I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
what else anybody likes.
Reply-to address is real
John
"B A R R Y" <[email protected]> wrote
>
> I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has gotten a
> bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable Wrangler repairs.
>
Does a battery powered impact driver generate enough torque to bust loose
lug nuts and reinstall them to the proper torque?
"-MIKE-" wrote
>
> On a few tours, I've earned the nickname MacGyver, because of all the
> repairs I've done to get us out of otherwise detrimental situations.
> Also, because I keep a trouble case of repair stuff for drums, audio
> cables, and even guitar gear.
>
> 20 years of gigging has taught me to bring stuff to get guitar players
> out of binds, because they don't bother to pack things like an extra
> cable, 9 volt battery, or a direct box. I guess they have too much to
> carry with the guitars, effects rack, and ego. :-)
>
>
I never went on the road. But I worked in a lot of "musical" environments.
Including recording studios. I always had very complete tool kits and some
basic supplies. And could fix a lot of things that others could not because
of it.
Hell, in electronics school, we needed 9 volt batteries for our scientific
calculators. It was amazing the number of guys who would need another
battery inthe middle of a test and expected me to supply them free of
charge. They got upset with me when I charged them at least triple the
going rate.
But every guy who had that happen to him stocked up on batteries. The
teachers approved because they could teach it but the students wouldn't do
it. A little test stress battery situation drove the point home.
"Lew Hodgett" wrote
>
> "Lee Michaels" wrote:
>
>> Hell, in electronics school, we needed 9 volt batteries for our
>> scientific calculators. It was amazing the number of guys who would need
>> another battery inthe middle of a test and expected me to supply them
>> free of charge. They got upset with me when I charged them at least
>> triple the going rate.
>
> Is the going rate for on site availability of a 9VDC battery still $10.00
> or is it up to $20.00 these days?
>
It was over 25 years ago. I kinda charged what the market would bear. But
the tighter the situation, the more the battery cost.
"Robatoy" wrote
Was it you who wanted $ 5.00 to light that doobie back in Vegas....
1969??
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ahhhh...., the Doobie Scenario.
I always noticed that when a stoner pulled out one of those things, he
became very disorganized trying to find some fire. Sooooo....., I got
myself some lighters and began closely observing my environment. When I saw
the handrolled item being produced, I pounced with lighter in hand. The
folks with the herb ware usually so grateful, they shared their herbal
bounty with me.
Soooo....., I ran a Doobie Lighting Service. Didn't charge for it though.
But I did share.
John <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:
>
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
> a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
> with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
> problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
> are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
> probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
> what else anybody likes.
>
> Reply-to address is real
> John
I picked up the Makita LCT300W combo set a few months ago, and love it.
It's only a little more expensive than the drill alone, plus you get an
impact driver and flash--no--floodlight.
One feature I love is the way the keyless chuck works. Center your bit,
and turn the chuck, and it will click, getting tighter with each click.
I haven't spun the chuck around a bit yet!
Puckdropper
--
On Usenet, no one can hear you laugh. That's a good thing, though, as
some writers are incorrigible.
To email me directly, send a message to puckdropper (at) fastmail.fm
On Dec 28, 10:46=A0pm, "Lee Michaels"
<leemichaels*[email protected]> wrote:
> "Robatoy" =A0wrote
>
> Was it you who wanted $ 5.00 to light that doobie back in Vegas....
> 1969??
> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>
> Ahhhh...., =A0the Doobie Scenario.
>
> I always noticed that when a stoner pulled out one of those things, he
> became very disorganized trying to find some fire. Sooooo....., =A0I got
> myself some lighters and began closely observing my environment. When I s=
aw
> the handrolled item being produced, I pounced with lighter in hand. =A0Th=
e
> folks with the herb ware usually so grateful, they shared their herbal
> bounty with me.
>
> Soooo....., I ran a Doobie Lighting Service. Didn't charge for it though.
> But I did share.
We may have met. Not as the doober, but maybe as the doobee.
Lew Hodgett wrote:
> "John" wrote:
>
>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> I had an 18VDC DeWalt for almost 10 years until it got legs.
>
> Beat the crap out of it.
>
> It didn't owe me anything when it left.
>
> Have been told Panasonic has a good unit, no personal experience.
>
> Lew
>
>
I have had the Panasonic 15.6v for about eight years and it has been a
jewel. Rebuilt the batteries a couple years ago (Primecell) but no
other problems (accompanied by the sound of me knocking on wood).
whoopie,
jo4hn
On Sat, 27 Dec 2008 15:46:44 -0600, "Swingman" <[email protected]> wrote:
>"John" wrote
>
>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
>No LI-on batteries, but the DeWalt 18v is still the most ubiquitous cordless
>drill I see in use on construction sites in this neck of the woods, with
>Ridgid actually showing up quite frequently among the South 'O the Border
>types recently.
>
>These guys make a living with their tools, so I've always considered that to
>be one of the best endorsements for a tool you can find.
>
>I have a DeWalt, and four batteries ... it replaced a Makita about 10 years
>ago, and has been trouble free the entire time, despite numerous unscheduled
>flights off 8' ladders.
Amen on the Dewalt 18v. My son got me one for Christmas and I had it
swinging a 2-1/8" lockset bit today in a 1-3/4" solid core door. No
problem.
I still have a Dewalt 14.4 hammer drill / driver and a 14.4 right
angle. They still work but the batteries are pecky and the cost of
batteries makes the Christmas gift a double blessing.
