1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Makita DHR280ZJ 36V Twin 18V Li-Ion LXT Brushless Rotary Hammer. The DHR280ZJ is a versatile tool designed for various drilling and hammering applications, powered by two 18V Li-ion LXT slide-type batteries (not included). It features a brushless 36V motor, variable speed trigger, constant speed control, and a torque limiter, delivering up to 980 rpm, 5,000 bpm, and 2.8 Joules of impact energy. It offers three operating modes: rotary only, rotary hammer, and hammer only, and incorporates soft no-load function and Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT).
2. General Safety Instructions
Always observe the following general safety precautions when using power tools to reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, and serious injury.
- Work Area Safety: Keep your 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: Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as dust masks, non-skid safety shoes, hard hats, or hearing protection for relevant conditions. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool.
- Power Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. It 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.
- Battery Tool Use and Care: Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
- Service: 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.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, ensure all items listed below are present and undamaged. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your supplier immediately.
- 1 x Makita DHR280ZJ Rotary Hammer
- 1 x Makpac case
- 1 x Side handle
- 1 x Depth stop
- 1 x Bit grease
Note: Batteries and charger are not included with this model.
4. Setup and Assembly
4.1 Battery Installation
The DHR280ZJ requires two 18V Li-ion LXT slide-type batteries for operation. Ensure batteries are fully charged before use.
- Align the battery with the battery housing slots on the tool.
- Slide the battery into the housing until it locks into place with a click.
- Repeat for the second battery.
- To remove, press the release button on the battery and slide it out.

Figure 4.1: Makita DHR280ZJ rotary hammer showing the two 18V Li-ion battery slots with batteries inserted.
4.2 Side Handle and Depth Stop Attachment
The side handle provides additional control and stability. The depth stop allows for consistent drilling depth.
- Loosen the side handle clamp by twisting the handle counter-clockwise.
- Slide the handle onto the barrel of the tool.
- Adjust the handle to a comfortable and secure position, then tighten by twisting clockwise.
- Insert the depth stop into the hole on the side handle.
- Adjust the depth stop to the desired drilling depth and secure it.

Figure 4.2: Close-up view of the depth stop mechanism on the Makita DHR280ZJ, showing how it is inserted into the side handle.
4.3 Bit Installation (SDS-Plus)
The DHR280ZJ uses SDS-Plus bits for quick and secure bit changes.
- Clean the bit shank and apply a small amount of bit grease (supplied) to prevent wear.
- Pull back the chuck sleeve.
- Insert the SDS-Plus bit into the chuck until it clicks into place.
- Release the chuck sleeve. Pull on the bit to ensure it is securely locked. A slight amount of play is normal for SDS-Plus systems.
- To remove, pull back the chuck sleeve and pull the bit out.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Mode Selection
The DHR280ZJ offers three operating modes: Rotary Only, Rotary Hammer, and Hammer Only. Select the appropriate mode using the mode selector switch.
- Rotary Only: For drilling in wood, metal, or plastic without hammering action.
- Rotary Hammer: For drilling in concrete, masonry, and stone with both rotation and hammering action.
- Hammer Only: For chiseling, chipping, or demolition work without rotation.

Figure 5.1: Close-up view of the mode selector switch on the Makita DHR280ZJ, indicating the three operational modes.
5.2 Powering On/Off and Speed Control
The tool is equipped with a variable speed trigger for precise control.
- To start the tool, pull the trigger switch.
- Tool speed increases with increased trigger pressure.
- To stop the tool, release the trigger switch.
- For continuous operation, pull the trigger and then push the lock-on button. To release, pull the trigger fully.
5.3 Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT)
The DHR280ZJ features Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) to reduce vibration transmitted to the user, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue during extended use.
5.4 Soft No Load Function
This function automatically reduces the motor speed when the tool is idling, minimizing vibration and noise, and extending tool life. The speed automatically increases when drilling begins.

Figure 5.2: A user operating the Makita DHR280ZJ rotary hammer, demonstrating its use in a typical drilling application with an attached dust extraction system.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your tool. Always disconnect batteries before performing any maintenance.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tool's ventilation openings to prevent overheating. Use a soft, damp cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Chuck Maintenance: Keep the SDS-Plus chuck clean and lubricated with bit grease to ensure smooth bit changes and prevent wear.
- Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not store fully discharged batteries for extended periods.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the tool for any signs of damage, loose screws, or worn parts. If damage is found, have the tool repaired by an authorized service center.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Makita DHR280ZJ.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not start | Batteries not inserted correctly or discharged. | Ensure both batteries are fully charged and properly inserted. |
| Reduced drilling/hammering performance | Worn or dull bit. Incorrect mode selected. Overheating. | Replace bit. Select appropriate operating mode. Allow tool to cool down. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose bit. Damaged tool components. | Ensure bit is securely locked. If problem persists, seek professional service. |
| Bit gets stuck | Drilling into rebar or hard material. | Reduce pressure. Use appropriate bit for material. |
8. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Makita DHR280ZJ Rotary Hammer.
- Brand: Makita
- Model Number: DHR280ZJ
- Power Source: Battery Powered (Twin 18V Li-Ion LXT)
- Voltage: 36 Volts
- Maximum Rotational Speed: 980 RPM
- Maximum Chuck Size: 13 Millimeters (SDS-Plus)
- Impact Energy: 2.8 Joules
- Blows Per Minute (BPM): 5,000 bpm
- Drilling Capacity (Wood): 32 Millimeters
- Drilling Capacity (Metal): 13 Millimeters
- Drilling Capacity (Concrete): 28 Millimeters
- TCT Core Capacity: 54 Millimeters
- Diamond Core Capacity: 65 Millimeters
- Item Weight: 5.1 Kilograms (approx. 11.22 pounds)
- Product Dimensions: 3.94"L x 3.94"W x 3.94"H
- Special Features: Variable Speed, Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT), Soft No Load Function
- Included Components: 1 x Bit grease, 1 x Depth stop, 1 x Makita DHR280ZJ, 1 x Makpac case, 1 x Side handle
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
The Makita DHR280ZJ comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty. An additional 2 years of warranty can be obtained when the product is registered within 30 days of purchase. This guarantee does not apply where non-genuine or non-recommended parts or accessories are fitted to the tool. The use of non-genuine or compatible batteries and chargers with Makita Tools will invalidate the Makita guarantee for our tools.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or to locate an authorized service center, please contact Makita customer support through their official website or the contact information provided with your purchase documentation. Always provide your model number (DHR280ZJ) and purchase date when seeking support.







