The Milwaukee addiction thread! :)

[Odd-job]

Out of my fleet of 5 M18 9.0s, 4 might need to visit the Milwaukee warranty center soon beforethey start hitting the 5 year window with the first being bought somewhere in 2016. Milwaukee has been great to deal with overall on prior warranties. 9.0's seem to be the only batteries I have had issues with.

One over drained (completely my fault), one with a dead LED indicator (still seems to be functional, but painful not being able to tell its state of charge) and two that are now out of balance (three bars when fully charged). On the out of the balance ones should I crack open the cases and individually charge the out of balance cells or just cop out and send them in for warranty? Not sure how much I can extend their lives, but hate the fact that the warranty center might scrap perfectly decent battery packs if they hand me new ones. For these out of balance ones does anyone know if Milwaukee is replacing them with an equivalent 9.0, repairing them by individually charging the cells (which i can do) or replacing them with 8.0 HO's (ideally)?

 

[Rusty67]

I've heard they are replacing them with 9.0s, I haven't had to send my 9.0 in for anything.

 

[Odd-job]

I've heard they are replacing them with 9.0s, I haven't had to send my 9.0 in for anything.

Thanks. Was hoping the 9.0s were getting phased out sooner. The 8.0s handle the high demand stuff better and seem to have close enough run time.

 

[sayoda]

I've had a couple 9.0 replaced, they send out new 9.0 batteries... Not 8.0

 

[toolin' around]

Re: The Milwaukee addiction thread! [emoji4]

Looking for some pros and cons on M18 ROCKET Dual Power Tower Light. 2131.

Anyone have a good comparison of the m12 vs m18 rocket light?

M18 looks too big for most of my uses.

I had been eyeing the M18 Rocket... (I was actually concerned that the M12 may be too small/shorter useful run time and not enough light for things like drywall and painting.) I was finding it hard to justify the M-18 at the price, then one day HD had a deal with a free 8.0 battery so I jumped at it...

Been using it in my man cave refit project plugged into the 120V and it's been great... awesome light output, light and easy to move around and adjust.

Took it camping this weekend... three other families joined us with RV's and set up pretty fancy cook out stations and all the mod cons, but their one issue was decent lighting... I grabbed the M-18 Rocket and set it up so they could cook for everyone, and it was an instant hit. Plenty of light on the lower setting, sits nice and high and disperses well, and it was on for maybe 4 hours and still going strong with 3 bars left. Two of the three were tradies who had other M-18 stuff and both were putting it on their list.

I like how smoothly the legs and extension operates... most of the light stands I've ever had were a nightmare to operate... the Rocket is silky smooth. Yes, it is a little bulky, but that makes it rock solid when fully extended!

No experience with the M-12 but highly recommend the M-18. (particularly if you can get it on a bundle deal.)

 

[CerberusM5]

Which is the better multi-purpose impact wrench for the DIY home garage mechanic?

- M12 Stubby 1/2" (#2555)

or

- M18 Compact Gen 3 (#2855)


I primarily do light duty under hood and brake maintenance and the rare suspension and exhaust upgrade. I am not invested in either M12 or M18 platform, with exception of a 1/4' M12 Hex impact driver (#2553) I use for basic maintenance, but want a more stout tool to pair with it.

I really like the Stubby's overall size due to the smaller M12 batteries. I doubt I would need more power, but wonder if I am missing out by not getting the M18 Compact.

The other question I have is 3/8" or 1/2" drive the better choice? I recently bought two sets of impact sockets (3/8" shallow and 1/2" deep) in anticipation of my decision.

Your opinions are appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[theoldwizard1]

Which is the better multi-purpose impact wrench for the DIY home garage mechanic?

- M12 Stubby 1/2" (#2555)

or

- M18 Compact Gen 3 (#2855)

I primarily do light duty under hood and brake maintenance and the rare suspension and exhaust upgrade.

M12 Stubby ! Unless you really want a 1/2" driver impact, I would recommend getting the M12 Stubby 3/8" (#2554). It has the same amount of power as the 1/2" model.

First, you will save a lot of money on sockets ! Sunex 3/8 Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set - Amazon $62 vs Sunex 1/2 Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set - Amazon $153 If you need axle nut sockets, but a 3/8" to 1/2" adapter. For tire changing, just buy the one socket you need if it is not in the set.

