How to Find the Correct Model Number For Your DeWALT Tools

Today's article will be about how to correctly find the model number for your DeWALT power tool parts. At eReplacementparts.com, we sometimes run into the problem of customers ordering the right parts, but for the wrong tool. Although we are glad to exchange these parts with a small restocking fee, it's a lot more fun for EVERYONE if the order is correct in the first place.

So, here are some tips to help make sure that the part you order is for the right DeWALT tool. The most important thing to know is the model number of the tool. The best place to find the model number is on the manufacturer's name plate. This plate is where the manufacturer displays the information about the paticular tool, the serial number of the tool, the manufacturer contact information, and any safety warnings you should know about before using the tool. Here is a DeWALT reciprocating saw name plate:

Almost all manufacturers will put the model number in the top left corner of the plate. In this case, the model number is DW938. Pretty straight forward, right?

The next thing to note is the version of the tool. When DeWALT comes out with a new tool, they may find that it needs a few design changes to perform better. So, they will make the design changes, and then come out with a second version of the tool. For most manufacturers, this would be be noted as "TYPE 2". They will continue with TYPE 3, TYPE 4, and so on until they feel that all of the bugs are worked out. The schematics (parts list) for the different types may look exactly the same, but you have to be careful, because the parts that you are looking to replace may be the parts that were changed in the new version of the tool. So make sure that you have the right type. For DeWALT, you can find the TYPE just below the model number of the tool.

Now, when you do a search for a paticular model all of the existing types should come up. Just pick the one that fits your tool.

Another thing to note with DeWALT tools is that sometimes you will see letters on the end of the model number. These letters show additional options for you tool. The most common is the letter "K". When you see the letter "K" on the end of a model number, it means that the tool comes as a kit, usually with a box. See the manufacturers catalog for more details.

This article is meant to help mostly with DeWALT tools. If you have questions about other manufacturers, check back in the future because I will be posting articles about other manufacturers soon.