Those Dewalts replaced a Makita 9.6 and a 7.2 right angle. They still
turn but can't do much more than mix thin batter.
Hard to believe we loved those little guys so much but I thought they
were god's gift when I switched from the Yankee to them.
Regards,
Tom Watson
http://home.comcast.net/~tjwatson1/
On Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:31:23 -0600, -MIKE- cast forth these pearls of
wisdom...:
> Swingman wrote:
>> "Mike Marlow" wrote
>>
>>> Where do you source your batteries for the rebuilt from Swing?
>>
>> www.primecell.com
>> www.voltmanbatteries.com
>>
>> Prices have now gone up since, but voltman re-built my two oldest 18v's
>> earlier this year for $70.
>>
>
> If you're handy with the soldering iron, those cells can be found with
> welded-on tabs for wire connections.
> Helps you rebuild a laptop battery and save 60-75 bucks on 100.
That's really what I'm looking for. I haven't invested the time to figure
out where to get the best quality batteries from, and I thought Swing was
rebuilding his own, and had found a good source for the cells.
If anyone has any experience and input on a good source that they've used,
I'd be interested. I have a couple of DeWalt batteries and a couple of
laptop batteries that I need to rebuild.
--
-Mike-
[email protected]
On Sat, 27 Dec 2008 16:29:12 -0500, John <[email protected]>
wrote:
>
>I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
>I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
>a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
>with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
>problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
>are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
>probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
>what else anybody likes.
>
>Reply-to address is real
>John
I dislike cordless. The corded drills last a lot longer and my
Milwaulkee is still going strong after 12 years of abuse. A lot more
bang for your buck.
On Dec 28, 4:14=A0pm, "Swingman" <[email protected]> wrote:
> "-MIKE-" wrote
>
> > On a few tours, I've earned the nickname MacGyver, because of all the
> > repairs I've done to get us out of otherwise detrimental situations.
> > Also, because I keep a trouble case of repair stuff for drums, audio
> > cables, and even guitar gear.
>
> > 20 years of gigging has taught me to bring stuff to get guitar players
> > out of binds, because they don't bother to pack things like an extra
> > cable, 9 volt battery, or a direct box. I guess they have too much to
> > carry with the guitars, effects rack, and ego. :-)
>
> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadie_(film)
>
> Serve with two cases of Shiner, iced down, and back to back with "Spinal
> Tap" and "The Commitments".
>
> --www.e-woodshop.net
> Last update: 10/22/08
> KarlC@ (the obvious)
I absolutely love The Commitments. So close to my heart.
So is Still Crazy... but on a different level.
Tap is a bit contrived..IMHO. I still like though.
"Charlie Groh" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> went to the Makita LI setup (impact,3-way drill,nice saw,great
> sawzall...all these are pretty bitchin'...but the batteries are
> suckin'!)...sigh, I can't seem to get this part of my act sweet...
A few months back about the time I was looking at purchasing some 18v
cordless tools, I had a dealer friend order me a Makita trim router. It
wasn't until three weeks later they decided to tell him that the router I'd
ordered had been discontinued. It pissed me off that they'd been willing to
let me sit for three weeks before letting us know and that had a significant
effect on my decision to buy DeWalt from then on.
While cost sometimes plays a factor in my purchases, I'm much more likely to
buy from the company gives me the service I want in a timely manner.
On Sat, 27 Dec 2008 15:49:02 -0800, jo4hn <[email protected]>
wrote:
>Lew Hodgett wrote:
>> "John" wrote:
>>
>>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>>
>> I had an 18VDC DeWalt for almost 10 years until it got legs.
>>
>> Beat the crap out of it.
>>
>> It didn't owe me anything when it left.
>>
>> Have been told Panasonic has a good unit, no personal experience.
>>
>> Lew
>>
>>
>I have had the Panasonic 15.6v for about eight years and it has been a
>jewel. Rebuilt the batteries a couple years ago (Primecell) but no
>other problems (accompanied by the sound of me knocking on wood).
> whoopie,
> jo4hn
I started using Panasonic many years ago...went through 4 permutations
of their drill motors and loved all but one that didn't "feel" quite
right (but sure worked reeeeely good)...my love affair ended with a
15.5 battery purchase that went bad (dealer couldn't get a new one
from the Panasonic rep...never mind that I'd spent thousands in their
store over the years and they shoulda made it good themselves)...,
however, now that I hear from you guys about rebuilding batterys,
well, those Panasonics are gonna get back on-line soon! I'm just now
experiencing the demise of my 3 LI's in my Makita kit...love the kit,
hate the batteries. What a pain, even though I own several DeWalt
tools, and they all work well and have good life to them...I just
don't like what is to me crucial to having a good field kit, the saw.
First kit I bought was a DeWalt 14 volt setup and it's since been
relegated to the shop because I went to a Milwaukee rig 'cause the saw
was better...then I sold that to a buddy (prolly shouldn't've) and
went to the Makita LI setup (impact,3-way drill,nice saw,great
sawzall...all these are pretty bitchin'...but the batteries are
suckin'!)...sigh, I can't seem to get this part of my act sweet...
cg
"Swingman" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> But the shop-vac is particularly handy as it goes up into any attic
without
> cords, perfect for sucking out AC drains/pans, for sucking insulation out
of
> windows after that crew gets finished, for cleaning up after minor a
> plumbing/electrical/drywall fixes, and can also be run with a cord.
