How to put screwdriver bit in Craftsman drill?
To put a screwdriver bit in your Craftsman cordless drill/driver model 973111370, open the chuck, insert the bit straight into the jaws, then tighten the chuck until the bit is firmly clamped and centered.
Steps to install a screwdriver bit
- Remove the battery pack before handling the chuck and bit.
- Hold the drill with the chuck facing up.
- Open the chuck:
- Keyless chuck: rotate the chuck sleeve counterclockwise to open the jaws.
- If your drill has a chuck-lock or spindle-lock feature, engage it while turning the chuck.
- Insert the screwdriver bit:
- Push the bit in until it seats; keep it straight so it centers in the jaws.
- Tighten the chuck:
- Rotate the chuck sleeve clockwise until snug.
- Hand-tighten firmly; then give it an extra snug twist to prevent slipping.
- Reinstall the battery and briefly test at low speed.
Quick fit check (what “tight enough” looks like)
| Check | What you want to see | What it prevents |
|---|---|---|
| Bit is centered | No wobble when you spin the chuck by hand | Stripped screw heads |
| Bit does not pull out | You cannot tug it free by hand | Bit falling out |
| No chuck slip | Bit does not stop while chuck keeps turning | Rounded fasteners |
Common issues and fixes
- Bit wobbles: reopen the chuck, reseat the bit straight, then retighten.
- Bit keeps slipping: tighten the chuck harder by hand; use a shorter bit or a bit with a clean, non-oily shank.
- Chuck will not open/close smoothly: check for debris in the jaws; blow out dust and wipe the jaws clean.
Why it matters
A properly clamped bit transfers torque from the motor to the fastener efficiently. That reduces cam-out (bit slipping out of the screw head), protects the chuck jaws, and helps your Craftsman drill/driver drive screws consistently.
For safe DIY habits when working on tools and electrical parts, follow the guidance in are diy appliance repairs safe.
Last updated: February 2026
How to unlock chuck on Craftsman drill?
To unlock the chuck on your Craftsman cordless drill/driver model 973111370, set the drill to reverse and open the jaws by turning the chuck sleeve counterclockwise (or briefly squeezing the trigger while holding the sleeve). This releases the bit so you can remove or change it.
Quick steps to unlock the chuck
- Remove the battery pack before putting your fingers near the chuck jaws.
- Set the direction switch to reverse (counterclockwise rotation).
- Hold the rear chuck sleeve firmly.
- Turn the front sleeve counterclockwise to open the jaws.
- If it is stuck, keep holding the sleeve and tap the trigger in reverse in short bursts.
- Pull the bit straight out once the jaws loosen.
If the chuck is stuck (common causes and fixes)
A chuck can feel “locked” when the jaws are over-tightened, debris is packed in the jaws, or the clutch is set too high.
- Debris in jaws: Brush out dust and metal shavings; then open and close the jaws fully a few times.
- Over-tightened jaws: Use reverse plus short trigger bursts while gripping the sleeve.
- Bit wedged: Wiggle the bit while opening the jaws; avoid prying on the jaws.
- Clutch setting: Turn the clutch to a lower number while loosening (helps reduce binding).
What to try first (fast checklist)
| Symptom | Most likely cause | Best first move |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeve will not turn by hand | Jaws over-tightened | Reverse + short trigger bursts while holding sleeve |
| Jaws barely open | Debris in jaws | Clean jaws; cycle chuck open/close |
| Bit spins but will not release | Bit wedged | Wiggle bit while opening jaws |
Why it matters
Unlocking the chuck the right way prevents stripped chuck jaws, damaged bits, and motor strain. Using reverse and controlled trigger bursts is the safest way to break the jaws free without forcing the tool.
For more DIY safety basics before working on power tool wiring or switches, use our guide: are diy appliance repairs safe.
Last updated: February 2026
Does Craftsman have a hammer drill driver kit?
Craftsman does sell hammer drill/driver kits, but they are separate products from the Craftsman model 973111370 cordless drill/driver parts listing. Model 973111370 is a small cordless driver style tool, so a hammer drill kit is not a compatible “add-on” for this model; it is a different tool platform.
What to know about model 973111370 vs. hammer drill kits
Hammer drill/driver kits are built for higher-torque drilling and masonry work; they typically use a different battery system and tool design than compact cordless drivers.
- A hammer drill/driver adds a hammering action for brick, block, and light concrete
- Compact cordless drivers focus on light-duty screwdriving and small fasteners
- Battery packs, chargers, and accessories are platform-specific
- “Kit” usually means a tool bundle, not a replacement part for an existing tool
How to shop the right way (so you get compatible parts and accessories)
Use these checks before buying a kit or replacement components:
- Confirm the exact model number on your tool label: 973111370
- Match the battery/charger platform to the tool family you are buying
- Choose hammer drill/driver only if you need masonry drilling capability
- For repairs, use the parts list for model 973111370 and match by part description and diagram location
Quick comparison
| Item | Cordless driver (like 973111370) | Hammer drill/driver kit |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Light screwdriving | Drilling plus driving, including masonry |
| Typical power | Lower torque | Higher torque |
| Compatibility | Model-specific parts | Separate tool platform and kit contents |
Why it matters
Mixing platforms leads to wrong batteries, chargers, and accessories, and it also makes it harder to order the correct replacement parts for your specific Craftsman tool.
For help confirming the model number on the tool before ordering parts, use how to find your appliance model number (and what it means for parts).
Last updated: February 2026