Do you remember the Porter Cable Li-ion cordless drill that we reviewed quite some time ago? It was part of their Li-ion 4-tool combo kit, and surprised us with its respectable build quality and performance. Porter Cable engineers have been busy, and are rolling out a new upgraded version of the drill.
The new drill driver (PCL180CDK-2) has been “enhanced across all facets of the tool.” First, the motor was replaced with a new one that outputs up to 424 in-lbs of max torque (a 30% increase), and can operate at a higher max speed of 1500 RPM (25% increase). The gearbox was also redesigned in order to reduce the girth of the tool.
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Among other changes, the clutch is now a 22-position one, the housing is made from a more durable glass-filled nylon material, and the battery release switch was moved from the back of the tool to the front.
The new drill is backwards-compatible with Porter Cable’s Li-ion and NiCad batteries. It will be priced at about $150, and will be available via Lowes, Amazon, and other retailers. The kit will include 2 Li-ion batteries, multi-chemistry charger, a soft-sided storage bag, and a single double-ended screwdriver bit.
Scott
SAH-weet!!! This is long over due but unexpected too. Any Idea when? And will it be included in the other kits, (4 pc and 3 pc)?
Stuart
ETA is November 2011. No word yet about whether (or when) the Li-ion combo kits will be updated to include this model.
Joe
I own the older version of this drill and it was a pinch under the makitas,milwalkees and dewalts now it looks like they are on equal ground with the big boys, and at that price I can see the other companys lowering there prices to compete. Also I hope they upgrade the circular saw put the blade on the left and the jigsaw make it more robust there other cordless yools are all fine love the impact driver and cordless grinder.They also upgraded the hammerdrill too looks like this drill but slightly longer and heavier kep up the good work PoeterCable.
Scott
Cool, I didnt realize the new hammer drill was changed up too. Im still waiting on this, the bare hammer drill, and new bare right angle drill to arrive in the store. I cant wait! I guess the particular Lowe’s I work at won’t be getting the PC infrared heat detector(s) though.
Stuart
The hammer drill NiCd kit has been updated – we’ll discuss this in more detail in another day or so as part of a larger Porter Cable new-tool update.
The new Porter Cable IR thermometers will probably be available via other distributors as well, so it won’t be a big deal if some Lowes don’t pick it up.
Mark
I just purchased this drill from Lowe’s last week for $99!!
The torque is really quite strong now and the build quality I say is excellent. Ergonomics and weight is exceptional, and it is very well balanced. I have only used it a couple times for very minor projects, but this drill sure seems to have a quality up there with Makita and DeWalt! Highly recommend this unit, especially if you can find it again for $99!
vadim
Iam live in Ukraine have purchase Porter Cable 18V Li-Ion Cordless Drill Upgrade
Flea
I can’t believe this could be better than Bosch drills. I’m a diehard Bosch fan, but I hope you try to convert me to P-C products by giving me this thing. It does look pretty awesome in a Darth Vadar kind of way…..
Nicholas Spittal
I NEED an 18v drill bad. So why not send me one of the best?!