pendennis

It looks like one of the batteries for my Dewalt 18v drill has started the dying process. Leaving it in the charger has failed to bring it up to full power compared to the other battery. Assumption is that one, or more of the sub "C" cells has now collapsed, so I'm going to replace it. The battery is listed as a DC9099 for the XRP tools.

As you can imagine, replacement cell costs are all over the place, from a low of around $16, to well into the $90 category. I'm handy enough to replace the cells myself, but the kits are around $60. Even Amazon doesn't have any in stock. Rather than do this, it seems like replacing the entire pack is the way to go.

eBay has these some made in the USA. However, capacity runs from a rated 1.7 Ah, to over 4.0 Ah.

Has anyone used the non-DeWalt replacements? If so, how are your experiences? And what about NiMH in lieu of NiCad?

Jwshelton Loc: Denver,CO

Help me understand the relationship to photography? What am I missing?

pendennis

This is Chit Chat - Nonphotography subjects.

John_F Loc: Minneapolis, MN

Wikipedia has clarifying articles on both types of batteries as well as on Li-ion. These will help you decide.

Manglesphoto Loc: 70 miles south of St.Louis

Dennis, last price I saw at Home Depot on your battery was just a bit over $120 for 2
Or you could have yours rebuilt at Batteries Plus. I have had some rebuilt for an older power screwdriver they work well but not quite as good as OEM.

pendennis

I've read Wikipedia and their articles, also a number of journals, and I have experience with both types in the same application. I'm looking for some practical, real world experience by users.

usken65

I find it’s best to buy a new drill. 1 you get new batteries. 2 a new drill. 3 a new charger. Rural king has the 20v dewalt for 129.99

Scruples Loc: Brooklyn, New York

I have several power tools purchased over the years. Of all the tools that I value deeply are those made by DeWalt and its subcompany, Porter Cable. I have yet to buy a battery other than that of original manufacturer batteries. Yes they are more expensive than other brands that would fit the same tool. This is because I don't wish a battery calamity that would ruin a good drill, saw or even an inspection camera.

Bite The Bullet! Recycle the old one and buy new batteries. You'll be glad you did.

John_F Loc: Minneapolis, MN

Learning others practical experience is a laudable goal, but knowing the tech specs going in can help.

chrissybabe Loc: New Zealand

I have replaced several NiCd with NiMH. They last longer, have more power per charge. Not with DeWalt though but manf shouldn't make any difference. I currently have an 18V B&D pole saw running off a Makita battery via an adapter. And a Milwaukee wrench running off a Makita LiIon same as the B&D. Adapters are great. They mean you can standardize on one manf of tools but use the same batteries with several different models - but you must understand that manfs DO NOT like you doing this because they would prefer you get locked into THEIR battery system. Power tool battery systems are the new printer ink.
If you do replace the NiCd with NiMh you just need to be aware that some manfs seriously compromised their chargers by making them underpowered so you do need to keep an eye on chargers eventually burning out. But never fear - there will be plenty of people selling chargers because they have changed brands.
You also need to watch out buying replacement kits with 2 batteries because often the batteries are really low capacity so what initially like a good deal really isn't.

HamB

I've had good luck with batteries purchased on Ebay.
As long as the type, ie. NICAD is the same and capacity is close there will be no issues.

These non-OEM batteries might not last as long as the Mfs. battery, but you can buy a box of Ebay batteries for the cost of one Dewalt battery.

Plieku69 Loc: The Gopher State, south end

I am enjoying this conversation. I have 2 Dewalt drills. It seems they changed the battery design with each new model. Both now have batteries that are no longer available, though the drills last for ever.
I tried batteries +bulbs only to be told the cases cannot be closed once they are pried open. I am reluctant to pitch the drills, wishing to keep using them.
Ebay batteries? Do I trust them?

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

02Nomad Loc: Catonsville, MD

Check out Ridgid, one was just for sale at Home Depot for $69. It included one battery and the charger. The reason that I'm recommending this is because Ridgid's batteries are warranted for life after you register the drill with them.

geezer76 Loc: Prineville, Oregon