1. Safety Instructions
Always observe the following safety precautions when operating the Metabo KHE 3251 hammer drill to prevent electric shock, fire, and serious injury.
- Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating the tool for extended periods. Wear a dust mask if working in dusty conditions. 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 plug from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
- Maintenance: Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
2. Product Overview
The Metabo KHE 3251 is an 800W SDS-Plus hammer drill designed for efficient drilling and chiseling in various materials. It features a robust construction and an ergonomic design for comfortable operation.

This image shows the Metabo KHE 3251 hammer drill, a powerful tool designed for drilling and hammering applications. It features a green and black body, a main handle, an auxiliary handle, and an SDS-Plus chuck with a drill bit installed.
Key Components:
- SDS-Plus Chuck: For quick and secure bit changes.
- Quick-Change Chuck: An additional chuck for standard cylindrical drill bits (non-impact use).
- Auxiliary Handle: Provides additional control and stability during operation.
- Mode Selector Switch: Allows selection between drilling, hammer drilling, and chiseling functions.
- Trigger Switch: Activates the tool and controls speed.
3. Setup
Before starting any work, ensure the tool is unplugged from the power supply.
3.1 Attaching the Auxiliary Handle
- Loosen the auxiliary handle by rotating it counter-clockwise.
- Slide the handle onto the tool's neck to the desired position.
- Tighten the handle by rotating it clockwise until secure.
3.2 Changing Drill Chucks
The Metabo KHE 3251 comes with two chucks: an SDS-Plus chuck for hammer drilling and a quick-change chuck for standard drill bits.
- To remove the installed chuck, pull back the locking sleeve and pull the chuck straight off.
- To install a chuck, push the desired chuck (SDS-Plus or quick-change) onto the spindle until it clicks into place. Ensure it is firmly seated by pulling on it.
3.3 Inserting Drill Bits
- For SDS-Plus bits: Clean the bit shank. Pull back the locking sleeve on the SDS-Plus chuck, insert the bit, and release the sleeve. Rotate the bit slightly until it engages. Pull on the bit to ensure it is locked.
- For cylindrical bits (with quick-change chuck): Open the chuck jaws by rotating the chuck. Insert the bit and tighten the chuck jaws firmly by hand.
4. Operating
Always ensure the correct mode is selected for the task at hand.
4.1 Mode Selection
Rotate the mode selector switch to choose the desired function:
- Drilling (Rotation Only): For drilling in wood, metal, or plastic using the quick-change chuck. The hammer mechanism is disengaged.
- Hammer Drilling (Rotation with Impact): For drilling in concrete, masonry, and stone using SDS-Plus bits.
- Chiseling (Impact Only): For light chiseling work, such as removing tiles or plaster. The rotation is disengaged.
4.2 Starting and Stopping
- To start the tool, press the trigger switch.
- To stop the tool, release the trigger switch.
- The trigger switch is variable speed; pressing it further increases the speed.
4.3 Working Tips
- Apply steady, even pressure. Do not force the tool.
- For hammer drilling, allow the tool's impact mechanism to do the work.
- When drilling deep holes, periodically withdraw the drill bit to clear debris.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Metabo KHE 3251.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the tool's ventilation slots and housing with a soft brush or compressed air. Do not use water or chemical cleaners.
- Chuck Maintenance: Keep the SDS-Plus chuck clean and lightly greased to ensure smooth bit insertion and removal.
- Power Cord: Regularly inspect the power cord for damage. If damaged, have it replaced by a qualified technician.
- Storage: Store the tool in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
6. Troubleshooting
Refer to this section for common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not start. | No power supply; damaged cord; faulty switch. | Check power connection; inspect cord; contact service center. |
| Reduced drilling performance. | Worn drill bit; incorrect mode selection; motor overload. | Replace drill bit; select correct mode; reduce pressure. |
| Excessive vibration. | Loose bit; damaged chuck; internal fault. | Ensure bit is secure; inspect chuck; contact service center. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Metabo authorized service personnel.
7. Specifications
Technical data for the Metabo KHE 3251 hammer drill.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | KHE32 |
| Power Input | 800 W |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Maximum Impact Energy (EPTA) | 3.1 J |
| Maximum Blows per Minute | 4470 /min |
| Maximum No-Load Speed | 1150 RPM |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 10 mm |
| Maximum Torque | 20 Newton-Meter |
| Number of Speeds | 3 |
| Drilling Capacity in Wood | 13 mm |
| Drilling Capacity in Metal | 32 mm |
| Compatible Devices | SDS-plus shank bits and accessories, cylindrical shank bits and accessories (without impact) |
| Product Dimensions | 49.4 x 11.1 x 32 cm |
| Product Weight | 3.6 kg |
| Material | Metal |
| Components Included | Hammer drill |
8. Warranty and Support
The Metabo KHE 3251 hammer drill is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Metabo website.
For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Metabo dealer or the Metabo customer service department. Ensure you have your product model number (KHE32) and purchase details available when contacting support.