DIY Repair/Upgrade: 12v Power Drill Battery Replacement

Let’s replace the aging cells in this 12v drill, and get more life from it!

Why throw away a good drill because the batteries die? Meet my old Black and Decker 12v Matrix Lithium drill (BDCDMT112) that was nearly going to be sent off as e-waste. The cells are shot, and it doesn’t like to hold a charge, but otherwise works well. Before I toss this thing in the e-waste bin, why not try repairing it?

The battery pack reads: LB12 12v max (type 1) 13.2Wh.

Here’s a generic one I found online. same configuration

Note: We’re voiding warranties here. Batteries can catch fire or explode if they are mismatched to the original product. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, do not attempt. Good luck and God speed.

Also Note: I *could* just buy replacement battery packs, but where’s the fun in that? I want to see what I can do with what I have, and see what’s inside these things.

Wanna just get the replacement, instead? Here ya go: Powerextra 2500Mah 12-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Replacement Battery

The Original Cells / Investigation

Let’s see what we have. I was able to charge a pack up and it reads 12.47v, there’s clearly three lithium cells in the pack due to the shape (I’ve opened one for the cover…