Craftsman Cordless Issues

[Paxamus]

Hey guys,
I have a ton of the 19.2V series that I have accumulated over the years and all of a sudden all of my chargers have gone to ****. I have tried new chargers and new batteries but they dont hold a charge for anything. Has anyone tried the new lithium batteries in theirs or should I just bite the bullet and go to Dewalt? any suggestions or similar issues?

Thanks
Paxamus

 

[Mickey O]

I've got the Ryobi version (Ryobi makes the Craftsman) and had the same battery issues, very annoying. I recently picked up lithium batteries and they work great, lighter, last longer and don't discharge as quickly when sitting unused. I think Craftsman just had some deals on the 19.2 volt lithium batteries. You'll also need a lithium charge if yours isn't one.

 

[bigbearcraig]

I have another brand, but after switching to lithium from nicad I would never go back. They last so much longer before needing recharging. If you have a whole series of 19.2V tools it will be expensive to replace them all with new ones. If they are in good condition and you're happy with the way they have performed in the past, you might just want to upgrade your charger and battery to lithium.

 

[Paxamus]

Thanks Guys just ordered a new lithium battery and charger

 

[rkevins]

Dad has a 19.2 set too when he found the drill and impact set on sale with 2 batt. and charger for about the same price as the batt and charger

 

[6-Speed]

I have never had any issues with the C3 lithium-ion batteries. I have both the compact and hi-capacity Li-Ion batteries.

 

[NC-Fordguy]

I've got the Ryobi version (Ryobi makes the Craftsman) and had the same battery issues, very annoying. I recently picked up lithium batteries and they work great, lighter, last longer and don't discharge as quickly when sitting unused. I think Craftsman just had some deals on the 19.2 volt lithium batteries. You'll also need a lithium charge if yours isn't one.

Actually TTI produces many craftsman power tools

They also make ryobi, ridged, milwaukee and some others

 

[FunkyfullWidth]

I've never had a problem with my cman 19.2 charger. I use my 1/2 drill ever day, standard nicad battery. i have 2 batteries. One new, one old. I find myself having to charge them somewhat more often then when new.

On a side note. Has anyone considered rebuilding these craftsman 19.2 drills. I have a few chordless tools that could probably use a set of brushes, but the sears site didn't seem to list them, only the motor.

 

[KinzeMech]

I haven't found a cordless tool with replaceable brushes. Fortunately, the entire replacement motor is usually pretty cheap.

 

[hammertime1]

Did craftsman fix the issue with their lithium 19.2s? I have set in nicad and my saw is worthless with the nicad. Drill and light are fine but there were a ton of complaints about the lithium ion and issues with em dying out right after warranty. I found enough complaints and even on the C forums to keep me away from the lithium. Guessin it was 2yrs when I passed on getting the ions
My wife bought me their newer lightweight set with driver, light and multipurpose on lithium. I was going to take it back since the big batteries were so badily reviewed and decided to give it a try. They have been working like a champ . I was hoping that meant tey got the 19.2 issues solved but never looked since I decided not to buy em