Replacing an 8 yr old C12 drill

[Cincinnati]

My C12 NiCads are failing after 7+ years of use.  I got a price of $186+ Shipping for replacement batteries on a drill that no longer has spare parts availablity. It has only had light use, but I'm thinking of getting a replacement drill with the new Airstream batteries that come out next week. I'm mostly a diy'er.  I have several chucks with my C12. I'm considering the CSX vs the C18. I'm looking for opinions and info on these two options. 

 

[fignewton]

I bought a used C12 with attachments, and later a CXS.  I like both of them.  I realize you're asking for a comparison of the CXS and the 18V, but I find that I'd replace the batteries on the C12 for my use because I like it so much.  It's stronger and smoother than the CXS, but it is also a little bigger. Depending on the job, I use the C12 more often still.  There have been times when I've used the offset head to get close to ceilings or other 90 degree surfaces and for these applications it's superb.  Many times, having both at hand for a task with different bits (pilot hole drill/phillips #2) saves time.  I even added a small LED I found at Lowes to the C12.  Just wish I could get a "conversion" insert to put the C12 in a T-loc systainer, as the original isn't compatible with all my T-locs. 

 

[TylerC]

If you're looking for something small and versatile, both the CXS and the TXS are good options. They're pretty much identical tools except for having different grips. They're lightweight (1.98 lbs) but still have a lot of power. which makes them good for a lot of different DIY projects. I've also attached a spread from the 2016 catalog that compares the specs for the CXS/TXS with C18.

 

[Cincinnati]

When was the C12 removed from production? It just occurred to me that spare parts are available 10 yrs after product retirement not 10 yrs after purchase.

I'm wondering how Festool handles spare parts? Do they manufacture a set number of replacement parts upon tool retirement, or do they make small manufacturing runs as needed for the 10 year period?

Does Festool scrap all parts inventory 10 yrs after tool model retirement?

If I decide to buy two more NiCad batteries, Is there any particular spare part set that may be failure prone or tend to wear out that I should have on hand to insure longer use?

 

[greg mann]

You can get them rebuilt for a relatively low cost. I have a C12 from their earliest intro and see no reason to replace it as long as I can rebuild the batteries.

 

[stvrowe]

If you like the drill, don't replace it.  Get your batteries rebuilt by Primecell

I had both my CDD12 batteries rebuilt years ago for around $80 and they are still going strong.  It sure beat paying Festools rediculous ~$146 for a single battery.

Steve

 

[Jim Metzger]

Ditto on Primecell, had 3 of the smallest amp hour C12 batteries rebuilt by them, great service. $33 per battery I think.

I have a C12 and a CSX, different uses, CSX gets more day to day use but wouldn't give up the C12 for increased power. If I had to have one, it would be the C12 for versatility.