Power Tool Cord Replacements

[bcp]

But, they don't fit the three outlet ends of my 100 foot ten gauge power cords, at least three don't fit. When I get to drilling and grinding, three is often not enough for me.

Add a "power squid" to the end of your cord. Four to six outlets that fit any size plug.

 

[sandman2234]

Computer cords go a long way around here for recording things...
I got a bunch of computers (a truckload) and sent most of it to a friends computer repair shop. I kept a few boxes, like a pallet of keyboards and half a box of cords. I have used a bunch of them over the years, for anything from rewiring a drill to hanging something from the rafters.
David from jax

 

[Short Game]

...I know it won't sit 10 minutes by the curb. Just don't want to give some guy driving by a cheap thrill...

Federal regs shut down our county dump years ago. It was near Rosburg, WA, so everyone called it, "the Rosburg Mall." Man, I miss that place. Trouble was, I usually brought home more than I tossed away.

There was a sign that said, "No Salvaging." We never heard that anyone had to tell the judge, "yes, Your Honor, I'm guilty, I wuz stealin' frum the dump!"

 

[MarkV]

Guess I would side with the group that says replace with a factory cord. They available and not that over priced. No question the safest way to go.

If it is a tool you have to keep, that is going to be the best and safest solution. If you are just trying to resurrect a relic, tools are really inexpensive right now and are much superior to those that have lived a decade or better. Just my opinion.

MarkV

 

[Short Game]

Guess I would side with the group that says replace with a factory cord. They available and not that over priced. No question the safest way to go.

But the factory cord was the one that failed in the first place. There is no question they could supply tools with better, but that might mean a few pennies less profit.

Just another way to look at it.

 

[KennyG]

I would stay away from computer cords for power tools. They are only intended to carry 5 amps at the most. The ones I've cut into seem to be 16 or 18 gauge. I started to use one once as a replacement, but when I saw how it was built I changed my mind.

I would suggest looking on E-bay for motor cord (like SJOOW or SOOW). If you get a good deal on a bulk quantity, you can use some for cord replacements and also make up really good extension cords. I recently got a good deal on some 10/3 and made up a 50 foot extension cord for my welder.

 

[sandman2234]

I would stay away from computer cords for power tools. They are only intended to carry 5 amps at the most. The ones I've cut into seem to be 16 or 18 gauge. I started to use one once as a replacement, but when I saw how it was built I changed my mind.

I would suggest looking on E-bay for motor cord (like SJOOW or SOOW). If you get a good deal on a bulk quantity, you can use some for cord replacements and also make up really good extension cords. I recently got a good deal on some 10/3 and made up a 50 foot extension cord for my welder.

The amp chart I just looked at says 16 or 18 ga would be good for a drill, as most drills max out at 8 to 10 amps and those sizes are good for 10 minimum and 22 max.
I am sure some of the larger (1/3 to 1/2 and larger) might pull more than 7-8 amps but for the average 1/4" drill it should be fine. I will be the first to admit electricity isn't one of my better qualities, so keep that in mind also.
David from jax

 

[buffy12590]

I have replaced power tool cords so many times I can't count how many. I use 100 foot extension cord the orange stuff from H/D. Buy 3 or 4 male plugs because you have enough wire. The advandage to this method is I can make the new cord any length I desire. Cut off 6 feet or so from the male end and use it for your first replacement. I am usually able to pull the old wire out of the strain relief on the tool and insert the new orange wire and make the connections inside. Worst case remove the strain relief and just inset the wire into the handle. Use a cable tie to secure the wire inside the case so it can't be pulled out. Just use a little care when using the tool. Then install a male plug on the end of the 94 foot section. You have an extension cord albeit shorter and when the next tool needs replacement cut from the male end and redo the ubove procedure. My drill, grinder, and drop shop lights have 10 foot cords while the vaccuum has a 25 foot cord. :thumbsup:

 

[CurlyDave]

...Next trip to town I'll be checking this out. Do you think Home Depot will have these?

I have bought two at Home Depot within the last year. Look near the contractor grade extension cords.

 

[Soundguy]

Add a "power squid" to the end of your cord. Four to six outlets that fit any size plug.

i don't like the cheap-o flat 3 way ends some cords have. can't get a xformer on them. I much prefer the angled 'ducks foot' style witht he 3 terminals at 60' arcs form each other..

soundguy