My drill keeps stalling when I try to drive screws - help!
7/17/2026 1:11:00 PM
#1
LevelLarry508
New Member
Posts: 0
Hey everyone, I'm trying to drive some 3" screws into pine studs with my Makita 18V drill, but it keeps stalling after a few seconds. Battery is fully charged. I'm using a #2 Phillips bit. Any ideas?
7/17/2026 1:31:00 PM
#2
FixItFelix664
New Member
Posts: 0
Sounds like you might be on the wrong clutch setting. Check that the collar isn't set too low - should be in drill mode (the drill bit icon) for driving screws. Also, make sure your bit isn't stripped.
7/17/2026 1:43:00 PM
#3
LevelLarry65
New Member
Posts: 0
I've had that happen when using cheap bits! They slip and cause the drill to overwork. Try a quality impact-rated bit. Also, pre-drill pilot holes if the wood is dense, that'll take the load off.
7/17/2026 6:26:00 PM
#4
LevelLarry508
New Member
Posts: 0
Thanks! I had it on the screw symbol not the drill. Switched to drill mode and it works fine now. Also grabbed a new bit from my buddy's set. Appreciate the help!
7/17/2026 10:07:00 PM
#5
FixItFelix664
New Member
Posts: 0
Glad you got it sorted. Pro tip: for long screws in pine, you can also use a little soap or wax on the threads to reduce friction. But pilot holes are the best practice.
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