Second, you will save a lot of money on batteries. I do suggest you get an M12 XC 6.0Ah battery. That will make sure you have enough power to remove and re-install all of your lug nuts when doing a tire rotation.

If you are going to do a suspension/exhaust work and you don't think 250 lb-ft of torque is enough, buy a HF 1/2" breaker bar and a 1/2" to 3/8" impact adapter.

 

[Formula]

Anyone have the 1/2” Gen 2 mid torque 2962-20? I was thinking about replacing my Gen 1 with it. It’s slightly smaller and has a bit more power.

 

[Bighead38]

I have the stubby and love it but there’s no way that would be my first choice. Imo get the mid torque first and get the stubby later.

 

[dopod]

Which is the better multi-purpose impact wrench for the DIY home garage mechanic?

- M12 Stubby 1/2" (#2555)

or

- M18 Compact Gen 3 (#2855)


I primarily do light duty under hood and brake maintenance and the rare suspension and exhaust upgrade. I am not invested in either M12 or M18 platform, with exception of a 1/4' M12 Hex impact driver (#2553) I use for basic maintenance, but want a more stout tool to pair with it.

I really like the Stubby's overall size due to the smaller M12 batteries. I doubt I would need more power, but wonder if I am missing out by not getting the M18 Compact.

The other question I have is 3/8" or 1/2" drive the better choice? I recently bought two sets of impact sockets (3/8" shallow and 1/2" deep) in anticipation of my decision.

Your opinions are appreciated.

Thanks!

The M18 2855 impact would be the perfect companion for your existing m12 1/4" hex driver. Don't get me wrong the m12 stubby is great too, but you'll have a greater range of coverage with the m18 impact/m12 hex combo. Get a 1/4" square to 1/4" hex adapter for small fasteners.

 

[lanet2436]

Anyone have the 1/2” Gen 2 mid torque 2962-20? I was thinking about replacing my Gen 1 with it. It’s slightly smaller and has a bit more power.

I just got it, honestly it does everything i've asked of it from removing subframe bolts to taking crank pulley bolts off, kind of a small monster in its own right... the Hi-Torque now sits and collects dust... having said that the size and power combo is just perfect, I'm not sure if it'd be worth replacing a Gen 1 with it, but if you can off load it and upgrade for a decent amount I would!

 

[M635_Guy]

Which is the better multi-purpose impact wrench for the DIY home garage mechanic?

- M12 Stubby 1/2" (#2555)

or

- M18 Compact Gen 3 (#2855)


I primarily do light duty under hood and brake maintenance and the rare suspension and exhaust upgrade. I am not invested in either M12 or M18 platform, with exception of a 1/4' M12 Hex impact driver (#2553) I use for basic maintenance, but want a more stout tool to pair with it.

I really like the Stubby's overall size due to the smaller M12 batteries. I doubt I would need more power, but wonder if I am missing out by not getting the M18 Compact.

The other question I have is 3/8" or 1/2" drive the better choice? I recently bought two sets of impact sockets (3/8" shallow and 1/2" deep) in anticipation of my decision.

Your opinions are appreciated.

Thanks!

I have the stubby and love it but there’s no way that would be my first choice. Imo get the mid torque first and get the stubby later.

I'm pretty much here. The new Mid is really close in size and won't struggle with some of the things my Stubby does.

I'm cheating a bit here with the M18 3.0, but I'll definitely use it like that on a lot of occasions where I don't need to grump of the bigger battery and won't miss the weight...

A more-fair look (M12 Stubby - M18 Mid Gen2 - M18 Mid Gen1)

Still not bad for size, and it won't blink at 99% of what home-gamers will face.

Anyone have the 1/2” Gen 2 mid torque 2962-20? I was thinking about replacing my Gen 1 with it. It’s slightly smaller and has a bit more power.

I did. And I need to sell my Gen 1 and 2767.

Everything is better - size (per pix above), the lights are great and the new auto-mode is fantastic. I didn't have any issues with power on the Gen 1, but nice to know a bit more is there.

I got a great deal on the Gen1, so I probably won't lose anything on it. The 2767 was a Black Friday deal, so I probably won't do bad on it either.

