I have two new 18v DC827 impact drivers. Both units put off a really bad odor when I let off the trigger. It's like a burning smell but worse. I realize the break may cause some sparks and ozone. But this smell is much worse. Further, the fan blows straight in your face most of the time, so it's hard to ignore. My old 14.4 drivers never smelled. I've completely wrapped both drivers in duct tape but I still get the smell. Will this get better with time? Do the new 20v drivers have this problem too? I love these drivers because they really fit my hand well and Dewalt's LiOn technology is the best. However, I can't take this smell blowing in my face all day.
First off, DO NOT DUCT TAPE THE VENTS! This will significantly over heat the tool, and drastically reduce your tool life.
Second, the smell is normal on the newer tools. For the past couple of years DeWALT has begun using a protective coating on the field of the motor to prevent corrosion during shipping. The coating will wear off quickly, and is not a sign of anything bad in the tool. If you notice the smell on an older tool, or a smell where the was not one in the past, then that can be a sign of something going wrong. Out of the box though, the DeWALT's will smell while they burn off the coating.
Hope this helps!
