"Oiling" a Makita hammer drill primarily refers to the crucial process of replacing its internal grease. This vital maintenance step ensures your tool operates efficiently, reduces wear, and significantly extends its lifespan.
Importance of Regular Lubrication
Hammer drills endure immense pressure and heat during operation, especially when chiseling or drilling into tough materials. The internal gears, bearings, and hammer mechanisms rely heavily on specialized grease to reduce friction, dissipate heat, and prevent premature wear. Over time, this grease can break down, lose its lubricating properties, and accumulate metallic particles, making regular replacement essential for maintaining peak performance and avoiding costly repairs.
Step-by-Step Grease Replacement for Your Makita Hammer Drill
Replacing the grease in your Makita hammer drill is a straightforward process that can be performed with a few specific tools.
Required Tools and Materials
| Item | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Makita Lock Nut Wrench 35 | Specialized wrench for crank cap removal | An optional accessory, but highly recommended for ease and safety. Check your model's specific requirements. |
| Fresh Grease | Approximately 90 g (3 oz) of specialized grease | Use genuine Makita hammer grease or an equivalent designed for impact mechanisms. |
| Clean Rags/Cloth | For wiping out old grease and cleaning | Essential for thorough removal of old lubricant. |
The Lubrication Process
Follow these steps carefully to ensure proper lubrication and extend the life of your Makita hammer drill:
- Prepare for Access:
- Before starting, always disconnect your hammer drill from its power source to prevent accidental startup.
- Carefully remove the crank cap (also known as the cylinder cap or gear housing cover). For many Makita models, this requires a specialized tool like the Makita lock nut wrench 35, which is an optional accessory. This wrench ensures proper grip and prevents damage to the cap.
- Position the Tool:
- Once the crank cap is removed, rest the hammer drill on a stable surface, such as a workbench or table. Crucially, position the tool with the bit end pointing upwards. This orientation allows gravity to help the old, broken-down grease collect inside the crank housing, making it much easier to access and remove.
- Remove Old Grease:
- Using a clean rag or cloth, thoroughly wipe out all the old, spent grease from inside the crank housing. Pay close attention to corners and crevices where old lubricant might accumulate. Ensure no metallic particles, dirt, or hardened grease residues remain, as these can accelerate wear on internal components.
- Apply Fresh Grease:
- Once the housing is clean, replace the old grease with a fresh supply. You will need approximately 90 grams (3 ounces) of new, appropriate grease for your Makita hammer drill. Evenly distribute the fresh grease throughout the crank housing, ensuring it covers the gears, piston, and other moving parts. Avoid overfilling, as this can create excessive pressure or lead to leakage.
- Reassemble:
- Carefully replace the crank cap, ensuring it is properly aligned and securely tightened. If using the lock nut wrench, apply appropriate torque as specified in your tool's manual.
Tips for Optimal Performance
- Use the Right Grease: Always use genuine Makita hammer grease or a high-quality alternative specifically designed for the high-impact environment of hammer drills. Using the wrong type of lubricant can lead to premature wear and tool failure.
- Frequency of Maintenance: Consult your Makita hammer drill's user manual for the recommended maintenance schedule. Generally, for hobbyists, this might be annually, while heavy professional users may need to check and replace grease every few months or after significant operational hours.
- Cleanliness is Key: Always work in a clean environment to prevent dust, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the delicate internal mechanisms of your hammer drill during the lubrication process.
- Listen to Your Tool: If you notice unusual noises, excessive heat, or decreased performance, it might be an indicator that your hammer drill needs immediate lubrication and inspection, regardless of the regular maintenance schedule.
