Strands S68 Drill Press Manual

Post draft — Strands S68 Drill Press

Got my hands on the Strands S68 drill press and it’s a surprisingly capable little workhorse. Compact footprint, solid build, and impressively smooth spindle — perfect for small shops, DIYers, and anyone who wants reliable, accurate holes without taking up their entire bench. Key things I noticed:

  • Build & stability: Heavy cast-iron base and column keep vibrations down even at higher speeds.
  • Speed range: Variable speeds feel well-spaced for wood, metal, and light plastics; easy to change with the belt and pulley setup.
  • Quill travel & control: Generous quill depth and a smooth, forgiving feed lever make repeatable pocketing and countersinking simple.
  • Table & adjustments: Tilt and height adjustments are straightforward; the table feels sturdy and doesn’t flex under moderate loads.
  • Motor & power: Adequate torque for typical bench projects; stalls only under real abuse.
  • Value: Feels like a great mid-range option — not a precision industrial unit, but excellent for hobbyists and small pros.

2.2 Drill Press-Specific Hazards

  • Never remove chips or debris while the spindle is rotating.
  • Secure workpiece with a vise or clamps – do not hold by hand.
  • Adjust speed only when machine is stopped (for belt-change models).
  • Ensure chuck key is removed before starting.
  1. Stop the Machine. Ensure the spindle has come to a complete halt.
  2. Locate the Speed Chart. Find the metal plate on the headstock showing speed configurations.
  3. Move Selection Levers. Move the gear shift levers to align with the diagram for your desired speed.

    2. The Column and Spindle Integrity

    The heart of any drill press is its ability to drill straight, and the S68 excels here thanks to its precision-ground column and chromed quill. Strands S68 Drill Press Manual

    Before the first run, ensure the geared head has the correct oil levels. General maintenance manuals suggest weekly lubrication of all sliding parts, such as the column rack and spindle splines, with light machine oil Trick-Tools 3. Operating the Geared Head Unlike belt-driven hobby presses, the S68 uses a geared head Post draft — Strands S68 Drill Press Got