What To Know
- The drill is in forward mode if the arrow is pointing towards the front of the drill.
- If the drill is in reverse mode, flip the switch so that the arrow points towards the front.
- After flipping the switch, squeeze the trigger to verify that the drill is now rotating in the reverse direction.
It’s a common scenario: you’re in the middle of a project, and suddenly, you need to reverse the direction of your DeWalt drill. But how do you do it? Don’t worry; this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to put a DeWalt drill in reverse.
Step 1: Locate the Reverse Switch
The reverse switch is usually located on the top of the drill, near the trigger. It’s typically a small, two-position switch with an arrow pointing in either direction.
Step 2: Determine the Current Setting
Before flipping the switch, check the current setting. The drill is in forward mode if the arrow is pointing towards the front of the drill. If the arrow is pointing towards the back, the drill is in reverse mode.
Step 3: Flip the Switch
Once you’ve determined the current setting, simply flip the switch to the opposite position. If the drill is in forward mode, flip the switch so that the arrow points towards the back. If the drill is in reverse mode, flip the switch so that the arrow points towards the front.
Step 4: Verify the Reverse
After flipping the switch, squeeze the trigger to verify that the drill is now rotating in the reverse direction.
Additional Tips
- Check the drill’s manual: Different DeWalt drill models may have slight variations in the location or operation of the reverse switch. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions.
- Use the clutch setting: If the drill is stuck or binding, try using the clutch setting to reduce the torque and prevent damage.
- Safety first: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when operating power tools. Make sure the drill is unplugged before performing any maintenance or adjustments.
When to Use Reverse Mode
The reverse mode on a DeWalt drill is useful for various tasks, including:
- Removing screws or bolts: Reverse mode helps loosen and remove fasteners that are stuck or overtightened.
- Backing out drill bits: If a drill bit gets stuck in a material, reverse mode can help you extract it safely.
- Changing the chuck direction: Some DeWalt drills allow you to reverse the chuck direction, which can be useful for certain applications, such as driving screws into tight spaces.
Troubleshooting Reverse Mode Issues
If you’re experiencing problems with the reverse mode on your DeWalt drill, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Check the switch: Ensure the reverse switch is not damaged or loose.
- Clean the contacts: Over time, dirt or debris can accumulate on the switch contacts, causing poor electrical contact. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts.
- Inspect the motor: If the drill still doesn’t reverse after cleaning the contacts, the motor may be faulty. Contact DeWalt customer service for assistance.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Why is my DeWalt drill not reversing?
A1: Check the reverse switch, clean the switch contacts, or inspect the motor for any issues.
Q2: Can I use reverse mode to drive screws?
A2: Yes, you can use reverse mode to drive screws, but it’s not recommended for high-torque applications.
Q3: Is it safe to change the chuck direction on my DeWalt drill?
A3: Yes, it is safe to change the chuck direction on most DeWalt drills, but refer to the user manual for specific instructions.
Q4: How do I know if my DeWalt drill is in hammer mode?
A4: The hammer mode icon is typically located on the drill’s body or near the trigger. If the icon is illuminated or activated, the drill is in hammer mode.
Q5: What is the difference between a forward clutch and a reverse clutch?
A5: A forward clutch limits the torque when driving screws or fasteners, while a reverse clutch limits the torque when removing screws or fasteners.
