Dewalt Dw988 Specs

The DEWALT DW988, a legendary 18V Cordless Ni-Cad Hammerdrill/Drill/Driver, was a workhorse designed for professional tradespeople and serious DIYers who needed robust power and versatility on the job site. While it’s no longer a current production model, its specifications were built around a high-performance DEWALT 18V Ni-Cad battery system, delivering substantial torque and hammer drilling capabilities for a wide array of applications, from driving fasteners to drilling into masonry. Key features included its 3-speed transmission, metal gear housing for durability, and a comfortable, ergonomic grip. Understanding its specs is like getting a peek into the engineering that made DEWALT a go-to brand for cordless tools in its era, a testament to reliable, hard-hitting performance before the widespread adoption of lithium-ion technology.

Here’s a comparison of some highly-rated DEWALT cordless tools that embody the spirit of the DW988’s versatility and power, adapted for modern lithium-ion platforms:

• DEWALT DCD996B 20V MAX XR Brushless 3-Speed Hammer Drill

  

  • Key Features: 20V MAX XR Brushless motor, 3-speed transmission 0-450/1300/2000 RPM, 0-38,250 BPM, 820 UWO Unit Watts Out for maximum power. All-metal chuck. LED light with 20-minute delay.
  • Average Price: $150-$200 bare tool
  • Pros: Extremely powerful, long runtime with XR batteries, excellent for heavy-duty drilling and fastening, durable build, bright work light.
  • Cons: Heavier than some compact models, higher price point for bare tool.

• DEWALT DCD791B 20V MAX XR Brushless Compact Drill/Driver

  • Key Features: 20V MAX XR Brushless motor, compact 6.9 inches front to back, lightweight 3.4 lbs, 2-speed transmission 0-550/2000 RPM, 575 UWO. LED light with 20-minute delay.
  • Average Price: $100-$150 bare tool
  • Pros: Excellent power-to-weight ratio, very comfortable for extended use, efficient brushless motor, good for general drilling and fastening tasks in tight spaces.
  • Cons: Not a hammer drill no masonry drilling, slightly less ultimate power than the DCD996.

• DEWALT DCF887B 20V MAX XR Brushless Impact Driver

  • Key Features: 20V MAX XR Brushless motor, 3-speed settings, 0-3250 RPM, 0-3600 IPM impacts per minute, 1825 in-lbs of max torque. Compact and lightweight.
  • Average Price: $120-$170 bare tool
  • Pros: Exceptional for driving long screws and lag bolts, very fast and efficient, compact size, little to no kickback.
  • Cons: Not ideal for drilling holes unless using hex shank drill bits, not a hammer drill.

• DEWALT DCD771C2 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit

  • Key Features: 20V MAX brushed motor, 2-speed transmission 0-450/1500 RPM, 300 UWO. Comes with two 1.3Ah batteries, charger, and bag.
  • Average Price: $100-$130 kit
  • Pros: Excellent value for a complete kit, good for general household and light-duty professional tasks, decent power for the price point.
  • Cons: Brushed motor less efficient than brushless, smaller battery capacity limits runtime, not as powerful as XR models.

• DEWALT DCF894B 20V MAX XR Mid-Range Impact Wrench

  • Key Features: 20V MAX XR Brushless motor, 0-2000 RPM, 0-3100 IPM, 330 ft-lbs of fastening torque, 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. Compact design.
  • Average Price: $180-$220 bare tool
  • Pros: Powerful enough for automotive work and heavy fastening, compact for its power level, efficient brushless motor.
  • Cons: Specialized tool, not for everyday drilling or driving small fasteners.

• DEWALT DWE402 4-1/2-Inch Small Angle Grinder

  • Key Features: 11-Amp motor, 11,000 RPM, Dust Ejection System, One-Touch Guard, Quick-Change Wheel Release.
  • Average Price: $80-$120
  • Pros: Robust motor for tough grinding and cutting tasks, durable, excellent dust management, easy wheel changes.
  • Cons: Corded tool less portable than battery-powered options, produces significant sparks and debris during use.

• DEWALT DCS367B 20V MAX XR Compact Reciprocating Saw

  • Key Features: 20V MAX XR Brushless motor, 0-2900 SPM strokes per minute, 1-1/8 inch stroke length. Compact size for cutting in tight spaces.
  • Pros: Very compact and lightweight, excellent for overhead or tight-space cutting, powerful brushless motor, quick blade changes.
  • Cons: Not as powerful as full-size reciprocating saws for demolition work, batteries sold separately.

