dancrane
Well-known member
I may be the last to ask, but is it possible and non-hazardous to power one premium tool brand with another brand's batteries?
Is it purely a question of matching the voltage and (somehow) connecting the terminals? I'm thinking of the ubiquitous 18v variety.
I had an idea that Li-ion batteries are chipped to work only with the same brand of tools, so it isn't a good idea. I know manufacturers want us to pick their brand and commit ourselves to getting their full range of kit on the basis that we already have their batteries...
...but since batteries of the same brand work just as well in light duties, as in grinding and sawing, I assume their output is flexible.
So are the plastic mouldings which prevent (for example) Bosch batteries fitting DeWalts, purely the brands' pursuit of loyalty?
I see there are converters available, but I haven't read much to recommend them, which isn't encouraging.
Has anybody tried it and succeeded? I've no doubt it instantly voids the warranty of battery and tool, but my kit is mostly old.
Before we go up the wrong creek, I'm definitely not asking (or wanting) to power cordless 18v tools from a boat's 12v supply.
Thanks!
Is it purely a question of matching the voltage and (somehow) connecting the terminals? I'm thinking of the ubiquitous 18v variety.
I had an idea that Li-ion batteries are chipped to work only with the same brand of tools, so it isn't a good idea. I know manufacturers want us to pick their brand and commit ourselves to getting their full range of kit on the basis that we already have their batteries...
...but since batteries of the same brand work just as well in light duties, as in grinding and sawing, I assume their output is flexible.
So are the plastic mouldings which prevent (for example) Bosch batteries fitting DeWalts, purely the brands' pursuit of loyalty?
I see there are converters available, but I haven't read much to recommend them, which isn't encouraging.
Has anybody tried it and succeeded? I've no doubt it instantly voids the warranty of battery and tool, but my kit is mostly old.
Before we go up the wrong creek, I'm definitely not asking (or wanting) to power cordless 18v tools from a boat's 12v supply.
Thanks!