How to convert nicad battery to lithium

Can You charge a lithium ion battery with a NiCad Charger?

You cannot charge a Lithium-ion battery with a NiCad charger. The battery, on the other hand, must be compatible with the tool. It’s essential to understand that the charger that comes with the NiCad battery will not work with the Lithium-ion battery.

Can you replace NiCad batteries with lithium batteries?

Replacing NiCad batteries with lithium batteries can be as simple as popping out the old ones and putting in the new ones or as complicated as having a battery pack custom made for the job, depending on the type of lithium battery and the application for which you use it.

Can I use a lithium battery converter for a Ni-Cad battery mount?

You can get Lithium battery converters for some Ni-Cad battery mounts. I've seen them for DeWalt and other brands. I think lithium batteries have circuitry in them to prevent fires so when they fail they tend to fail all at once. That's apparently a good thing.

Which lithium ion batteries will work with a NiCad tool?

The only lithium ion batteries that will work with that series tool are the v18 batteries and you’ll have the same problem with them as you have with the nicad batteries and it uses a different charger. I have to say that hasn't been my experience with the M18 batteries and tools.

How do I replace a NiCad battery?

The first step is to remove the defunct NiCad cells and clean up the contacts and the housing that transfer battery power to the drill. I soaked and scrubbed them in vinegar to dissolve acid and corrosion, then rinsed well to neutralize them. A test fit confirmed that little more need be done to incorporate the new battery into the build.

How do NiCad batteries work?

NiCad batteries are charged by applying a voltage to the cells. This causes an electrical current to be delivered to the battery, which in turn causes reactions within the cell which allow ions and electrons to move freely between their respective electrodes.