Thread: Is it possible (safely) to convert a 14.4V cordless drill

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Is it possible to convert a 14.4V Dewalt drill I have around (batteries shot) to plug into a 110V outlet for a monster in a box prop? Thanks

You could, but you'd have to find a hefty power supply to do it. You could probably get by with a 12V power supply - they're more common than 14.4V - but you'd need one that could supply several amps. You might be able to get by with a hacked PC power supply, but it's hard to say whether or not it would have enough power. If not, MPJA.com generally has a pretty good selection of DC power supplies.
It may be more cost effective (and definitely easier) to buy a cheap 120V drill for this project. Check Wal Mart or Harbor Freight.

You could go to a surplus store and get a sealed 12 volt battery. Like the kind used in emergency lighting systems. They generally run around $10. Most of these are at least 1500 MAH or more, so if your prop is not running continuously the battery should handle the prop for the night. And the good thing about a lead acid sealed battery, is they don't have memory issues like NiCads do. You can get a low amp wart to trickle charge the battery before the big night.

Thanks...that sounds like more my speed, not really a fan of being electrocuted to death by a Halloween prop. Can I rig a motion sensor like a typical Home Depot outdoor one between the connection or will I need to find one thats not rated for 110V.