FAQ - Cordless

Will Makita Lithium-Ion tools ever be compatible with Makita Ni-Cd or Ni-MH batteries?

No. Makita designed every aspect of the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion and 18V Compact Lithium-Ion line of tools to deliver four promises to the pro user: More Power, Less Weight, Better Fit and More Work. LXT and Compact tools are not just existing tools with a new Lithium-Ion battery; they are completely re-designed with the most advanced power tool Lithium-Ion battery and charging system available on the market. Makita designed and built the LXT tool platform from the ground up to complement the lightweight LXT and Compact battery platform.

If the rapid charger is flashing red - green is it definitely the battery or could it possibly be the charger?

Most likely the problem will be the battery in this scenario. You can go to www.makitatools.com to find a service center nearest you. Bring your battery and charger to a Makita Factory Service Center (FSC) or an Authorized Service Center (ASC) for diagnostic tests to pinpoint the issue.

Do you have to condition a brand new Makita Lithium-Ion battery before using it?

No. Makita recommends charging a brand new battery to a full charge before using it.

Can Makita Lithium-Ion batteries "over charge"?

No, Makita chargers are designed so that they will not overcharge a Lithium-Ion battery. For example, the DC18RA communicates with slide type Lithium-Ion batteries to detect its charge level. Upon reaching a full charge, the charger goes into a maintenance mode and actively monitors the battery's charge level to keep it fully charged.

Does my cordless metal cutting saw (model BCS550) require a special metal cutting blade?

Yes. The arbor size of the metal cutting saw is 5/8". Makita makes two replacement blades that fit the saw. A 30-tooth blade that comes with the purchase of the saw is part A-94518 and a 50-tooth blade is part A-94524.