Rikon 12" Drill Press
Thank you for purchasing a Rikon drill press. We have put together some useful information to help you get the most out of it. Although this will be of particular benefit to beginning woodworkers, we hope those with more experience will find something of value here too.
Assembly, Use and Maintenance
A drill press is a tremendously useful addition to any workshop. This version has many of the features and capabilities of a floor-stand model but takes up far less space. Drill presses are relatively simple machines, but like any tool, they require some fettling and maintenance to function at their best.
What should I do first?
The drill press requires minor assembly. Review the instruction manual and the various components. The tools for making adjustments are included. For assembly you will need a Phillips Screwdriver; 10mm, 16mm or adjustable wrench; rubber mallet or hammer; a block of wood.
Getting a helper to aid in lifting the machine at the start of the assembly is advisable. The instructions are very clear, the parts are easily identifiable, and everything goes together cleanly and accurately. Take your time and work carefully. You shouldn’t have any issues, but if you do, call or email us and we’ll be happy to help.
As you are unpacking the drill press, clean the shipping film from the cast-iron surfaces. The oily rust preventative coating you remove should be replaced immediately with a silicone-free surface treatment such as Boeshield T-9, Veritas Tool Wax or any silicone-free furniture wax. You should repeat this periodically to keep your drill press rust-free.
Unplug the drill press before changing bits, making adjustments or performing maintenance.
What accessories should I have?
In addition to drill bits appropriate for the materials and task at hand, many woodworkers add an auxiliary table and fence, which are especially helpful for repetitive operations. There are a variety of special vises for drill presses that are useful for clamping work precisely, and handscrew clamps can also be pressed into service for holding work. A dust collection pick-up will help with the debris that will otherwise accumulate.
Steps for Safe, Smooth, Accurate Operation
- Sharp, clean cutting bits ensure clean, accurate work.
- Accurately lock the table vertically and horizontally, ensuring that it is (usually) perpendicular to the drill bit.
- Set the depth stop and fence as appropriate, especially for repetitive work.
- Set the speed correctly for the work.
- Clamp the work if appropriate.
Making Adjustments
Vertical and horizontal adjustments to the table are made frequently to suit the work.
Other adjustments may be required periodically. The manual explains all the necessary steps.
Depth Stop – Enables consistent non-through drilling such as for countersinks.
Quill height – Minimizes quill travel, thereby improving efficiency.
Drill speed – Larger bits generate more heat through friction. Excessive heat softens metal and dulls edges. Slower speeds also ensure larger bits can’t grab the work as readily. The manual has an extensive chart with recommended speeds for various types and sizes of bits in a range of materials.
The motor should be off when changing the belts from one speed range to the other. The motor should be running when using the digital speed adjustment within a given range.
Maintenance
Turn off the main power switch or unplug the saw before making adjustments or performing maintenance.
Rikon drill presses are well tuned at the factory. Assuming they are set up properly, you can expect to enjoy years of trouble-free use. Routine maintenance should include vacuuming accumulated sawdust and taking care of the cast iron to prevent rust.
Periodically apply paste wax such as Veritas Tool Wax or Boeshield T-9. Obviously coffee cups and water bottles are a no-no!
A few items may need attention from time to time:
- Spindle return spring tension
- Laser alignment
- Drive belts
Rust – If rust appears on the cast iron, spray a light coat of WD-40, let it soak in and scrub with a fine abrasive pad. If the problem is extensive, use a random-orbit sander with a fine abrasive pad. Clean with mineral spirits. Re-wax.
