Will C15 batteries work on my old C12

[SPARKY FROM WINNIPEG]

So my NiCad C12 batteries are on there last leg and was thinking if they were compatible to just buy two C15 batteries and a new charger. Any Thoughts?

 

[peter halle]

Unfortunately as I understand you can't use higher voltage batteries on a lower powered tool.

Peter

 

[AlexThePalex]

Peter is correct. And to add to that, you can't use modern LiIon batteries in an older NiCd drill. The LiIon batteries need to be drained in a very controled manner and for that the drill needs to be fitted with a special electronic circuit, which the older drills lack.

 

[peter halle]

Thanks Alex.  In looking at the Festool USA website and the ekat I see that the currently available battery for the old C-12 is now a NiMH. If Shane don't pop in here you might want to take a minute next week to give Festool a call.

Peter

 

[Rick Christopherson]

To add to the above, Festool has actually made it so the wrong battery cannot be physically connected to the tool. Most people wouldn't even noticed the small ribs on the top of the batteries, or that they are different from one battery to another, but these ribs prevent the battery from being inserted into a tool not designed to handle it. This keyed system allows the batteries to be fairly universal for tools designed to use the whole range, but prevents a battery from damaging a tool that wasn't designed to accept it.

 

[peter halle]

Rick,

Is my memory correct that I could use my Nicad c-12 batteries (nicad) in my T-15+3 (original) that normally uses Lion in a pinch?

Peter

 

[promark747]

Rick,

Is my memory correct that I could use my Nicad c-12 batteries (nicad) in my T-15+3 (original) that normally uses Lion in a pinch?

Peter

Not positive, but I would imagine yes.  My old C12 NiCads work in my new Syslite, which is nice.

 

[Rick Christopherson]

Rick,

Is my memory correct that I could use my Nicad c-12 batteries (nicad) in my T-15+3 (original) that normally uses Lion in a pinch?

Peter

Yes Peter, you can. Any of the smaller batteries will fit into the larger tools. You may have a reduction in power or longevity, but they will get you by in a pinch. That even includes the Carvex, which the factory manual states as the opposite. That's what prompted me to look into the differences.

 

[SPARKY FROM WINNIPEG]

Looks like I will just buy the C15 kit then, at least I can still use the specialty chucks. Thanks everyone for your input.

 

[peter halle]

Thanks Rick!

Peter