've also found that it helps if I cuss the stubborn ones alot (it helps my mental well-being; doesn't do a thing for removing the nut). Let us know how it's coming.
Dave
