Introduction
The drill press spindle turns inside the quill using several bearings. After a lot of use, these bearings can wear out and need to be replaced.
This guide will show you how to replace those bearings.
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Remove the chuck from the spindle and support the quill to prevent it from dropping uncontrollably when the spring tension is released.
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Remove the 3 bolts that hold the spring cover in place and remove the cover.
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Turn the spring lock screw left to release the spring tension.
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Pull out the feed lever pinion.
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Remove the supports and remove the quill from the drill press frame.
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Remove the snap ring holding the top bearing in place.
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Use the press to press the spindle from the quill.
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The bearings are press fit into the quill, remove the bearings with the bearing removal tool.
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The bottom bearings consists of a thrust bearing on top of "regular" deep groove ball bearing.
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Clean the quill and insert the thrust bearing.
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Press in the bottom bearing on top of the thrust bearing.
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Next, press in the top bearing.
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Slide the spindle back into the quill.
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Use the press to press the spindle fully into the quill. Make sure the top bearing is not pressed out again by supporting it from beneath.
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Add the snap ring back on top of the quill.
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Insert the quill back into the frame.
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While pushing and holding the quill up, slide the feed lever pinion back in connecting with the quill rack.
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Insert the end of the pinion into the spiral spring.
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Complete the repair by tensioning the spring. Refer to the separate guide for detailed instructions.