I bought a DC500 cordless vac too. It was my subsequent purchase after
buying the DeWalt DC6PAKRA six pack tool kit. And, although I haven't used
the vacuum extensively, the times I've used it have always been somewhat
unique such as my recent clean up job of a litre of applesauce spreading out
on the kitchen floor. It had a little trouble with the thickness of the
sauce, but did get through the job eventually. Followed it up by vacuuming
some water to clean out the hose. Handy little tool when you need it.
Went out browsing today and looked at -- and hefted -- drills from
Makita, Dewalt, Bosch and Hitachi. Dewalt has a model 720, 18-v
LI-ion, that's remarkably compact and comfortable. On-line reviews
seem to give it high marks with no negatives, and the price is right
in line with the other brands. I think my mind is just about made up.
Thanks for all the input.
Reply-to address is real
John
"Bob Haar" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:C57C23CA.43D66A%[email protected]...
>
> If you might ever want other cordless tools, think about families of tools
> from the same maker with interchangeable batteries. That is one of the
> reasons that I choose Dewalt. Check out the other tools in the same
> product
> line up. Differences there may be enough to tip you decision one way or
> the
> other.
>
That's what I wonder about. Which maker has the best complement of cordless
tools. I guess I'm the Bohemian of the group. I haven't done construction
for a living for several years but the 14.4v Ryobi I got around 8 years or
so ago is still doing everything I need. I did use it when I was working
and it always did fine. Sometimes I need to grab the 2nd battery but
between the 2 (orig. ones that came with the kit), I always seem to make it
through the day. The batteries never did power the little circular saw good
enough for much of anything. When I go to replace it, that is the one thing
I'd be looking for. An accompanying saw (and maybe some other tools) that
would make it through a few cuts without killing the battery.
Ed
On Dec 28, 3:16=A0pm, -MIKE- <[email protected]> wrote:
> Upscale wrote:
> > Isn't a matter of survival? Even before I started using this wheelchair=
,
> > whatever vehicle I was driving always had a basic set of tools in the t=
runk.
> > Since I was contracting at the time, that basic set included a saw, ham=
mer
> > chisels, screw drivers and some mechanics tools. Nowadays with the chai=
r, I
> > have to carry enough tools to do an unexpected repair. With what I carr=
y as
> > survival gear, I could strip a car down in ten minutes. =A0:)
>
> On a few tours, I've earned the nickname MacGyver, because of all the
> repairs I've done to get us out of otherwise detrimental situations.
> Also, because I keep a trouble case of repair stuff for drums, audio
> cables, and even guitar gear.
>
> 20 years of gigging has taught me to bring stuff to get guitar players
> out of binds, because they don't bother to pack things like an extra
> cable, 9 volt battery, or a direct box. I guess they have too much to
> carry with the guitars, effects rack, and ego. :-)
>
> --
>
> =A0 -MIKE-
>
> =A0 "Playing is not something I do at night, it's my function in life"
> =A0 =A0 =A0--Elvin Jones =A0(1927-2004)
> =A0 --
> =A0http://mikedrums.com
> =A0 [email protected]
> =A0 ---remove "DOT" ^^^^ to reply
HA! Extra $750,000 bus needed for ego alone. A million dollar bus for
the drummer?? KIDDING!!!
A friend of mine was playing a gig and while on stage, somebody took a
whole bunch of stuff from the trailer. All stuff like you mentioned.
Repair stuff. The band was very upset that the 'fix-anything-kit' was
gone. They suddenly felt very insecure. (I told them NOT to put the
band's logo and graphics all over the damn trailer... "good stuff in
here... steal me steal me...")
On Dec 28, 8:24 am, "Lee Michaels" <leemichaels*[email protected]>
wrote:
> "B A R R Y" <[email protected]> wrote
>
>
>
> > I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has gotten a
> > bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable Wrangler repairs.
>
> Does a battery powered impact driver generate enough torque to bust loose
> lug nuts and reinstall them to the proper torque?
Depends on the driver and the torque spec.... :)
--
"Robatoy" <[email protected]> wrote in message
trucks, in case somebody needed it during an install. I did, and I was
100 KM from home. (In my silly head, I now own that drill for free.)
Isn't a matter of survival? Even before I started using this wheelchair,
whatever vehicle I was driving always had a basic set of tools in the trunk.
Since I was contracting at the time, that basic set included a saw, hammer
chisels, screw drivers and some mechanics tools. Nowadays with the chair, I
have to carry enough tools to do an unexpected repair. With what I carry as
survival gear, I could strip a car down in ten minutes. :)
"Tom Watson" < wrote
> Those Dewalts replaced a Makita 9.6 and a 7.2 right angle. They still
> turn but can't do much more than mix thin batter.
>
> Hard to believe we loved those little guys so much but I thought they
> were god's gift when I switched from the Yankee to them.
Same here ... I never thought I'd ever own anything but Makita for damn near
20 years because of the first one I had. I actually built a couple of
studios using those cordless drills, driving screws to do all the interior,
staggered stud framing.
Last Makita cordless I had didn't last two years ...
--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/22/08
KarlC@ (the obvious)
On Dec 27, 1:29=A0pm, John <[email protected]> wrote:
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. =A0I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries. =A0
>
> I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
> a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
> with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. =A0Both
> problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
> are not. =A0So =A0I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
> probably get one without either of the problems. =A0But I'm wondering
> what else anybody likes.
>
> Reply-to address is real
> John
I still have my original Porter Cable 14V that I had when I opened
Future Collectibles ten years ago. The batteries still hold a good
charge and I still use it. I have also obtained an 18V DeWalt and am
very pleased with it as well.
