DEWALT DCD796 20V MAX XR Cordless Lithium-Ion Compact Hammer Drill

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the DEWALT DCD796 20V MAX XR Cordless Lithium-Ion Compact Hammer Drill. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new tool. Please read this manual thoroughly before use and keep it for future reference.

The DCD796B is a versatile and powerful tool designed for drilling and hammering applications in various materials. It features a DEWALT brushless motor for extended runtime, a compact and lightweight design for tight spaces, and a high-speed transmission with two speed settings. The integrated 3-mode LED provides illumination in dark work areas.

Figure 1: Front view of the DEWALT DCD796 Hammer Drill, showcasing its compact design and chuck.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

General Power Tool Safety Warnings:

• Work Area Safety: Keep 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. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
• Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
• Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use personal protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection for appropriate conditions. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool.
• Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed. Disconnect the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.

3. Components and Features

The DEWALT DCD796 Hammer Drill is engineered with several features to enhance performance and user experience:

• Brushless Motor: Delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed motors, ensuring efficiency and durability.
• Compact Design: At 7.5 inches front to back, its compact size allows access into tight areas.
• Lightweight: Weighing 3.6 pounds (bare tool), it reduces user fatigue during extended use.
• High-Speed Transmission: Features two speed settings (0-550 RPM and 0-2,000 RPM) for versatile application speeds.
• Ergonomic Comfort Grip Handle: Provides optimal balance and tool control for comfortable operation.
• 1/2 inch Ratcheting Chuck: A metal chuck designed for superior bit gripping strength.
• 3-Mode LED Light: Illuminates dark or confined spaces, up to 20 times brighter than previous models. Includes a 20-minute shutoff function for extended work time.

Figure 2: Side view of the DCD796, showing the 'BRUSHLESS' marking and overall profile.

Figure 3: Detail of the metal 1/2 inch ratcheting chuck and adjustable clutch settings.

4. Setup

4.1. Battery Installation and Removal

This tool is sold as a bare tool and requires a DEWALT 20V MAX XR Lithium-Ion battery pack (sold separately).

1. To Install: Align the battery pack with the rails inside the tool's handle. Slide the pack firmly into the tool until it latches securely in place.
2. To Remove: Press the battery release button (usually located on the front of the battery pack) and pull the battery pack out of the tool's handle.

4.2. Installing and Removing Drill Bits

1. To Install: Rotate the chuck counter-clockwise until the jaws are open wide enough to insert the drill bit. Insert the bit fully into the chuck. Rotate the chuck clockwise to tighten the jaws securely around the bit. For best results, ensure the bit is centered.
2. To Remove: Rotate the chuck counter-clockwise to loosen the jaws and remove the drill bit.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Powering On/Off and Variable Speed Trigger

The tool is activated by pressing the variable speed trigger switch. The speed of the tool is controlled by the amount of trigger depression; the more the trigger is pressed, the faster the tool operates.

5.2. Forward/Reverse Control Button

The forward/reverse control button is located above the trigger. Push the button to the left for forward rotation (drilling/driving) and to the right for reverse rotation (removing screws). Center position locks the trigger for safety during transport or storage.

5.3. Speed Selector Switch

The DCD796 features a two-speed transmission. The speed selector switch is located on top of the tool.

• Speed 1 (Low Speed): For high torque applications, such as driving large fasteners or drilling large holes. (0-550 RPM)
• Speed 2 (High Speed): For fast drilling or driving smaller fasteners. (0-2,000 RPM)

Figure 4: View of the speed selector switch (labeled '1' and '2') and the integrated belt clip.

5.4. Hammer Drill Mode and Drill/Driver Mode

The collar behind the chuck allows selection between drilling, driving, and hammer drilling modes.

• Drill Mode (Drill Icon): For drilling holes in wood, metal, and plastics.
• Driver Mode (Screw Icon with Torque Settings): For driving screws. Adjust the torque collar to the desired setting to prevent overdriving or stripping screws.
• Hammer Drill Mode (Hammer Icon): For drilling in masonry and concrete. This mode engages a hammering action in addition to rotation.

5.5. LED Work Light

The 3-mode LED light is located at the base of the tool. It illuminates the work surface when the trigger is pressed. The LED spotlight mode features a 20-minute shutoff function, allowing for extended illumination in dark or confined spaces without holding the trigger.

Figure 5: The DCD796's LED work light illuminating the work area.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning

Keep the tool's ventilation slots clear and free of debris to prevent overheating. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior of the tool. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

6.2. Storage

Store the tool and battery packs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Ensure the tool is clean and dry before storage. Remove the battery pack from the tool when not in use for extended periods.

6.3. Battery Care (for compatible batteries)

Although this is a bare tool, proper care of your DEWALT 20V MAX XR Lithium-Ion battery packs is crucial for longevity:

• Always charge battery packs using a compatible DEWALT charger.
• Do not store battery packs in discharged condition.
• Avoid exposing battery packs to extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

DEWALT stands behind its products. For detailed warranty information, including terms, conditions, and registration, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official DEWALT website.

For technical support, service, or to locate a service center, please visit the official DEWALT website or contact their customer service. You can find more information and support resources at the DEWALT Store on Amazon.

Note: Specifications and features are subject to change without notice. Always refer to the latest information provided by the manufacturer.