FAQ
TL;DR: Converting 12V NiCd screwdrivers to Li‑ion? "I propose to make the 4S1P package." Real‑world charge time: 1h20min at 1.9A, bottom cutoff 2.5V. This FAQ helps DIYers pick cells, BMS/balancer, and charging for reliable torque. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
Why it matters: Done right, your drill gains runtime and punch without tripping or cooking cells.
Quick Facts
- Voltage reality: 3S Li‑ion is 12.6V full; 4S is 16.8V; NiCd packs often present ~15V right off charge. [Elektroda, marian paszek, #17748656]
- Fitment: A Sparky 12V pack can hold 4×18650 plus a BMS, but tolerances are tight—plan the layout. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
- BMS strategy: Prefer a 4S board with balancer (e.g., CF‑4S30A‑A); bottom cutoff ~2.5V/cell; limit charge near 17.1V. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
- Charger: IMAX B6 supports balance‑charging; add a 3S/4S balance harness to use its balancer safely. [Elektroda, wojtek 9007, #17266045]
- Cells: Choose high‑current 18650s around 2000–2200mAh; add parallels (3S2P/3S3P) for runtime without sag. [Elektroda, marian paszek, #17739132]
3S vs 4S — whats best for a 12V screwdriver?
For consistent torque, go 4S1P. Under load, cells sit near 2.7–3.5V, so 3S drops under 12V. "With the 3S1P, it will be well below 12V." Builders have fit 4 cells and a BMS in tight 12V cases. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
Is 16.8V from a full 4S pack too high for a 12V tool?
A 4S pack is 16.8V full; 3S is 12.6V. Many 12V tools see about 15V right after NiCd charging. Use a bench supply and run at 16.8V for five minutes to confirm temperature and behavior. [Elektroda, marian paszek, #17748656]
Will 3 4 18650 20A cells run my 12V drill, or do I need six?
3S1P can work for light to moderate duty. Wire three cells in series on your BMS and test the screwdriver. If current draw or runtime disappoints, add parallel cells for 3S2P or 3S3P. [Elektroda, wojtek 9007, #17266045]
Which BMS should I pick for a 12V conversion?
Choose a BMS with a balancer and generous current headroom. A 30A 4S board, such as CF‑4S30A‑A, fits with four cells in many 12V packs. A ~2.5V/cell cutoff preserves cells and torque. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
Can the IMAX B6 balance‑charge my pack?
Yes. IMAX B6 supports balance charging; add the correct 3S or 4S balance lead harness. Connect the main leads and the balance plug for safe CC/CV charging. [Elektroda, wojtek 9007, #17266045]
What 18650 cells should I choose for power tools?
Use high‑current branded cells. Pick 2000–2200mAh types rated for heavy discharge, not just big mAh numbers. If space allows, build 3S2P or 3S3P to boost Ah and reduce per‑cell stress. [Elektroda, marian paszek, #17739132]
Will four 18650s fit in a Sparky 12V battery compartment?
Yes. The Sparky 12V case is tight, but four 18650s plus a BMS can fit with careful arrangement. Ensure insulation, strain relief, and service access. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
How long does charging take, and what voltages should I expect?
About 1h20min from empty at ~1.9A on a 4S1P pack. A suitable BMS cuts off near 2.5V/cell. Charging tops at 4.25–4.26V/cell, with the pack limited near 17.1V. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
My drill cuts off at startup after conversion. Why?
An under‑specced balancer/BMS can trip on startup surge and stop the tool. Upgrade to a stronger BMS or add parallel cells to reduce sag and nuisance cutoffs. [Elektroda, oliwek99, post #17676661]
Do BMS boards count cycles and force early replacement?
Typical DIY 4S protection boards do not count cycles. As one builder states, “THERE IS NO SYSTEM TO COUNT THE NUMBER OF CYCLES.” Focus on sound cutoff and balancing. [Elektroda, PPK, post #17752177]
Can I keep the original charger look and still charge Li‑ion safely?
Yes. Put a small ~40W supply in the original shell, then a CC‑CV step‑up/down module. Set ~1.9A and correct pack voltage, and keep the BMS in the battery. [Elektroda, perzan, post #17432953]
Is a 3S2P upgrade viable for older 9.6V tools?
Yes. A 9.6V tool runs well on 3S2P (12.6V full). One build has worked two years with strong starts, no overheating, and solid drilling performance. [Elektroda, marian paszek, #17739132]
How do I hook up a balance lead and test safely with IMAX B6?
Use the B6 with a proper 3S/4S balance harness. Then test under load.
- Wire cells in series and connect to your BMS.
- Attach the matching balance harness to the pack’s taps.
- Balance‑charge with IMAX B6 before load testing.
[Elektroda, wojtek 9007, #17266045]
Any safety gotchas with battery holders and wiring?
Avoid cheap dual‑18650 holders labeled series but wired parallel. Some use nickel‑plated steel wires that glow near 5A and melt plastic. Wire packs directly or use quality holders to avoid shorts and fires. [Elektroda, PPK, post #17765392]