Jummy
On Dec 27, 4:11 pm, Mark & Juanita <[email protected]> wrote:
> Swingman wrote:
> > "John" wrote
>
> >> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> >> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> > No LI-on batteries, but the DeWalt 18v is still the most ubiquitous
> > cordless drill I see in use on construction sites in this neck of the
> > woods, with Ridgid actually showing up quite frequently among the South 'O
> > the Border types recently.
...
> > I have a DeWalt, and four batteries ... it replaced a Makita about 10
> > years ago, and has been trouble free the entire time, despite numerous
> > unscheduled flights off 8' ladders.
>
> How well do your batteries hold up? I'm on my second set of batteries in
> both my Milwaukee and Porter Cable. The PC is about 10 years old, the
> Milwaukee 5. Both sets of batteries are getting weak again. I do try to
> cycle them across the chargers every several weeks, but I don't coddle them
> by bringing them into the house when the weather gets hot.
...
I've two Milwaukee 18V; one probably approaching 10 now, the other
about 3 -- no battery failures, no special treatment--I recharge them
when they go down. Milwaukee did a replacement on the old ones at
some time owing to a possible vent that could get clogged that had
caused some overheating during recharging aiui. I never saw any
problem but took the advantage last year iirc on the older. The newer
weren't subject to the recall.
Only complaint would be they're somewhat big and heavy, so would
recommend to OP to check in person as someone else already suggested.
Suitability would depend mostly on what purpose(s) one is after--I
wanted tough for heavy work; I'd buy something much smaller for
cabinet work, etc., if were doing that to great extent these days.
--
On Dec 27, 4:29=A0pm, John <[email protected]> wrote:
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill
Years ago I bought the Sears 14.4 and later bought the C-3 19.2 volt
drill (the latter came with a demolition saw, small skillsaw" sander
and light).
I have enjoyed them and the tourque they both offeer. The 19.2 C-3 is
the more powerful. It will use the 14.4 or 19.2 batteries and the
cahrger will "do" either the 14.4 or the 19.2. I paid less than $180
for the 19.2 C-3 set which came with a bage that holds all the tools
(nice when traveling!) and have no complaints at all.
I've used the DeWalt 18 volt years back and like it for its
compactness, but not the price.
One of the 14.4 batteries has lost it recently (nearly five years of
use) and I can't seem to find any replacement batteries for it -
anyone know of a way to REBUILD THEM?
Anyway, for the money, the C-3 from Sears offers the best deal as one
set of batteries works for all the tools you might want.
On Sun, 28 Dec 2008 11:50:21 -0800 (PST), Robatoy
<[email protected]> wrote:
>...(Besides, no more skin rashes on the thigh after overfilling the
>Zippo...)
I thought I was the only one that suffered from that. How come nobody
ever talked about it back in the day?
--
LRod
Master Woodbutcher and seasoned termite
Shamelessly whoring my website since 1999
http://www.woodbutcher.net
http://www.normstools.com
Proud participant of rec.woodworking since February, 1997
email addy de-spam-ified due to 1,000 spams per month.
If you can't figure out how to use it, I probably wouldn't
care to correspond with you anyway.
On 12/27/08 4:33 PMDec 27, "J. Clarke" <[email protected]> wrote:
> John wrote:
>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>>
>> But I'm wondering
>> what else anybody likes.
>
> Well, I keep wishing my old DeWalt would die so I'd have an excuse to
> get a new one with some improved features, but it just keeps trucking
> on.
I also have a Dewalt 18v drill that I am pleased with. But no Li-Ion
batteries. I am not convinced that the advantages of Li-Ion make up for the
big cost increment.
> Go to the store and
> actually handle a few before you buy. Some are just too big to be practical
> for most applications. We also have a 12V at work that is used for many
> light jobs and is the drill of choice at times.
If you might ever want other cordless tools, think about families of tools
from the same maker with interchangeable batteries. That is one of the
reasons that I choose Dewalt. Check out the other tools in the same product
line up. Differences there may be enough to tip you decision one way or the
other.
"Bob Haar" wrote
> If you might ever want other cordless tools, think about families of tools
> from the same maker with interchangeable batteries. That is one of the
> reasons that I choose Dewalt. Check out the other tools in the same
> product
> line up. Differences there may be enough to tip you decision one way or
> the
> other.
Excellent point! I have a DeWalt circle saw and mini-shop-vac that run on
those four 18v batteries. The circle saw gets rare use, but handy when you
need it.
But the shop-vac is particularly handy as it goes up into any attic without
cords, perfect for sucking out AC drains/pans, for sucking insulation out of
windows after that crew gets finished, for cleaning up after minor a
plumbing/electrical/drywall fixes, and can also be run with a cord.
One of my most traveled tools, it is almost always in my truck ... and one
of those tools whose whereabouts is somehow always in my subconscious, it's
that handy.
--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/22/08
KarlC@ (the obvious)
"Swingman" wrote:
> Excellent point! I have a DeWalt circle saw and mini-shop-vac that
> run on those four 18v batteries. The circle saw gets rare use, but
> handy when you need it.
After my 77 got legs, the 18VDC DeWalt became my circular saw of
choice.
Great little gadget for breaking down sheet goods.
Lew
"Phisherman" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> On Sat, 27 Dec 2008 16:29:12 -0500, John <[email protected]>
> wrote:
>
>>
>>I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>>like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>>
>>I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
>>a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
>>with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
>>problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
>>are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
>>probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
>>what else anybody likes.
