DIAGNOSIS Excessive heat in the gear housing indicates lack of lubrication, using the wrong gear (speed) for the task, or a binding gearset.
FIX You're likely in high speed (gear 2) for a high-torque task like drilling large holes or driving long screws.
- Switch to low speed (gear 1) for any task that requires pressure. Gear 1 is for high torque.
- Let the drill cool completely. The overheating can temporarily thin the factory grease.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK The gearbox grease has degraded or leaked out. The drill needs to be opened and the planetary gears repacked with a high-temperature grease like Makita P-08373 or equivalent.
HEADS UP Continuous overheating can warp plastic gear teeth (the ring gear is nylon) and permanently damage the gearbox. If you smell a burning plastic odor, stop immediately.