1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and care of your Makita XWT17T 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-Speed Mid-Torque 1/2" Square Drive Impact Wrench. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool to ensure proper handling and to prevent injury or damage.
Image 1.1: The Makita XWT17T kit, including the impact wrench, two 5.0Ah batteries, a rapid optimum charger, and a tool bag.
2. Safety Information
Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep this manual for future reference.
General Power Tool Safety Warnings
- Work Area Safety: Keep your work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
- Electrical Safety: Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating impact tools. 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 Safety: Use only with specified battery packs and chargers. Do not incinerate battery packs even if they are severely damaged.
Proposition 65 Warning
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.
Image 2.1: Important safety warning regarding the use of non-genuine Makita Lithium-Ion batteries, which can pose fire and injury risks.
3. Package Contents
The Makita XWT17T kit includes the following items:
- 18V LXT® Brushless 4-Speed Mid-Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring Anvil (XWT17Z)
- (2) 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah Battery (BL1850B)
- 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Rapid Optimum Charger (DC18RC)
- Tool Bag
4. Product Features
The Makita XWT17T Impact Wrench is engineered for enhanced fastening control and performance across various applications.
- BL™ Brushless Motor: Delivers 520 ft.lbs. of fastening torque and 740 ft.lbs. of nut-busting torque, ensuring extended run time and efficient power use.
- Compact and Ergonomic Design: At only 6-11/16" long and approximately 6.0 lbs with battery, the tool is designed for reduced operator fatigue and improved maneuverability.
- 4-Speed Power Selection Switch: Offers precise fastening control with four distinct speed settings (0-500 / 0-1,200 / 0-1,900 / 0-2,200 RPM and 0-1,000 / 0-1,700 / 0-2,400 / 0-2,700 IPM) for a wide range of applications.
- Auto-Stop Modes: Features three forward and three reverse auto-stop modes for increased efficiency and preventing over-tightening or accidental dropping of fasteners.
- Full-Speed Mode Function: Reduces the trigger pull required to reach full speed, enhancing user control and responsiveness.
- Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™): A protective seal within the tool designed to improve operation in harsh conditions by channeling water and dust away from internal components.
- LXT® Cordless System Compatibility: Part of Makita’s 18V LXT System, allowing compatibility with a wide range of 18V lithium-ion slide-style batteries and tools.
- Star Protection Computer Controls™: Communication technology between the tool and battery to protect against overloading, over-discharging, and overheating, ensuring improved tool performance and extended battery life.
Image 4.1: Side view of the Makita XWT17T Impact Wrench, showcasing its compact and ergonomic design.
Image 4.2: The impact wrench in operation, illustrating its capability to deliver high fastening and nut-busting torque.
5. Getting Started
Battery Installation and Removal
- To install the battery, align the battery pack with the grooves in the tool's housing and slide it in until it locks into place with a click.
- To remove the battery, press the release button on the battery pack and slide it out of the tool.
Anvil Type and Socket Attachment
The XWT17T features a 1/2" square drive with a friction ring anvil. This design allows for quick and secure socket changes.
- To attach a socket, simply push the socket firmly onto the square drive until the friction ring secures it.
- To remove a socket, pull it off the square drive with a firm tug.
6. Operation
Power Selection (4-Speed)
The tool features a 4-speed power selection switch located on the base of the handle, allowing you to match the speed and impact rate to the application requirements.
Image 6.1: The control panel displaying the 4-speed settings and various operational modes for precise control.
- Press the speed selection button to cycle through the four available speeds. The selected speed will be indicated by an LED light.
- Lower speeds are suitable for delicate tasks or when precise control is needed, while higher speeds provide maximum power for heavy-duty applications.
Auto-Stop Modes
The XWT17T includes three forward and three reverse auto-stop modes to prevent over-tightening or to ensure fasteners are not dropped after loosening.
- These modes automatically stop the impact action after a certain period or when a specific resistance is met, enhancing efficiency and preventing damage.
- Refer to the tool's specific mode settings for detailed operation of each auto-stop function.
Full-Speed Mode Function
Activate the full-speed mode to reduce the trigger pull distance required to reach the tool's maximum speed, providing quicker response and less finger fatigue during continuous use.
Trigger Operation
The trigger switch controls the tool's ON/OFF function and variable speed. Press the trigger for operation and release to stop. The tool's speed is proportional to the amount of trigger depression.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your Makita impact wrench.
General Cleaning
- Always disconnect the battery pack before performing any maintenance.
- Clean the tool's ventilation openings regularly to prevent dust accumulation, which can cause overheating.
- Wipe the tool housing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Battery Care and Star Protection
- Charge batteries using only the specified Makita charger (DC18RC) to ensure proper charging and battery longevity.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- The Star Protection Computer Controls™ system monitors battery conditions to prevent overloading, over-discharging, and overheating. If the tool stops during use, check the battery indicator and allow the battery to cool if necessary.
Image 7.1: The LXT Advantage highlights key benefits of Makita's battery and motor technology, including faster charging and efficient power management.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Makita XWT17T, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not start | Battery not charged or improperly installed. | Ensure battery is fully charged and correctly inserted until it clicks. |
| Reduced power or intermittent operation | Battery charge low; tool overheating; carbon brushes worn (for brushed motors, though this is brushless). | Recharge battery. Allow tool to cool down. For brushless motors, if issue persists, contact service. |
| Socket not holding securely | Friction ring worn or damaged. | Inspect friction ring for wear. Replace if necessary. Ensure socket is pushed on firmly. |
| Tool stops unexpectedly | Overload protection activated (Star Protection). | Reduce load on the tool. Allow tool and battery to cool down before resuming operation. |
If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact Makita customer support or an authorized service center.
9. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Makita XWT17T Impact Wrench:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | XWT17T |
| Brand | Makita |
| Voltage | 18V |
| Operation Mode | Battery-powered |
| Drive Size | 1/2" Square Drive |
| Anvil Type | Friction Ring |
| Fastening Torque | 520 ft.lbs. |
| Nut-Busting Torque | 740 ft.lbs. |
| Speed Settings | 4-Speed (0-500 / 0-1,200 / 0-1,900 / 0-2,200 RPM) |
| Impacts Per Minute (IPM) | 0-1,000 / 0-1,700 / 0-2,400 / 0-2,700 IPM |
| Item Weight (with battery) | Approximately 6.0 lbs. |
| Product Dimensions | 6.89 x 22.01 x 8.66 inches |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Special Features | Reverse Rotation, Auto-Stop Modes, Full-Speed Mode |
| Included Batteries | 2 x 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah |
| UPC | 088381723855 |
10. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
Makita offers a 3-year limited warranty on the tool, battery, and charger from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. For full warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Makita warranty statement or contact Makita customer service.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, service, or warranty claims, please contact Makita customer support:
- Phone: (800)4-MAKITA (800-462-5482)
- Website: Visit the official Makita website for service center locations and online support.
When contacting support, please have your tool's model number (XWT17T) and serial number available.
