Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - Electric drill troubleshooting

I have a Craftsman 1/2" drill that died. I paid $59.95 for it new about a year and a half ago. Sears wants $69.95 to send it in for repair! So I'd like to order the parts and fix it myself, but how do I figure out what parts to order?

When I squeeze the trigger nothing happens. But if I squeeze the trigger and spin the chuck it will run (slowly). Can anyone tell me how to test the components of the motor? The brushes look fine, and I cleaned the commutator with 0000 steel wool. This drill has seen very little use and I'd hate to throw it away.

Harry

Harry, yeah, it sounds as if the armature is the culprit. You could clean it, but that would require the removal of the workings. Are the brushes externally captive? If so, it won't be too bad. Remove the brushes, check them for excessive wear, then you can disassemble the drill, clean the armature and return it, replacing the brushes.
My old craftsman died from a bad switch, which Sears doesn't carry any more, and I've had a difficult time locating an exact replacement, so I know where you are coming from. Too good to thrown away, but a PITA to use in its present condition.

Is this drill variable speed?

It may not be the commutator. It might be in the speed control circuit.

I know how you feel but how much do you want to spend to throw parts at it?