>>
>>Reply-to address is real
>>John
>
>
> I dislike cordless. The corded drills last a lot longer and my
> Milwaulkee is still going strong after 12 years of abuse. A lot more
> bang for your buck.
Corded drills are nice, but they don't fill the same niche as cordless.
Like most people I have both. One is a Milwaukee right-angle job that I got
for free because the switch didn't work. $17 later, it was good as new. It
has so much torque I'm afraid it will break my arm if I'm not paying
attention. But when I had to climb on top of the roof recently to drill a
hole to mount the sensor for my furnace's humidifier, it would have been
somewhat inconvenient to drag an extension cable with me.
todd
Swingman wrote:
> "Mark & Juanita" wrote
>
>> How well do your batteries hold up? I'm on my second set of batteries
>> in
>> both my Milwaukee and Porter Cable. The PC is about 10 years old, the
>> Milwaukee 5. Both sets of batteries are getting weak again. I do try to
>> cycle them across the chargers every several weeks, but I don't coddle
>> them
>> by bringing them into the house when the weather gets hot.
>
> They get enough use that they get re-built after about three years after
> purchase, once that's done with the heftier battery packs, I get much more
> life, more power, and a lot more time between charges.
>
> I've got' em on rotation now so that I don't need to re-build but one
> every two years. Part of maintenance costs, but not a big part to make a
> difference for the convenience.
>
Thanks for the info. Then my experience is not all that atypical. Guess
I'll plan on getting them rebuilt again. Part of that not throwing things
away issue I've got. Even though a new drill is nearly the same cost as
re-built batteries, I just can't see throwing away a perfectly good drill
just because the batteries go bad.
--
If you're going to be dumb, you better be tough
Swingman wrote:
> "John" wrote
>
>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> No LI-on batteries, but the DeWalt 18v is still the most ubiquitous
> cordless drill I see in use on construction sites in this neck of the
> woods, with Ridgid actually showing up quite frequently among the South 'O
> the Border types recently.
>
> These guys make a living with their tools, so I've always considered that
> to be one of the best endorsements for a tool you can find.
>
> I have a DeWalt, and four batteries ... it replaced a Makita about 10
> years ago, and has been trouble free the entire time, despite numerous
> unscheduled flights off 8' ladders.
>
How well do your batteries hold up? I'm on my second set of batteries in
both my Milwaukee and Porter Cable. The PC is about 10 years old, the
Milwaukee 5. Both sets of batteries are getting weak again. I do try to
cycle them across the chargers every several weeks, but I don't coddle them
by bringing them into the house when the weather gets hot.
--
If you're going to be dumb, you better be tough
On Sun, 28 Dec 2008 13:38:36 -0500, J. Clarke cast forth these pearls of
wisdom...:
> B A R R Y wrote:
>> Lee Michaels wrote:
>>> "B A R R Y" <[email protected]> wrote
>>>> I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has
>>>> gotten a bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable
>>>> Wrangler repairs.
>>>>
>>>
>>> Does a battery powered impact driver generate enough torque to bust
>>> loose lug nuts and reinstall them to the proper torque?
>>>
>>
>> It doesn't have to re-torque them. I do that with a torque wrench,
>> by
>> hand, as I have aluminum wheels on all my cars.
>>
>> No problem getting them loose, if they were properly installed. If
>> the nuts were put on in typical shadetree mechanic style, you'd need
>> to break them loose before jacking the car.
>>
>> What gave me the idea to use it on the car was the number of them I
>> see in the pits @ Lime Rock Park.
>
> A typical half-inch 18v cordless impact wrench gives about the same
> torque as an "average" half inch drive pneumatic. That's enough for
> most use on cars.
>
More like a typical 18v cordless impact will deliver somewhere around 1/2
the torque of a typical 1/2 drive pnuematic. Most 1/2" pnuematics will
deliver around 600 ft/lbs of torque - thereabouts. Fairly typical of 18v
cordless is in the 300 ft/lbs range.
--
-Mike-
[email protected]
On Dec 28, 8:08=A0pm, "Lee Michaels" <leemichaels*[email protected]>
wrote:
> "Lew Hodgett" wrote
>
> > "Lee Michaels" wrote:
>
> >> Hell, in electronics school, we needed 9 volt batteries for our
> >> scientific calculators. =A0It was amazing the number of guys who would=
need
> >> another battery inthe middle of a test and expected me to supply them
> >> free of charge. =A0They got upset with me when I charged them at least
> >> triple the going rate.
>
> > Is the going rate for on site availability =A0of a 9VDC battery still $=
10.00
> > or is it up to $20.00 these days?
>
> It was over 25 years ago. =A0I kinda charged what the market would bear. =
=A0But
> the tighter the situation, the more the battery cost.
Was it you who wanted $ 5.00 to light that doobie back in Vegas....
1969??
J. Clarke wrote:
>
> Well, I keep wishing my old DeWalt would die so I'd have an excuse to
> get a new one with some improved features, but it just keeps trucking
> on.
Same here!
In fact, over a year ago, I posted a message about my 14.4v making a
funny smell.
I'm still using it!
I have a bunch of DeWalt 12, 14.4, and 18 volt cordless tools, and have
been happy with all of them.
On Dec 27, 4:46=A0pm, "Swingman" <[email protected]> wrote:
> "John" wrote
>
> > I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> > like/dislike. =A0I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> No LI-on batteries, but the DeWalt 18v is still the most ubiquitous cordl=
ess
> drill I see in use on construction sites in this neck of the woods, with
> Ridgid actually showing up quite frequently among the South 'O the Border
> types recently.
