Replacement battery for Bosch 14.4V (type BAT038 / BAT040 / 2 607 335 264)

This battery is the classic 14.4 volt plug-in battery (also called "bulb battery" or "O-Pack") for the widely used older Bosch power tools. Originally, these devices were often supplied with nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, which had a low capacity (usually 1.2 Ah to 1.5 Ah).

Today's replacement batteries almost always use the modern NiMH technology (nickel-metal hydride). This offers two decisive advantages: it eliminates the annoying memory effect and increases the capacity enormously (often to 3.0 Ah / 3000 mAh or more), which can more than double the running time of your machine compared to buying a new one at the time.

Highlights at a glance

• 100% perfect fit: Replaces all Bosch 14.4V plug-in batteries with the following designations BAT038, BAT040, BAT041, BAT140, BAT159 and the part numbers 2 607 335 264 and 2 607 335 276.
• NiMH upgrade (no memory effect): You can charge the battery at any time, even when it is still half full. The modern chemistry is more environmentally friendly and longer-lasting than the old NiCd cells.
• Maximum running time: With typically 3000 mAh (3.0 Ah) you have significantly more energy reserves for long working days. The battery lasts longer and does not collapse so quickly under load.
• Robust design: Features the tried-and-tested housing with side release buttons (usually red or black) and snaps firmly into the handle of the machine.
• Wide compatibility: Fits both in the blue Professional series (e.g. GSR 14.4 VE-2) as well as in the green DIY series (e.g. PSR 14.4 VE-2) and various garden tools.

Compatible machines (extract)

This battery fits dozens of Bosch models. Here are the most important ones:

• Bosch Blue (commercial):
  • drill driver: GSR 14.4 V, GSR 14.4 VE-2, GSR 14.4 V-2
  • Impact drill driver: GSB 14.4 VE-2
  • Saws/planers: GKS 14.4 V, GHO 14.4 V, GST 14.4 V (jigsaw)
  • Lamps: GLI 14.4 V
• Bosch Green (DIY):
  • drill driver: PSR 14.4, PSR 14.4 VE-2, PSR 14.4/2
  • Impact drill: PSB 14.4 V
  • Saws: PKS 14.4 V (portable circular saw)
  • Garden: AHS 41 Accu, ART 26 (lawn trimmer - Attention: Check design!)

Features

FAQs about the Bosch 14.4V replacement battery

Can I charge NiMH batteries in my old NiCd charger?

As a rule, yes. Almost all Bosch chargers from this era (such as AL 60 DV, AL 1411 DV, AL 1419 DV) are "Multichemie" chargers. Look at the charger's rating plate: If it says "NiCd / NiMH", everything is perfect. As NiMH is somewhat more sensitive to heat, you should remove the battery from very old, simple chargers as soon as it is full (warm).

What is the difference between BAT038 and BAT040?

There used to be differences in capacity or cell chemistry (BAT038 was often the standard 1.5Ah NiCd, BAT040 the "High Power" NiMH). Mechanically they are identical. Today, this distinction is irrelevant, as modern replacement batteries replace both types and are usually more powerful than both originals combined.

Does the battery fit in the new 14.4V Li-Ion devices?

No, by no means. Modern Li-Ion devices have small sliding batteries or flat bottom batteries. The BAT038 is a large block that in is pushed into the handle. The systems are mechanically and electrically incompatible.

Is it still worth buying for such old machines?