The Stubby and the Gen 2 are a dream team, but if I had to choose one, it would be then Gen2. While the Stubby does 80% of what I need it to, the other 20% would make the Gen 2 an easy choice for a single-tool solution.

 

[Vicdog]

Note there is a fan and I could hear it running.... but quiet. Not too loud yet. Also 65 in my garage.

Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk

This TOP-OFF INVERTER has pretty ugly AC output. Mine shows 50 volts neutral to ground! Think it’s bad or are they all like this?

 

[Bighead38]

I see you mentioned auto mode. I meant to look that up when I opened my stubby the other day but I forgot. What exactly does it do?

 

[M635_Guy]

I see you mentioned auto mode. I meant to look that up when I opened my stubby the other day but I forgot. What exactly does it do?

Explanation:

Demo:

 

[Bighead38]

Explanation:

Demo:

Thanks.

 

[CerberusM5]

Thanks for all the feedback so far!

Lots of differing opinions which impact wrench is the best multipurpose tool.

 

[Bighead38]

Thanks for all the feedback so far!

Lots of differing opinions which impact wrench is the best multipurpose tool.

Mid torque all the way imo. I have the stubby and it just doesn’t have enough power for everything. The mid torque has taken off 97% of what I have tried.

 

[JettaGetUpandGo]

Mid torque all the way imo. I have the stubby and it just doesn’t have enough power for everything. The mid torque has taken off 97% of what I have tried.

My vote is also for the mid torque. I started with the high torque for primarily wheel bolts. It was heavy, but still more convenient than filling up the compressor and dragging out a hose. I bought the mid torque the first time I saw it on sale after it's release and haven't touched the high torque since.

About a year ago I bought the 3/8" stubby thinking it would be the new go-to for everything other than wheel bolts. I've hardly touched it. To be fair I haven't done much work that would require it. I seem to be able to do everything with the M12 Fuel 1/4" hex impact with a bit adapter or the Mid Torque.

 

[Crazyjake8493]

Has anyone used this light yet? I see a bunch of guys with them on Instagram but I assume they got theirs free from Milwaukee.

HomeDepot will undoubtedly take months to get it so I'll have to order it. Usually ToolNut has new tools first but their site says "available in 15-18 days" but I just noticed AcmeTools site says it will be available January 3rd.

I was hoping to wait for Depot to get it because I have some gift cards, but I could really use it for work and can't wait for them forever.

 

[CerberusM5]

My vote is also for the mid torque. I started with the high torque for primarily wheel bolts. It was heavy, but still more convenient than filling up the compressor and dragging out a hose. I bought the mid torque the first time I saw it on sale after it's release and haven't touched the high torque since.

About a year ago I bought the 3/8" stubby thinking it would be the new go-to for everything other than wheel bolts. I've hardly touched it. To be fair I haven't done much work that would require it. I seem to be able to do everything with the M12 Fuel 1/4" hex impact with a bit adapter or the Mid Torque.

Mid torque all the way imo. I have the stubby and it just doesn’t have enough power for everything. The mid torque has taken off 97% of what I have tried.

I've now taken the M12 Stubby off my list.

What type of car repair jobs will the M18 Compact Gen3 struggle with and require the extra grunt of a mid-torque? Is the M18 Compact essentially a Stubby utilizing an 18V battery? I read a review somewhere it performed way above its claimed rating. However, if it is just similar to the Stubby I probably will get the mid-torque.

I want to get the smallest form factor tool that is convenient to use, but don't want to limited by insufficient power.

I typically perform maintenance and light repairs/modification work on my small import sedans and hatchback.

Thanks again!

 

[Axis machine]

Has anyone used this light yet? I see a bunch of guys with them on Instagram but I assume they got theirs free from Milwaukee.

HomeDepot will undoubtedly take months to get it so I'll have to order it. Usually ToolNut has new tools first but their site says "available in 15-18 days" but I just noticed AcmeTools site says it will be available January 3rd.

I was hoping to wait for Depot to get it because I have some gift cards, but I could really use it for work and can't wait for them forever.

I have it and its been great puts out a decent amount of light for its size mind you I'm normally using it under a sink or something but have used it a lot in ceilings with the magnet on the back I often just stick it onto sprinkler piping or steel studs if there. The magnets holds pretty good. Definitely need a 4.0 battery if you want to run it continuously for more then a couple hours. But a compact battery in it has a nicer weight to it and feel in the hand if your using it like a flashlight if that makes sense. Over all I'd recommend it. I use it daily and its been great i like that its small enough that it fits in my stuffed packout with all my hand tools.