>
> These guys make a living with their tools, so I've always considered that=
to
> be one of the best endorsements for a tool you can find.
>
> I have a DeWalt, and four batteries ... it replaced a Makita about 10 yea=
rs
> ago, and has been trouble free the entire time, despite numerous unschedu=
led
> flights off 8' ladders.
>
> --www.e-woodshop.net
> Last update: 10/22/08
> KarlC@ (the obvious)
I am a true believer in quality. I own some pieces that would indicate
that.
BUT.
Cordless drills are becoming weird to me. When I can buy a case with a
Hitachi 1/2"/18v drill/2 batteries and fast charger for $ 89.00, the
EXACT same price as a replacement battery for my trusty Milwaukee
14.4v...then I am starting to think the whole thing is about
'disposables'. Throw away the Zippo, go for the BIC. (Besides, no more
skin rashes on the thigh after overfilling the Zippo...so I'm told.)
I bought one of those Hitachis and tossed it in one of the delivery
trucks, in case somebody needed it during an install. I did, and I was
100 KM from home. (In my silly head, I now own that drill for free.)
I don't like the whole disposable concept, but anytime I can move a
tool from the capital to the expense column, I will do so.
"Robatoy" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>> have to carry enough tools to do an unexpected repair.
>> survival gear, I could strip a car down in ten minutes. :)
> LOL. Don't those 4 axle stands look suspicious?
Nah! If somebody asks, I explain that they're so I can see above the crowd.
"John" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
> a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
> with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
> problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
> are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
> probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
> what else anybody likes.
>
> Reply-to address is real
> John
I set out to buy an 18V too, but found that the 15.6V Panasonic has plenty
of power, less weight, better feel in my hands. Go to the store and
actually handle a few before you buy. Some are just too big to be practical
for most applications. We also have a 12V at work that is used for many
light jobs and is the drill of choice at times.
On Dec 28, 3:01=A0pm, "Upscale" <[email protected]> wrote:
> "Robatoy" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> trucks, in case somebody needed it during an install. I did, and I was
> 100 KM from home. (In my silly head, I now own that drill for free.)
>
> Isn't a matter of survival? Even before I started using this wheelchair,
> whatever vehicle I was driving always had a basic set of tools in the tru=
nk.
> Since I was contracting at the time, that basic set included a saw, hamme=
r
> chisels, screw drivers and some mechanics tools. Nowadays with the chair,=
I
> have to carry enough tools to do an unexpected repair. With what I carry =
as
> survival gear, I could strip a car down in ten minutes. =A0:)
LOL. Don't those 4 axle stands look suspicious?
John wrote:
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments posted
> a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
> with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck. Both
> problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
> are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
> probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
> what else anybody likes.
>
> Reply-to address is real
> John
I went with the Rigid Li-ion 18v primarily for the (free) lifetime
service agreement:
http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/R86006-Compact-Lithium-Ion-Drill/EN/index.htm
http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/Power-Tool-Warranty
WHAT IS COVERED UNDER THE LIFETIME SERVICE AGREEMENT:
The Lifetime Service Agreement on RIDGID® Hand Held Power Tools,
Stationary Power Tools and Pneumatic Tools covers all worn parts in
properly maintained tools, including normal wear items such as brushes,
chucks, motors, switches, gears and even cordless batteries...
They have several service centers near me so there wouldn't even be
shipping charges involved when I need service.
---
I liked the size & balance of the Bosch 36618, (18v Li-ion, compact) but
the battery only has a two year warranty and it doesn't look like anyone
is capable of rebuilding them, including the oft mentioned primecell.
Bosch is currently offering a free third battery (via rebate), but you
have to get it now. It would be a much better deal if they'd promise a
free battery (or two) in two years when the warranty on the originals
expires.
John wrote:
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>
> I was all set to buy the Makita BDF452HW based on some comments
> posted
> a couple months back, but I'm seeing reviews pointing out problems
> with the batteries and/or charger, and with an off-center chuck.
> Both
> problems seem to be hit-or-miss, where most units are good but some
> are not. So I might still go with that one, gambling that I'll
> probably get one without either of the problems. But I'm wondering
> what else anybody likes.
Well, I keep wishing my old DeWalt would die so I'd have an excuse to
get a new one with some improved features, but it just keeps trucking
on.
--
--
--John
to email, dial "usenet" and validate
(was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)
Bob Haar wrote:
> On 12/27/08 4:33 PMDec 27, "J. Clarke" <[email protected]>
> wrote:
>
>> John wrote:
>>> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
>>> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
>>>
>>> But I'm wondering
>>> what else anybody likes.
>>
>> Well, I keep wishing my old DeWalt would die so I'd have an excuse
>> to
>> get a new one with some improved features, but it just keeps
>> trucking
>> on.
>
> I also have a Dewalt 18v drill that I am pleased with. But no Li-Ion
> batteries. I am not convinced that the advantages of Li-Ion make up
> for the big cost increment.
Just a comment for those who aren't aware of it--old 18v deWalts work
fine on the new 18v lithium batteries. So far I haven't felt the need
either--by the time enough of my existing batteries have died the
death to make getting new ones worthwhile I hope the lithium ions will
have come down in price. OTOH, their new charger will handle lithium
ion, NiMH, and NiCd, so I can rebuild the dead packs with NiMh.
