Milwaukee has introduced its M18 Fuel™ Cordless Braking Grinder (2783-22) , offering three improvements over the previous model. The new tool stops spinning in under 2 seconds when the switch is released compared to its predecessor’s 4 seconds, it requires no tools to change accessories or guards, and has a kickback-reducing clutch. These additions have added .3 lb. in weight and .25″ in length, which I found unnoticeable when using the tool. The new version is easily distinguishable by its red paddle switch (it’s not available with a locking slide switch) and the red arbor lock button. The full kits ship with the new M18™ REDLITHIUM™ XC 5.0 battery packs for improved run time. The full kits also come with two accessory guards, a FIXTEC nut and two debris screens to protect the tool’s internals.
The FIXTEC nut is a great addition. The C-shaped handle on the nut lies flat when not needed, but easily folds out to turn when an accessory change is needed. It’s no longer necessary to keep track of a dedicated tool for that purpose, and it’s nice not to have to carry a wrench to a rooftop or other remote places when a grinding wheel wears out.
I had a project waiting for the new grinder: removing the rust from the steel frame of a butterfly chair that my parents bought 54 years ago. The frame is not only rusted, but heavily pitted. I was interested to see how a wire wheel would do with the M18 Fuel™ power behind it. I switched guards to take advantage of the more fully enclosed option that comes with the kit. That’s another task that requires no tools, and can be done quickly to accommodate a variety of grinding accessories.
I clamped the metal frame to a pair of sawhorses and had at it. The wire wheel took off the rust nicely, even down in the pits, and the tool showed no signs of slowing even when I pressed it into the work with more force than was advisable.
Milwaukee has stressed the safety consideration when talking about the Braking Grinder. Their press release says “Jobsite Safety personnel have become major stakeholders in the tool purchasing process, and tools that combine best-in-class performance with features they desire are at the top of their approved tool lists.” I don’t know if insurance companies or “safety personel” have been asking for tools that stop spinning sooner, but I will say that the difference between the stopping time of this new grinder and my other M18 Fuel™ grinder is about 2 seconds. That’s not enough to motivate me to replace my current, very fine Milwaukee grinder, but it’s a feature I would welcome if I was buying a grinder for the first time, or replacing one that reached the end of its life. I’m more appreciative of the FIXTEC nut on the arbor. Not a deal maker or breaker, but certainly my preferred way to attach or swap accessories.
I’ve shaped small wood pieces and fiberglass, cut sheet metal siding, pipe, shelf brackets and steel plate, using sanding disks, cut-off wheels, grinding wheels and wire wheels. I know there’ll be many more uses for this tool I thought I would never want. Never say never…
Comments welcome.
-dvl
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