Air impact tool does not engage but will eventually engage after switching directions.

Although I do not have a Craftsman, I have taken severl othe brands apart. They all seem to be much the same. You do not need specialized tool. You just have to be mechanically savey. I think the grease has thickened up too much so taking it apart and cleaning it should do the trick. Start at the working end end and separate the front end. Work on a clean bench where little items (screws, ball bearings etc) won't roll off and get lost. When the two parts are separated, you should see the hammer mechanizm and a lot of grease. remove and clean everything that you can. Re-lube the mechanizm with a light lube grease and re-assemble. Turn the socket drive by hand to make sure everything is free, then apply a liberal application of air tool oil to the air port of the gun and attach an air line and give it a try . Put a load on the socket to check for impact functioning properly. I hope this helps