Do you need to attach a new bit to your Dewalt drill? This can be an issue if you don't know how to replace drill bits. That's why we've come to your rescue. We researched this topic to create the guide below for quick and easy Dewalt drill bit replacement.
To change a Dewalt drill bit, loosen the chuck to remove the attached bit and insert the new drill bit. The process will differ depending on the type of drill you have. These can include:
- Dewalt drill with keyless chuck
- Dewalt drill with a keyed chuck
- Dewalt impact drill
Read on to get the details on this process. We've also included information on what to do if your bit gets stuck and other related topics.
Guide To Replacing A Dewalt Drill Bit
Changing drill bits can be challenging for someone who isn't familiar with a Dewalt drill.
You should learn the main parts of the tool so you can change the bits. Two of the main parts are the jaws and the chuck. The jaws hold a bit in place while the chuck surrounds and controls the jaws.
You should loosen the chuck so that the jaws open up, and you can remove the current drill bit for replacement. You can then attach the bit you want to use. The various types of Dewalt drills have different mechanisms to loosen the chuck.
Dewalt Drill With A Keyless Chuck
Usually, cordless drills have keyless chucks. This drill makes changing bits easy because you don't need another tool to loosen its chuck. Here's how to replace its bit:
- Pick up your Dewalt drill, placing one hand on its grip and the other on its chuck.
- Near the trigger, you'll see a direction selector. Push this to the right to loosen the chuck. While doing this, point the trigger upward because the bit may fall out if you don't.
- While gripping the chuck, squeeze your drill's trigger. You will then feel the chuck twisting in your hand, and the jaws will release the drill bit as it does this.
- Take your hand off the trigger, and push the selector to the middle position. Then remove your drill bit.
- Attach the bit you want to use in the jaws while firmly gripping the chuck because it may fall out if you don't. Then, lock your selector securely to the left. Squeeze the trigger a few times for the jaws to tighten and hold the bit.
- To ensure that the jaws tightly hold your bit, twist the chuck by hand.
Dewalt Drill With A Keyed Chuck
You need a tool called a key to remove a bit from this type of drill. Corded drills typically have keyed chucks, so unplug the cord before starting. Then follow these steps for bit replacement:
- Insert the drill's key into one of the chuck holes. Then twist the key counterclockwise.
- The chuck will then spin. Once this happens, you can remove the key from the chuck. Then point your drill upward and twist the chuck with your hand.
- Attach the bit you'll use to the jaws and twist the chuck. If your bit can't fit because it's too large, try loosening the chuck by hand. If you're using a smaller drill bit, tighten the chuck.
- Insert your key into the chuck hole and twist it clockwise to ensure the jaws clamp the bit tightly.
Dewalt Impact Drill
A Dewalt impact drill has a quick-release mechanism for its chuck that makes it easy to use. To change bits with this chuck mechanism, follow these steps:
- Hold the chuck and grip its base with your thumb and forefinger. Then pull it away.
- Repeat the previous step if your bit still needs to be removed along with your chuck. But this time, make sure to hold the bit with the chuck and simultaneously pull them forward.
- Put in the drill bit that you want to use. While doing this step, point the drill upward because the bit may not be attached tightly to the chuck.
- Grip the chuck and pull it forward without holding the bit. Doing this will allow the bit to drop to the jaws. You can also push the bit while gripping the chuck to ensure that the bit is held in place. Then remove your grip from the chuck. Try pulling the bit to test if it is secure.
How To Deal With A Stuck Drill Bit
When a bit gets stuck in the drill or in the material you're working with, it can become a problem. Here's a guide on what you should do if you encounter this problem:
Bit Stuck In Drill
A bit can easily get stuck in a drill, especially if your tool is old or if the chuck is clogged. There are different ways to address this issue, which include:
- Lubrication: Your drill bit may need oil, so spray a small quantity between the jaws and the bit. Then let the lubricating oil soak in before testing if the bit works or can be removed.
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- Use a small hammer: Lightly tap the metal end of the chuck. Then see if the bit is still stuck.
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- Use a wrench: If your drill has a plastic chuck, it's better to use a wrench so you don't damage the tool. Grab the end of the chuck with the wrench and try to remove the bit.
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Bit Stuck In Wood
While drilling wood, your bit may become stuck if you hit a knot. You can fix this by following these steps:
- Put the drill in reverse by pushing the rotation button in from the left.
- Remove the bit from the chuck and insert a larger one. Then, on the opposite side of the material, drill from where the stuck bit is. When you see the stuck bit from the opposite side, hit it with a hammer to remove it from the other side of the wood. Note that this method may damage the wood.
- With pliers, remove the bit from the wood by twisting it in a counterclockwise direction.
Bit Stuck In Drywall With Studs
Drill bits don't usually get stuck in drywall. But if you hit a stud, this issue may occur. You can't use the same methods you tried with a bit stuck in wood if the drill bit is in a stud, as the bit could break.
Instead, release the bit from the chuck. Then use pliers or a vice grip to remove the stuck bit, twisting it in a counterclockwise direction.
Can You Use Any Bit With A Dewalt Drill?
You can use other brands of bits with a Dewalt drill as long as they fit tightly in its chuck. Note that there are different drill types, so be sure the bit is suitable for your tool.
To be sure, try using Dewalt-approved bits, which are made from high-quality materials.
How Do You Know What Drill Bit Size To Use?
To know which drill bit size you need, compare it with the screw you'll be using for your project.
The drill bit and the screw should match in size. Through this method, you'll ensure that the head of the screw will penetrate the surface of your material enough after you drill holes in it.
In Closing
There are different ways to replace a drill bit depending on what kind of drill you'll use: a keyless chuck drill, a keyed chuck drill, or an impact chuck. The most significant difference in replacing a bit with each drill type is how you'll remove their chuck.
You can manually remove a keyless chuck, while you need to insert a key to remove a keyed chuck. Impact drills have a "quick release" mechanism, so you can easily pull away its chuck along with the bit.
Generally, to change a bit, you should remove the drill's chuck, remove the bit, then insert the new one.
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