Haven't gotten the new charger yet though.
>> Go to the store and
>> actually handle a few before you buy. Some are just too big to be
>> practical for most applications. We also have a 12V at work that
>> is
>> used for many light jobs and is the drill of choice at times.
>
> If you might ever want other cordless tools, think about families of
> tools from the same maker with interchangeable batteries. That is
> one
> of the reasons that I choose Dewalt. Check out the other tools in
> the
> same product line up. Differences there may be enough to tip you
> decision one way or the other.
Yep.
--
--
--John
to email, dial "usenet" and validate
(was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)
B A R R Y wrote:
> Lee Michaels wrote:
>> "B A R R Y" <[email protected]> wrote
>>> I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has
>>> gotten a bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable
>>> Wrangler repairs.
>>>
>>
>> Does a battery powered impact driver generate enough torque to bust
>> loose lug nuts and reinstall them to the proper torque?
>>
>
> It doesn't have to re-torque them. I do that with a torque wrench,
> by
> hand, as I have aluminum wheels on all my cars.
>
> No problem getting them loose, if they were properly installed. If
> the nuts were put on in typical shadetree mechanic style, you'd need
> to break them loose before jacking the car.
>
> What gave me the idea to use it on the car was the number of them I
> see in the pits @ Lime Rock Park.
A typical half-inch 18v cordless impact wrench gives about the same
torque as an "average" half inch drive pneumatic. That's enough for
most use on cars.
Since nobody said it, do _not_ use an impact wrench to _tighten_ lug
nuts (or any other fastener) unless it's a tool that is designed for
the purpose and has the necessary torque control or unless you are
using a purpose-made torque limiter with it. You can get a set of
torque-limiting extensions from Harbor Fright for about 60 bucks--how
accurate they are I have no idea--personally I use a torque wrench
unless I'm on the road fixing a flat.
--
--
--John
to email, dial "usenet" and validate
(was jclarke at eye bee em dot net)
Upscale wrote:
> Isn't a matter of survival? Even before I started using this wheelchair,
> whatever vehicle I was driving always had a basic set of tools in the trunk.
> Since I was contracting at the time, that basic set included a saw, hammer
> chisels, screw drivers and some mechanics tools. Nowadays with the chair, I
> have to carry enough tools to do an unexpected repair. With what I carry as
> survival gear, I could strip a car down in ten minutes. :)
>
On a few tours, I've earned the nickname MacGyver, because of all the
repairs I've done to get us out of otherwise detrimental situations.
Also, because I keep a trouble case of repair stuff for drums, audio
cables, and even guitar gear.
20 years of gigging has taught me to bring stuff to get guitar players
out of binds, because they don't bother to pack things like an extra
cable, 9 volt battery, or a direct box. I guess they have too much to
carry with the guitars, effects rack, and ego. :-)
--
-MIKE-
"Playing is not something I do at night, it's my function in life"
--Elvin Jones (1927-2004)
--
http://mikedrums.com
[email protected]
---remove "DOT" ^^^^ to reply
Robatoy wrote:
> (I told them NOT to put the
> band's logo and graphics all over the damn trailer... "good stuff in
> here... steal me steal me...")
There are guys all over Nashville with gear brand stickers all over
their cars. I never got that. I tell them they might as well have a
sticker saying, "Here's what's inside for you to steal!"
--
-MIKE-
"Playing is not something I do at night, it's my function in life"
--Elvin Jones (1927-2004)
--
http://mikedrums.com
[email protected]
---remove "DOT" ^^^^ to reply
Swingman wrote:
> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadie_(film)
>
> Serve with two cases of Shiner, iced down, and back to back with "Spinal
> Tap" and "The Commitments".
>
I can't believe I haven't seen that movie.
--
-MIKE-
"Playing is not something I do at night, it's my function in life"
--Elvin Jones (1927-2004)
--
http://mikedrums.com
[email protected]
---remove "DOT" ^^^^ to reply
Swingman wrote:
> "Mike Marlow" wrote
>
>> Where do you source your batteries for the rebuilt from Swing?
>
> www.primecell.com
> www.voltmanbatteries.com
>
> Prices have now gone up since, but voltman re-built my two oldest 18v's
> earlier this year for $70.
>
If you're handy with the soldering iron, those cells can be found with
welded-on tabs for wire connections.
Helps you rebuild a laptop battery and save 60-75 bucks on 100.
--
-MIKE-
"Playing is not something I do at night, it's my function in life"
--Elvin Jones (1927-2004)
--
http://mikedrums.com
[email protected]
---remove "DOT" ^^^^ to reply
Lee Michaels wrote:
> "B A R R Y" <[email protected]> wrote
>> I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has gotten a
>> bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable Wrangler repairs.
>>
>
> Does a battery powered impact driver generate enough torque to bust loose
> lug nuts and reinstall them to the proper torque?
>
It doesn't have to re-torque them. I do that with a torque wrench, by
hand, as I have aluminum wheels on all my cars.
No problem getting them loose, if they were properly installed. If the
nuts were put on in typical shadetree mechanic style, you'd need to
break them loose before jacking the car.
What gave me the idea to use it on the car was the number of them I see
in the pits @ Lime Rock Park.
On Mon, 29 Dec 2008 05:31:42 -0500, "Upscale" <[email protected]>
wrote:
>
>"Charlie Groh" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>> went to the Makita LI setup (impact,3-way drill,nice saw,great
>> sawzall...all these are pretty bitchin'...but the batteries are
>> suckin'!)...sigh, I can't seem to get this part of my act sweet...