 

[M635_Guy]

Has anyone used this light yet? I see a bunch of guys with them on Instagram but I assume they got theirs free from Milwaukee.

HomeDepot will undoubtedly take months to get it so I'll have to order it. Usually ToolNut has new tools first but their site says "available in 15-18 days" but I just noticed AcmeTools site says it will be available January 3rd.

I was hoping to wait for Depot to get it because I have some gift cards, but I could really use it for work and can't wait for them forever.

I have it and love it (I was on the pre-order from Acme). I wish the magnet was a bit stronger but I've already used it a ton. I guess I wouldn't have minded paying $49 for it vs. $59, but now having used it a half-dozen or more times, I'd totally but it again. Things I normally would have dragged my M18 Rover light out for have been served very well by the M12. Happy to recommend it.

 

[wxm]

I currently already own a 3/8" M12 stubby. Is there much point of getting M12 right angle impact in addition since both has very similar power? If so, which one you prefer between 3/8" and 1/2" version. (I have socket sets for both, but thinking 3/8" would give you better access in tight spot)

 

[Bighead38]

I've now taken the M12 Stubby off my list.

What type of car repair jobs will the M18 Compact Gen3 struggle with and require the extra grunt of a mid-torque? Is the M18 Compact essentially a Stubby utilizing an 18V battery? I read a review somewhere it performed way above its claimed rating. However, if it is just similar to the Stubby I probably will get the mid-torque.

I want to get the smallest form factor tool that is convenient to use, but don't want to limited by insufficient power.

I typically perform maintenance and light repairs/modification work on my small import sedans and hatchback.

Thanks again!

Just get the mid torque and be done.

 

[Sweetcorn]

Has anyone used this light yet? I see a bunch of guys with them on Instagram but I assume they got theirs free from Milwaukee.

HomeDepot will undoubtedly take months to get it so I'll have to order it. Usually ToolNut has new tools first but their site says "available in 15-18 days" but I just noticed AcmeTools site says it will be available January 3rd.

I was hoping to wait for Depot to get it because I have some gift cards, but I could really use it for work and can't wait for them forever.

I have that light and it's great. I did get mine from Home Depot, but I know they ran out of stock quickly.
I immediately put it to work once I got it and I'm impressed with how long it runs on a 4.0, even left on at the higher lumen output. The magnets are a little stronger than I expected, but the best part is sticking it to something and being able to swivel the head to direct light where you want it.
If it disappeared today, I'd buy another one tonight.

 

[Crazyjake8493]

I have that light and it's great. I did get mine from Home Depot, but I know they ran out of stock quickly.
I immediately put it to work once I got it and I'm impressed with how long it runs on a 4.0, even left on at the higher lumen output. The magnets are a little stronger than I expected, but the best part is sticking it to something and being able to swivel the head to direct light where you want it.
If it disappeared today, I'd buy another one tonight.

Our Depot stores around here take forever to get new tools. I would've thought their website would have it before the stores got it.

 

[Rusty67]

I currently already own a 3/8" M12 stubby. Is there much point of getting M12 right angle impact in addition since both has very similar power? If so, which one you prefer between 3/8" and 1/2" version. (I have socket sets for both, but thinking 3/8" would give you better access in tight spot)

I have both of the right angle M12 impact drives. I've only used the 3/8 once so far and it had less power than I had hoped it would. It took the bolt off I needed to remove but it took a WHILE to do it. I'm going to be using them a lot more extensively in the next month or two when I do an engine R&R on my car so I'll have a better opinion on them later but right now I'm not impressed with their nut busting torque. For smaller fasteners in spots too tight for a regular impact, they will do great.

 

[Sweetcorn]

Our Depot stores around here take forever to get new tools. I would've thought their website would have it before the stores got it.

I bought it online from Home Depot.

 

[Fix Until Broke]

I bought a conversion kit for the M12 3" Cut Off Tool and it has been one of my favorite purchases of all time. It fits the roll of an automatic file and makes quick work of when a file would of been needed. Also super nice when a part needs a burr knocked back. I thought it would be a tool I would use every once in a while and now it has been packed and used on every job as of late.