Unpacking the DEWALT DW988: A Look Back at a Cordless Workhorse

The DEWALT DW988 was a significant player in the 18V Ni-Cad era, representing the pinnacle of cordless hammer drill technology for its time.

Understanding its specifications isn’t just a historical exercise.

It’s about appreciating the foundation upon which today’s powerful lithium-ion tools are built.

This drill was engineered for demanding applications, a testament to DEWALT’s commitment to durability and performance.

Motor and Power Output: The Heart of the Beast

At the core of the DW988’s capability was its robust motor, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use.

While specific Unit Watts Out UWO figures weren’t as commonly advertised for Ni-Cad drills as they are for modern lithium-ion tools, the DW988 was known for its substantial torque and efficient power delivery.

• Motor Type: Typically a brushed motor, characteristic of tools from its era. Brushed motors, while less efficient than modern brushless designs, were robust and proven technology.
• Voltage: 18V, powered by DEWALT’s proprietary Ni-Cad battery system. This voltage platform was a standard for heavy-duty cordless tools at the time.
• Torque: The DW988 was lauded for its high torque output, crucial for driving large fasteners and drilling through dense materials. While exact figures vary depending on testing methodologies, it was consistently rated among the most powerful cordless drills in its class.
  • Driving Power: Capable of sinking long lag bolts and large diameter screws without bogging down.
  • Drilling Power: Effective in wood, metal, and with its hammer function, concrete and masonry.
• Performance Metrics:
  • Max Watts Out MWO: While not officially published for every vintage tool, similar 18V Ni-Cad hammer drills from DEWALT often boasted MWO ratings in the range of 350-450 MWO, indicative of strong performance.
  • Applications: Ideal for framers, electricians, plumbers, and general contractors who needed a reliable all-in-one tool for drilling and fastening.

Transmission and Speed Settings: Versatility for Every Task

One of the standout features of the DW988 was its multi-speed transmission, a critical component that allowed the tool to adapt to a wide range of applications, from delicate screw driving to aggressive drilling.

• Number of Speeds: The DW988 typically featured a 3-speed all-metal transmission. This was a premium feature, offering greater control and efficiency compared to common 2-speed drills.
  • Speed 1 Low: Optimized for high-torque applications like driving large fasteners or drilling large diameter holes, offering maximum power and control. Typically around 0-450 RPM.
  • Speed 2 Medium: A versatile middle ground for general drilling and fastening, balancing speed and torque. Often in the range of 0-1500 RPM.
  • Speed 3 High: Designed for fast drilling in softer materials or smaller diameter holes where speed is paramount. This speed could reach up to 0-2000 RPM.
• Hammer Function: Integrated into the transmission, the hammer function engaged a mechanism that pulsed the chuck forward and backward, creating impacts essential for drilling into masonry.
  • Impacts Per Minute IPM: In hammer drill mode, the DW988 could deliver a high number of impacts, typically in the range of 0-34,000 IPM in its highest speed setting. This allowed for efficient drilling in brick, block, and concrete.
• Clutch Settings: Like most quality drills, the DW988 featured a multi-position clutch, allowing users to set the torque output for consistent screw driving and to prevent over-tightening or stripping. This also protected the motor from overload.

Chuck and Ergonomics: User Experience and Durability

The chuck and overall design of a drill significantly impact its usability and longevity.

The DW988 was designed with durability and user comfort in mind, reflective of professional-grade tools.

• Chuck Type: The DW988 was equipped with a heavy-duty 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck.
  • Advantages of Metal Chuck: Superior grip on drill bits and accessories, enhanced durability, and better resistance to wear and tear compared to plastic chucks.
  • Ratcheting Mechanism: Ensured a secure grip on the bit, preventing slippage during high-torque applications.
• Ergonomics and Balance: Despite being an 18V Ni-Cad tool which are inherently heavier due to battery technology, DEWALT designed the DW988 with user comfort in mind.
  • Grip Design: Often featured an ergonomic grip with textured surfaces for improved control and reduced fatigue during prolonged use.
  • Weight Distribution: Balanced to minimize strain on the wrist and arm, even with a larger Ni-Cad battery attached.
• Durability Features:
  • All-Metal Gear Housing: A critical component for dissipating heat and protecting internal gears from damage, ensuring a longer tool life under heavy load.
  • Rugged Construction: Built to withstand job site abuse, including drops and impacts. This was a hallmark of DEWALT’s “Guaranteed Tough” philosophy.

