Key Takeaways
- Air pockets are the most common cause of Milwaukee® M18 grease gun pumping failures, typically fixed by properly bleeding the system.
- Battery issues including poor connections, low charge, and extreme temperatures can prevent your M18 grease gun from functioning correctly.
- Regular maintenance including proper cleaning of the nozzle, check valve, and coupler can prevent most common operational problems.
- GenuineTools stocks Milwaukee® M18 grease guns and accessories at competitive prices with fast shipping, sourcing replacement parts, batteries, and maintenance supplies from trusted distributors backed by manufacturer warranties
Why Your Milwaukee® M18 Grease Gun Stopped Working
When your Milwaukee® M18 grease gun runs but won't dispense grease, the problem typically falls into one of three categories: air in the system, blockages, or power issues.
Understanding the root cause is essential for applying the correct fix. The M18 2646-20 model and other variants in the Milwaukee® lineup share similar mechanisms, so these troubleshooting steps apply across the product range.
Let's examine each potential issue in detail, starting with the most common culprit, air pockets trapped in the delivery system. Identifying the specific symptoms your grease gun exhibits will help narrow down which solution to try first, saving you valuable time and frustration.
Air Pockets: The #1 Cause of Pumping Failures
Air locks are by far the most frequent reason your Milwaukee® M18 grease gun might run but not pump grease. When air gets trapped between the plunger and the grease, it creates a pocket that prevents proper pressure buildup.
This commonly happens after changing cartridges, during initial setup, or if the gun hasn't been primed correctly. You'll know you have an air lock if the motor runs normally when you pull the trigger, but no grease comes out despite having a full cartridge installed.
Hardened Grease and Blocked Nozzles
The second most common issue is blockages caused by hardened grease or contamination in the system. Grease guns that sit unused for extended periods often develop dried-out grease in the nozzle, coupler, or check valve assembly. This creates a stubborn clog that blocks flow even though the motor and mechanism are working properly.
Environmental conditions can accelerate this problem, high heat can cause grease separation while freezing temperatures make grease too stiff to pump. If you notice grease coming out extremely slowly, inconsistently, or stopping completely, a blockage is likely the culprit.
Battery and Power Supply Problems
While less common than air locks or blockages, power-related issues can also prevent your Milwaukee® M18 grease gun from pumping effectively. The electric motor needs sufficient power to generate the pressure required for pushing grease through the system.
If your battery is low, improperly seated, or has damaged contacts, the motor might run but lack the torque necessary to overcome the resistance of thick grease. Similarly, extreme temperatures (especially cold) can temporarily reduce battery performance, resulting in insufficient power to operate the pump mechanism properly.
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Troubleshooting: Step-by-Step Solutions That Works
The following detailed procedures address specific problems with your Milwaukee® M18 grease gun, providing comprehensive solutions for even the most stubborn operational issues.
Removing Air Locks From Your M18 Grease Gun
For air locks issues, try this complete air purging method. First, fully retract and lock the plunger rod, then unscrew the head assembly from the barrel. Remove any cartridge and clean visible grease from both components.
Reinstall the head without a cartridge and pull the trigger several times to clear any grease from the pump mechanism. Next, load a fresh cartridge ensuring the pull tab remains in place until the cartridge is fully seated, then remove the tab and allow the plunger to contact the grease.
With the gun assembled, locate the air bleeder valve (small screw on the head assembly) and loosen it 1–2 turns. Point the gun upward at a 45-degree angle and pull the trigger while keeping the bleeder valve open. Continue this process until you see grease (not air bubbles) emerging from the bleeder valve opening.
Once grease appears, tighten the valve and wipe away excess grease. This thorough bleeding procedure removes even deep-seated air pockets that may be trapped in multiple areas of the system.
How to Clean a Clogged Nozzle or Hose
For severely clogged systems, begin by disconnecting the hose from the head assembly (if your model has a detachable hose). Soak the hose in warm mineral spirits for 30–60 minutes, then use compressed air to blow through it from both directions.
For the nozzle and coupler, disassemble them completely and soak all metal components in solvent. Use a small wire brush to clean internal threads and passages, paying special attention to the check valve and ball bearing that controls directional flow.
If hardened grease remains stubborn, you can carefully heat metal components (never plastic parts) using a heat gun on low setting to soften the grease before cleaning. After all components are thoroughly cleaned, dry them completely using compressed air and reassemble, applying a small amount of fresh grease to o-rings and seals.
Dealing With Cold Weather Grease Problems
When working in sustained cold conditions, switch to winter-grade or Arctic-rated grease with an NLGI #0 or #1 rating instead of the standard #2 grade.
These lower-viscosity formulations pump more easily in cold temperatures. Additionally, consider adding a battery warmer or insulated battery cover to maintain optimal battery temperature. Some professionals keep a second battery in an inside pocket, rotating them regularly to ensure the battery in use stays warm enough for maximum performance.
