Hilti TE 4-18A 18V Rotary Hammer Drill

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Hilti TE 4-18A 18V Rotary Hammer Drill. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool to ensure proper handling and to prevent injury or damage. The Hilti TE 4-18A is a high-performance cordless rotary hammer designed for drilling a wide range of hole sizes in concrete and masonry, offering corded performance in a compact, lightweight cordless tool.

Figure 1: Hilti TE 4-A18 Rotary Hammer Drill packaging box, showing the tool and branding.

2. Safety Instructions

Always observe general power tool safety warnings and local safety regulations. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

• Work Area Safety: Keep your work area clean and well-lit. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Electrical Safety: Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
• Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, and a dust mask when operating the tool. Use appropriate personal protective equipment for the task. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry.
• Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
• Battery Tool Use and Care: Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
• Service: Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.

3. Product Overview and Components

The Hilti TE 4-18A Rotary Hammer Drill is supplied as a performance package, including the following components:

• Hilti TE 4-18A Rotary Hammer Drill body
• Two (2) Hilti 18V 2.6-Ah CPC Lithium-Ion Batteries
• One (1) Hilti Battery Charger
• Three (3) Hilti SDS Drill Bits (sizes: 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2")
• Hilti Kit Box for storage and transport
• Side Handle
• Depth Gauge

4. Setup

4.1 Charging the Battery

1. Connect the Hilti battery charger to a suitable power outlet.
2. Insert the 18V Lithium-Ion battery into the charger. Ensure it clicks securely into place.
3. The charger's indicator light will show the charging status. Refer to the charger's specific manual for detailed light indications.
4. Once fully charged, remove the battery from the charger.

4.2 Inserting and Removing the Battery

• To Insert: Align the battery with the receptacle on the tool handle and slide it in until it clicks securely.
• To Remove: Press the battery release buttons on both sides of the battery pack and slide the battery out of the tool.

4.3 Attaching and Removing Drill Bits

The TE 4-18A uses SDS-plus drill bits.

• To Attach: Clean the shank of the drill bit. Pull back the chuck sleeve, insert the drill bit into the chuck, and release the sleeve. Pull on the bit to ensure it is locked. A slight axial play is normal for SDS-plus systems.
• To Remove: Pull back the chuck sleeve completely and pull the drill bit out.

4.4 Adjusting the Side Handle and Depth Gauge

• Loosen the side handle by rotating it counter-clockwise.
• Adjust the handle to a comfortable and secure position.
• Insert the depth gauge into the hole on the side handle.
• Set the desired drilling depth by sliding the gauge.
• Tighten the side handle by rotating it clockwise to secure both the handle and the depth gauge.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Selecting Operating Mode

The TE 4-18A features a mode selector switch. Rotate the switch to select the desired operating mode:

• Drilling Mode (Rotary Only): For drilling in wood, metal, and plastics.
• Hammer Drilling Mode (Rotary with Hammer Action): For drilling in concrete, masonry, and natural stone.

5.2 Starting and Stopping the Tool

• To Start: Press the ON/OFF trigger switch. The tool speed is variable depending on the pressure applied to the trigger.
• To Stop: Release the ON/OFF trigger switch.
• Direction of Rotation: Use the forward/reverse switch located above the trigger to select drilling direction. Ensure the switch is in the desired position before starting.

5.3 Drilling Techniques

• Always hold the tool firmly with both hands using the main handle and the side handle.
• Apply steady, even pressure. Do not force the tool; let the hammer action do the work.
• For hammer drilling, ensure the drill bit is sharp and suitable for the material.
• When drilling overhead or horizontally, the tool's light and compact design makes it ideal for reduced fatigue.
• The overall drilling range for concrete and masonry is 3/16" to 9/16".

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

• Regularly clean the tool housing with a slightly damp cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Keep the ventilation slots clear to prevent overheating.
• Clean the chuck regularly to ensure smooth operation and proper bit retention.

6.2 Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Do not expose batteries to water or moisture.
• Avoid fully discharging batteries before recharging to prolong their lifespan.

6.3 Inspection and Storage

• Before each use, inspect the tool for any signs of damage, loose screws, or worn parts. Do not use a damaged tool.
• Store the tool and accessories in the Hilti kit box in a secure, dry place, out of reach of children.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Hilti TE 4-18A, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

For issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact Hilti customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Hilti products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Hilti website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.