Battery System: The Power Source of Its Era

The DEWALT DW988 relied on the 18V Ni-Cad Nickel-Cadmium battery system, which was the dominant cordless tool battery technology for professional-grade tools before the advent of lithium-ion. While Ni-Cad batteries have largely been phased out due to their weight, memory effect, and environmental concerns, they were crucial to the performance of tools like the DW988. Best Travel Review

• Battery Chemistry: Nickel-Cadmium Ni-Cad.
  • Voltage: 18V.
  • Capacity: Typically available in capacities ranging from 1.3 Ah to 2.4 Ah. Higher Ah ratings provided longer runtime.
• Charger Compatibility: Required a specific 18V Ni-Cad charger. These chargers often had slower charge times compared to modern lithium-ion chargers.
• Characteristics of Ni-Cad Batteries:
  • Memory Effect: A notable drawback where batteries would “remember” their charge level if repeatedly recharged from a partial discharge, leading to reduced overall capacity if not fully discharged periodically.
  • Self-Discharge: Ni-Cad batteries would lose their charge relatively quickly when not in use, often requiring a fresh charge before each use.
  • Weight: Significantly heavier than equivalent lithium-ion batteries, contributing to the overall weight of the tool.
  • Cold Weather Performance: Generally performed better in cold temperatures than early lithium-ion batteries.
  • Durability: Known for their robustness and ability to deliver high current draw, suitable for power-intensive tools.

Key Applications and Versatility: Where the DW988 Shined

The DEWALT DW988 was designed as a multi-purpose tool, making it a valuable asset for various trades.

Its combination of drilling, driving, and hammer drilling capabilities meant it could tackle a wide array of tasks.

• Woodworking:
  • Drilling Holes: From small pilot holes to large diameter holes with spade bits or auger bits for plumbing and electrical rough-ins.
  • Driving Fasteners: Sinking deck screws, lag bolts, and other construction fasteners with ease, especially in its lower speed settings.
• Metalworking:
  • Drilling: Capable of drilling through various gauges of metal using twist bits or hole saws. The lower speed settings provided the necessary torque and control.
• Masonry and Concrete:
  • Hammer Drilling: With its hammer function engaged, the DW988 excelled at drilling into brick, concrete blocks, and poured concrete for anchor installation, conduit runs, or tapcon screws. This was a primary reason for its popularity among tradespeople.
• General Construction:
  • Framing: Driving structural screws and drilling for electrical and plumbing lines.
  • Cabinet Installation: Precise screw driving with clutch control.
  • Deck Building: Sinking long deck screws into treated lumber.
• Remodeling Projects: Its versatility made it a go-to tool for everything from demolition drilling out old anchors to finish work driving trim screws.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping the Old Workhorse Running

While the DEWALT DW988 is a discontinued model, understanding its maintenance needs provides insight into the care required for professional-grade cordless tools, particularly those of the Ni-Cad era.

Proper care was crucial for maximizing the lifespan of both the tool and its batteries.

• Motor Care:
  • Carbon Brushes: As a brushed motor tool, the carbon brushes were a consumable part that would wear down over time. Regular inspection and replacement of brushes were necessary to maintain motor efficiency and prevent damage. This was a relatively simple user-serviceable task.
  • Ventilation: Keeping the motor’s ventilation ports clear of dust and debris was essential to prevent overheating, which could significantly shorten the motor’s life.
• Chuck Maintenance:
  • Cleaning: The chuck jaws could accumulate dust and grime, affecting their grip. Regular cleaning with compressed air or a brush was recommended.
  • Lubrication: A light application of dry lubricant or silicone spray could help keep the chuck jaws moving smoothly.
• Transmission and Gearing:
  • Avoid Overload: Consistently overloading the tool could strain the gears and transmission components. While the DW988 was robust, pushing it beyond its limits regularly could lead to premature wear.
  • Recognizing Issues: Unusual noises, grinding sounds, or difficulty shifting speeds could indicate internal transmission issues that might require professional service.
• Battery Care Ni-Cad Specific:
  • Full Discharge/Charge Cycles: To combat the “memory effect,” it was often recommended to fully discharge Ni-Cad batteries before recharging them, especially if they weren’t being used frequently.
  • Proper Storage: Storing batteries in a cool, dry place and ideally at a partial charge not fully depleted or fully charged for long periods could extend their life.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: While Ni-Cad batteries generally performed well in cold, extreme heat during charging or storage could degrade them.
• General Cleaning:
  • Wipe Down: Regularly wiping down the tool’s exterior with a damp cloth prevented the buildup of dust and grease, keeping it looking and performing better.
  • Compressed Air: Using compressed air to blow out dust from vents and crevices was a good practice.

