Returning one part of a large tool combo pack- what's the etiquette?

[BigguyZ]

OK, so I bought the Makita corldess drill combo pack, and I'm super thrillled with it. But the drill is acting up a bit already. I don't know if I overworked it or something, but while it works I smell a burning scent and sparks shoot out of it!

So I just need to exchange the drill in a $450 combo pack. Do I just bring the drill in, or the whole set? I don't have an issue with anything else.

Thanks,
Travis

[Cochese]

Usually they'll ask for the whole kit back and exchange the whole thing, but it could vary as to how cool the manager is. When in doubt, bring it all.

[sweensdv]

It also could depend on how long ago you bought the kit. Many times you're required to not return it to the retailer but take it to a Service Center for repair/service.

[BigguyZ]

It's been less than 30 days. I'd expect to be able to exchange it at the store.

[Cubsfan]

I'd just call the store and ask before you go in.

[woodturner]

I don't know if I overworked it or something, but while it works I smell a burning scent and sparks shoot out of it!

It's normal for new tools to smell and spark a bit, as the carbon brushes wear to fit the armature. Don't know if that is the case with your drill, just pointing out that it might be OK.

How much have you used it? Might take an hour or so of run time to "wear in".

[toolguy1000]

were it a ridgid, and it was LSA registered, i'd say keep it. since makitas have a defined warranty, i'd swap the old for a new one. buy a new one first, then take the old unit and return it with the receipt from the newly purhcased unit. the store RTVs the returned unit, so the possibly defective unit finds its way back to the manufacturer and the retailer is still whole. nip any potential problems in the bud.

[BigguyZ]

It's normal for new tools to smell and spark a bit, as the carbon brushes wear to fit the armature. Don't know if that is the case with your drill, just pointing out that it might be OK.

How much have you used it? Might take an hour or so of run time to "wear in".

Yeah, to be honest, I was using it with a 1-1/8" paddle bit. Worked fine, but I got to one joise and it kept stalling. I didn't keep it running when it stalled, but I think it overheated, as I saw smoke coming from it. It was very hot, and I was surprised it didn't have some thermal protection on it.

I don't think that using the bit was "abusing" the tool, but it was difficult for even my Rigid 1/2" corded drill... I switched to a hole saw, and used the Makita to finish the job. It still works, but smells, and I see the sparks- and not confined to the housing...

Maybe I'm being paranoid? But it's not a cheap drill to replace.