DeWalt DWE4517: problems, parts and running costs
Checked: 2026-10-17
Summary
The DWE4517 is a 7-inch corded angle grinder with a 15 A / 4 HP peak motor at 8,500 RPM, and the problems owners report are mostly about what is missing from the box and inconsistent quality control rather than the motor. Keeping it running costs consumable 7-inch Type 27 wheels, flap discs, wire brushes and replacement brushes, with no battery or charger costs; no yearly figure could be computed from the research. It is a good buy around $229.99 only for a buyer who specifically wants a corded 7-inch DeWalt with the 3-year warranty behind it.
Common problems and fixes
- No brake or E-Clutch — the design dates to a 2012 manual and has no kickback brake or E-Clutch, unlike newer DeWalt grinders [1][2]. Fix: keep two hands on the 2-position side handle and let the wheel stop before setting the tool down; this is a design limit, not a warranty item. [1][2]
- Needs a dedicated circuit — the manual recommends a dedicated electrical circuit, and on a shared circuit performance decreases [2]. Fix: plug into a dedicated circuit for full power. [2]
- Lock-on button removal — the lock-on button can only be removed by a DEWALT Service Center [2]. Fix: leave it in unless you send the tool to a service center. [2]
Parts and consumables
- 7-inch Type 27 guard and 2-position side handle — included; the guard is pre-adjusted at the factory to the gear case hub diameter [1][2].
Yearly running cost
Not enough data. The recurring costs are those consumables, plus the tool is corded with no battery or charger costs and the manual recommends a dedicated circuit for full performance [2][4].
When it is a good buy
Shipton’s Big R asked $229.99 for in-store pickup, no shipping, in October 2026 [4]. At that price it suits a buyer who wants a corded 7-inch DeWalt grinder backed by the 3-year limited warranty and the 600+ authorized repair shops [4][8]. A buyer open to cordless or a newer corded model with a brake and E-Clutch will find weaker value at that price [1]. One alternative to weigh: DeWalt’s current cordless large angle grinders and newer corded models with E-Clutch and PERFORM & PROTECT features [1].