Are you looking for a comprehensive guide on how to recondition drill batteries? Then you have come to the right place! This step-by-step guide will teach you everything you need to know about reconditioning your drill batteries so that they can work as good as new. With this guide, you will be able to save money by reconditioning your drill batteries and get your job done faster. So, read on and learn how to recondition drill batteries.
Necessary Tools and Materials
- Battery Reconditioner – This is a device that is used to restore the charge capacity of NiCad batteries.
- Multimeter – This is an instrument that is used to measure electrical current and voltage in a circuit.
- Drill Battery – This is the NiCad battery that needs to be reconditioned.
- Safety Equipment – This includes goggles, gloves, and any other protective gear that is needed to safely recondition the NiCad battery.
Preparation
- Gather the necessary tools. Make sure to have a voltmeter, a set of pliers, a flat head screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable spanner, and a soldering iron.
- Disassemble the battery. Use the flathead screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws, then carefully separate the battery’s casing.
- Check the voltage. Use the voltmeter to check the current charge of the battery.
- Check the battery cells. Inspect the cells for any physical damage, corrosion, or dirt.
- Clean the terminals. Use the adjustable spanner to unscrew and remove the battery terminals and clean them with the pliers.
- Reassemble the battery. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to reassemble the battery, making sure to tighten the screws securely.
- Test the battery. Reinstall the battery in the drill, turn it on, and test the battery to make sure it’s working properly.
Steps To Recondition NiCad Drill Batteries
Disassembling the Drill Battery
First, unscrew the screws that hold the battery together. Once the screws are removed, the top of the battery will come off and you will be able to access the terminals and cells.
Cleaning the Battery Contacts
Using a soft cloth, wipe away any dirt or surface corrosion on the contacts. This will ensure that the current will flow freely between the cells and terminals when the battery is reassembled.
Reconditioning the NiCad Cells
To recondition the NiCad cells, you will need to connect them to an NiCad battery reconditioner. This device will apply a small current to the cells to bring them back to their full capacity. Follow the instructions that come with the reconditioner to ensure it is used correctly.
Reassembling the Battery
Once the cells have been reconditioned, reassemble the battery in the reverse order. Make sure the terminals and cells are clean before putting the battery back together. Tighten the screws securely.
Steps To Restore NiCad Drill Batteries
Disassembling the Battery
Start by unscrewing the battery pack and removing the cells. Make sure to take note of the polarity of the cells to ensure the proper placement when reassembling.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Battery
Once the cells are removed, inspect them for any damage such as cracks or corrosion. If any of the cells are damaged, they must be replaced. If there is visible corrosion, use a soft brush and a mixture of baking soda and water to carefully scrub away the corrosion.
Recharging the Battery
Place the cells back in the battery pack, making sure the polarity is correct. Place the battery pack in a charger to recharge the cells. Make sure to follow the charger’s instructions and be sure not to overcharge the cells.
Reassembling the Battery
Once the cells are fully charged, reassemble the battery pack, making sure the polarity is correct. Tighten the screws to ensure the battery pack is secure.
Troubleshooting
If your drill battery is not functioning properly, the first thing you should do is to check the terminals. Make sure that the terminals are not corroded or damaged in any way. If they are, clean them with a wire brush or sandpaper.
If the terminals are in good condition, check the battery’s charge level. Make sure that the battery is fully charged and that the charger is working correctly. If not, try a different charger or replace the battery.
If the charger and terminals are in good condition, you may need to replace the cells inside the battery. This can be done by purchasing new cells and installing them in the battery. Make sure to ensure that the cells are compatible with your drill’s battery.
If all else fails, you may need to replace the entire battery. This can be done by taking the battery to a professional battery reconditioner or by purchasing a new battery. Ensure that the new battery is compatible with your drill and follow the instructions on how to install it correctly.
Safety Precautions
It is important to take safety precautions when reconditioning drill batteries.
- Always wear safety glasses, gloves and a mask when handling batteries.
- Ensure that the area is well ventilated.
- Do not smoke while working with batteries.
- Do not place batteries near a heat source.
- Do not short circuit the battery.
- Do not overcharge the battery.
- Do not dispose of the battery in fire.
- Always use an appropriate charger for the battery.
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to recondition the battery.
| Safety Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Safety glasses | To protect the eyes during any chemical handling. |
| Gloves | To protect the hands from the chemicals used. |
| Mask | To protect the lungs from the fumes of the chemicals. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Tools Do I Need To Recondition My Drill Battery?
For reconditioning your drill battery, you will need the following tools:
- Multimeter: This tool helps you measure the voltage of your battery. It is important to check the voltage before and after the reconditioning process to ensure that the battery is functioning properly.
- Soldering Iron: This tool is used to connect the positive and negative terminals of the battery to the charger. This is necessary to ensure that the battery is connected properly and will not be damaged during the reconditioning process.
- Screwdriver: This tool is necessary to remove the casing of the battery, which will allow you to access the cells inside. The screws are usually small and require a small, precise screwdriver.
- Safety Goggles: This is an essential safety precaution, as you will be handling potentially dangerous chemicals while reconditioning the battery.
- Cleaning Solution: This is used to clean the battery cells and terminals, as buildup can cause the battery to malfunction.
It is important to use the proper tools to ensure that the reconditioning process is done safely and correctly.
Is it necessary to completely discharge the battery before reconditioning?
Yes, it is necessary to completely discharge the battery before reconditioning. This is to ensure that all the cells in the battery are equally charged and ready to be reconditioned. Here are the steps to do so:
- Put the battery in a discharge mode. This can be done by connecting it to a low voltage DC load.
- Allow the battery to discharge completely. This can take anywhere from a few hours to several days depending on the battery.
- Once the battery is discharged, disconnect it from the load and remove it from the discharge mode.
Discharging the battery completely before reconditioning helps to ensure that all the cells are equally charged and ready to accept the reconditioning process. If the battery is not discharged completely, it could result in the battery not reconditioning properly or not holding a charge.
How often should I recondition my drill battery?
Reconditioning your drill battery should be done when it fails to hold a charge or when it starts to take more time to charge than it used to. This should be done every few months or when the battery is showing signs of wear and tear. Keep in mind that reconditioning a battery will not restore it to its original capacity, so it should be done regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when reconditioning my drill battery?
Yes. When reconditioning your drill battery, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always wear safety goggles and protective gloves when handling the battery.
- Do not attempt to open the battery as it may contain hazardous materials.
- Be careful not to get any water or other liquids on the battery as it can cause a short circuit.
- Ensure that the area you are working in is well-ventilated.
- Never leave the battery unattended while it is charging.
- Use the correct charger for the battery type.
- Never attempt to recondition a damaged or leaking battery.
Following these safety precautions will ensure that you and those around you stay safe while reconditioning your drill battery.
Can I recondition a NiCad or NiMH Battery?
Yes, you can recondition a NiCad or NiMH battery. Here are the steps to do so:
- Check the battery for any physical damage.
- Clean the battery contacts with a soft cloth.
- Charge the battery with a slow charger.
- Monitor the charging process until the battery is fully charged.
- Discharge the battery until it is completely empty.
- Repeat the above steps until the battery has been fully reconditioned.
It is important to note that reconditioning a NiCad or NiMH battery can be time-consuming, but it is worth the effort. This process can help restore the battery’s performance as well as prolong its life.
Conclusion
Reconditioning a drill battery can help extend its life and save money. This guide offers step-by-step instructions on how to properly recondition your drill battery. With the right tools and safety precautions, you can successfully recondition your drill battery for optimal performance.
