7 Common Power Tool Replacement Parts

Written by: Franklyn Liriano

September 20, 2019

Power tools are an essential part of your workshop. Be it your workplace or your little recreation center in your garage, a workshop will have to have some of the basic power tools that are needed for multiple functions. These power tools, despite being extremely robust and powerful, undergo a lot of wear and tear as they are put to very heavy use. These are usually high-speed tools, and their parts tend to wear out and need replacement over time.

The most common power tools most people have in their possession are power drills, chainsaws, air compressors, angle grinders, belt sanders, and nail guns, among many others that are used for both professional and hobby activities. The best part about power tools is that you can use them for years on end if they are maintained well. Most of the moving parts in power tools are replaceable, and if you keep an eye on how the tool is functioning, you will easily detect when a part needs to be replaced.

There are some parts that wear out faster in a power tool and need to be replaced far more often than other moving parts. Here is a list of the seven most common power tool replacement parts:

Batteries

If you have been using cordless power tools, you already know how quickly batteries drain out. For most cordless tools, batteries are the part that needs to be replaced most often. Some tools may use disposable batteries, that are one-time-use batteries. Others use rechargeable batteries of different kinds. The rechargeable batteries can be reused by charging them either through charging ports on the tool itself or separate charging devices.

Despite being rechargeable, these batteries still have a life term of their own. With continuous use, even rechargeable batteries’ longevity is reduced. There are other factors that affect the life of batteries too; for instance, heat. Hot environments make batteries die down faster. Storing batteries in high heat conditions can cause the fuel cells to burn out. If the battery completely dies down, it cannot be recharged and has to be replaced.

Power Cords

Power tools, other than cordless ones, have power cords to connect them to the power source. These power cords are usually made to be very durable and long-lasting, having multiple layers of insulation and protection. They are flexible and strong. But on repeated use, these power cords do succumb to daily wear and tear. Over time, the insulation layers may get damaged and frayed. There are also chances of breakage of the wire inside the cord, in which case, it becomes useless.

Power cord damage must be taken very seriously as any kind of damage may lead to major accidents. Any damage to the power cord, cord protector, or prongs on the plug can be an electrical hazard and must be corrected immediately. Check your power cords regularly to find out if they need replacement.

Carbon Brushes

Carbon brushes are the electrical contacts that make the connection for the flow of current between stationary wires and moving parts of the power tool. These carbon brushes are usually made of graphite, which is a relatively soft material. Over a period of time, these carbon brushes tend to get worn out due to friction with the moving parts. As a result, they cannot make proper contact, and eventually, the power tool may stop working as the circuit does not complete.

Carbon brushes need to be replaced when you notice that your tool is running low or not starting properly. Worn-out carbon brushes may even cause sparks inside the tool. Replace them if you notice any of these signs.

Bearings

Bearings are what makes the movement of all rotary parts in your power tool easy and smooth. These bearings are generally made of metal, and despite being quite durable, over repeated use, the surfaces in contact tend to wear out or corrode. Bearings have to be maintained very well, with occasional greasing or oiling, to avoid rusting and corrosion. Always running your tool on very high speed, or using it for purposes it is not intended for, may cause faster deterioration.

At some point of time, though, bearings do need to be replaced. Running a power tool with worn out bearings will reduce its performance and efficiency. Worn out bearings may cause overheating or loud screeching noises in your tool.

Drive Belts

Many power tools use belts or chains for power transmission. These belts transmit power from the motor to the moving parts of the tool. These belts are made of different materials, depending on their application. With continuous use, the belts tend to wear out as they are constantly experiencing tension and friction.

The material of the belt may get frayed, or there may be slacking off the belt. This may cause the power transmission to be inefficient. A worn-out belt must be replaced before it breaks away completely, to keep your power tool functioning.

Power Switch

The power switch is one of the essential parts of your power tool. A damaged power switch would mean that you can’t even start your tool. Power switches are a common part to be replaced quite frequently. Over time, the power switch may tend to burn out or wear out, making it difficult to use.

Any damage to the power switch can usually be easily checked by opening the outer casing of the tool. High heat may sometimes cause the power switch to burn down or melt. In such a case, the power switch must be immediately replaced.

Accessories

Accessories refer to the parts that are not built-in with the power tool. This includes the other parts like drill bits, cutting tools, blades, grinding wheels, and so on. These accessories can be considered as consumables, and they get worn out or blunted over time. These parts need frequent replacement as they are the main functional part of the power tool.