>
>A few months back about the time I was looking at purchasing some 18v
>cordless tools, I had a dealer friend order me a Makita trim router. It
>wasn't until three weeks later they decided to tell him that the router I'd
>ordered had been discontinued. It pissed me off that they'd been willing to
>let me sit for three weeks before letting us know and that had a significant
>effect on my decision to buy DeWalt from then on.
>
>While cost sometimes plays a factor in my purchases, I'm much more likely to
>buy from the company gives me the service I want in a timely manner.
...all things being *almost* equal, you've got a point there.
cg
Lew Hodgett wrote:
> "Swingman" wrote:
>
>> Excellent point! I have a DeWalt circle saw and mini-shop-vac that
>> run on those four 18v batteries. The circle saw gets rare use, but
>> handy when you need it.
>
> After my 77 got legs, the 18VDC DeWalt became my circular saw of
> choice.
>
> Great little gadget for breaking down sheet goods.
Ditto that!
I keep mine at the lumber rack, with a Matsushita carbide blade and zero
clearance foot installed. I love that saw!
All of my 18v DeWalt tools were picked up as part of a refurbished 6
tool kit for $300. My plan was to sell the 4 1/2" angle grinder, impact
driver, and recip saw on eBay, and keep the circular saw, hammer drill,
chargers and batteries. Nothing made it to eBay
The angle grinder has turned out to be super handy for cutting bolts and
threaded rod, shovel and mower sharpening, and even some power rasping.
Bolts and rod that took multiple fiberglass discs with the Dremel are
child's play for the grinder.
The recip saw has proven to be a fantastic pickup, as all of my recip
saw use is usually short work, like removing a door jamb, pruning trees,
cutting a single hole... Only during an extended pruning session did I
need to swap a battery.
I do my own vehicle maintenance at home. The impact driver has gotten a
bunch of use during tire rotations and the inevitable Wrangler repairs.
"Lee Michaels" wrote:
> Hell, in electronics school, we needed 9 volt batteries for our
> scientific calculators. It was amazing the number of guys who would
> need another battery inthe middle of a test and expected me to
> supply them free of charge. They got upset with me when I charged
> them at least triple the going rate.
Is the going rate for on site availability of a 9VDC battery still
$10.00 or is it up to $20.00 these days?
Lew
On Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:55:33 -0600, Swingman cast forth these pearls of
wisdom...:
> "Mark & Juanita" wrote
>
>> How well do your batteries hold up? I'm on my second set of batteries in
>> both my Milwaukee and Porter Cable. The PC is about 10 years old, the
>> Milwaukee 5. Both sets of batteries are getting weak again. I do try to
>> cycle them across the chargers every several weeks, but I don't coddle
>> them
>> by bringing them into the house when the weather gets hot.
>
> They get enough use that they get re-built after about three years after
> purchase, once that's done with the heftier battery packs, I get much more
> life, more power, and a lot more time between charges.
>
> I've got' em on rotation now so that I don't need to re-build but one every
> two years. Part of maintenance costs, but not a big part to make a
> difference for the convenience.
Where do you source your batteries for the rebuilt from Swing?
--
-Mike-
[email protected]
"John" wrote:
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
I had an 18VDC DeWalt for almost 10 years until it got legs.
Beat the crap out of it.
It didn't owe me anything when it left.
Have been told Panasonic has a good unit, no personal experience.
Lew
"-MIKE-" wrote
> On a few tours, I've earned the nickname MacGyver, because of all the
> repairs I've done to get us out of otherwise detrimental situations.
> Also, because I keep a trouble case of repair stuff for drums, audio
> cables, and even guitar gear.
>
> 20 years of gigging has taught me to bring stuff to get guitar players
> out of binds, because they don't bother to pack things like an extra
> cable, 9 volt battery, or a direct box. I guess they have too much to
> carry with the guitars, effects rack, and ego. :-)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadie_(film)
Serve with two cases of Shiner, iced down, and back to back with "Spinal
Tap" and "The Commitments".
--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/22/08
KarlC@ (the obvious)
"Mark & Juanita" wrote
> How well do your batteries hold up? I'm on my second set of batteries in
> both my Milwaukee and Porter Cable. The PC is about 10 years old, the
> Milwaukee 5. Both sets of batteries are getting weak again. I do try to
> cycle them across the chargers every several weeks, but I don't coddle
> them
> by bringing them into the house when the weather gets hot.
They get enough use that they get re-built after about three years after
purchase, once that's done with the heftier battery packs, I get much more
life, more power, and a lot more time between charges.
I've got' em on rotation now so that I don't need to re-build but one every
two years. Part of maintenance costs, but not a big part to make a
difference for the convenience.
--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/22/08
KarlC@ (the obvious)
"John" wrote
> I'm in the market for a cordless drill and wonder what others
> like/dislike. I'm thinking 18V and preferably LI-ion batteries.
No LI-on batteries, but the DeWalt 18v is still the most ubiquitous cordless
drill I see in use on construction sites in this neck of the woods, with
Ridgid actually showing up quite frequently among the South 'O the Border
types recently.
These guys make a living with their tools, so I've always considered that to
be one of the best endorsements for a tool you can find.
I have a DeWalt, and four batteries ... it replaced a Makita about 10 years
ago, and has been trouble free the entire time, despite numerous unscheduled
flights off 8' ladders.
--
www.e-woodshop.net
Last update: 10/22/08
KarlC@ (the obvious)