A 12 volt NiCd battery on a drill, sizzled and then started smoking

[HereSince1628]

it got --very-- hot to hold and I put it down on a gravel drive away from combustibles, expecting it to immolate.

It didn't over 20 minutes.

My question is about the root of the problem...is it more likely to be the battery proper or some problem in the drill?

I know there is no way to be sure... I'm looking for something of a probability.

The damned batteries are expensive and I'd hate to spend over $50 if there is a better than 50% chance the battery underwent suicide because of something about the drill.

[intaglio]

1. Probably the battery

What you are describing is consistent with an internal battery short. It is possible for an external short to have a similar effect but usually that will also fry the control switch

[HereSince1628]

2. Thanks.

[Warpy]

3. I'd guess it's the battery

If you can open it up, check it for corrosion.

[HereSince1628]

4. Somehow I fing myself intimidated to do that...

I know that's weird because the thing doesn't work and so is worthless.

I should be willing to just do that..

[Warpy]

5. If it's new, you'll void the warranty if they know you've had it apart

but it would be interesting to find out what's going on.

In any case, take it back where you got it. It might be an isolated incident or it might be a general problem that should initiate a recall. It wouldn't be the first time a product got recalled over defective batteries.

[HereSince1628]

6. It's over 6 months old. The original batteries that came with the drill lasted >8 years

My guess is...this battery was MADE in _____________ (fill in a nation known for zero quality control in its factories).

I suppose taking apart the battery is less ri$ky than doing the same to the drill...

[Warpy]

7. Check the manufacturer's website

and see if they have some replacement batteries kicking around. If the insides of the case haven't been choked up with gunk leaking out of the battery, you could be golden for another 8 years.

8 years is pretty impressive.