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Friday Fun Thread for August 7, 2026

Be advised: this thread is not for serious in-depth discussion of weighty topics (we have a link for that), this thread is not for anything Culture War related. This thread is for Fun. You got jokes? Share 'em. You got silly questions? Ask 'em.

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Man, we are going to be accused of becoming the Makita shill forum. But yeah, you are getting almost exactly the same efficiency as me. Assuming you mean two 18V 5Ah batteries in series, which IMO is 36V 5Ah. I have the smaller, less fancy Makita mower.

The only problem with the Makita LXT 18V X2 (36V) system is that the specification for the pack sizes in the X2 configuration technically prevents them from going up from 5S2P 18650 cells. Do at your own risk, but if anyone is wondering, those very slightly over-max-dimension aftermarket 5S2P 21700 housings do fit (at least the mowers). I think the 5S3P packs might fit, but seems like overkill and crazy weight. Plus, you probably need to spot-weld copper for that kind of amperage. If you go for custom battery pack, be sure get one with a high-quality BMS. You can now get 5 Ah 21700 cells for 10 Ah per 18 V pack. Which is more capacity than I have in mine. And will last way, way longer than I can mow for in one go.

P.S. Those modified PowerWheels are sick. I need to have a kid, just to justify buying one.

The Makita tools are very expensive and don't go on sale, but when I bought my first house I called the customer support line for the major tool manufacturers. One didn't have a support line, another had a wait time of 50 minutes, and Makita picked up (with an American!) on the second ring.

My dad's Ego gear just sucks to use. For the same weight profile and 50v batteries, every tool is underwhelming and he's had to warranty a lot of stuff.

I've now totaled my son's Sam's Club special. I started with the 18v upgrade, tacked on head-and-tail lights, and then when the motors burnt out threw in some 775s (yes I was lazy and bought a kit). I threw on a trailer hitch compatible with the bike trailer, so the rig can now tow a brother and some snacks depending on grade.