OT: Battery for Cordless Drills?

Look for a company called Interstate batteries which exists in the Northeast and I am sure there must be similar companies in the country. You send/bring them your battery pack and they rebuild it with new batteries.

I found them cheaper then Sears for replacing battery packs in cordless drills.

bernie feinerman

Also check your phone book for anyone who rebuilds batteries locally. A local shop rebuilt one of my Makita batteries at about 2/3 the price of a new one. Supposed to be longer life than factory batteries but time will tell.

RonB

bernie _________________________________________-

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Thank you both, Ron and Bernie, I'll have to check locally to see if there is anyone who rebuilds them. I much prefer dealing with local people even if it costs just a little bit more (just a little not a lot more).

Ruth

I had a battery pack rebuilt for a older 9.6v drill two years ago. It cost more than the 18v drill with two batteries I bought about 6 months ago.

I doubt I'll bother with rebuilding again.

Dave's point is well taken, Battery powered equipment is disposable when you can buy replacement tools with batteries and chargers for less than the cost of a new replacement battery pack. bernie feinerman

Ayup. New drill (Same one) with TWO NiMH batteries and charger 20 bucks over the price of one replacement NiCad. Time to watch for the bag sale at Menards.

Here is a site that might be of interest.

These people had a link to their auctions on eBay which reminded me I did find a few of the 12V slide on battery there. Guess they would be ok to buy, they say they're new. I don't buy on eBay so I'm just a little cautious.

Norv> >

I've had good luck with replacement (not rebuilt) batteries from these folks - they are not "factory brand name", but they fit correctly and work.

You do have to keep a harsh eye on the cost of new batteries as compared to the cost of new drills. It was worth it the last time I bought a couple, it probably won't be when that set dies, as the drill itself is wearing, and is not designed for economical repair...they do have your Skil battery in two sizes: TOOL-141 Skil: 92955 $31.95 each (1500mAh) TOOL-142 Skil: 92955 $40.95 each (2200mAh)

No dice on the HPB12 from them, as far as I can see.

I hate to say it because of the waste, but I have to agree with those who suggest paying a few dollars more and getting the newer technology. I needed a couple batteries for a 12V Ryobi drill, and found the cost in the $70-80 range range for two. I liked that drill and had a lot of good years out of it, but Good Grief $80? I found a 14V Panasaonic on sale at Amazon with two batteries, quick charger and much lighter weight for $75. I have no regrets. Tool is way lighter, charges quicker, holds the charge longer, good torque, and fits my hand better than the Ryobi did.