For those who are handy and like to build stuff - This guy made his own from a 4.5" grinder (Makita). Might be an inspiration for someone?

 

[GeoBruin]

For those who are handy and like to build stuff - This guy made his own from a 4.5" grinder (Makita). Might be an inspiration for someone?

Cool project. HF had the little air sander that is the basis of the original mod for $20 over the holidays. I'll convert one and keep the other one set up for air with a different grit on it. If I use them as much as I think I will, I would consider donating a grinder to the project.

 

[CerberusM5]

Just get the mid torque and be done.

Just purchased the mid-torque in 1/2".

Thanks for pushing me off the fence!

 

[Crazyjake8493]

I bought it online from Home Depot.

Are you in Canada? The US website hasn't had it in stock since they listed it.

 

[Sweetcorn]

Are you in Canada? The US website hasn't had it in stock since they listed it.

Nope, good ol' Ohio. I saw they had it listed in stock, ordered it, and it shipped from here in Ohio, like most of my Home Depot orders.

 

[Kaervak]

Are you in Canada? The US website hasn't had it in stock since they listed it.

Nope, good ol' Ohio. I saw they had it listed in stock, ordered it, and it shipped from here in Ohio, like most of my Home Depot orders.

Same here. The HD site had them in stock a couple weeks ago for maybe a day or two at best. I placed my order as soon as I saw they were available, had it two days later. For whatever reason HomeDepot seems to have a hard time getting stock while online only retailers aren't having the same issue.

 

[DerekV]

What type of car repair jobs will the M18 Compact Gen3 struggle with and require the extra grunt of a mid-torque?

99% of brake caliper bolts won’t budge, and 50% of wheel lugs will rattle longer than you want them to (i.e. wrong tool for the job).

Is the M18 Compact essentially a Stubby utilizing an 18V battery?

Basically, yes, with better lights and more battery options.

I want to get the smallest form factor tool that is convenient to use, but don't want to limited by insufficient power.

Gen 2 mid torque with a 2.0 battery. Other packs will provide a little more power but they are all bigger and heavier, even the new 3.0. The 2.0 is truly compact and really makes the new mid torque the Renaissance impact.

 

[DerekV]

Just get the mid torque and be done.

[emoji108]

 

[DerekV]

I currently already own a 3/8" M12 stubby. Is there much point of getting M12 right angle impact in addition since both has very similar power? If so, which one you prefer between 3/8" and 1/2" version. (I have socket sets for both, but thinking 3/8" would give you better access in tight spot)

No point, it’s a ******* tool. Too big and/or too weak for too many things.

The old brushed right angle impacts aren’t strong either but at least they’re actually compact. I use my M18 all of the time. It’s awesome on M8 fasteners (aka 13mm socket) and below. Lots of that stuff in an engine bay.

 

[Odd-job]

The Milwaukee addiction thread!

Rebalanced a 9.0 pack. So far so good. With 3 bars the two columns furthest away from the terminals were only at 3.6 volts which is apparently the optimal max discharge for lithium ion. Guessing the battery electronics were not letting those columns get discharged beyond 3.6v for self preservation purposes. Now at 4 bars and need to cycle a few times.

T10 tamper proof torx + T8 were needed to pop the case open. Wish I had shorter magnets to attach the alligator clips off the charger to, but made it work.

This has me thinking of trying to pop open the battery pack on the Dyson. Wondering if the weak battery is caused by unbalanced cells.

 

[dacan23]

Re: The Milwaukee addiction thread!

Use that charger for RC cars?

I just got a new battery from Dyson, amazing how my V7 battery crapped out in 18 months. I now dont always place it on the charging mount, think it causes the batteries to have a short life.

Rebalanced a 9.0 pack. So far so good. With 3 bars the two columns furthest away from the terminals were only at 3.6 volts which is apparently the optimal max discharge for lithium ion. Guessing the battery electronics were not letting those columns get discharged beyond 3.6v for self preservation purposes. Now at 4 bars and need to cycle a few times.

T10 tamper proof torx + T8 were needed to pop the case open. Wish I had shorter magnets to attach the alligator clips off the charger to, but made it work.

This has me thinking of trying to pop open the battery pack on the Dyson. Wondering if the weak battery is caused by unbalanced cells.