The Makita LXT218 has been an extraordinarily popular 2 piece combo kit and trusted for doing almost any professional construction job.

However, the LXT218 kits are going to be a bit different as of June 2012.   Makita is executing a rolling change, with both the Impact Driver and the Hammer Drill being upgraded to newer models.  They still come with everything you love about Makita – four pole-motor, all metal-gears, advanced armature balancing, and heavy duty capabilities, just with bunch of upgrades and extra features.

The impact driver in the LXT218 has been upgraded from the BTD141Z to the LXDT04Z.  The newer LXDT04Z features a slimmer compact design with more torque (1,420 in/lbs.) than the older BTD141Z (1330 in/lbs).   The ergonomic shape with redesigned rubberized soft grip handle makes the LXDT04Z fit like a glove for increased comfort on the job. The impact driver still comes with a dual LED lights with after-glow and a glow-in-the-dark bumper, for poorly lit situations.  It also has the easy to use, one-touch bit holder enabling the user to quickly and easily change the bit.

The Hammer drill is upgraded from the BHP454Z to the LXPH03Z.  Similarly, the LXPH03Z is smaller, tougher, and more powerful version of the BHP454Z.  It has better balance in the user’s hand, due to the compact redesign and shorter length.  The torque is approximately 20 percent more than the BHP454Z hammer drill, reaching 660 in/lbs.  The LXPH03Z has an upgraded clutch with five more torque settings, reaching twenty-one in total.

Both the LXPH03Z Hammer Drill and the LXDT04Z Impact Driver now come with a battery life protection system, giving protection against overheating.   This will keep the battery healthier while increasing battery life.

On top of that, Makita has built-in an over-charge protection for both the hammer drill and impact driver in the LXT218.   Without this protection system, to extend the lithium ion battery life the user would have to resist over discharging the battery.    Meaning, the operator would have to know when the voltage is getting low and replace the lithium ion battery in order to increase battery life.  However, now the Makita system is designed to automatically cut off power to the tool when the battery is depleted.  At the end of the day it is good to see Makita looking at users daily operations while designing their new tools.

This LXT218 package includes two 3 amp-hour lithium ion batteries, Makitas quick 30-minute charger, and a case. It’s the perfect cordless solution for trades including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, remodeling, and woodworking.

Buy the Makita lxt218 2 piece combo kit here at kmstools.com

LXDT04Z – Impact driver

• Makita-built 4-pole motor delivers 1,420 in.lbs. of Max Torque
• Variable speed (0-2,300 RPM & 0-3,200 IPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
• Compact design at only 5-7/16″ long and weighs only 3.3 lbs. for reduced operator fatigue
• Convenient one-touch 1/4″ hex chuck for quick bit changes
• New redesigned rubberized soft grip provides increased comfort on the job
• Built-in L.E.D. light with afterglow illuminates the work area
• Ergonomic shape fits like a glove with even pressure and easy control

LXPH03Z – Hammer Drill

• NEW battery protection system provides Over-Discharge, temperature and circuit protection for enhanced performance, battery cycle life and overall battery life
• Improved heavy duty design for optimal performance in wet and dusty conditions.
• 21 Torque settings delivers up to 660 in lbs. of torque.
• All metal gears for more efficient power transmission.
• 2 gear transmission (0-400 RPM,  0-1,800 RPM) for a wide range of fastening applications
• Ultra compact design (only 8 7/8 long”)
• Built-in L.E.D. light with afterglow illuminates the work area

Also includes 2 LXT lithium ion batteries charger and case