Check Battery Connections
Poor battery connections can cause your M18 grease gun to run weakly or inconsistently. Remove the battery pack completely and inspect both the battery terminals and the connection points inside the tool for corrosion, debris, or damage.
Clean connections using electrical contact cleaner and a soft brush, allowing them to dry completely before reinstallation. Ensure the battery clicks firmly into place when reattached, a loose connection can cause intermittent power issues even with a fully charged battery.
When DIY Fixes Don't Work: Next Steps
If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps without success, your Milwaukee® M18 grease gun may have internal damage requiring professional repair or replacement.
Signs Your Grease Gun Needs Professional Repair
Despite your best troubleshooting efforts, certain symptoms indicate internal damage requiring professional service. Unusual grinding noises during operation, motor running but internal gears not engaging, significant grease leakage from sealed areas (not connection points), or complete electrical failure are all signs that DIY fixes won't resolve your issue.
Similarly, if the plunger mechanism retracts on its own or won't lock in position, internal spring or locking components may have failed. These problems typically require replacement parts and specialized tools that aren't readily available to consumers.
Milwaukee® Warranty Information
Milwaukee® offers one of the best warranty programs in the industry for their M18 grease gun. When purchased new from a trusted dealer, your grease gun comes with a standard 5-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
This warranty doesn't cover normal wear and tear, but does protect against premature failure of internal components when the tool is used according to specifications.
To take advantage of warranty service, you'll need proof of purchase showing the date of acquisition. Milwaukee® evaluates warranty claims on a case-by-case basis, particularly for tools that show signs of abuse or modification. Generally, they'll repair or replace tools with manufacturing defects at no cost, though shipping charges to service centers may apply. For fastest service, contact your retailers directly.
Buy a New Milwaukee® M18 Grease Gun
If your grease gun is beyond repair, or if the cost of repairs is prohibitive, purchasing a new Milwaukee® M18 grease gun could be the most practical and efficient solution. A new tool offers the latest design improvements and enhanced features, ensuring better performance and reliability for your tasks.
In many situations, buying a new grease gun may actually be more cost-effective than continuing to repair an old one, particularly when the cost of replacement parts and labor exceeds the price of a new unit. Additionally, a fresh start with a new tool can save you time and frustration, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're working with a reliable, fully functional machine.
Purchase Your Grease Gun at GenuineTools
At GenuineTools, we're committed to supporting professionals who depend on Milwaukee's industry-leading power tools. In addition to offering Milwaukee® M18 grease guns and accessories at competitive prices, we stock compatible products that keep your equipment running smoothly. From genuine Milwaukee® batteries to high quality battery chargers, we source everything from trusted distributors to ensure you receive factory-sealed products with full manufacturer warranties.
Our high customer ratings show our commitment to supplying high quality tools at the best prices.
If you need a replacement M18 grease gun, backup batteries for extended projects, or backup tools to prevent future issues, our streamlined ordering process and fast shipping get you back to work quickly. We understand that equipment downtime costs money, which is why we prioritize reliable service and responsive support.
Every purchase comes with our 30-day satisfaction guarantee, giving you confidence in both your tools and your supplier. Trust GenuineTools for authentic Milwaukee® products that deliver professional performance at prices that respect your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my M18 grease gun is completely empty?
Several signs indicate cartridge depletion: the plunger rod is fully extended with no gap between end cap and plunger disc, increased motor strain without grease output, and noticeably lighter tool weight. To confirm, retract the plunger, remove the barrel, and visually inspect, if no grease remains along barrel walls or in the head assembly, it's empty. Replace cartridges at 90% depletion rather than running completely empty to prevent air introduction.
Can I use any type of grease in my Milwaukee® M18 grease gun?
Milwaukee® recommends NLGI #1 or #2 grade greases for optimal performance. Lithium complex and lithium-based greases work best due to consistent texture across temperature ranges. Avoid very heavy greases (NLGI #3) that strain the motor and extremely thin greases (NLGI #0) that may leak past seals. Never mix different grease types, chemical incompatibilities cause separation, hardening, or seal damage.
What's the difference between an airlock and a clogged nozzle?
Airlocks allow normal motor operation with standard trigger resistance but produce no grease output, often accompanied by a "whooshing" sound from air compression. Bleeding through the relief valve immediately solves airlocks. Clogged nozzles create back pressure you feel through the trigger, the motor strains, runs slower, and sometimes forces grease around connection points. Cleaning the nozzle and check valve resolves clogs.
Where should I buy Milwaukee® M18 grease gun replacement parts and accessories?
GenuineTools offers authentic Milwaukee® M18 grease guns, and replacement batteries at competitive prices with fast shipping. We source all products from verified distributors, ensuring factory-sealed items with full manufacturer warranties.
With straightforward ordering and responsive customer service, you get the right tools quickly. Every purchase is backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee for complete confidence in both product quality and supplier reliability.
*Note: Pricing and/or product availability mentioned in this post are subject to change. Please check the website for current pricing and stock information before making a purchase.