FAQ
TL;DR: Running a 110 V Makita drill directly on 230 V can boost copper loss by ~340 % and destroy the motor. “You need to rewind the engine” [Elektroda, Sołtys_Elbląga, #11906420]. Use a step-down transformer instead.
Why it matters: The right fix prevents instant burnout, Fire-class risks, and voided warranties.
Quick Facts
• Typical Makita 110 V site-drill power draw: 600–710 W [Makita Spec Sheet, 2020]
• Safe transformer size = ≥1.5× tool wattage; e.g., 1 kVA for 650 W drill [Schneider, 2021]
• 230→110 V site transformer cost: €35–€60 retail EU [Tool-Market Survey, 2023]
• Direct 230 V feed raises speed by ≈2× and heat by ≈3.4× [IEC 60034-1 formula]
• Rewinding armature & field costs €80–€120, often > new drill price [Motor-Shop Quote, 2023]
Can I flip the “110 V/230 V” marking on the trigger to change voltage?
No. The stamp refers only to the switch’s insulation rating; the motor is fixed 110 V [Elektroda, brofran, post #11906653]
What happens if I plug a 110 V drill into 230 V mains?
Current quadruples, speed doubles, and the armature overheats within seconds—often burning commutator bars [IEC 60034-1].
Is rewinding the motor worthwhile?
Rewinding costs €80–€120, while a new 230 V drill starts near €50, so it’s rarely economical [Motor-Shop Quote, 2023; Elektroda, jdubowski, #11906636].
What’s the safest budget fix?
Use a 230 V → 110 V isolated site transformer rated at least 1.5× the drill’s wattage [Elektroda, kierbedz4, post #11906657]
Which transformer rating should I pick for a 650 W drill?
Choose ≥1 kVA continuous rating; start-up current peaks near 2 kW for 0.2 s [Schneider, 2021].
Can I wire the transformer primary in series like the OP tried?
No. Series wiring leaves the secondary floating at mains potential, giving the motor the full 230 V [Elektroda, brofran, post #11911616]
Will a resistor or triac dimmer reduce voltage safely?
It cuts average voltage but also torque; stalling can fry the armature—edge-case failure seen in vacuum-cleaner dimmers [Elektroda, 1234, post #11906647]
How do I connect a site transformer correctly?
- Plug transformer primary into 230 V outlet.
- Verify 110 V at the yellow secondary socket with a meter.
- Plug drill into secondary. That’s all. (3-step snippet) [Elektroda, kierbedz4, post #11906657]
Are universal (AC/DC) motors more tolerant of over-voltage?
Universal motors tolerate ±10 %, not +110 %; brushes arc heavily and magnets overheat beyond that [IEEE Paper on Universal Motors, 2019].
Where can I buy a compliant transformer in the EU?
Look for EN 61558-2-23 marked “site transformer”; common brands: Defender, Ferve; prices €35–€60 [Tool-Market Survey, 2023].
What if I must run the drill briefly without a transformer?
Use none; even 30 s unloaded risks permanent damage. “Full power only by trafo” [Elektroda, 1234, post #11906821]
Can I turn the 110 V drill into variable-speed 230 V with electronics?
A custom buck converter works but costs more than buying a 230 V drill and requires EMC filtering [Texas Instruments App-Note, 2022].