Evolution to Lithium-Ion: The Legacy of the DW988

The DEWALT DW988 stands as a significant marker in the history of cordless power tools.

Understanding this transition highlights how far cordless technology has come.

• Ni-Cad to Lithium-Ion Transition:
  • Energy Density: Lithium-ion batteries offer significantly higher energy density, meaning more power and runtime in a lighter, smaller package. This is a primary driver behind the move away from Ni-Cad.
  • No Memory Effect: Lithium-ion batteries do not suffer from the memory effect, allowing users to charge them at any point without impacting their long-term capacity.
  • Lower Self-Discharge: Lithium-ion batteries hold their charge much longer when not in use, making them more convenient for intermittent use.
  • Faster Charging: Modern lithium-ion chargers are much faster, often charging batteries in under an hour.
• Brushless Motor Technology: While the DW988 used a brushed motor, its successors on the 20V MAX platform heavily feature brushless motors.
  • Efficiency: Brushless motors are more efficient, leading to longer runtime per charge.
  • Power: They can deliver more power and torque.
  • Longevity: Fewer wearing parts no carbon brushes mean a longer motor life and less maintenance.
• Modern Equivalents: Today’s DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Hammer Drills, such as the DCD996 or DCD999, are the spiritual successors to the DW988. They offer:
  • More Power: Often significantly higher UWO ratings and increased torque.
  • Lighter Weight: Due to lithium-ion batteries and advanced motor designs.
  • More Compact Size: Easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Advanced Features: LED work lights, integrated electronics for motor protection, and often Bluetooth connectivity for tool tracking.
• Continuing Legacy: The DW988’s reputation for ruggedness and reliability is a testament to DEWALT’s engineering philosophy. While the technology has evolved, the core principle of delivering powerful, durable tools for professionals remains. Many old DW988 units are still operational today, a true sign of their initial build quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the DEWALT DW988 primarily used for?

The DEWALT DW988 was primarily used as a versatile professional-grade 18V cordless hammer drill/driver, excelling in drilling into wood, metal, and concrete, as well as driving various fasteners in construction, electrical, and plumbing applications.

Is the DEWALT DW988 still available for purchase new?

No, the DEWALT DW988 is a discontinued model and is no longer available for purchase new from DEWALT or major retailers.

You might find used or refurbished units through secondary markets.

What type of battery did the DEWALT DW988 use?

The DEWALT DW988 used 18V Ni-Cad Nickel-Cadmium batteries, which were the standard for professional cordless tools of its era. The Casper Mattress Review

Can I use lithium-ion batteries with a DEWALT DW988?

No, the DEWALT DW988 is designed for 18V Ni-Cad batteries and is not directly compatible with DEWALT’s modern 20V MAX Lithium-ion batteries without specific adapters, which are generally not recommended due to potential performance issues or tool damage.

What is the hammer drill function on the DW988 for?

The hammer drill function on the DW988 was for drilling into hard materials like concrete, brick, and masonry.

It provided a pounding action in addition to rotation, helping to break up the material for faster drilling.

How many speeds did the DW988 have?

The DEWALT DW988 typically featured a 3-speed all-metal transmission, offering versatile speed control for different applications.

What was the chuck size on the DEWALT DW988?

The DEWALT DW988 was equipped with a 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck.

Was the DW988 a brushed or brushless motor tool?

The DEWALT DW988 utilized a brushed motor, which was standard technology for cordless tools of its production period.

What is the RPM range of the DW988?

The RPM range of the DW988 varied depending on the selected speed setting, with typical ranges being around 0-450 RPM low, 0-1500 RPM medium, and 0-2000 RPM high.

What was the IPM Impacts Per Minute of the DW988 in hammer mode?

When in hammer drill mode, the DW988 could deliver a high number of impacts, typically up to around 0-34,000 IPM in its highest speed setting.

How heavy was the DW988 with its Ni-Cad battery?

The DW988, combined with an 18V Ni-Cad battery, was relatively heavy compared to modern lithium-ion drills, typically weighing over 5-6 pounds.

