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This is the first time I’ve ever experienced a problem with a Hitachi tool. Just before I retired and sold my small business, I worked as a Hitachi dealer and warranty station for the Japanese manufacturer. In my previous job, we sold and repaired hundreds of Hitachi tools, and I found them to be exceptionally well-made and engineered. I bought this tool about two and a half years ago and have been very pleased with it.
About once a week, I would use this tool for small jobs, which I would consider to be very light usage. Approximately a year ago, I became aware of some side-to-side movement in the drill chuck, which made it extremely difficult to drill an accurate hole, particularly in wood. I also have a good corded drill, so I didn’t have to be concerned about it too much. However, the problem became significantly worse over the last few weeks, and I decided to disassemble the tool in the hopes of discovering a faulty bearing or bushing that I could easily replace. Instead, I discovered a single-piece plastic assembly known as a “Front Case” assembly, which contained the shaft to which the drill chuck was connected. As a result of the poor design of this part, I would estimate that under moderate to heavy use, this part would fail in approximately six months.
Although this tool was manufactured in China, Hitachi was responsible for its design and is the company that manufactured it. I understand that this tool is priced as a homeowner’s tool, but it should be able to withstand light use for at least 5 years. I believe that for an additional $15, this tool could have been designed to last a minimum of ten years under even moderate use, which would have saved money.
