Having a cordless drill that refuses to cooperate can throw a wrench into any DIY or professional project.
Whether it’s a dead battery, a faulty switch, or a worn-out gearbox, encountering issues with your cordless drill is a common frustration.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into some of the most common challenges that cause cordless drills to stop working and provide practical solutions to help you troubleshoot and get back to work in no time.
First Thing First:
Early Issue: If you’ve recently purchased your Challenge cordless drill and encounter operational problems, the issue might lie with user error.
Consult the user manual to troubleshoot any potential issues. Alternatively, if the drill is covered by a refund policy and it’s not functioning correctly, consider returning it within the 30-day return guarantee period offered by Challenge.
If the timeframe for a refund has elapsed, explore the option of claiming warranty coverage if applicable.
Lifespan: The Challenge cordless drill typically lasts between 8 to 15 months, depending on its price tag, with a usage of 26 hours per week. If your drill has been used for this duration, it’s advisable to invest in a new drill machine.
Challenge Cordless Drill Not Working
Trigger Testing
When troubleshooting a cordless drill that’s not working, the first thing to check is the trigger. A faulty trigger can often be the culprit behind a malfunctioning drill.
To test the trigger, you’ll need a multimeter. Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
Disconnect the battery from the drill. Then, disconnect the wires connected to the trigger switch.
Place the multimeter probes on the two terminals of the trigger switch. Squeeze the trigger and observe the multimeter reading.
You should see a change in resistance when the trigger is squeezed. If there’s no change, the trigger switch may be faulty and needs to be replaced.
While testing the trigger, also visually inspect the trigger mechanism for any signs of damage or wear. Sometimes, the trigger can get jammed or stuck, preventing it from functioning properly.
If the trigger switch is found to be faulty, you’ll need to replace it. You can usually find replacement trigger switches online or at hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing the trigger switch.
After replacing the trigger switch, reassemble the drill and test it again to see if the issue has been resolved.
Inspect the carbon brushes
If a cordless drill is not functioning properly, one possible solution is to check the condition of the carbon brushes.
These brushes, made of carbon blocks, play a crucial role in transferring electrical current from the power source to the motor of the tool. As they are used over time, these brushes can wear down, leading to a decrease in the drill’s power and performance.
Moreover, if the brushes become too short to make proper contact with the commutator, which is the rotating copper component at the rear of the motor, the drill may fail to operate.
This issue of shortened brushes is particularly common in older tools that are frequently used. It’s essential to thoroughly inspect the brushes for any signs of wear or damage. If wear is evident, it is recommended to replace them with compatible brush sets, such as those offered by challenge
Inspect the Armature:
When troubleshooting a cordless drill that isn’t working, another solution to consider is inspecting the armature. The armature is a key component of the drill’s motor system. If the armature is damaged or worn out, it can lead to issues such as loss of power or erratic operation. Here’s how to inspect the armature:
Begin by visually inspecting the armature for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or worn-out insulation. Use a flashlight if necessary to get a clear view of the armature.
Look for any debris or foreign objects that may be lodged between the armature’s coils. Even small particles can cause the armature to malfunction. If the armature is dirty, carefully clean it using a soft brush and compressed air. Be gentle to avoid causing further damage.
Additionally, Manually rotate the armature to check for smooth movement. If it feels rough or there is resistance, it could indicate a problem with the bearings or other components.
If any damage or issues are detected during the inspection, it may be necessary to replace the armature. Contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service for assistance.
Check the Battery
If your cordless drill is not working, one of the common solutions is to check the battery.
First, ensure that the battery is properly inserted into the drill and that it is fully charged.
Sometimes, a loose connection or insufficient charge can cause the drill to malfunction.
If the battery seems to be properly connected and charged, try cleaning the battery terminals and contacts to remove any dirt or corrosion that may be interfering with the connection.
If the battery still doesn’t seem to be the issue, Check the battery voltage. A fully charged good battery should read at least the listed voltage, typically 9V or 12V. If the battery voltage is low, it may need to be recharged or replaced.
As an alternative to troubleshooting, we recommend replacing an old 12V power wheels battery with a higher capacity 20V cordless drill battery. This switch can help address potential battery issues that may persist even after troubleshooting.
Check the Switch
If a cordless drill is not working, one potential issue could be with the switch. A malfunctioning switch may hinder the drill’s ability to power on or off properly.
The switch on a cordless drill controls the direction of rotation (forward/reverse) and can also lock the drill in place.
If the switch is not working properly, it could prevent the drill motor from running.
To troubleshoot the switch, first check that it is moving freely and making good contact.
If the switch wires have become loose or disconnected from the circuit board, this can cause the drill to stop working. In some cases, the switch may need to be repaired or replaced if it is faulty.
Inspect the Gearbox
If your cordless drill is not working, another solution is to inspect the gearbox. Check for any signs of damage, wear, or debris that may be affecting its functionality.
Ensure that the gearbox is properly lubricated and that all components are securely in place. If you notice any issues, such as broken gears or excessive wear, they may need to be replaced or repaired.
Cleaning the gearbox and ensuring proper maintenance can also help to prevent future issues and keep your cordless drill running smoothly.
Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts
If your cordless drill is not functioning properly, another solution to consider is cleaning and lubricating its moving parts.
Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on various components, hindering their movement and causing the drill to operate inefficiently or not at all.
Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any visible dirt or grime from the moving parts, including gears, bearings, and shafts. Then, apply a small amount of lubricant to these components to ensure smooth operation.
Be sure to use a high-quality lithium-based grease or oil specifically designed for power tools to avoid causing damage. This simple maintenance step can often resolve issues with a cordless drill and help prolong its lifespan.
Contact Customer Support
If your cordless drill is still not working despite trying the previous solutions, consider contacting customer support for assistance.
They can provide guidance tailored to your specific issue and may offer additional troubleshooting steps or arrange for repairs if necessary.
Make sure to have your drill’s model number and any relevant warranty information handy when reaching out to customer support for a smoother experience.
Conclusion:
Dealing with a non-functioning cordless drill can be a setback, but with the right troubleshooting techniques, you can often solve the problem and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
By following the tips and solutions discussed in this post, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any challenges that arise with your cordless drill and keep your projects running smoothly.
