how do i clean out the inside? i got a bunch of metal shavings all in it from a job.

Diagnosis

Metal shavings in a Makita XWT15Z 18V LXT Impact Wrench typically enter through the gaps around the anvil (the output shaft) or the ventilation ports in the plastic housing. Because this tool uses a high-frequency impact mechanism, these shavings act as an abrasive paste when mixed with the factory grease. They lodge themselves in the hammer-and-anvil assembly and the planetary gear set, which are precision-machined components with tolerances measured in microns. If left uncleaned, these shavings will score the surface of the hammer and the anvil, causing "flat spots" that reduce the torque output and create an audible, uneven rattling sound during operation. You can confirm the severity of the contamination by rotating the anvil by hand; if you feel a "gritty" sensation or hear a metallic scratching sound rather than a smooth glide, the debris has penetrated the internal gear housing and requires a deep clean to prevent permanent mechanical failure.

How to Fix It

1. Remove the 18V LXT battery immediately to prevent accidental trigger pulls while your fingers are near the internal components.
2. Hold the tool with the anvil pointing directly downward over a waste bin or a magnetic tray.
3. Use a high-pressure compressed air nozzle (30-90 PSI) to blow air into the gap between the anvil and the housing. Pulse the air in short bursts to shake the shavings loose from the hammer mechanism.
4. Direct the air stream into the motor ventilation slots located at the rear of the tool. Blow from the back toward the front to push debris out of the motor housing and away from the carbon brushes.
5. Apply a small amount of electronic-safe contact cleaner to the anvil shaft and rotate it manually. This helps liquefy any grease that has trapped fine metallic dust, allowing it to drip out of the bottom of the casing.
6. Once the debris is flushed, use a can of air to blow out any remaining liquid cleaner.
7. Reinstall the battery and run the tool on the lowest speed setting for 30 seconds in both forward and reverse to redistribute the remaining internal grease and ensure the hammer is seating correctly.

If That Didn't Work

• Full Housing Disassembly: If the tool still feels gritty, you must remove the outer plastic shell. Use a T10 Torx driver to remove the housing screws. Carefully split the clamshell, ensuring you do not pinch the trigger switch wires. Once open, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove all shavings from the motor casing before opening the gear box.
• Gearbox Degreasing: If shavings have reached the planetary gears, you must open the front gear case. Carefully remove the retaining clips and slide out the anvil. Use a lint-free cloth soaked in brake cleaner to wipe down the gears and the hammer assembly. Do not use a wire brush, as this will scratch the hardened steel surfaces.
• Regreasing the Impact Mechanism: After a deep clean, the factory grease is gone. You must apply a high-pressure, molybdenum-disulfide (Moly) grease to the hammer and anvil. Avoid over-filling the gearbox; fill it approximately 60% full to allow for heat expansion during heavy use.
• Brush Inspection: Check the carbon brushes for metallic dust buildup. If shavings have entered the motor armature, use a soft brush to clean the commutator. If the brushes are scored or pitted, replace them with genuine Makita LXT replacement brushes to prevent motor burnout.

Heads Up

• Never use a vacuum cleaner on the external vents alone; the suction is rarely strong enough to pull shavings out of the thick grease inside the gear case.
• Avoid using WD-40 as a primary cleaner inside the gearbox; it is too thin and can strip the necessary lubrication from the bearings, leading to premature bearing failure.
• If you work in environments with high metallic dust (like grinding or machining), use a blast of compressed air every 4 hours of operation to prevent buildup.
• Be wary of "magnetic" cleaning tools; if you use a strong magnet to pull shavings out, you may accidentally pull the internal ball bearings out of alignment or attract more debris into the motor windings.