Did the DW988 have a clutch?

Yes, the DEWALT DW988 featured a multi-position clutch, allowing users to set the torque for consistent screw driving and prevent over-tightening. E Bike Battery Specifications

How does the DW988 compare to modern DEWALT 20V MAX XR hammer drills?

Modern DEWALT 20V MAX XR hammer drills like the DCD996 are generally more powerful, lighter, more compact, offer longer runtime due to lithium-ion batteries and brushless motors, and often include advanced features like brighter LED lights.

What are the main drawbacks of Ni-Cad batteries used in the DW988?

The main drawbacks of Ni-Cad batteries include their “memory effect,” faster self-discharge rate, heavier weight, and environmental disposal concerns.

What is the “memory effect” in Ni-Cad batteries?

The “memory effect” is a phenomenon where Ni-Cad batteries seemingly lose capacity if they are repeatedly recharged after only being partially discharged, leading to a reduction in their usable runtime over time.

Can I still get replacement parts for a DEWALT DW988?

Some replacement parts for the DEWALT DW988, such as chucks or trigger switches, might still be available from third-party suppliers or specialized tool repair shops, but parts availability is limited due to its age.

How long did a DW988 Ni-Cad battery last on a charge?

The runtime of a DW988 Ni-Cad battery depended on its Ah capacity and the intensity of the application, but generally provided sufficient power for typical professional tasks before needing a recharge.

Was the DW988 known for its durability?

Yes, the DEWALT DW988 was widely known for its robust construction and durability, a hallmark of DEWALT’s professional-grade tools designed to withstand tough job site conditions.

What are the benefits of an all-metal gear housing, as found on the DW988?

An all-metal gear housing, like on the DW988, offers superior durability, better heat dissipation, and increased resistance to impact and wear compared to plastic housings, leading to a longer tool lifespan.

Is the DW988 suitable for heavy-duty drilling?

Yes, the DW988 was considered a heavy-duty drill in its time, capable of handling demanding drilling and fastening applications in various materials, including concrete with its hammer function.

How do I maintain the carbon brushes on my DW988?

To maintain the carbon brushes on a DW988 if it uses external brushes, you would typically remove the brush caps, inspect the brushes for wear, and replace them if they are too short or chipped. Keep the motor vents clear.

What is the purpose of the LED light on modern drills compared to the DW988?

While the DW988 generally didn’t feature integrated LED work lights a more modern innovation, today’s drills include them to illuminate the workspace, especially in dimly lit areas, improving visibility and accuracy. Treadmill Tips And Tricks

Can the DW988 be used for driving long deck screws?

Yes, the DEWALT DW988, with its high torque and multi-speed transmission especially in lower speeds, was well-suited for driving long deck screws and other large fasteners.

What is the difference between a drill/driver and a hammer drill?

A drill/driver primarily rotates to drill holes and drive screws, while a hammer drill, like the DW988, adds a percussive hammering action to the rotation, specifically designed for drilling into hard masonry materials.

Does the DW988 have variable speed control?

Yes, the DEWALT DW988 featured variable speed control through its trigger, allowing users to precisely control the RPM based on the application.

Why did DEWALT transition from Ni-Cad to Lithium-ion batteries?

DEWALT transitioned from Ni-Cad to Lithium-ion batteries due to the superior energy density lighter weight, more power, lack of memory effect, lower self-discharge, and faster charging capabilities of Lithium-ion technology.

Was the DW988 part of a kit or sold as a bare tool?

The DEWALT DW988 was often sold both as a bare tool and as part of kits that included batteries, a charger, and sometimes other accessories.

What safety features did the DW988 have?

Standard safety features on the DW988 would have included a safety clutch to prevent kickback when the bit binds, and a sturdy side handle for better control during high-torque applications.

Can I still find batteries for the DW988?

While original DEWALT Ni-Cad 18V batteries for the DW988 are scarce new, you might find aftermarket compatible Ni-Cad or even some third-party lithium-ion conversions often with adapters from various online retailers or specialized battery suppliers.

However, third-party batteries or adapters might void warranties or perform differently.

What is the best modern DEWALT equivalent to the DW988 for general construction?

For general construction and demanding tasks, the DEWALT DCD996B 20V MAX XR Brushless 3-Speed Hammer Drill is considered the closest modern equivalent to the DW988, offering superior power, efficiency, and features on the lithium-ion platform.

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