Milwaukee 18V Batteries

[dzl_x_4x4]

Anyone using the Milwaukee cordless 18V batteries? I use mine 1 time a month and I am on the 3rd battery in 3 years. These do not last anything like my Makita did. It appears that something must short inside, because I can measure across the terminals and get 0 Volts. Has anyone seen a fix or a DIY article on repairing these?

I seen that kbud14 posted some re-call information, thanks Kbud14. I am hoping that mine are re-called otherwise these batteries are $60-$70 for the battery alone.

 

[patrickc]

I don't have any Milwaukee cordless tools but I have had the same problem with dewalt 18V batteries. I have been through 4 batteries in 12 months. I am beginning to wonder if it has something to do with how long they they sit on the shelf at the retail stores.

 

[RoyBoy]

Milwaukee's new V18 batteries are a whole lot better than the older ones, lighter, last longer, etc. Not cheap but worth it. Milwaukee even had a trade in program on your old batteries for a while, it was a really good upgrade deal. I dunno if it's still running or not...

 

[Ken1]

The batteries question, do you always have batteries on charge? Or do you only recharge before you need tool?
I think if always on charge you shorten battery life. I found this out with another tool.
Just my 2 cents

 

[powerboatr]

its not just milwaulkee batteries
my ryobi 18v are doing the same thing
seems the old style gray/black bottom ones last longer than the new yellow topped ones
for some reason if they sit for a day fully charged they will only last a few minutes in the drill under high load

i know i havent hit the 1k charges yet on the yellows but i have gone over it on the old ones


it helped some if i take the flashlight and leave it one till the battery is dead dead and then recharge it, it seems to make em last a bit longer for a few charge cycles

 

[DaveBen]

These batteries will form a short between the cells and ground. The cure is to take 4 times the battery voltage and put it + to + and - to - and this will burn out the short. No guaranty this will work.

Dave